A professional community for guides in Tromsø
Tromsø Guideforening exists primarily for the people who actually meet the guests — the guides.
Guides are the face of Tromsø tourism.
Every day, we represent the region, its nature, its communities, and its reputation. Yet guiding has long been a profession with high responsibility but little shared structure, support, or professional recognition. Guiding in Tromsø has changed rapidly in recent years. TGF exists to help guides navigate this reality professionally and sustainably.
We are not a company, not a competitor, and not a control body.
We are a professional community.
Why a guide association?
Guiding in Tromsø is growing fast. More visitors, more companies, and more pressure on nature and infrastructure also means more responsibility for guides.
Many challenges today are not caused by individual guides — but guides are the ones who must solve them in the field.
Guides must deal with:
- safety decisions on the road
- guest expectations vs. reality
- environmental pressure
- conflicts at locations
- unclear professional standards
TGF aims to:
- support guides in these situations
- create shared understanding across companies
- improve working conditions and professional recognition
- represent guides in dialogue with authorities and stakeholders
What TGF is working towards
TGF is gradually developing initiatives focused on:
Professional standards
Working towards shared standards for guiding in Northern Norway, with emphasis on:
- safety and risk awareness
- local knowledge and storytelling
- ethical and responsible guiding
- respect for nature and local communities
These standards are under development and shaped together with guides.
Professional community
Creating a space for guides to:
- connect with each other
- share experience and knowledge
- discuss challenges in the industry
- strengthen professional identity
This includes meet-ups, discussions, and knowledge sharing — starting small and growing over time.
Guide representation
TGF aims to:
- represent guides’ perspectives
- encourage dialogue within the industry
- contribute constructively to discussions about tourism development in the region
TGF is independent and works in the interest of guides and responsible tourism.
Current work
Although still in an early stage, TGF is already active:
Guidelines & Safety Work
Together with Tromsø Municipality and other stakeholders, we contributed to the Northern Lights vehicle and safety guidelines.
Northern Lights Guide Pilot Training
We organised a pilot training focused on safety, local knowledge, responsible conduct, and professional guiding practice.
This is now being evaluated and improved, with the goal of launching a structured course next season.
Open Meetings & Community
We organise open meetings for guides across companies — because cooperation in the field starts with knowing each other.
Why participate?
TGF is not primarily about membership cards — it is about strengthening the profession.
By participating you get:
- A professional network across companies
- A platform to discuss real guiding situations and challenges
- Access to seminars and courses
- Influence on future standards and education
- Representation in discussions with authorities
- A stronger collective voice for guides
Long term, we aim to develop:
- recognized training
- guide certification
- professional credibility for experienced guides
Who can get involved
TGF welcomes:
- active guides working in Northern Norway
- freelance guides and seasonal guides
- guides who care about quality, safety, and responsible tourism
You do not need to be “certified” to participate — involvement is voluntary and open.
Get involved
If you are a guide and want to be part of the conversation, you can register your interest here.
Questions, ideas, concerns, or just unsure whether TGF is relevant for you — we’re happy to talk.
The WhatsApp group is our main everyday communication channel for guides in Tromsø.
Membership status
Guides can apply for membership to:
- take part in discussions and meetings
- contribute to shaping future standards and initiatives
- stay informed about ongoing work and developments
At this stage, membership is not a certification and does not grant commercial representation or work assignments.
Looking ahead
TGF’s direction will be shaped together with guides.
The goal is not to rush, but to build something that makes sense in practice, reflects real guiding conditions and strengthens the profession long-term.
If this resonates with you, you are very welcome to be part of it.
