Tromsø: Guided Tour of Polaria

Experience the wonders of Tromsø with a guided tour of Polaria, the Arctic aquarium. Here, visitors can enjoy the captivating world of the North, exploring unique marine life and the pressing impacts of climate change. The 45-minute journey, offered on select days, brings to life the interconnectedness of life in this fragile ecosystem through interactive exhibits and engaging educational content. Whether a nature enthusiast or simply curious, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the Arctic’s remarkable beauty and the urgent need to protect it.

Good To Know

• Guided tour of Polaria, an Arctic aquarium and climate change education center, lasts 45 minutes and costs $55.53 per person.
• Tour offers immersive exploration of Arctic marine life and highlights the interconnectedness of species and human impact on the environment.
• Facility is wheelchair accessible and offers enhanced audio experience, but not suitable for children under 16 or those with visual/hearing impairments.
• Post-tour activities include panoramic films, seal feeding demonstrations, and an on-site gift shop to extend the learning experience.
• Polaria’s unique architectural design resembles ice floes, and the centralized location provides easy navigation for visitors.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details and Pricing

The guided tour of Polaria costs $55.53 per person and lasts for 45 minutes.

It’s available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11 am. The tour is recommended for those aged 16 and above.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible, with an option to reserve a spot without upfront payment.

The tour provides an immersive experience, exploring the Arctic Aquarium and learning about climate change’s impact in the region.

Visitors can study the interconnectedness of life and the human influence on the environment through the knowledge-based exhibitions.

Experience and Highlights

Visitors on the guided tour of Polaria embark on an immersive journey to learn about the impact of climate change in the Arctic. They explore the unique species in the Arctic Aquarium, reflecting on the interconnectedness of life. The environmental-focused tour guides visitors through knowledge-based exhibitions, offering an opportunity to study Arctic marine life and humanity’s impact on the environment.

Explore	Reflect	Discover
Arctic Aquarium	Interconnectedness of Life	Climate Change in the Arctic
Unique Species	Human Impact on Environment	Knowledge-based Exhibitions
Interactive Displays	Fragility of Ecosystems	Guided Tour Insights
Sensory Immersion	Interdependence of Systems	Environmental Awareness
Hands-on Learning	Personal Connection to Nature	Sustainable Solutions

Facilities and Accessibility

Wheelchair accessibility ensures that all guests can readily navigate the facilities at Polaria. Ramps and elevators provide seamless access throughout the aquarium, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the exhibits.

For an enhanced audio experience, the venue offers rental of whisper headphones, enabling guests to hear the knowledgeable guides with clarity.

However, the tour may not be suitable for children under 16 years, as well as individuals who are visually or hearing-impaired, who may face challenges in fully appreciating the extensive information shared during the guided experience.

Post-Tour Activities

After the guided tour, guests can further explore Polaria’s additional offerings.

Visitors can enjoy three panoramic films showcasing the captivating Arctic landscapes.

At 12:30 pm, they can witness the mesmerizing seal feeding and training demonstrations.

The on-site gift shop entices with a curated selection of local and Nordic high-quality products, providing the perfect opportunity to take home a memento of this enriching experience.

• Discover the Arctic through immersive panoramic films.
• Observe the seal feeding and training at 12:30 pm.
• Browse the gift shop for local and Nordic souvenirs.
• Extend the learning experience beyond the guided tour.
• Fully immerse in Polaria’s multifaceted offerings.

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Location and Meeting Point

The meeting point for the guided tour is at the reception inside Polaria’s main entrance. Polaria’s unique building design resembles ice floes pushed by the Arctic ocean, providing a fitting backdrop for the tour.

Location	Description	Accessibility
Exterior	Striking architectural design evocative of the Arctic	Wheelchair accessible
Reception	Friendly staff to greet and check-in guests	Centralized meeting point
Main Entrance	Leads directly to the Arctic Aquarium and exhibition halls	Easy to find and navigate

Guests will be welcomed and directed to the starting point of the immersive, environmental-focused tour, offering a chance to dive into the wonders of the Arctic.

Climate Change in the Arctic

Why is climate change having such a profound impact on the Arctic? The region is experiencing rapid warming, with temperatures rising at over twice the global average.

This dramatic shift is transforming the delicate Arctic ecosystem in alarming ways:

• Melting sea ice threatens the survival of iconic species like polar bears and walruses.
• Thawing permafrost releases stored greenhouse gases, further accelerating warming.
• Ocean acidification jeopardizes marine life and the livelihoods of indigenous communities.
• Shifting weather patterns disrupt traditional hunting and fishing practices.
• The rapid changes imperil the resilience and cultural traditions of Arctic peoples.

Through the Polaria tour, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the urgent need to address climate change and protect this fragile, yet vitally important, region.

Arctic Aquarium Exploration

Visitors to Polaria’s Arctic Aquarium are treated to a captivating display of the region’s unique marine life. The large, glass-enclosed tanks provide an up-close look at species like seals, fish, and invertebrates that thrive in the cold northern waters.

Guests can observe the seals’ graceful underwater movements and marvel at the vivid colors of sea anemones and other invertebrates. The aquarium offers a window into the delicate ecosystems of the Arctic, inspiring visitors to learn more about the challenges these environments face due to climate change.

Exploring the aquarium is a central highlight of the guided tour, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the fragile beauty of the Arctic.

Interconnectedness of Life

Throughout the guided tour, a profound sense of interconnectedness permeates the exhibitions. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the delicate balance of life in the Arctic and humanity’s role in preserving it.

The tour highlights:

• The intricate web of species within the Arctic Aquarium, each relying on the other for survival.

• The far-reaching impact of climate change, affecting both marine life and indigenous communities.

• The interdependence between the environment and human wellbeing.

• The importance of sustainable practices in mitigating our footprint on this fragile ecosystem.

• The responsibility we all share in safeguarding the future of the Arctic and our planet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Guided Tour?

Photography is permitted during the guided tour, allowing visitors to capture the unique Arctic aquarium and environmental exhibits. However, flash photography may be restricted to preserve the tranquil atmosphere.

Can Visitors Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Visitors are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks inside the Polaria facility. However, there are onsite catering options available, including a cafe where guests can enjoy light refreshments and snacks during or after the guided tour.

What Are the Payment Methods Accepted at Polaria?

Polaria accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and digital wallets. Cash is also accepted on-site for convenience. Visitors can make seamless transactions for their guided tour and other activities.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for the Tour?

Polaria doesn’t offer any discounts or package deals for the guided tour. However, they allow free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and provide the option to reserve a spot without upfront payment.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour offers wheelchair accessibility and rental of whisper headphones for enhanced audio experience. However, it’s not suitable for children under 16, visually impaired, or hearing-impaired individuals due to the nature of the exhibitions.

The Sum Up

The Polaria guided tour in Tromsø offers a captivating window into the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem. Visitors are immersed in the wonders of marine life and the pressing realities of climate change. Through interactive exhibits and educational content, the experience cultivates a deeper understanding and appreciation for the interconnectedness of life in this remarkable region. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore and protect the Arctic’s natural treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: