Reindeer hunting in Norway: between endurance and humility

A unique Nordic tradition

Reindeer hunting in Norway is far more than an outdoor pursuit. It is a centuries-old tradition deeply rooted in the country’s culture and natural heritage. Every year, thousands of hunters travel to the Norwegian mountains to take part in this unique and strictly regulated experience.

For the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of northern Scandinavia, reindeer have always been central to survival. Beyond providing meat, hides and antlers, they symbolise resilience and harmony with nature. Today, hunting is carefully managed to ensure sustainability and respect for wildlife.

Written by: Härkila Ambassador Philippe Lavit

Where and when to hunt reindeer in Norway

The hunting season usually runs from mid-August to mid-September, when reindeer descend from the high mountains. Popular hunting grounds include Hardangervidda, Rondane and Dovrefjell, regions renowned for their sweeping landscapes and large reindeer populations.

On my own journey, I travelled into Reinheimen National Park with a local guide who knew every detail of the terrain.

Although many people associate Norway with snow, ice and the northern lights, my trip showed a different face of the country: bare mountaintops, mild weather and challenges of another kind.

87 kilometers on foot

In total, we covered 87 kilometers on foot in the rugged Nordic mountains. It was a genuine test of stamina, where each climb pushed us further. We crossed rivers, scaled peaks and moved over unstable ground that constantly threatened our ankles.

Our guides proved invaluable. With their knowledge of the terrain and tireless effort, they created real hunting opportunities we would never have found alone.

Ghosts of the north

Reindeer are often called the ghosts of the north - silent, elusive and always on the move. The hunting strategy lies in anticipating their route, keeping the wind in your face, and positioning yourself ahead of the herd.

On the second day, I faced a vast herd. Yet I held back. I was searching for a male, and they are notoriously clever. Hidden deep within the group, they rarely, if ever, step into the open.

Mountain water and cabin nights

One of the most vivid memories from this trip was drinking straight from the rivers. With some of the purest water in the world, we never needed bottles.

At night we slept in small, remote cabins, close to the reindeer’s territory. Those nights deep in the wilderness gave the trip a raw authenticity and a feeling of complete immersion.

Equipment as an ally

I was fortunate to be equipped with the Härkila Expedition set, designed for demanding mountain hunts. Its three-layer system worked perfectly for conditions that can change in an instant:

• a light, breathable layer for long hikes
• a foldable waterproof and windproof shell for sudden weather
• an insulating layer for cold observation periods

Blending into the stony, mineral landscape, the gear proved essential rather than optional.

Fog, the invisible adversary

As so often in the mountains, conditions turned without warning. Thick fog descended, making the hunt almost impossible.

On the ground, we found shed antlers - evidence of the herds’ presence. But seeing the animals themselves was another matter entirely.

The lesson of failure

In the end, we returned empty-handed. But hunting is never a guaranteed success. Failure is part of the experience, and with it comes humility.

Despite not taking a trophy, this trip was unforgettable: the stark beauty of Norway, the challenge of the mountains and the elusive spirit of the reindeer. It left me with a deep respect for these remarkable animals and the wild land they inhabit.

Watch the adventure

You can follow this journey on my YouTube channel Feliew Chasse (Hunting):