Norway is a nature lover’s paradise, offering awe-inspiring fjords, majestic mountains, and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re exploring on foot, kayaking through crystal-clear waters, or chasing the Northern Lights, the options are endless. The Midnight Sun, whale watching, and wildlife encounters only add to Norway’s natural charm.
In this article, I will share my absolute favourite outdoor adventures, the best times and places to do them and why they are so special! Before we start, here a quick overview of all the activities Norway has to offer:
- Hiking & Trekking: Wander through Norway’s stunning landscapes on foot or snowshoes
- Chasing the Lights: Witness the magic of the Northern Lights or bask in the Midnight Sun
- Fjord Adventures: Dive into Norway’s jaw-dropping fjords by boat or on foot
- Wildlife Wonders: Spot reindeer, whales, and eagles in their natural playground
- Water Adventures: Paddle, dive, or cruise through Norway’s breathtaking waters
Hiking & Trekking: Wander through Norway’s stunning landscapes on foot or snowshoes
Norway is a hiker’s paradise, with trails for everyone—whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced adventurer. The paths are easy to follow, and the country’s hiking setup is top-notch, making it a breeze to dive into the adventure, even in winter. The Lofoten Islands stand out with jaw-dropping views, while the towering cliffs around the fjords make you feel completely free. Popular hikes like Trolltunga, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), and Kjeragbolten are all unforgettable spots. And if you love winter, grab your snowshoes and explore Norway’s stunning countryside. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you’re back home!
Here are some of Norway’s most iconic hikes:
For hikers of all levels, Norway’s trails offer a mix of breathtaking views and thrilling challenges. Trolltunga, a stunning cliff 700 meters above Ringedalsvatnet lake, demands a strenuous 20–27 km hike (7–12 hours), while Preikestolen, perched 604 meters above Lysefjord, offers an 8 km route (4 hours) ideal from May to October. Kjerag’s tough 11 km trail (6–10 hours) features its iconic boulder and some wire climbing. Shorter options include Tuva Peak’s steep ascent with panoramic views or Tjeldbergtinden’s scenic 3.7 km hike near Vågan, perfect for leashed dogs.
Our Tip: Join a hiking tour with a local guide who’ll take you to the best spots and share cool insights along the way. It’s safer, more fun with a group, and having an expert guide makes the whole experience even better!
Chasing the Lights: Witness the magic of the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun in Norway
What are Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun and how can I see them?
The midnight sun, where the sun never sets, leaving a magical golden hue, and the Northern Lights, a natural light show dancing across the sky, are two of Norway’s most magical phenomena. In winter, there are so many ways to experience the auroras: bus tours are great for families and those who want a guided, relaxed experience; boat trips are perfect for couples seeking a romantic setting; snowmobile rides are ideal for adrenaline seekers; and hiking is a dream for nature lovers who enjoy a quiet, intimate connection with the wild. Whatever your style, there’s an option to make this natural wonder unforgettable!
Our Tip: If you are a photography enthusiast, join a photography tour, where a professional photographer and local guide will show you how to best capture Northern Lights!
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun?
The best time to spot the Northern Lights is from September to April, with the best chances of spotting them being in spring (March/April) and autumn (September/October), when the aurora activities are the highest. From mid April to mid August, you can see the Midnight Sun coloring the sky in beautiful orange hues, making Norway a natural spectacle all year around.
The further north you go, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Places like Tromsø, Trondheim, Alta, and the Lofoten Islands are super popular for aurora hunting, with great conditions to catch this amazing natural show.
Our Tip: Keep your plans flexible! If you don’t catch the Northern Lights on your tour, many providers let you reschedule for free (subject to availability), so you’ll have another chance to see the magic.
Fjord Adventures: Dive into Norway’s jaw-dropping fjords by boat or on foot
Norway’s fjords are some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, and the best way to experience them is by boat or on foot. Whether you’re cruising through the crystal-clear waters of the Lysefjord, with its iconic Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) towering above, or hiking the breathtaking trails of the Nordfjord, you’re in for a treat. From the dramatic beauty of the Geirangerfjord and famous Trollfjord to the wild charm of the Lofoten Islands, a fjord tour in Norway offers unforgettable views and adventures for every type of explorer!
Tours conveniently start from cities or towns like Tromsø, Oslo, Bergen, and Svolvær, and often also include hotel pick-up and drop-off for a hassle-free experience.
If you’re a nature lover who prefers to explore on foot, a guided hiking tour is perfect for you, giving you amazing views of Norway’s fjords from above. The Lofoten Islands, in particular, are a top destination for hikers of all levels, offering breathtaking views of the fjords and Norwegian waters, leaving you with a sense of freedom and achievement.
Wildlife Wonders: Spot reindeer, whales, and eagles in their natural playground
What kind of wildlife can I see in Norway and how?
Norway is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a chance to see some of the most stunning animals in their natural habitats. Whether you’re spotting whales in the Arctic waters, encountering reindeer in the wild, or catching a glimpse of majestic eagles soaring above the rugged landscapes, wildlife watching tours in Norway are an unforgettable experience. With many options for boat tours, bus tours, and even hiking adventures, you can get up close to nature while enjoying the breathtaking scenery that Norway is famous for.
Where is the best place to go to spot wildlife in Norway?
The local and knowledgeable guides know the area by heart and will bring you to the best places for optimal chances to encounter wildlife. Especially the north of Norway offers great starting points for wildlife-watching enthusiasts, but this depends on what kind of wildlife you like seeing. Svalbard is a prime location for polar bear sightings, while the Norwegian fjords are home to puffins and white-tailed eagles. Reindeer can generally be found in the northern parts of Norway.
Vesterålen coast is a top destination for whale watching, with sperm whales spotted year-round. In winter, humpbacks, orcas, and fin whales arrive to feed on migrating herring in Northern Norway, particularly around the Lyngenfjord/Alta region. Svalbard also offers sightings of blue whales. Andenes is renowned for its short, direct trips to nutrient-rich seas, making it a prime whale-watching location.
When is the best time to go whale watching in Norway?
Whale watching in Norway has two main seasons: winter from mid-January to April and summer from early May to early November. Both seasons offer great opportunities to spot different whale species, with the winter months bringing migrating whales and the summer months offering year-round sightings in nutrient-rich waters.
Water Adventures: Arctic diving, rafting and kayaking through Norway’s breathtaking waters
Norway not only offers fascinating adventures on land but also on and even under water. From kayaking across its stunning fjords and rivers to white water rafting in the northern rivers, there’s no shortage of aquatic fun. And for the adventurous, the Arctic waters here are perfect for diving—yes, you can dive in Norway! With crystal-clear visibility, you can explore submerged landscapes and meet unique marine life. So grab your paddle, fins, or raft, and dive into an unforgettable water escapade!
Popular places for kayaking are Tromsø or Sommarøy on the mainland, as well as the Lofoten Archipelago, with tours often starting from Ballstad or Bøstad. Kayaking past fjords or on the open sea during the midnight sun are experiences you won’t forget that easily!
An absolute highlight in Norway is Arctic diving. It offers a unique experience, allowing you to explore crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. Dive into the cold, yet stunning, underwater world where you can encounter Arctic species and float through mesmerizing landscapes, all in the shadow of snowy mountains. Popular diving spots, like Ballstad in Lofoten Islands, provide exceptional visibility, making it an unforgettable adventure for diving enthusiasts seeking something truly extraordinary.
Our Tip: If you’re looking for a more relaxed adventure, try a snorkeling trip. It offers the perfect balance of excitement and beautiful maritime views, without the intense adrenaline of diving. You’ll still get a chance to explore Norway’s stunning underwater world, but at a slower pace!
Norway offers an unparalleled array of outdoor adventures, from hiking its iconic trails and witnessing natural phenomena like the Northern Lights to exploring its stunning fjords and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful encounters with nature, the country’s diverse landscapes cater to every explorer. With its breathtaking beauty, rich wildlife, and endless opportunities for adventure, Norway is a destination that promises memories to last a lifetime. Ready to embark on your Norwegian adventure? The great outdoors await!