FAQ

Who runs Ferdasyn Mountain Guide?

Ferdasyn is a locally run Mountain Guide service offering certified guides with local knowledge of the best places for you mountain adventure. 

We take small groups (max 6) of guests ski touring, climbing, ice climbing and mountaineering in Tromsø, Lyngen and Senja as well as internationally. The guide chooses objectives on a day to day basis in dialogue with the group, and always with the goal of maximizing enjoyment and safety for the group as a whole.

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How much does it cost to hire a mountain guide in Tromsø?

Prices vary depending on season, type of adventure and group size. A standard day ski touring in Tromsø starts at NOK 5500,-

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When is the best time to ski in Tromsø and the North of Norway?

The main ski season in Tromsø is from mid February through April, into early May. That being said, we usually ski from November and sometimes earlier. Early season skiing requires headlamps.

In the Lyngen Alps you can find snow high in the mountains in the shoulder seasons if you are willing to walk a little. Senja also has a long season, and has road access higher than other areas.

 

Is it dark all the time?

The local name for «the dark period» is «the time of colours». From mid November the sun hides below the horizon 24/7, so mid day is dawn and dusk at the same time. Skiing with a headlamp is magical. In February the sun is back, but it sets early. With good timing we can ski downhill in the best light. March has as much light as you’ll ever need. By April you can leave your headlamp at home. You won’t need it again until September!

 

What is the avalanche risk?

This question does not have a singular answer. The consequences of being caught in an avalanche can be massive and deadly. The potential for being caught in an avalanche depends on the snow conditions, the route choices that you and the guide make together, and the way you act or behave in avalanche terrain. Managing avalanche risk is one of (if not the) most important tasks of a Mountain Guide. It is always possible to choose terrain where there is no avalanche risk, but if you want to venture into steeper terrain the snow conditions and the skill level of the group must be taken into account.

 

Always ski with avalanche rescue gear. If you cannot answer the question: «Why is it safe to ski this slope today?» You should not ski that slope. Sometimes the job of the guide is to be the one who says no.

 

Can we ski under the northern lights?

Yes! …with some luck. Northern lights are always present in the sky, but we can only see them when it is dark and there are no clouds for them to hide behind. Want the best chance to ski under northern lights? Book an early session trip, Before the sun returns in late January.

 

How cold does it get?

Not as cold as you might expect. Even though Tromsø is located far north, well above the arctic circle, we are blessed with the Gulf Stream. This means that the coastal areas are much warmer than inland areas. And guess what? Tromsø is a coastal town. Average temperature mid winter is -1 to -6 degrees celcius. Fun fact: Because the sun sits so low on the horizon it provides a lot less heat than in the south, and you can’t feel much heat from the sun until well into March.

 

Do I need to rent a car?

Yes. All of the skiing (with very few exceptions) is accessed by car. Ferdasyn is not in a position to offer transportation as this requires a full taxi license.

 

Where is the best place to stay?

We suggest that you stay in Tromsø. This way we can take advantage of daily weather and snow conditions and choose objectives accordingly. Tromsø town is also where you will find restaurants, cafés, bars, cinemas, saunas, shopping and famous tourist spots. 

If you want more peace and quiet, consider staying more remotely, like on Kvaløya og Ringvassøya.

 

Do I need to bring my own equipment?

It is possible to rent ski touring gear, including avalanche rescue gear, in Tromsø. Get in touch and I can make a recommendation.  You will need to bring winter clothing and gloves. If you are climbing, I can provide all climbing equipment with the exception of mountain boots (for ice climbing).

 

How early should I book my skiing trip?

The sooner the better! More and more people are discovering the joys of ski touring in Tromsø, and prime slots get booked 6 months in advance or even earlier. 

 

 

What are the best ski areas around Tromsø?

Tromsø is a small island in between the mainland and larger islands to the west and north. There are mountains everywhere, and almost all of them have skiable terrain! The nearest tours are 15 minutes drive form the downtown Tromsø. Some favorites are Buren, Skittentinden, Djeveltanna, Bjørnskartinden, Andersdalstinden, Blåtinden… OK, the list goes on. And of course, all the peaks have multiple lines on multiple aspects. A lifetime of skiing within 50 minutes of driving. And if you go even further all you find is more mountains