Polar Park Bardu Norway
Experience Norway's Arctic wildlife in vast, natural habitats. See wolves, bears, and more in a truly immersive zoo setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Polar Park Bardu Norway
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Norway's Arctic wildlife in vast, natural habitats. See wolves, bears, and more in a truly immersive zoo setting.
"Incredible experience seeing animals in their natural habitat, even in the rain!"
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Waterproofs and warm layers are essential, as it's an outdoor park. Expect rain or snow! :cloud_rain:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on natural terrain. Sturdy, waterproof boots are ideal. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wolf Howls
Wolf Enclosure
Experience the primal sound of wolves howling in their natural habitat – an unforgettable auditory thrill.
Majestic Brown Bears
Bear Enclosure
Witness the power and grace of Norway's largest land predator, often with playful cubs in tow.
Arctic Fox Charm
Arctic Fox Enclosure
Marvel at the resilience and beauty of the arctic fox, perfectly adapted to its cold environment.
Reindeer & Elk Grazing
Large Mammal Enclosures
See Norway's iconic deer species roaming freely in expansive, naturalistic habitats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Timing is Key for Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Have any of you been to the Polar park? In bardu tromsø?
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Waterproofs and warm layers are essential, as it's an outdoor park. Expect rain or snow! :cloud_rain:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on natural terrain. Sturdy, waterproof boots are ideal. :athletic_shoe:
Transport options from NARVIKFJELLET Ski Resort to Polar Park
Bodø to Tromsø Roadtrip
🐺 Join a Guided Tour
Highly recommended for seeing animals, especially during feeding times. :walking:
📸 Be Patient for Photos
Animals are in natural habitats, so sightings and photo ops require patience. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Waterproofs and warm layers are essential, as it's an outdoor park. Expect rain or snow! :cloud_rain:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on natural terrain. Sturdy, waterproof boots are ideal. :athletic_shoe:
🐺 Join a Guided Tour
Highly recommended for seeing animals, especially during feeding times. :walking:
📸 Be Patient for Photos
Animals are in natural habitats, so sightings and photo ops require patience. :camerawithflash:
🍔 Try the Reindeer Burger
The cafe offers local specialties, including a delicious reindeer burger. :knifeforkplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Polar Park for its commitment to naturalistic, spacious enclosures that allow animals to thrive. The opportunity to see Nordic wildlife like wolves and bears in a near-wild setting is a major draw. While seeing all animals isn't guaranteed due to the natural habitats, many find the experience incredibly rewarding, especially when joining guided tours or visiting during feeding times. The cafe and gift shop also receive positive mentions.
"We had the most incredible experience here! Even with the large, natural enclosures, we saw EVERY animal except for the wolverine. I went in with low expectations because natural habitat zoos give the animals plenty of places to get away and hide from the visitors, but that wasn't the case during our visit. We loved it."
Aimee E
"We visited the Polar park today in the awful rain but still it was a great place to visit just remember your waterproofs of it's raining as it's obvious out in the open.
We arrived and we where greeted At the entrance by a very friendly lady who told us all about the park and some advice on how best to spend our time.
We spent over two hours walking around the park enjoying seeing the animals though due to the poor weather we couldn't see the Lynx or Wolverine but it's one of those things you have to expect unless you arrive as they are feeding the animals in the morning. We managed to see all the other animals and it was nice to see they had big enclosures in a very natural environment.
After getting drenched in the rain we headed back to the cafe and had lunch which was very nice and even tried a reindeer burger which was beautiful.
There was also a well stocked gift shop there too if you fancied a trinket for your visit.
Overall a really interesting place to go and see some of Norway's wildlife and learn more about them."
Tom Bayford
"What a great place. We were lucky to be there on a Viking cruise with a guide who was feeding along the way and informing us of the different animals. We got to hear the wolves howl and see most of all the creatures in the natural habitats!!!"
Jep Robertson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Public transport options from Narvikfjellet Ski Resort to Polar Park are limited, with bus routes often not fitting visitor schedules. Renting a car or arranging a private transfer is often the most convenient option. Check local taxi services or tour operators for potential shuttle services, especially during peak season.
Yes, Polar Park typically offers ample parking for visitors arriving by car. It's usually free of charge.
While possible, it's a long day trip. The drive from Tromsø is approximately 3-4 hours each way. Many visitors opt to stay overnight in the Bardu region to fully enjoy the park and surrounding areas. :car:
Options are limited. Consider pre-booking a tour that includes transportation, or inquire with your accommodation about local transfer services. Taxis are available but can be expensive for longer distances.
Public transport is challenging. Bus routes are infrequent and may not align with park opening hours. It's best to research specific routes and schedules well in advance or consider alternative transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Polar Park website for the most up-to-date information before your visit, especially during winter months. :clock1:
Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and families. Check the official Polar Park website for current admission fees and any potential discounts or package deals. :moneybag:
Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons, to save time and guarantee entry. Visit the Polar Park website for online booking options. :computer:
Look out for family packages, student discounts, or seasonal promotions on the Polar Park website. Sometimes, booking in conjunction with other local attractions can offer savings. :gift:
Policies on re-entry can vary. It's advisable to inquire at the entrance or check the park's terms and conditions if you anticipate needing to leave and re-enter during your visit. :door:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Polar Park is home to wolves, brown bears, lynx, arctic foxes, elk, and reindeer, among other Nordic wildlife. The enclosures are designed to mimic their natural habitats.
While the park has large natural enclosures, seeing every animal isn't guaranteed as they can hide. Visiting during feeding times or joining a guided tour increases your chances.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. They often coincide with feeding times, providing excellent opportunities to see animals up close and learn from knowledgeable guides.
The park usually has a cafe for refreshments and meals, a gift shop for souvenirs, and restrooms. Check their website for specific amenities. :coffee:
Absolutely! Polar Park is very family-friendly, offering a great opportunity for children to learn about Nordic wildlife in a natural setting. :child:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a cafe on-site offering meals, snacks, and drinks. They are known for serving local specialties, including a popular reindeer burger.
While specific policies can vary, many outdoor attractions allow visitors to bring their own picnic lunches. It's best to check the park's guidelines beforehand. :sandwich:
The cafe menu may vary, but it's worth inquiring about vegetarian or vegan choices upon arrival. Often, simpler options like salads or soups are available. :leafy_green:
Prices at park cafes can be typical for tourist attractions. Budgeting for meals and snacks is advisable, or consider bringing some of your own provisions. :moneywithwings:
Expect a range of hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, soft drinks, and water. :cupwithstraw:
📸 📸 Photography
The naturalistic enclosures offer many scenic opportunities. Focus on areas with good vantage points of the animals, especially during feeding times when they are more active. :camerawithflash:
Yes, it can be challenging as animals may be distant or obscured. Patience and a telephoto lens can be very helpful. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide better lighting. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone usage is typically restricted at wildlife parks to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check the park's specific regulations regarding drones before flying. :noentrysign:
A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer) is highly recommended for capturing close-ups of the animals. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the enclosures. :camera:
Yes, photography is generally permitted during guided tours. Your guide might even offer tips on the best times and angles to capture great shots. :thumbsup:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of a family visit, consider joining a guided tour, especially if your children are keen to see specific animals. The tours often include feeding demonstrations, which are always a hit with younger visitors. Remember to pack waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes for everyone, as the outdoor nature of the park means you'll be exposed to the elements. The cafe also offers kid-friendly options and a chance to warm up. :child::familymanwoman_boy:
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Golden hour lighting (early morning and late afternoon) can provide beautiful, soft light for your shots. Be prepared for varying weather conditions; a rainy or snowy day can create dramatic and atmospheric photos. While drones are generally not permitted, the park itself offers stunning natural backdrops that can complement your wildlife photography. Consider booking a guided tour for insights into the best times and locations for photography. :camerawithflash::sunriseovermountains:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Polar Park's Natural Enclosures
Visitors often remark on how well the enclosures blend into the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of immersion. This natural setting, however, also means that weather conditions play a significant role in the visitor experience. Rain and snow are common, and dressing appropriately with waterproof gear and sturdy footwear is crucial for comfort and enjoyment. The park's commitment to natural habitats is a key aspect of its appeal, offering a more authentic glimpse into the lives of these magnificent animals.
To maximize sightings within these vast spaces, joining a guided tour is frequently recommended. These tours often coincide with feeding times, which naturally draw the animals out into more visible areas. Guides also possess invaluable knowledge about animal behavior and the best spots to observe them, significantly enhancing the visitor's experience and photographic opportunities.
Maximizing Animal Sightings: Tips from Visitors
Joining a guided tour is another highly recommended strategy. These tours are designed to lead visitors to areas where animals are frequently seen and often align with feeding schedules. The guides' expertise in animal behavior and knowledge of the park's layout can make a substantial difference in your overall experience, turning a potentially challenging search into a rewarding observation.
Beyond scheduled events, patience and quiet observation are key. Spend time at each enclosure, looking for movement and listening for sounds. The natural environment means animals might be resting or camouflaged. While some visitors have seen every animal, others have missed a few due to the animals' natural inclination to retreat. Embrace the experience for what it is – a chance to see Arctic wildlife in a setting that respects their natural behaviors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit