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Outdoor activities in Norway

On a journey along the Norwegian coast, every moment offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in its natural wonders. From leading a team of huskies across a frozen plateau to skiing down powdery slopes, there are countless outdoor activities to enjoy.

There’s no better way to know Norway than to step into its wild heart. Here, nature is not something you visit. It’s something you meet, as alive as you and me.

This is a place where mountains plunge into the sea, the Northern Lights dance in the skies above, and fjords cradle quiet, ancient villages. A place where nature sets the stage for epic outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re hiking mountains in search of trolls, kayaking to get up-close with waterfalls, or gliding past whales in icy fjords, the Norwegian coast invites you to explore with eyes wide open.

Skiing

It is said that us Norwegians are born with skis on our feet. It’s something many of us learn to do almost as soon as we can walk. And given the beauty of the mountains around us, this is no surprise.

From the steep runs of the Lyngen Alps to the soft trails of Finnmark, skiing in Norway offers adventure for all levels. Picture yourself gliding down a sunlit mountain, soaking up views that, in some areas, stretch all the way to the icy fjords below.

And it’s not just about downhill – cross-country skiing here offers a quiet, almost meditative experience. As you traverse the pistes, often the only sound you’ll hear is the crunch of snow beneath you.

skiing-lyngenfjord-43834 Photo Orjan Bertelsen
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Kayaking

There’s a stillness to Norway’s fjords, a beauty best explored slowly, one stroke at a time. Kayaking lets you move quietly through the waters, offering a front-row seat to some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. Here, you’ll find a deep calm and a connection to the water, the land, and the life teeming beneath the surface.

Norway’s coastal waters are perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. From guided tours through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord or to tranquil paddles around the stunning Lofoten Islands, the coast is rich with small inlets and hidden coves, each waiting to be discovered.

Whale watching

The Norwegian coast isn’t just about mountains and fjords. Beneath our cold, deep waters lives a whole other world. One where giants roam.

Whale watching in Norway is not like anywhere else in the world. It’s the thrill of spotting the sleek back of an orca cutting through icy waves, or witnessing a humpback’s tail splash as it dives deep into the fjord.

Places like Vesterålen and Tromsø offer the best seats to view these majestic creatures, especially from late autumn to early spring. Over the last 130 years, we’ve learned the rhythms of these waters over generations, knowing when and where these magnificent beasts pass through.

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Dog sledding

When winter blankets Norway in snow, our landscapes open up to a special kind of adventure – dog sledding. This age-old tradition that has its origins with the Sami, the indigenous people of Norway, who relied on their sled dogs to traverse the snowy terrain. There’s something timeless and exhilarating about being pulled across a frozen plateau by a team of eager huskies.

Join experienced mushers who’ll guide you through the basics, from learning how to steer your cart to understanding the dogs’ signals. With each ride, you’re not just exploring a landscape – you’re connecting with a way of life. Dog sledding lets you experience Norway’s Arctic beauty in a way few adventures can.

Activities with Hurtigruten

While sailing on a Hurtigruten cruise, you can choose from a number of daily shore excursions that offer the opportunity to explore the best of Norway's outdoors.

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Kayaking in Reine

Reine is often lauded as one of Norway’s prettiest fishing villages. On this beginner-friendly kayaking tour, you can experience its beauty first hand, as you navigate the calm, crystal-clear waters. Your knowledgeable guide will be on hand to regale you with stories about the area’s history, culture, and nature.

Dog sledding Wilderness Adventure Camp Finnsnes Tromso Norway HGR 15830

Dog sledding in Alta

Enjoy an exhilarating ride through a winter wonderland on a dog sled, while you learn all about the history, culture, and day-to-day life of Alta - the City of the Northern Lights.

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Whale watching in Tromsø

Join us on this unforgettable whale-watching adventure and get a unique view of majestic humpbacks and orcas as you cruise peacefully through the icy fjords.

Skiing trip Coastal Expedition Norway HGR 136607 Agurtxane Concellon

Cross-country skiing in Tromsø

This tour is a fantastic introduction to cross-country skiing, offering the chance to enjoy the fresh air, scenery, and maybe even the Northern Lights.

More from Norway

The Northern Lights shining over the Lofoten Islands

The Northern Lights

Discover everything you need to know about the aurora borealis from the experts.

The Midnight Sun over the North Cape, northern Norway

The Midnight Sun

Learn more about the Arctic’s endless sunshine and what causes it.

The White-tailed Eagle – also known as the sea eagle – is the largest bird of prey in Norway

Wildlife

Diverse, exotic, raw – the exciting wildlife is one of the main draws for people travelling to coastal Norway.

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