Kayaking in Norway

Here in Norway, we feel a deep connection with the sea. After all, we have one of the longest coastlines in the world. It weaves along fjords and curves around islets, connecting the smallest fishing villages with the biggest cities. So it makes sense that we love to get on the water in our kayaks – a passion we’re more than happy to share with you.

Whatever your ability, you’ll find kayak tours available up and down the country – from guided tours in Norway's fjords to sea kayaking for the more experienced. If visiting in spring and summer, you’ll also benefit from 24-hour glow of the Midnight Sun, giving you even more time to practise your technique.

And while you’re paddling, don’t forget to keep a look out for iconic Norwegian wildlife, such as porpoises and puffins.

The Norwegian fjords are a world-famous tourist attraction, with the likes of Sognefjord, Nærøyfjord, and Geirangerfjord attracting visitors from far and wide. Several outfits run kayaking tours from the fjord towns of Flåm and Gudvangen.

Come spring, the snowmelt swells the fjords’ waterfalls, which cascade down the mountainside with renewed energy. At the foot of the fjords, you’ll see lush greenery, apple blossom and wildflowers, while snow-capped summits show traces of winter – the changing of seasons unfolding before your eyes. On some days, you can even see the Norwegian mist rolling between the hills.

With this remarkable setting as your backdrop, you’ll experience the kayak trip of a lifetime. Just picture the mountains reflecting on the still, glass-like water, interrupted only by the ripple from your paddle. See yourself breathing in that fresh Nordic air. This is kayaking in Norway as you dreamt it.

In northern Norway, above the Arctic Circle, the landscape becomes wilder and more untamed, with archipelagos stretching out across the sea.

Experienced kayakers are often drawn to sea kayaking around the rugged Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands. The calm, crystal-clear waters offer a great opportunity for beginners to paddle round small islets, spot lines of bright-red rorbuer (stilted fisherman’s cabins), and take in the unmistakable scent of skrei as it dries on racks along the shore. Try it for yourself on our Lofoten kayaking adventure, which runs from Svolvær in both winter and summer.

Home to sights such as the UNESCO-listed Vega Islands, the Helgeland Coast is also popular for day kayaking. Here, you can paddle into secret coves and secluded bays, or stop off in traditional fishing villages where few tourists tread.

From late spring, you’ll be in the land of the Midnight Sun, enjoying non-stop daylight. It’s perfect for spending more time on the water. But if you want to swap the sea for dry land, you’ll also find dramatic spots for a hike, with summits offering a panoramic view of the fjords and mountains.

For a sightseeing excursion with a difference, you can enjoy guided kayaking in a number of Norway’s towns and cities – from the gateway to the fjords in Bergen, to our ‘Venice of the North’, Ålesund.

Led by an expert local guide, you’ll learn about our culture and history, and have a good vantage point from which to admire the architecture. In Trondheim, our River Nid excursion is a different way to sightsee, as you paddle past famous landmarks including the Nidaros Cathedral and Kristiansten Fortress.

A kayak trip is not just about the waterfalls, mountains and fjord scenery you’ll see whilst paddling. Expect to see seabirds soaring overhead, such as puffins, sea eagles, and guillemots. Or if you’re lucky, you may find yourself kayaking alongside one of our playful porpoises, who are drawn to the fjords’ sheltered waters.

And keep a look out for seals, who can be a little shy, but are known to pop their heads out of the water and to bask on the mountainside rocks.

It's worth noting that the waters in Norway can be more unpredictable than our weather. One minute they may be still. The next you might find yourself caught in a storm. Wear a life vest at all times. And even if the weather is mild, the waters can be dangerously cold, which could cause hypothermia.

If sea kayaking, stay close to the shore, as strong currents can take you by surprise and quickly overpower you. It goes without saying that you’ll need to take plenty of safety measures, and kayak with someone who knows the waters well. The seas are freezing, the currents unpredictable. Even a confident kayaker can get into trouble.

If you’re planning a multi-day kayak trip, plan your itinerary and campsites carefully in advance and be sure to take a sleeping bag.

And finally, we'd highly recommend taking a light raincoat, SPF, and sunglasses. In Norway, it's common to experience all four seasons in a day!