Reindeer Hunting on the Finnmark Plateau

The Finnmark plateau (Finnmarksvidda) is one of the last great wilderness areas in Europe — a vast, treeless highland the size of Denmark, inhabited by herds of wild reindeer and very few people. For international hunters seeking a truly remote and demanding experience, this is as good as it gets in Europe.

Wild Reindeer vs. Sami Reindeer

It is important to understand the distinction between two types of reindeer in Norway. The wild reindeer (villrein) herds that live on the open plateaus of southern and central Norway are managed through local wildlife boards. Finnmark's reindeer situation is different: the majority of reindeer on Finnmarksvidda are semi-domesticated animals owned by Sami herders. These animals cannot be hunted.

However, Finnmark does have populations of wild reindeer in specific areas, particularly around the border with Russia and in certain mountain zones. Hunting for these animals is strictly controlled through local management authorities. Always confirm with your provider that the animals on your hunt are wild reindeer (villrein) with the correct quota allocation.

Quota System and the Villreinnemndene

Wild reindeer hunting in Norway is managed through regional wildlife councils (villreinnemndene). Each council sets annual quotas based on population surveys, herd condition, and conservation targets. Quotas are highly variable year to year — in poor years, quotas may be severely cut or hunting suspended entirely.

Permits (jaktkort) are allocated to properties and then distributed to hunters, either through the landowner or through local hunting associations. International hunters almost always access these permits through an organised guided hunt. Wildara's providers handle all quota allocation and permit paperwork on your behalf.

Season

The wild reindeer season on Finnmarksvidda and surrounding areas typically runs from late August through September, with some areas opening as early as the last week of July. The exact opening date varies by zone and by annual decision of the local viltreinnemd. The early season (August) is particularly sought-after — animals are in excellent condition, antlers are still in velvet in the first days, and the tundra colours are at their most dramatic.

Hunter Requirements

All hunters must hold the annual Norwegian hunting fee (jegeravgiftskortet), paid at viltkart.no. International hunters must demonstrate completion of an approved hunting exam in their home country. For reindeer specifically, many providers require documented experience hunting large ungulates (moose, deer, or equivalent) — this is not a hunt for complete beginners.

A practical shooting test (skyteprøve) may be required before the hunt begins. Shots on reindeer can be at significant distances across open terrain — hunters should be comfortable shooting accurately at 150–250 metres from a variety of positions.

Terrain and Equipment

Finnmarksvidda is an open, treeless plateau at 300–500 metres above sea level. Terrain is boggy tundra, rocky ridges, and shallow river valleys. There are no trees to provide shelter or reference points — navigation skills and good map reading are essential. Weather can be severe even in August: expect wind, rain, and cold nights.

Essential equipment includes:

• Quality waterproof boots (ankle support essential on uneven tundra)
• Layered clothing — temperatures can drop to near freezing at night even in August
• Rifle calibre suitable for reindeer: .308, 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06 are all common
• Quality binoculars (10×42 or similar); a spotting scope is a significant advantage
• Compass and topographic map — do not rely solely on mobile GPS
• Headlamp, emergency shelter, and sufficient food and water for full-day outings

Getting to Finnmark

Finnmark is remote by any standard. The nearest cities with regular flights are Alta and Lakselv, both served from Oslo. Driving from Oslo takes approximately 20–25 hours. Many hunters fly into Alta (ALF) and are collected by their guide or outfitter for transfer to the hunting area. Some operations use small charter planes or snowmobiles (in late season) to access more distant zones.

Plan to arrive at least a day before the hunt begins to acclimatise and complete any required zeroing of your rifle at the local range. Your provider will advise on logistics.

What a Typical Day Looks Like

Reindeer hunting on Finnmarksvidda is largely a stalking hunt. Days begin early — often before dawn — with a long glassing session from elevated ground to locate herds. Once animals are spotted, the approach is careful and slow, typically covering several kilometres across open tundra. Shots are rarely taken within 100 metres; 150–200 metres is more common.

If an animal is taken, the recovery and field dressing can itself be a significant operation on remote terrain. Some areas allow use of ATVs; in others, animals must be carried out over considerable distances. Your provider will detail exactly what to expect.

Practical Notes

• Book well in advance — quota availability is limited and sought after.
• Confirm that firearms import paperwork is in order at least 6 weeks before travel.
• Carry your jegeravgiftskortet receipt at all times during the hunt.
• Mobile coverage is sparse on the plateau — carry a satellite communicator if possible.
• Reindeer hunting is a physically demanding experience; reasonable fitness is required.