lofoten tour from oslo

THE 10 BEST Lofoten Islands Tours & Excursions

Lofoten islands tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Photography Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Night Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lofoten Island: Silent Trollfjord Cruise from Svolvær

2. From Leknes port: Special Summer Guided Tour of Lofoten

3. 2 - Day Summer Sightseeing & Photography Tour in Lofoten

4. Private Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Svolvær to Å

5. Lofoten Summer Photography Tour

6. Lofoten Islands Luxury Trollfjord Cruise with lunch from Svolvær

7. RIB Sea Eagle Safari Trollfjord Cruise

8. Midnight Sun Kayak - Northern Explorer

9. Aurora Jäger - Northern Lights Hunt in Lofoten

10. Winter Half Day Kayak Tour

11. Trollfjord and Sea Eagle Safari Tour from Svolaer

12. Shore Excursion Full day Private Tour in Lofoten

13. Lofoten PRIVATE tour from Leknes - Large group (5-8 pax)

14. Sea Kayak Guided Tours on Skrova Island

15. Sea Eagle Safari from Svolvær to Trollfjorden

16. Lofoten PRIVATE tour from Svolvaer - Small Group (1-4 pax)

17. Full Day Combo Kayak and Rappel - Northern Explorer

18. Lofoten Arctic Wildlife Safari

19. Summer Full-Day Guided Tour of the Lofoten Islands

20. Half Day Kayak - Northern Explores AS

21. Full Day Kayak-Northern Explorer

22. Lofoten Islands Luxury Fishing Trip with dinner from Svolvær

23. Northern Lights Photography Tour

24. Lofoten PRIVATE Tour from Leknes - Small group (1-4 pax)

25. Lofoten Islands Luxury Fishing, Hiking & Beach Tour with lunch

26. Brewery Tour

27. Lofoten Summer Photograpy Tour to Reine

28. Evening Kayaking

29. Private Aurora Borealis Adventure

30. Lofoten Islands Full Day Luxury Fjord Cruise & Fishing with lunch

What travelers are saying.

• Lofoten Island: Silent Trollfjord Cruise from Svolvær
• From Leknes port: Special Summer Guided Tour of Lofoten
• RIB Sea Eagle Safari Trollfjord Cruise
• Winter Half Day Kayak Tour
• Private Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Svolvær to Å
• Lofoten Explorer
• Aqua Lofoten Coast Adventure
• Brim Explorer
• RIB-Lofoten
• Trollfjord Cruise
• Lets Go Fishing Lofoten AS
• Lofoten Diving
• Reine Paddling
• Lofoten Lights
• No problem Sportfishing
• Kayak Lofoten
• Moskenes Adventures AS
• Northern Explorer

Choose from Lofoten's best experiences

Fishing trip in lofoten.

Fishing trip from Svolvær on board our authentic 1917 fishing boat - MS Symra

Snowshoe Nature Explorer

Experience Lofoten's nature and winter light on snowshoes with a local guide

Northern Lights tour with photographer

Search for the Northern Lights in Lofoten together with a photographer

Sea Eagle Safari To Trollfjorden

Experience the majestic sea eagle and the Trollfjord on this RIB safari

Order with flexibility

You need to secure popular experiences early! Free cancellation / change up to 48 hours before departure.

Guaranteed departure

No minimum numbers of guests.

Recommended experiences

Preferred provider of experiences by local hotels and restaurants.

Read our travelers' honest feedback

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Find inspiration for your next trip to lofoten, experience lofoten by rib, experiencing the winter wonders of lofoten, fishing in lofoten during winter, 10 of the best things to do in lofoten, the dream of fishing in lofoten, the kayak paradise lofoten, we can tailor our experiences to your wishes. book a private trip - get your own guide and the boat for yourself, private rib safari.

Experience Trollfjorden and other gems in Lofoten with RIB boats

Sea eagle safari to Skrova

Scenic and photo-friendly close-up nature experience by RIB boat

Private Kayak Safari in Lofoten

Kayaking in Lofoten with private guide

Lofoten fishing experience

Enjoy the day on board our authentic fishing boat

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Lofoten Islands Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Lofoten Islands. We've got 20 trips going to Lofoten Islands, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 16 days. The most popular month to go is October, which has the most tour departures.

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20 lofoten islands tour packages with 24 reviews.

• Northern Lights
• Sightseeing

Northern Norway Explorer

I enjoyed the days in Norway. It is a fast paced itinerary but you never get bored at one place. Despite the pace I had quite some hours at each place where we stopped and hiked around. The trip definition matched my expectations. My travel fellows are quite diverse in terms of culture background and age. I think intrepid did a good job to make a satisfying tour for such a diverse group.

• Christmas & New Year

Tailor-Made Private Norway Trip to Chase the Northern Lights

Jann was a fantastic guide / driver who was kind and considerate and wanted the best experience possible for his guests!! Jann was friendly and educated/answered all questions even with personal stories! We were very lucky and had a great viewing night and Jann had prepared us for the post that we would not see anything, would highly suggest the Jann experience to everyone!

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Lofoten Road Trip (Explore Alluring Lofoten by Car)

Arctic Experience

Tour more than met our expectations. Our tour guide, Stefano, was good and very helpful when I sustained an injury.

Polar Nights in Tromsø & Sommarøy Island

Superb tour. Well planned, timing was excellent, tour guide, Kari, was great. Had a marvelous time!

Best of Northern Norway Classic - 71° North Cape ( Private Tour)

Very exciting and perfectly organised Tour. Very friendly Team. We really recommend this tour!

• Ocean Cruise

Norwegian Fjords & Crossing the Arctic Circle (Start Oslo, End Bergen)

Boreal Sensations

• Intl. Flights Included

Lofoten Adventure: Road Trip to Red Stilt Houses (6 destinations)

• Flights included
• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hei Norge: Oslo Adventure & Lofoten Road Trip

• Mountain Hikes

Lofoten & North Cape: Road Trip to the End of the World

Nordic Nature: Lofoten Road Trip & Senja Island Adventure

Lofoten: Road Trip to Red Stilt Houses

Nordic Adventure: Road Trip to Lofoten, Vesterålen & Island Wonder Senja

• Hiking & Trekking

Norway Hiking Tour

What people love about lofoten islands tours.

This was a bit challenging for me The guide Shane was wonderful

Lofoten Islands Tours starting in:

• Explorer (17)
• Personalized (13)
• Private (12)
• Fully Guided (9)
• Self-Guided (9)
• Intl. Flights Included (8)
• Northern Lights (8)
• Self Drive (8)
• Small Group (4)
• 7 Day Tours (7)
• 10 Day Tours (5)
• Spring 2024 (6)
• Summer 2024 (8)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (11)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (7)
• Spring 2025 (7)
• Summer 2025 (2)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (1)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (1)
• April 2024 (1)
• May 2024 (8)
• June 2024 (8)
• July 2024 (8)
• August 2024 (8)
• September 2024 (9)
• October 2024 (10)
• November 2024 (4)
• December 2024 (5)
• January 2025 (6)
• February 2025 (6)
• March 2025 (6)
• April 2025 (1)
• May 2025 (2)
• June 2025 (2)
• July 2025 (2)
• August 2025 (3)
• September 2025 (1)
• October 2025 (1)
• November 2025 (1)

Other Regions in Norway

• Norwegian Fjords (104)
• Northern Norway (36)
• Western Norway (32)
• Eastern Norway (17)
• Southern Norway (7)
• Central Norway (6)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (15)
• For Couples (9)
• Seniors (5)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Lofoten Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits aux Îles Lofoten
• Español: Circuitos en las Islas Lofoten
• Nederlands: Lofoten Eilanden Rondreizen

Lofoten is often referred to as the world's most beautiful archipelago, and for good reason! Here you will find countless opportunities for magnificent experiences and wonderful recreation in beautiful nature.

Northern Lights and Midnight Sun If you visit the archipelago north of the Arctic Circle, you are guaranteed magical moments all year round. In the winter night you can see the northern lights dancing in the sky over you and in the summer the midnight sun shines 24/7. It is in such moments that you feel you are truly alive!

The Lofoten Islands in a Nutshell™ tour If you want to explore the Lofoten Islands, the Lofoten Islands in a Nutshell™ tour is an ideal and effortless way to do so. Experience the beautiful landscape and idyllic villages on this self-guided tour.

Wildlife in Lofoten The historic fishing villages, pointed mountain peaks and white beaches characterize Lofoten, but did you know that there is also an exciting and diverse animal kingdom here? If you join a boat excursion , you can experience both sea eagles and killer whales up close; a sight one soon forgets!

Lofoten Fishing Lofoten is known for excellent fishing with its rich amounts of fish, so the chance is good that you will catch some. On the fishing trip, the most common fishes to catch are cod, pollock, haddock, and mackerel. Join in on a fishing trip and catch your own fish.  Along the way, you will experience the Lofoten archipelago with steep mountains, islets, and sheaves.

Fjord & Ocean One of the most famous fjords in Norway, Trollfjorden , is easy to reach by boat when you are in Lofoten. The narrow and magical fjord is surrounded by mighty mountains, and if you look closely, you can discover the outline of a troll in the mountain wall. If you want a close up experience, a kayak trip in Lofoten is a perfect activity for you. In Reine there are a variety of kayak trips all year round where you can see and experience the dramatic landscape from the sea side. How does a kayak trip under the midnight sun sound?

Lofoten Alps In addition to beautiful natural phenomena, fjords and fishing, Lofoten is also an eldorado for mountain lovers. If you are tough enough, you can climb the famous "Svolvær goat", a real adrenaline kick! If you prefer slightly smaller altitude challenges, take the hike up to Reinebringen and enjoy the view of Lofoten's beautiful islands and mountains. The possibilities are many, take the trip yourself and see!

Things to do in Lofoten

Hotels in lofoten.

Reine Rorbuer

Thon Hotel Lofoten

Eliassen Rorbuer

Norway in a nutshell®

This legendary tour takes you through Norway’s most breathtaking UNESCO-protected fjord and mountain scenery, as well as a trip on Europe’s top scenic rail journey.

Sognefjord in a nutshell™

Travel the waterway through the heart of the Norwegian fjord- and mountain landscape on the beautiful Sognefjord. This relaxing and extensive fjord experience also includes scenic train journeys with the Flåmsbana and Bergen Railway.

Hardangerfjord in a nutshell™

Experience the beautiful Hardangerfjord on a tour filled with varied and impressive highlights! This tour includes everything the Hardangerfjord area is known for; idyllic fjord landscapes, lush fruit farms producing world-famous ciders, mighty mountains, powerful glaciers, dramatic waterfalls, and the Hardangervidda mountain plateau.

UNESCO Geirangerfjord in a nutshell™

Experience breathtaking viewpoints, alpine mountains, and the hairpin bends of Norway's most scenic mountain pass Trollstigen. Cruise the UNESCO Geirangerfjord, explore the coastal town of Ålesund, and enjoy one of the most Instagram-friendly sceneries in all of Norway!

Lysefjord in a Nutshell™

Explore the famous Preikestolen rock formation while gliding through the water on a quiet electric fjord cruise on the majestic Lysefjord. Visit the charming city of Stavanger on the same tour!

Norway in a nutshell® Winter tour

Go on a winter adventure in Norway and experience the scenic Bergen Railway, the breathtaking Flåm Railway, the narrow and dramatic Nærøyfjord, and a bus trip through the beautiful winter scenery of Western Norway.

Sognefjord in a nutshell™ Winter Tour

This two-day tour lets you experience the King of the Fjords, Sognefjorden, at a comfortable and leisurely pace. You will also experience the special Norwegian winter landscape on the scenic Flåmsbana and the famous Bergen Railway.

Lofoten Islands in a nutshell™

If you're looking for a unique holiday destination this summer, Lofoten is the place for you. On this self-guided tour, you will experience a vibrant coastal culture and breathtaking scenery in a sustainable way.

Norway in a Nutshell®

Fjord Tours offers tours in Norway in one easy booking. You can choose from a wide range of tours exploring some of the most popular routes across this spectacular country. Looking for a long holiday or a short break? Fjord Tours sends you on your way with 1 ticket for your tours, activities and accommodation.

Our different tours combine beautiful fjord cruises with unforgettable train and bus journeys. Enjoy a day-trip or a longer trip with stops in fairytale villages along the way, and customize your trip to create your perfect Norwegian holiday. Experience easy and green travel with Fjord Tours - all year round!

Nutshell tours

Norway in a nutshell®

This legendary tour takes you through Norway’s most breathtaking UNESCO-protected fjord and mountain scenery, as well as a trip on Europe’s top scenic rail journeys, the Flåm Railway and The Bergen Railway. 

Multiple locations

Customize - 1 day or more

NOK 1595 ,-

Fitness Level

Suitable for all

Travel the waterway through the heart of the Norwegian fjord- and mountain landscape on the beautiful Sognefjord. This relaxing fjord experience also includes scenic train journeys with the Flåmsbana and Bergen Railway.

NOK 2085 ,-

As one of Norway’s most popular tourist destinations since the beginning of the 19th century, the Hardangerfjord region is filled with a wide variety of impressive highlights! Idyllic fjord landscapes, lush fruit and cider farms, mighty mountains with dramatic waterfalls and powerful glaciers are just some of the highlights to look forward to!

Customize - 2 days or more

NOK 3120 ,-

Experience breathtaking viewpoints, alpine mountains, and the hairpin bends of Norway's most scenic mountain pass Trollstigen. Cruise the emerald-green UNESCO Geirangerfjord, explore the beautiful coastal town of Ålesund, and enjoy one of the most Instagram-friendly sceneries in all of Norway!

NOK 1856 ,-

NOK 1381 ,-

Situated above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten archipelago offers dramatic, imposing beauty everywhere you look. In Lofoten, you will find steep mountains, white sandy beaches, cozy fishing villages, and an authentic way of life. All is ready for you to enjoy - under the alluring midnight sun.

NOK 1350 ,-

Winter Tours and Activities

This two-day tour lets you experience the King of the Fjords, Sognefjorden, at a comfortable and leisurely pace. You will also experience the special Norwegian winter landscape on the scenic Flåmsbana and the famous Bergen Railway.

NOK 2250 ,-

Snowmobile Safari in Lyngen, Tromsø

Explore the majestic Lyngen Alps with a local guide on this scenic and exciting Snowmobile Safari. Experience winter nature at its very best, as the Lyngen Alps offers some of the most beautiful winter scenery in all of Norway!

NOK 2290 ,-

RIB-boat winter tour in Flåm

Enjoy a winter fjord safari with RIB-boat on the famous Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO World Heritage Nærøyfjord. You also get to visit the charming little village of Undredal and taste the famous goat cheese!

Geirangerfjord Winter Cruise

Join in on an unforgettable winter cruise to the Geirangerfjord from Ålesund. Travel on a warm and cosy boat into the raw, wild, and beautiful fjord landscape, visit the Norwegian Fjord center, walk along the frozen waterfalls in Geiranger and enjoy an included lunch. Experience a popular World Heritage Site without the large crowds this winter!

NOK 2400 ,-

Combine your favourite tours

Combine 2 tours to see even more of Norway´s highlights. If you are struggling to choose a tour package, why not combine several? We´ve combined our most popular tours into epic round trips from Oslo and Bergen.

Norway in a nutshell® & Hardangerfjord in a nutshell™

This round trip from Oslo combines two of our most popular tours; the Norway in a nutshell® tour and the Hardangerfjord in a nutshell™ tour. This combination is ideal for those looking for a complete experience of Norway's best highlights. If you're looking for an adventure starting and ending in Oslo - this is definitely the tour for you!

Customize - 3 days or more

NOK 5600 ,-

Sognefjord in a nutshell™ & Hardangerfjord in a nutshell™

Combine two of our popular tours into one epic round trip from Oslo! Combining the Sognefjord in a nutshell™ and the Hardangerfjord in a nutshell™ tour provides an ideal experience of Norway's highlights. Maximize your fjord time and travel in comfort from Oslo to the best highlights of Western Norway!

NOK 5560 ,-

Lysefjord in a nutshell™ & Norway in a nutshell®

Discover the beauty of Norway's majestic landscapes and captivating city life! By combining the Lysefjord in a nutshell™ and the Norway in a nutshell® tour you get a complete experience of Norway's best highlights. Experience UNESCO-protected scenery, the heart of Fjord Norway, Norway's western coastline and our most epic rock formation, Preikestolen!

NOK 5900 ,-

UNESCO Geirangerfjord in a Nutshell™ & Norway in a Nutshell®

Experience the world-famous Geirangerfjord and its magnificent waterfalls. Visit Ålesund and travel up Trollstigen, Norway's most iconic scenic mountain road. Discover breathtaking nature and the spectacular Nærøyfjord. Get close to stunning nature in a responsible way and ride the rails on some of the worlds best train journeys.

NOK 7209 ,-

Other recommended tours

The Great Waterfall and Fjord Tour™

Travel through a landscape of majestic mountains, idyllic orchards, and spectacular waterfalls! Experience first-hand the power of Northern Europe’s largest waterfall Vøringsfossen and walk behind the gorgeous Steinsdalsfossen. Your waterfall adventure also includes a fjord cruise on the enchanting Hardangerfjord.

NOK 2053 ,-

Lysefjorden & Preikestolen Fjordcruise

Feast your eyes on the majestic Pulpit Rock soaring into the sky above incredible Lysefjord as you travel in silence on a fully-electric fjord cruise! The Pulpit Rock is ranked as one of Norway's foremost nature-based destinations and on this trip, you will experience the mighty plateau from the beautiful Lysefjord.

Strandkaien - Stavanger

3 hours or more

Fjord Cruise Bergen - Mostraumen

Experience fjords, mountains, and stunning waterfalls by taking a fjord cruise to Mostraumen from Bergen. This fjord cruise adventure is suitable for all and runs all year round.

Bergen Zachariasbryggen

Scenic Car Ferries

Car ferry between Geiranger and Hellesylt

Take a ferry ride on the Geirangerfjord, one of the most famous fjords in the world! Start from either Geiranger or Hellesylt and during the comfortable and relaxing boat ride, you will experience cascading waterfalls and mighty mountain cliffs in one of the world's most famous fjord regions!

Car Ferry between Kaupanger and Gudvangen

Travel on a journey through some of the most beautiful fjord landscapes in Norway, including the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, the charming Aurlandsfjord, and the mighty and impressive Sognefjord. Start from either Kaupanger or Gudvangen and experience the beautiful fjord, majestic mountains, idyllic villages, and stunning nature in the comfort of a spacious ferry deck.

Popular activities and experiences in Norway

Create long lasting memories by joining in on one of our fantastic tours or activities!

Very grateful to them for making my vacation perfectly organized. Surely when I return back to Norway I will do more tours with them. 100% recommended. Greg N

Super clear instructions from the tour company and a huge diversity of experiences all within a 10 hour day. The scenery is some of the best in the world. Dave Z

Need some inspiration?

Norway: best in travel 2022.

This won’t come as a surprise to anyone who has visited, but Norway has been named as one of Lonely Planet’s best countries to travel to in 2022. With beautiful landscapes, fantastic winter sports, and incredible culture, this Scandinavian wonderland is perfect for anyone looking for a scenic getaway – or just to relax in one of the country’s many charming, historic towns and cities.

How to spend five days in Norway

In spite of the incredible attractions, it’s never easy to create a travel itinerary for Norway when you only have so much time available. After all, what can you afford to miss when there is so many interesting things to see and do?

Norway in a Nutshell® in 3 days

Do you find it difficult to customize and book your own tour and need some advice on how to do it? To help you in the planning, we have put together a three day package on the popular Norway in a Nutshell® tour including hotels and exciting activities.

Sognefjord in a Nutshell in 3 days

Want to spend more than one day on the Sognefjord in a Nutshell tour? Here you will find our recommendations and tips on how to make the most out of your Sognefjord adventure!

An active holiday in Geiranger

Have you ever wanted to experience the beauty of the true wilderness, far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern city living? Geiranger may be just the place for you – an idyllic place frozen in time, with sprawling nature that seems almost untouched by human hands. For those interested in an active holiday, Geiranger is just the ticket – here, a range of fun and active experiences are just waiting to be discovered.

Different Ways to Experience The Northern Lights

Experiencing the Northern Lights is one of the most amazing things you can do in nature. The colorful display that lights up the black sky is a truly awe-inspiring spectacles and will leave you with impressions and memories you will never forget! Luckily, Norway is a prime location for seeing these frail rays of beauty.

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Lofoten Islands Vacations in Norway

Cross into the Arctic Circle and experience Norway’s best kept secret, the Lofoten Islands. Experience the midnight sun or northern lights and soak up the local charms, including Arctic wildlife and mountainous landscapes.

MADE FOR YOU

Your own personal itinerary, arranged by a dedicated travel consultant.

NATURAL PARADISE

Oasis for Arctic nature lovers, active travellers and photographers.

We handle the planning and details, you just show up and relax.

4 tours available

Prices per adult based on bookings for two

Sorry, we found no tours matching your criteria.

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Lofoten & the Fjords

Coastal cruise & flåm railway, lofoten road trip, lofoten & 71°north cape, northern norway & coastal cruise, northern lights in lofoten & tromsø, travel guide.

Be prepared for just about anything on your Norway adventure.

The first sight that greets most visitors to Norway is Oslo, Norway’s capital city and home to...

Lofoten Islands & Svolvær

Lofoten is an archipelago above the Arctic Circle in Northern Norway that encompasses the...

 At 350 kilometres (217 miles) above the Arctic Circle, it’s no wonder Tromsø is often called...

What to bring

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all type..

What’s the weather like in Norway? You just might ..

Northern Lights Guide

Learn about this fascinating natural light show an..

Time & Daylight

When to expect sunrises, sunsets, northern lights ..

Blog Articles

7 best cruise journeys in norway, best norway vacation spots & ideas, when is the best time to go and visit norway, my lofoten: charming villages & dramatic landscapes.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

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8 Day Small-Group Escorted Tour of Northern Norway

Away from crowds in norway:, a lofoten & alta experience.

Embark on a beautiful guided tour of the Norwegian Arctic with a small group of like-minded travelers and explore the highlights and hidden gems of Lofoten and Alta.

Journey Overview

• 8 Days / 7 Nights
• October & November
• From $11,988 USD Per Person
• Max 12 people per group
• Oslo, Alta, Ballstad
• Experience one of the most stunning regions of Norway from the Arctic wilderness in Alta to the majestic mountains and blue sea in Lofoten.
• Explore the outdoors on scenic hikes, ride along white sandy beaches on horseback, and adventure into the sea on a RIB tour.
• Connect with the vibrant culture with visits to local farms, fishing villages, museums, and art galleries.
• Witness the magical Northern Lights in Alta and Lofoten, where reflections in the dramatic landscape make for an experience out of the ordinary.
• Stay in dreamy and luxurious accommodations with sauna & spa experiences.
• Enjoy authentic, high-quality dining experiences featuring hyper-local, seasonal menus.

Pric ing | Timeline | Gallery |  Reviews | FAQ

Included In This Guided Tour of Northern Norway

7 nights at premium accommodations with magnificent views 

Guidance of an experienced Tour Director throughout the entire program

13 guided activities offering a cultural and immersive experience in the region

3 internal flights and luxury transportation connecting your locations in Norway

All of our services to plan and implement your trip, and support while traveling

2024 PRICING

October 5 – 12, 2024.

Price Per Person

$ 12,988

SPOTS AVAILABLE

November 23 – 30, 2024

$ 11,988

Arrival in Oslo & Welcome Dinner

Begin your Lofoten Islands & Alta tour in Oslo. Explore the vibrant city, strolling through the iconic streets and soaking in its culture. As the sun sets, indulge in a delightful welcome dinner with your Tour Director and fellow travelers. Cheers to the start of your Norwegian adventure!

Meals Included

Accommodation, journey to norway's high arctic.

After breakfast, depart for Oslo Airport for your flight to Alta. A short drive takes you from the airport to the Arctic wilderness lodge situated on the bank of the Alta River. Along the way, you will be greeted by a real Sami reindeer herder and learn about the rich history and traditions of the Sami people. Feed and interact with the reindeer, gaining insight into their integral role in Sami culture. Gather around the bonfire in a traditional Lavvu, and warm up with coffee and Siida cake, a local delicacy. Then continue to the lodge for check-in and a welcome drink in the panoramic lounge. Settle into your room, unwind and soak in the magnificent views over the river. Dinner this evening will be at the lodge’s onsite restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients and authentic Nordic cuisine.

Breakfast and Dinner

Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge

Discover the Arctic Wilderness

Today, you will venture to the harbor where you will search for King Crab. Your experienced guide will let you in on local fishing secrets and tell stories about the prized delicacy and the history of the area. Return to the lodge’s restaurant for a delicious King Crab lunch. This afternoon is all yours to relax and enjoy the lodge amenities, like the sauna and jacuzzi, after being out in the Arctic wilderness. Later this evening join an expert guide to hunt for the Northern Lights. Drive along the coast or up onto the inland plateau in search for the best view of the Aurora Borealis. Your guide will tell you all there is to know about the natural phenomenon and select viewing locations with the highest possible chance of spotting the aurora.

Breakfast and Lunch

Explore the Alta River & Arrival in Ballstad

This morning, experience the thrill of driving a cart (or sled) pulled by Alaskan huskies along the river. The ride takes you through the Arctic countryside as fall turns to winter in a display of colors across the landscape. Return to the kennel and interact with the huskies as an expert musher shares stories. This afternoon, bid farewell to your time in Alta as you make the short transfer to the airport and continue your journey to Lofoten. You are in for a treat this evening as you make a quick stop in Tromsø in time for dinner. Grab a seat at one of Tromsø’s top restaurants serving local, seasonal ingredients. Upon arrival in Leknes, you will make a short transfer from the airport to the small fishing village in the heart of Lofoten. Settle into your hillside cabin situated between the mountains and sea.

Hattvika Lodge

Horseback Riding with Vikings in Lofoten

After breakfast, experience Lofoten by horse on a tour that offers a slow-paced, scenic ride along Gimsøya Island’s coastline. You’ll ride over an Arctic beach, before heading towards the fishing village of Hovsund. After a gentle climb and spectacular views, catch a glimpse of the traditional Lofoten fish-drying racks while riding past ancient remnants from the Viking age before heading back to the stable. Enjoy a fresh local lunch served in the barn-turned-cozy restaurant and coffee shop on the wild northern coast of Lofoten. Late afternoon, travel 1,000 years back in time at the Viking museum. Learn about life in the Viking Age and wander along old paths down to the harbor where the Vikings sailed with their ships. Back at the lodge, the evening is all yours to relax in the sauna or hot tub, or take a short walk into town to mingle with the locals, and enjoy a delicious meal.

Hike and Northern Lights in Henningsvær

Join an expert local guide on an easy mountain hike at 1,400 feet above sea level. The small peak offers spectacular views of the turquoise bays, rugged mountains, sandy beaches and the Norwegian Sea. Continue to the picturesque fishing village of Henningsvær, which has played a significant role in Lofoten’s fishing history. It is a charming destination with craft shops and art galleries. Spend the afternoon exploring the narrow streets tucked away between piers and inlets, admire the old wooden houses and fishermen’s cabins (rorbuer). Late afternoon, you’ll visit a local organic farm for a cheese tasting and farm walk with friends. Tonight, if the conditions are right, and in the company of a professional photographer, you will have a chance to capture the elusive and strikingly beautiful Northern Lights ensuring you get the photos of a lifetime.

Fishing Villages of Lofoten

Today promises an enriching full-day tour of the traditional fishing villages of Lofoten. The morning starts with a visit to Glasshytta, Northern Norway’s oldest glassblowing hut in the heart of the rocky mountains. Watch the glassblower at work as he experiments with various glassblowing techniques. Then continue to Nusfjord, one of the oldest and best-preserved fishing villages, and Ramberg Beach, a beautiful chalk white beach. A stop for famous fish burgers topped with shrimp and salmon is a must do, enjoy the local flavors, along with scenic views. Finally, a visit to Reinehalsen, and the southernmost village, Å, before returning to Hattvika Lodge for your final evening and celebratory dinner in the world’s most beautiful islands.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Learning from Locals in Lofoten

This morning, you will experience the beauty of the surroundings and get a unique insight into salmon farming and behind-the-scenes production on an exclusive RIB tour. In addition to the salmon viewing, nature gives you the chance to spot majestic sea eagles soaring above. Then, it’s off to Lofoten Wool, where you are welcomed by the charismatic owner, Ragnhild. She will introduce you to the sheep and lambs, product assortment, and treatment given to different type of products. There is also a design studio and small shop to explore. This afternoon, bid farewell to Lofoten as you make the short transfer to the airport for your return flight to Oslo. Conclude your Norwegian adventure, full of life-long memories, stunning photos, and new friends.

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After landing at Keflavík Airport, you will travel to your hotel in Reykjavík. Located in the heart of Iceland’s capital city, Hotel Borg offers the best in both style and comfort. Following check-in, connect with your Tour Director before a visit to the Sky Lagoon. Relax in the warm waters of the geothermal lagoon and soak off your jet lag as your gaze upon incredible views of the North Atlantic. End your day with a gourmet kickoff dinner where you will get to know your fellow travelers and taste delicious Icelandic dishes. Your group tour of Iceland has officially started!

After breakfast, join a driving tour of Iceland’s capital. Notable sights include the famous Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall and the unique Sun Voyager sculpture. Following your tour, you will have free time to experience the city on your own. End your day with a delectable dinner and a drive to view the Northern Lights, if the skies are clear that night. If they are not, don’t worry. We will have many other opportunities!

Day 3 is dedicated to Iceland’s Golden Circle, which is made up of three must-see sights: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area and Thingvellir National Park. Nearby, at Fridheimar, you will enjoy a beautiful show with Icelanic horses and some organic, tomato-based delicacies as well. Following your guided tour of the Golden Circle, we will drive to Landeyjahöfn harbor and board a ferry to the Westman Islands. The short 45-minute boat ride will give you a new perspective of Iceland’s south coast. When the ferry docks on the main island, Heimaey, you might even spot a brave sheep grazing on the rocky cliffs surrounding you! Enjoy a delectable dinner at Hotel Vestmannaeyjar, your cozy accommodation for the evening.

Our private tours allow travelers to explore Scandinavian destinations with programs offering a great balance between pre-arranged activities and free time to explore. When implementing one of our private programs for you, we handle all the logistics involved, including: hotels, airport transfers, transportation from city to city and all guided activities and excursions. You will not be with a Tour Director throughout the program, but you will enjoy a number of sightseeing experiences led by experienced local guides. We can work with your desired dates, provided that availability exists at the many services involved in your program. This option is ideal for travelers who enjoy traveling independently and with a higher degree of flexibility to explore each location on their own.

Technically, Scandinavia refers primarily to Norway, Denmark and Sweden. When thinking of Nordic Countries, add to the list Finland and Iceland as well. Discover Scandinavia Tours can take you to any location in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. Currently we also offer extensions in Estonia, which is of particularly convenient access when visiting Finland, given that Tallinn – Estonia’s beautiful capital – can be reached by a short ferry ride from Helsinki.

Simple: just call us at  800-936-2814  and talk to one of our Scandinavia specialists. Alternatively, you can email us at [email protected]

If you are interested in a group tour, you can book any departure as long as there are seats available (but remember: we have a maximum of 12 seats per departure, so booking early is recommendable). If you want a private tour, you can book as far as 2 years in advance. For last-minute travelers, please keep in mind that we need a minimum of 30 days to implement a private program.

With our group tours of Scandinavia you can choose from a number of fixed departures throughout the year. If you need more flexible dates, our private tours allow us to work with any dates you have in mind, provided that we find adequate availability at all hotels and other services included in your particular program.

Yes, we do. For details regarding commissions, please visit our TRAVEL AGENT portal.

You will find our cancellation policy, along with all our terms and conditions,  RIGHT HERE.

In short, you can typically view the Northern Lights between September and March. But if you really want a memorable Northern Lights vacation, we created an entire blog post dedicated to this question, which you can read  RIGHT HERE.

You most certainly can! Just email us ( [email protected] ) or call us ( 800-936-2814 ) and we will start your dream Scandinavian vacation with a free consultation.

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11 Things You Should Know Before Visiting The Lofoten Islands

May 20, 2023 by Silvia 62 Comments

Updated May 2023

If you want to see some of Norway’s most beautiful landscape, you couldn’t go wrong with a trip to the Lofoten Islands. 

Actually, maybe you could. Here are a few things you should know about the Lofoten Islands when planning a trip there. After living in northern Norway for four years I’ve visited Lofoten at least a dozen times and am always discovering new things about these gorgeous islands. 

Quick Lofoten Travel Guide

Lofoten Accommodation: Svinøya Rorbuer  or Anker Brygge for unique Svolvær accommodation, Nusfjord Arctic Resort for luxury accommodation in Nusfjord, Elisassen Rorbuer or Rostad Retro Rorbuer for accommodation near Reine, and Lofoten Links Lodge for best Northern Lights accommodation. I don’t recommend booking an Airbnb in Lofoten as Airbnb has recently had lots of problems in Norway and now bookings often fall through. Airbnb is destroying the local economy and rental market in Lofoten, so locals are pushing hard to get it fully banned (you can read about it here ). 

Top Lofoten Activities: 

• Northern Lights tour from Svolvær
• Lofoten summer photography tour
• Kayaking in Lofoten
• Sailing to Trollfjord
• Guided Lofoten photography tour

Lofoten car rental:  check rental rates and availability from Bodø and Svolvær (Lofoten) here

Packing for Lofoten:  You can find my  winter packing guide for Norway here  and my summer packing guide for Norway here .

If you want more in depth Norway advice, I’ve also gathered all my best tips for planning an incredible trip through both Southern and Northern Norway in two 95-page ebooks that cover everything you’ll need to know to plan a Norway trip that you will love. You can purchase my Norway travel guides here .  

The weather is going to be crazy

The good news is, if the weather looks bad you can probably just wait 10 minutes and it will change.

And so the bad news is, that lovely sunny weather you’re enjoying probably won’t last long. Then again, Lofoten’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, so maybe it will surprise you with some consistent sunshine!

So regardless of what the weather forecast is saying, bring some rain gear  and warm layers that you can remove if the sun comes out. And if you’re planning on doing lots of walking or hiking, definitely bring some really good waterproof pants with you. 

You can also find my full guide for what to pack for Norway in the winter here and what to pack for summer in Norway here .

Tourism has just recently exploded on the Lofoten Islands

While just a few years ago most of the people I would tell about Lofoten had never heard of the islands, now – largely thanks to Instagram! – they’re very much on people’s radar. But Lofoten’s big reputation doesn’t mean that it’s set up as a big tourist destination (at least not yet).

That means that you’ll need to book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re visiting in the summer, as it’s not uncommon for all the islands to be booked solid. Read here for more information on what time of year to visit Lofoten.

For accommodation, the three best places I’ve stayed on Lofoten are Svinøya Rorbuer (my top choice, plus their restaurant Børsen is amazing!), Eliassen Rorbuer in Reine (probably the most famous place in Lofoten), and Lofoten Links Lodges (off the beaten path and the BEST for seeing the Northern Lights!). I also am dreaming about staying at Nusfjord Arctic Resort , which is a splurge but looks incredible.

The huge influx of tourists has also been a bit of a surprise to the locals, who might not have signed up to live on the set of a photo shoot. It’s something to keep in mind when looking for a place to set up your tripod, pitch your tent, or park your car.

Speaking of tents, Lofoten really isn’t the ideal place to camp. Yes, you can wild camp for free in Norway, but this is best in remote areas of nature, not on small islands with a lot of tourists. The islands can’t handle lots of campers, so it’s much better to stay at accommodation, or at least pitch your tent at a campground here instead of wild camping.

What I’m really trying to say is, show a little consideration, you know? Because according to a lot of people I spoke with, many tourists don’t.

And if you prefer to get off the beaten path, I’d recommend skipping Lofoten and heading either north to Vesterålen, or south to the Helgeland coast. I’ve written more about visiting Vesterålen here and you can find my Helgeland travel guides here .

Personally I love the Helgeland coast and the islands here are a lot like what Lofoten used to be. You’ll find the same picturesque fisherman cabins and dramatic mountain peaks rising out of the ocean, with far fewer tourists. The people on the Helgeland coast are also incredibly friendly, and luckily not annoyed by visitors as many Lofoten locals are. And you can definitely camp here – I had the best time camping on Træna , and I was the only tent in sight!

You could also consider visiting Senja , which has beautiful hikes and dramatic landscape, but it’s quickly becoming very touristy as well. Or for a quieter escape, Dyrøy is a lovely island near Senja which still feels like a quiet escape.

It will be a lot easier to explore Lofoten if you have a car

That’s right, road trip! If you’re wondering where to look for rental cars in Norway, I always find the best prices at AutoEurope.

You can read my complete guide for planning a Lofoten road trip, including renting a car and arranging accommodation here .

Public transport on Lofoten is very limited, with some buses only running a couple of times a day. In fact I’ve picked up a few hitchhikers on Lofoten who said they had planned to use public transport but found themselves stuck in small villages for hours so instead had to try to hitch rides.

If you do want to hitchhike here, just be aware that there are a lot of hitchhikers here, especially in the summer, so you might have a lot of competition for rides.

Lofoten is perfect for outdoor adventures

I can’t tell you how many people have asked me if Norway is just a destination for old retired people to take fjord cruises.

Um, not Lofoten.

While yes, some of the big cruises do pass through Lofoten, it’s mostly young adventurers heading there.

Lofoten is a mecca for hiking , climbing , fishing, kayaking , skiing, Arctic surfing (in the summer AND winter), and cycling. The tourism scene there has a very young vibe, with lots of budget accommodation, and even the luxury accommodation markets itself towards adventure seekers.

And while yes, Lofoten is getting more touristy, that’s actually a good thing when it comes to activities, as it’s one of the areas of Norway where you’ll find the most options for outdoor tours and activities. A lot of accommodations help organize tours, or you can check out some Lofoten tours and activities here and there are also some Lofoten adventure tours offered here .

Again, I can’t stress this enough: Lofoten is the  perfect place to do lots of fun activities and tours and I highly recommend taking advantage of this while you’re here!

Probably my favorite activity I’ve done on Lofoten is a sea eagle RIB safari to Trollfjorden. The views are amazing and I saw SO MANY eagles. You can read more about my experience on the safari here .

Oh and you can also go horseback riding under the northern lights in Lofoten! Or the midnight sun, if you’re visiting in the summer. I went horseback riding at Hov, which also happens to be considered the best place in Lofoten to see the Northern Lights (yes, I saw them!). You can read more about my time horseback riding in Lofoten here .

Hiking in Lofoten in the winter can be dangerous

Okay yes, I did just say that Lofoten is great for adventurers but also try not to be  too adventurous. While you can totally do some hikes in the winter with snowshoes, skis, or even normal hiking boots, you’ll need to be extra mindful of the weather.

Talk to locals about the best places in Lofoten for winter hikes, as there are some routes that are safer than others if a sudden snowstorm sets in.

There are a lot of tourists who find some famous Lofoten hikes on Instagram and arrive determined to do them. Please, do not be one of these people. You should never plan out your hiking routes from photos you’ve found online. First of all, these famous hikes are usually really crowded and not actually that great. But more importantly, you should always, always choose your hikes based on the weather. And to do so you need to ask locals what is safe for the current conditions.

Yes, the famous Reinebringen hike is incredible, but it’s also very steep and I would not feel safe doing it in windy or rainy weather. 

If your main aim in Lofoten is to go hiking, try to visit in the summer (June onwards). And if you’re a beginner, I highly recommend going with a guide for your safety – plus that way you’ll get to learn more about the local culture here as well!

Lofoten is a photographer’s dream

If it feels like lately your Instagram feed has been full of photos of Lofoten, it’s because it has. And if it feels like all the photographers are there right now, it’s because they are. It was kind of crazy how many people I follow on Instagram were there at the same time I was.

And you know what that means: if you’re into photography, get yourself to Lofoten! You can even book a photography tour here if you’re not sure where to go or how.

Your chances of seeing the northern lights in Lofoten aren’t great

Lofoten lies beneath the Auroral Oval , so theoretically your chances of seeing the northern lights here should be really high. That along with Lofoten’s warm weather thanks to the Gulf Stream should make Lofoten an ideal place to see the Northern Lights.

The only problem is the weather. Since it’s on the coast, Lofoten gets a lot of rainfall, which means your chances for clear night skies in Lofoten aren’t high. Of course when you do have clear skies the lights dancing over Lofoten will be amazing, but if your heart is set on seeing the aurora, consider heading somewhere with clearer skies, like Abisko in Sweden .

Personally, I’ve visited Lofoten four times in the winter and only saw the northern lights once. But it was amazing when I did!

So while yes, it’s definitely possible to see amazing aurora on Lofoten, just be aware that the weather makes it more tricky here, so try not to have your heart set on seeing the aurora while here. Plus then when you do see the northern lights it will be an exciting bonus to your trip!

Northern Lights Guide!

I’ve also written an in depth ebook covering all aspects of planning your Northern Lights trip, including the best places in the Nordics to see the Northern Lights, the best time to see the Northern Lights, my top accommodation choices, tour options, how to chase the Northern Lights, how to photograph and film the Northern Lights, what to pack for your trip, and other exciting Arctic activities to try on your trip up North.

If you want to ensure you have the best Northern Lights trip possible, you can purchase the ebook here .   

The ferry from Bodø to Lofoten can be rough

The ferry takes about four hours and while my return journey was smooth, the journey there was less so. Though apparently, it wasn’t even that bad by Lofoten standards. Just something to be aware of if you’re wondering if you should pack those seasickness tablets – or my personal favorite – Sea Bands .  They truly do work. 

You can also fly or drive to Lofoten

Don’t worry, you don’t  have to take the ferry. There are actually a bunch of daily flights into Svolvær in Lofoten, or Evenes at the north of Lofoten – you can check the current prices and flight schedules here .

Or you can actually just drive to Lofoten! The islands connect to the mainland in the north, so you don’t even need to take a ferry. You can read about driving from Narvik to Lofoten here .

You’re going to smell a lot of fish

I pretty much spent my entire stay on Lofoten hungry, thanks to the lovely smell of fresh fish in the air. Of course, it might have the opposite effect on some people.

You’re never going to want to leave

And I don’t just mean that you’ll be dreading the ferry crossing back to the mainland.

Lofoten is one of those places that is so beautiful it almost doesn’t seem fair. Like, people actually get to  live there? Could I??

If you’ve traveled to Lofoten and have anything to add, please share your tips in the comments!

Want to see more of my travel photos? Follow me on Instagram here ♥

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Renates Reiser says

April 7, 2017 at 3:15 pm

Well, I almost live there 😉 that is, I live in the town where you take the ferry from. But except in my childhood years, I haven’t really been there more than a couple of times… Crazy, right? It’s mostly because I know how unreliable the weather can be, hehe. But this year I’m definitely gonna change that. I absolutely love your photos!!!

Silvia says

April 9, 2017 at 7:25 am

Yeah if I lived in Bodø I’d want to visit alll the time! Though the area around Bodø itself looks really beautiful too – I need to explore it someday!

April 7, 2017 at 4:33 pm

That combination of white snow and sky and turquoise sea is just insanely amazing. Wow.

A colleague of mine wnet to Lofoten in October and did manage to see the northern lights a couple of nights, in between bad weather! So it can be done – but no guarantees, of course.

As for tourists behaving badly: I’ve read stories about tourists pitching their tents in the churchyard – i.e., on hallowed ground, near graves! Not cool.

April 9, 2017 at 7:24 am

People were camping in the graveyard when we were there too! I talked to a local guy who was really upset about it – it must be a recommended spot or something. So upsetting.

April 8, 2017 at 11:30 am

How did you get the interactive map section on you homepage? I really like it and am wanting something similar-ish for my own blog.

It’s a plugin by Code Canyon called “Interactive World Maps.”

April 10, 2017 at 8:06 pm

Thanks so much for replying, i appreciate it I love your blog and the map is super cool

Ioanna says

April 8, 2017 at 6:11 pm

I agree – Lofoten are the photographer dream location! Your photos are just mind-blowing beautiful! I was to Norway only once, and much farther to the south. I hope I can come one day to do some hiking around Lofoten or other parts of Norway, it is such a stunning land 🙂

Thank you for this post and feeding my eyes with so much beauty! 🙂 Ioanna (A Woman Afoot)

April 9, 2017 at 7:21 am

It really is sooo worth the trip

Jeff Eastmead says

February 18, 2018 at 11:58 pm

Your Video of Lofoten is beautiful. I have been there in the summer many years ago and will like to go back to see it in the snow. I agree it is one of prettiest places on the planet. I went to Reine and just loved it. I took the ferry from Bodo and it was a little rough and a lot rain. Suddenly the sun came the next day in Reine and I could not believe how beautiful it is – left me speechless. It is difficult to see without a car but perfect for cycling. I liked booking a kayak trip with the local guide. I did not get a chance to hike up the Mountain above Reine – maybe this year.

May 12, 2017 at 11:02 pm

THESE PICTURES ARE AMAZING!! Wow. I really need to get out here soon! I’m just so scared of Norway because it’s so expensive, lol.

May 30, 2017 at 5:02 pm

Norway doesn’t have to be very expensive! I have lots of posts on visiting on a budget that you can check out.

Burcu Basar says

August 16, 2017 at 11:47 am

Great post and beautiful photos. I had a chance to visit Lofoten three times since 2009, twice at the end of the summer and once in the winter. While in 2009 I felt like the only tourist on the islands, the experience was different during my latest trip in 2016. It is still not at the discouraging levels but the interest in the islands has definitely increased. I still find Lofoten to be one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

September 28, 2017 at 3:39 am

Visited this June as part of our (me and my wife) Norway trip. Visited Oslo, the fjords, Bergen and so forth, but Lofoten was by far the most memorable and bueatiful part of it. While traveling the south, we rented a car for that part of the trip, returned it in Oslo and flown to Tromso, this leg of the trip was to be traveled by public transportation. That means taking a high speed ferry to Harstad in Lofotens, than a couple legs of bus ride and whatever else be neede to make to our hotel at the very end of the archipelago in the town of A (A spelled with a little circle on top). Pretty ambitious journey for one day in best of circumstances, let me just say that we misread the ferry schedule and that put 5 hrs delay into the trip, than we missed the bus in Svolvaer, ended up renting a rental car for a day there. It was expensive, cost us $350, but it was the best money we ever spent, ended up driving all night around the island of Moskensoya, it was so pretty we could not just go to bed. 24 hrs of sunshine help a lot. Once you see this area, you cant miss it for anything else in the future, very unique. We slept it off on the plain back to US, hehe. Just my 2 cents…let me just say the Norvegians are pretty cool and even temper, pretty laid back too.

September 29, 2017 at 11:27 pm

Oh wow, I’m happy to hear that the misfortune turned into a good thing in the end! I would have driven all night as well.

jorge ramirez says

November 1, 2017 at 9:36 am

Wowwwww. after looked at your pics, I wanted to book a trip to Lofoten right away (But then I read your post, that November is not the great month to visit) but I will take the luck with me and I’ll go anyway (live in CPH) together with my friend and enjoy the loneliness of that place )). I’m not the person who takes a lot of pics but for Norway’s landscapes is a must to take a camera.

Thanks for posting !!!

ps (I found your blog because I was looking for information about Baikal lake in winter, one of my dream spots ) but Norway is turning my eyes to the fjords

December 3, 2017 at 3:44 pm

Hi, the video & comment looks great! i plan to visit this place if possible! i’m visiting Copenhagen late Jan 2018. can i know how do i travel to Lofoten from there? Do i have enough daylight & is it safe to rent a car there as it is the easiest way to visit? you mentioned it’s not too expensive to visit lofoten? are there any winter activities during that time of year? cant wait to visit there soon!

December 6, 2017 at 4:45 pm

I would probably fly from Copenhagen to either Bodø or Lofoten, and then rent a car in either place. If you go from Bodø you can take your car on the ferry to Lofoten. You’ll have to check with a tour operator about winter activities, but I imagine there are many!

Mohit J says

January 23, 2018 at 5:19 pm

Enjoyed your amazing photographs and lovely blog. I am planning a trip to Lofoten in the end of March 2018 with my wife and also 7 yrs daughter but I am worried that she will get really bored while my & my wife would enjoy the views. I am not sure if March end is a good time to visit as well. What you suggest?

January 28, 2018 at 7:03 am

Hi. Good Day. I plan to visit Lofoten this December. Could you suggest how many days is enough? 7 days?

Bill Kerwin says

February 2, 2018 at 3:53 pm

Beautiful Pictures looks like a great place to visit seeing I am from Rhode Island smallest state in the Union. Bill Kerwin Smithfield R.I.

Whitney Terry says

March 3, 2018 at 2:28 pm

How long do you recommend staying on Lofoten islands for? How many hours does it take to drive from the southernmost island to the north? Pictures are beautiful! Thank you!

March 4, 2018 at 8:35 am

Silvia, it’s looking unlikely my group will be able to make the trek that far north (darn US vacation time limits)! Lofoten looks so charming and has been the top of my list to visit. I would still love to visit a small fishing town / island / community or at least get a similar feel to Lofoten farther south. We’re planning to roadtrip from Stavanger, to Bergen, to Alesund. Any ideas that may be somewhat close-ish?

July 10, 2018 at 4:39 am

do you have any suggestions/advice for an American interested in moving to Norway (no right to work there at the moment) , would need to find a job. don’t speak norwegian. = (

July 11, 2018 at 8:09 pm

Hm, learn Norwegian would be my best advice! It’s not a hard language and knowing at least a bit will make it so much easier. Or you could enroll in a university course and go that route.

Bruce Wynn says

August 10, 2018 at 1:05 am

Silvia, So happy I found your blog. We are renting a car in two weeks and driving to many of your recommendations. I have a question about traveling from Bodo to Bergen. Is it possible to jump on a car ferry heading south from Bodo or is it just available to people paying for the whole route? Or would you recommend to drive back to Bergen? It would be fun to see some of the fjords from the water though.

Michael says

August 20, 2018 at 7:59 pm

Hey! Quick question for you (great blog by the way).

I’m travelling to Tromso on the 4th Septeber (landing early afternoon) and will leave on the 10th (again early afternoon) to fly from Tromso to Oslo. In my head I wanted to rent a car and cover both Tromso and Lofoten, driving down to Lofoten and then obviously driving all the way back up to drop the car in Tromso again and fly onwards (I really should have given myself longer than 5 days)!

I’ve not been to Norway before and want to make the most of my time in the far north before I have to leave, any recommendations for a potential itinerary I could look at for my 5 days there? If I have to sacrifice time in Tromso to make visiting Lofoten worthwhile then I’m ok with that, looking for a bit of a guide on what would be best to cover in my short time there? I noticed one of your other blogs about Senja as well, that’s considerably closer to Tromso than the far south of Lofoten. Any recommendations on the best route for me to cover etc would be appreciated 🙂

August 30, 2018 at 10:51 am

I have a similar question but will be traveling just before Christmas and will have 7-8 days; thinking to split between Tromso and Lofoten. I don’t mind flying between the two places. Would be great to hear your recommendations! Thanks!

November 11, 2018 at 5:14 am

I love your photos!. What time of the year would you recomend for visiting Lofoten Isl? In terms of weather, Aurora sighting, price..? Thanks a lot

January 24, 2019 at 10:56 am

Hi Silvia, your blog is lovely and this information on Lofoten islands is wonderful. But may I kindly ask for more information on visiting in Summer. I am also very much interested in Whale watching, Orcas in particular. I read that in Summer they move to this part of Norway. Whats your opinion on this? How long do you suggest on should stay on these islands? Thank you very much. Regards,

January 24, 2019 at 11:54 am

There are fewer whales in the summer, but you should still be able to see orcas in Lofoten! I would stay for at least three days to a week if you have time, there’s so much to see there.

Elisabetta says

February 2, 2019 at 2:44 pm

Silvia I am a food writer and would like to write an article or a story about the stockfish and of course interview a few people who deal with this I was told that Bergen has a storage facility where they sell this fish……..and there fore would like to spend 10 days between Bergen and Lofoten whic historically is the place where it all began for Italian stoccafisso imports……. June or July would be my planned months can you advise where to stay? i figured flying from Muenich to ………….? and move on either by boat or car? I too have two blogs – The Northern Italian Weekender nd From USA with Love at http://www.culinaryroots.com ,

February 2, 2019 at 3:17 pm

I would come in June if you can, as July is the busiest month of the year. If you only have 10 days I would fly into Bergen and then fly to Svolvær in Lofoten and rent a car from there. Have fun!

M Black says

March 17, 2019 at 11:20 pm

Your blog is so helpful! Thank you for writing it. I’ve checked out your posts re: Norway in a nutshell and this one. If we were to recreate NIN ourselves as you suggest and want to visit lofoten, how many days minimum do we need? Would you take lofoten over a visit to Copenhagen and Stockholm?

April 18, 2019 at 2:46 pm

Kind regards from Svovaer Lofoten

Marjorie says

June 14, 2019 at 11:38 pm

Hi Silvia, my dream is to visit Norway and see the Northen Lights. After doing a very long research about it I came across your website and I have to say it’s the best I’ve read so far. I’m so glad I found your tips. I really want to go to Lofoten, but my only available date this year is on the third week of October. I’ve heard that this is not a good time for the Northen lights or Norway itself. I wanted to hear your thoughts about it, should I dare come in October? Is it really so bad?

July 25, 2019 at 12:17 am

I live at roughly the same latitude as lofoten and can tell you that the area in late fall can be very beautiful but that kind of weather becomes rarer and rarer the later in the year it gets. Late october is a big gamble. If your mind is set on lofoten id go for summer or early/mid fall. You wont see the auroras then but theres plenty of beauty anyway.

If you have to see the northern lights late august to mid october or january to march is a good bet. Avoid november and december, the weather is just to dark and rainy or otherwise inconsistent.

Weston Black says

September 1, 2019 at 5:03 am

Hello Silvia! I was Wondering what’s the name of the beautiful village in your 9th photo of this article? The photo with the fishing village/bay and fjords in background (clear skies). I’ve been searching for that spot, and I’d like to travel there and stay for a week or two, if possible. Many thanks for all your wonderful trip advice!!

September 2, 2019 at 3:53 pm

The photo is of Reine!

Landscape Photographer says

November 19, 2019 at 5:21 pm

Great article, Lofoten is indeed an amazing place! 🙂

I do however disagree about your comments on the Northern Lights. I’ve been to Lofoten 2 years in a row now both in January and using localised weather apps and a little driving in the right direction have been able to find clear skies with some amazing aurora shows on multiple nights of both trips.

I’m heading back again this coming January and will be visiting Senja for the first time. I can’t wait 🙂

amanda says

December 7, 2019 at 3:41 pm

Silvia- we are visiting in April– would this be an okay time to go to the Lofoten Islands? We are flying into Oslo but are hearing so many great things…would the best route be to fly there? thank you!

Stellar says

December 29, 2019 at 8:09 pm

Hi! I’m trying to plan a trip after looking at your beautiful photos! How did you get to Lofoten? I’m travelling from Alesund so its a big jump but it seems like I have to take a bus to Andalsnes, then trains to Bodo and then a ferry to Moskenes and then a bus from there.. is that normal you think?

December 29, 2019 at 10:54 pm

Sounds right! Of course you can also fly if you don’t have time to do that all overland.

January 18, 2020 at 7:02 pm

Hi there! If you had two weeks in northern Norway in late Feb/early March with the goal of snow shoeing a lot/winter hiking (we are outdoor guides so have some experience), seeing the northern lights, and being in towns or cities with young people–where would you go? How would you spend it? I’d be ever grateful.

Jay.Ritch says

January 31, 2020 at 2:31 pm

I’m currently visiting Lofoten at the moment. These tips have been helpful.

March 1, 2020 at 4:40 pm

What a beautiful place! Thanks for the local tips. Yet another place to add to the growing bucket list! x

طراحی ویلا مدرن says

March 9, 2020 at 1:55 pm

really impressive landscape, beautiful horses, I love it, I wish to visit this place soon as possible.

Mary Nichole says

May 7, 2020 at 2:46 pm

We are planning on a trip to Lofoten. The pictures you have captured are amazing and can give a thought for everyone mostly to visit this place. Thanks for sharing these tips!!

I am sure that your blog will be very helpful for our visit to Lofoten.

Postcard Stories says

September 11, 2020 at 3:59 pm

Lofoten Islands are paradise to me 🙂 I visited them during Covid lochdown, when only the Norwegians were travelling through the country. And my experience was priceless. Although I lived in Airbnb, but I definitely encourage everyone to try out a wild camping. Which is also for free. Norway is really not so expensive, if you are camping, fishing (and having the same fish for supper), enjoying the free activities as hiking, climbing to mountains and just enjoying magnificent scenery. I would love to go back there from time to time.

sujith nair says

March 10, 2021 at 8:21 am

We are planning our maiden trip to Lofoten in august this year. We have booked our tickets but still struggling with place to stay. I am confused on if i should just book one place for the entire trip of 10 days or if i should split it up in between different places (from west to east). Can you give us your suggestions based on your experience please?

March 14, 2021 at 11:10 am

Lofoten is quite large so I would book two or three places – maybe near Reine and Svolvær, and you could add a couple of nights in Nusfjord or a different village. You can find all of my Lofoten recommendations here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/lofoten-road-trip/

Andrea Oliveira says

February 8, 2022 at 1:01 pm

Hello Silvia, thanks for the words and wonderful pictures, Lofoten looks amazing. I´d like to know if you could explain why Airbnb is not a good option in Norway recently. We are planning to visit Norway this year and were considering where to stay.

Airbnb maybe says

May 18, 2022 at 3:55 pm

Another post of yours recommends Airbnb. Not sure which is the more recent. Could you update us 😀

May 22, 2022 at 2:19 pm

Ah sorry, I haven’t managed to update everything yet, but I’d try to avoid Airbnb if you can!

alka nand says

August 2, 2022 at 10:44 pm

Silva, We live in Dallas Tx, and I followed your posts for our recent trip to Norway and Lofoten Islands, They were very useful. I also bought both the pack of North and South guides. But I found your posts much more useful! Thank you so much! We are mountain lovers like you and we followed your recommendations of scenic routes to take. In particular – Gamle Strynefjellsvegen Road trip – https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/gamle-strynefjellsvegen-road-trip/ was really beautiful! Also followed your suggestions for places to visit in Lofoten and stayed in Eliassen Rorbuaer . It was Beautiful!! Norway is a gorgeous country – its like one big National Park!! The only disappointing part was the weather. We lost a lot of time to bad rainy, foggy weather 🙁 Trollstigen drive and Andalsnes were literally a wash 🙁 And that is when we came in July! Just one suggestion – It woud be great if you had a compilation of links to all your pages for a particular country.

Again Thank you so much for your very informative posts with pictures! alka

Ksenija Olmer says

September 10, 2022 at 11:42 am

Just returned from a Norway trip with a week spent in Lofoten. Photographer’s paradise even with your little phone. We had a great experience booking a special one week offer hotel in August just at the end of the season. We needed a week because of the crazy weather, cold and rain the whole summer in Norway bee had only three sunny days on Lofoten but they were fantastic and worth the wait. The crowds down in Å were still shocking, the eagle safari was still sold out but the rest of the island wasn’t too crowded. The long ferry from Bodo to Rost was actually free this summer in a government scheme to get more visitors to less popular places. Fantastic on a sunny day, must be very rough otherwise. As you recommend Senja was a good alternative or addition and much less people end of August than Lofoten. Andoya totally empty. Agree with you car is a must, camping is difficult because of rain and even more so strong winds. We did it and it was really bad! Camper van would be ideal for Norway as the free infrastructure for that is much better. Lots of free rest areas for camper vans and even big camper trailers forbid pitching a tent. Hope this helps anyone planing a trip. Happy trails from two old farts @crazyparentstravel

January 24, 2023 at 11:38 pm

Hi Silvia, I saw that you do not recommend AirBnB but you are suggesting to use Booking.com through the links that you provide. Can you explain what is wrong with AirBnB in Norway and how Booking.com is better? Thank you.

January 28, 2023 at 11:53 am

Airbnbs are registered differently in Norway, and there’s a limit on the number of days in a year someone can rent out their place on Airbnb (this is to protect rental prices for locals). A lot of Airbnb owners keep all the dates available and then cancel last minute based on when they can make the most money.

Heather says

February 2, 2023 at 8:11 pm

Hello Silvia! I am currently trying to plan our October honeymoon (mid Oct-end Oct) 2 week itinerary. My fiance’s family hails from Arandal, so that is a must. Probably need to fly into Oslo & do day trip to Arandal. My dream would be to see the Lofoten Islands, some of the sites around Bergen perhaps (since NiN is year round) and also a quick trip to Iceland. We know this probably sounds too ambitious, or crazy even? With our timeframe, what are your thoughts? It’s a struggle to know how best to plan. Any guidance is much appreciated! <:-}

February 5, 2023 at 10:00 am

I guess see if you can fly Icelandair to Oslo with a stopover in Iceland. Then take a couple of nights in Arendal, and then fly to Bergen. Spend about three nights in Bergen with a day trip to the fjords, or rent a car and overnight in the fjords (I recommend this! https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/aurlandsfjellet-sognefjellet-bergen-road-trip/ ) and then fly up to Lofoten and spend the rest of your time there, again renting a car.

Lillevik Lofoten says

October 22, 2023 at 4:09 pm

Great overview of Lofoten and super tips!

Just one comment: The NRK story about the hotel owner wanting to make AirBnb illegal is quite biased, and not everyone agrees as the story also says.

Lofoten simply doesn’t have the capacity to house all tourists, and without private homeowners renting out on AirBnb, Booking.com and other platforms, there would simply not be enough places to stay during high season.

Hotels and other businesses with seasonal workers and temporary employees do of course need housing at the same time that tourists need places to stay. Many seasonal workers rent apartments and houses short-term, on the same platforms as tourists.

It’s common for house owners to rent out long-term for 10 months, and then ask/force the tenants to move out for two months in summer so they can rent out short-term to tourists to a much higher price.

On the plus side: When people rent out their homes and holiday homes, the income helps them keep the houses in order, do maintenance, and renovate them. This is also important for local businesses, of course. Without the income from renting out, there would be no money for fixing the houses.

A bit anecdotal, but still: The house we rent out at Gimsøy (near the Lofoten Links lodges you mention) had been empty for 10 years before we bought it and completely renovated it. The renovation took two years and cost almost 2 million NOK (180,000 USD). During the two years we used only local carpenter, electrician, plumber, etc – and we only bought building materials and equipment (all appliances, furniture, etc) locally. We now rent it out with around 40 % of a normal year occupied – hoping for more. We think it’s far better than when the house was basically waiting to fall apart.

One thing to be aware of is all the new cabins, or “hytter”. In many areas of Norway the untouched nature is bulldozed away for cabins. There is a growing concern about the loss of nature, and in some areas the natural landscape is completely gone – it’s just cabins everywhere. There are now over 80 counties that want to stop all new cabins. NRK has a story on that too: https://www.nrk.no/vestland/val-2023_-80-kommunar-vil-stanse-alt-naturtap-1.16542929

fotografwdrodze.pl says

January 21, 2024 at 9:12 pm

In recent years, the Lofoten Islands have become increasingly commercialized. There are more and more buildings that devastate the amazing views.

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Visit Lofoten

– the world’s most beautiful islands

Welcome to our home

Lofoten is a place of contrasts. It’s a natural wonder with thriving local communities. It’s where mountains meet the sea, and where local businesses meet recreation. Lofoten’s distinctive magic lies in its ability to bring together everyday local life with a global interest in its natural beauty.

Lofoten’s untamed beauty

Leave only footprints

Where is lofoten, and how to travel here.

Lofoten Islands, in Northern Norway, have been voted by National Geographic as one of the most appealing destinations in the world. Located just above the Arctic Circle, at the 68th northern parallel, Lofoten basks in the ethereal Midnight Sun during summer and witnesses the magical Northern Lights from September to April.

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Lofoten is known for its majestic nature. And with it comes great responsibility. Learn more about safety in our mountains.

As a haven for epic summit adventures, we’re well-versed in traversing Lofoten’s majestic terrain on foot or skis. Sometimes, the allure of a mountain peak is almost irresistible. We understand the pull! But remember, it’s never too late to turn back. Safety should always come first in the pursuit of these tempting peaks.

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Lofoten Islands + Oslo or Bergen

Minimum Time:  5 days Recommended Time:  1 week Stops:  Oslo or Bergen, Henningsvær, Reine  Summary:  The Lofoten Islands , located more than 100 kilometers above the Arctic Circle, are as stunning as anywhere in the world. Despite the remote setting, direct flights from Oslo to Lofoten can be found for $100 USD or less. The city of Svolvær on the Lofoten Islands has an airport, but Harstad/Narvik, Airport Evenes (EVE) on the edge of the mainland is the closest direct flight from Oslo and air travel and rental cars there are considerably cheaper.

Spending five or six days on the Lofoten Islands is a perfect amount of time. Much of the experience is about just being there and soaking up the surroundings—with a week or so you can stay in two or three historic fishing towns, drive the length of the archipelago, and choose a few activities that suite your interests.

For the best fishing villages to stay in on the Lofoten Islands, we recommend Henningsvær and Reine . Henningsvær is nicknamed the “Venice of the North,” a bit of a stretch, but it's the liveliest Lofoten village and home to the most well-preserved architecture. Reine is small and quiet but there is no better place to rent a rorbuer and enjoy the Lofoten scenery. Reine also is a quick drive from the village of Å and the end of the road.

Travelers can visit Oslo or Bergen on either end of the itinerary (although it’s possible to travel to Lofoten without going into the cities). Flights from Oslo to Lofoten are direct and the cheapest. Flights from Bergen stop in Oslo and are about 50% more expensive. Those with extra time can add the Bergen Railway to the itinerary before or after heading north.

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• Brim Explorer
• Lofoten boat tours

Lofoten - Silent Trollfjord Cruise

• Duration 3.5 hours
• Departure 10:00 & 14:30
• Season 1 Feb 2024 - 13 Oct 2024
• Adult price Kr. 1250
• Description

Know before you go

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• Book your Silent Trollfjord Cruise now
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See the Trollfjord in Lofoten

Spot white-tailed eagles, underwater drone exploration.

A Trollfjord Cruise from Svolvær

We depart from Svolvaer, our hometown in Lofoten. Our destination is the magnificent Trollfjord. It is only accessible by boat or a 10km hike across the mountains. On our way out of the harbour, we will pass by the “Fiskerkona” (the Fisherman’s Wife statue) that has waved goodbye and welcomed back the fishermen of Lofoten for decades. Our guides will share their stories and information about nature, history and local culture along the way.

Explore wildlife above and below the fjord

At the start of Raftsundet, we will if conditions allow deploy our sub-water drone to explore the world under the surface of the water in Norway’s fjords. Waving through the kelp forests or scouring the seabed, we hope to encounter some of the fish that have been the lifeline and income for the communities like Svolvær and has made Lofoten famous.

While we continue through the strait of Rafsundet, the views will gradually get more and more impressive. Keep your eyes peeled, as this is also where we are likely to first start seeing White-tailed eagles. We will pass by dotted houses along the way with some surprising typical Norwegian history that our guides will share.

Silence and serenity in Trollfjord

Trollfjord has long been a highlight of a visit to Lofoten and with good reason. The opening of Trollfjord is only 100m wide with mountains of over 1000m on the side of the fjord going straight down deep into the fjord. Once through the narrow 1 km opening, Trollfjord opens up in a cul-de-sac and you get rewarded with lush green views 360 degrees around.

In Trollfjord you can join our guide outside. They will put down their microphone and guide in person to enhance the serenity. We’re in eagles paradise so keep an eye out in the sky. Our guides will talk and share stories about the nature, history, wildlife and trolls of trollfjorden. We’ll pass by the waterfall before we turn back towards Svolvær. On the way back our café will be opened for lunch.

Time & Duration

10:00 - 13:30 14:30 - 18:00 19:00 - 22:30 (select dates in July)

Meeting point

Meet 15 minutes before departure at the pier on the main square, next to Paleo Arctic Restaurant in Svolvær (Torget 22)

Group size (min-max)

Daily 2 February 2024 - 13 October 2023

Important things to note

We do not feed wildlife on our tour

Cancellation policy

More than 48 hours in advance – 100% refund. Less than 48 hours in advance - No refund

Dogs & Cats on board

Dogs & cats are welcome on board.

Inclusions & facilities

Cruise to trollfjord, english and norwegian speaking guides, cafe with food & beverages for purchase, free tap water, should you need any assistance.

Email us at [email protected] if you require assistance with reduced mobility and impaired vision/hearing.

Warm indoor saloons

Adult (17+), youth (12-16).

25% off (937.50 NOK)

Child (3-11)

50% off (625 NOK)

Infant (0-2)

The origin of the name trollfjord.

It is unknown where the name “Trollfjord” originated, but there are legends and stories both fictional and other. One legend says that Trollfjord used to be a lake named “Trollsjoen”. A troll name Hinnøy was angry with another trolls cows were grazing on his fields around the lake. Running over with his axe, he tripped, and the axe flew out and landed in between the lake and raftsundet. When taking out the axe, the lake connected with Raftsundet, creating what we now know as Trollfjord.

Regardless or the origin of the name, Trollfjord seems an appropriate name for the impressive and overwhelming feeling one gets upon entering the fjord. Magnificent, impressive and a little frightening as you cruise in Trollfjord below the towering mountains that are threatening overhead and plunge deep into the fjord. It is certainly one of the most impressive fjords of Norway.

White-tailed eagles; the wildlife highlight of Trollfjord

What white-tailed eagles in trollfjord look like.

The white-tailed eagles are commonly seen on our Trollfjord Cruise. They are the largest eagle in Europe. They measure anywhere from 66 to 94 cm (26 to 37 inch) in total length with a typical wingspan of 1.78 to 2.45 m (5.10 – 8 feet). You can easily identify a white-tailed eagle by its, surprise, white tail. Juveniles are harder to distinguish as their tails are not (completely) white yet. They are also known as “sea eagles” as they feed primarily on fish. They are also known to attack livestock such as sheep and goats, which nearly caused humans to eradicate them from Lofoten.

The history of white-tailed eagle hunting in Lofoten

Lofoten used to have a large population of white-tailed eagle (and golden eagles). Sadly, the population is now only a fraction of what it was. The main reason for this is ‘eagle hunting’. It was accepted for farmers and others to hunt and kill the eagles as they formed a threat for their livestock. As early as 1655 eagle hunting was recorded in Lofoten. In particular because of the unusual catching technique; by hand. In 1845 the government even paid people for each kill and between then and 1968 when the law was abolished, an estimated 114.000 eagles are believed to have been killed in Norway.

Nowadays, the pendulum has swung the other side and white-tailed eagles are a tourist attraction. It is now a common practice to feed the eagles in Trollfjord to get them to come close, a practice we believe is not appropriate and something we have decided not to partake in.

Frequently asked questions about the Silent Trollfjord Cruise

How long is the trollfjord cruise.

The Silent Trollfjord Cruise is between 3.5-4 hours long. It depends a little on the wind and current and the size of the group. While it would be possible to do the tour quicker, we have chosen to do a slower tour where we have time to experience and take in our surroundings, the wildlife and nature.

Is it common to see sea eagles on the Trollfjord Cruise?

It is quite common to see white-tailed eagles on the Trollfjord Cruise, we can not guarantee that we will see them. That said, the eagles are known to be in certain areas (also on the way to Trollfjord). The main difference from tour to tour is how many eagles we see, and how close up they get to the boat.

What happens if it is raining all day?

Our boat is designed with warm indoor saloons and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows so that even on rainy days you will be able to have a good view. On rainy days we often have low hanging clouds in Trollfjorden that give an eery and dramatic feeling to the fjord.

Our Trollfjord Cruise will continue rain or shine. If the weather conditions are unsafe, we will cancel our tour and offer you to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Is the Trollfjord Cruise suitable for families?

Our Trollfjord Cruise is one of the most family-friendly ways to experience Trollfjord. Not only do we offer reduced rates for children and youth, our ship is safe and comfortable for kids to walk around. Our windows are floor-to-ceiling so that even the smallest amongst us can see outside. Our underwater drone is an experience that children usually are really excited about.

Is there lunch available on the Trollfjord Cruise?

We have a café on board where you can order food & drinks. You can pre-order lunch with your ticket, or order something while on board. There is a variety of warm lunch, sandwiches and other snacks available.

Is there a minimum number of participants for the tour?

Yes, we have a minimum of 8 guests for our tours. We always strive to do a tour on every day within the season, but sometimes there are too few people booked. In these cases, it is both financially but also ecologically unsustainable to do a tour with our ship. When this happens we will always offer you to reschedule your tour to another day if possible, or we provide you with a full refund.

Check availability for Silent Trollfjord Cruise in Lofoten

Join our Silent Trollfjord Cruise this summer! We know you want to! That bright orange “Book this tour” button has been following you all down this page, just ready to be clicked! A trollfjord tour with us will not disappoint! Our hybrid-electric ship is designed for sightseeing. Its comfortable and will provide great views of the majestic trollfjord from nearly everywhere on the boat! With our silent electric engine, we limit the noise and disturbance to nature, providing a calmer experience for both you and the fantastic wildlife.

Lofoten Islands: 6 of the best winter tours

If you’re looking for remote white sand beaches, colourful fishing villages and rugged mountains dropping sheer into the sea, you might not think of heading high up into the Arctic Circle.

But Lofoten is quite simply one of the most beautiful places in Norway – a country that’s already famous for its spectacular fjords, vast icy glaciers and towering waterfalls.

Lofoten is a chain of rocky islands that lies off Norway’s northeast coast. The islands are connected to the mainland by a series of bridges and ferries, and surrounded by fjords, islets and massive mountains.

The islands are great for outdoor activities, such as hiking up mountains for awe-inspiring views, kayaking round islands, taking a dip in the sea – and even surfing. 

But Lofoten is not just a summer destination. If anything, this remote region is even more scenic in winter when the mountain tops are capped in snow, icicles dangle off rose-red wooden houses and the northern lights dance across clear, starry skies.

Why visit Lofoten in winter?

Apart for the sheer beauty of the islands in winter, there’s also plenty to do in Lofoten, even when it’s cold outside. 

Snow-shoe hikes, winter kayak trips on the fjords and wildlife safaris out at sea all take place over the winter.

You can also find cosy accommodation on the islands in the form of rorbuer , former fishermen’s huts that have been converted into comfortable cottages for holiday-makers. 

Built to provide shelter for fishermen over the winter, these cottages are a great place to hole up in front of a roaring fire after a day out at sea or on the mountain.

And with little light pollution, the Lofoten islands provide some of the most spectacular sightings of the northern lights in winter.

What are the Lofoten islands like in winter?

Despite being so far north up in the Arctic Circle , the Lofoten islands have a comparatively mild climate, as their surrounding waters are warmed by the Gulf Stream. The sea doesn’t freeze and average temperatures rarely dip much below zero. 

Of course there are downsides to visiting in winter. The long dark nights, for one.

In the north of the Lofoten it’s dark from around 7th December to 7th January, so your activities at this time of year are limited.

However, you can still go out on a fishing trip or a northern lights tour, or simply hole up in front of a roaring fire in one of the rorbuer huts. 

If you’re visiting in winter, you’ll have to balance the hours of daylight with the average temperature and decide which tours you want to do.

It’s worth noting also that the length of the days changes very quickly this far north.

So although it’s completely dark for about four weeks around mid-winter, it starts to get lighter by about an hour a week until June, then darker by about an hour a week until December again.

What to expect on a Lofoten winter tour

Taking a guided tour is definitely a good idea if you want to explore the Lofoten islands in winter.

The weather conditions can change very quickly and having an expert guide to show you where to go and help out if conditions take a turn for the worse is crucial.

Most tours are run by locals who know the terrain and waters well. They’ll also provide any specialist gear you may need, and guides will be able to tell you in advance what sort of clothing you should wear and any kit you need to bring with you.

6 of the best winter tours in Lofoten

So what are the best tours to do? We’ve picked our six favourite fun trips in Lofoten in winter.

Kayak round the fjords in winter

We love this two-hour winter kayak trip where you’ll paddle peacefully round the calm waters of the fjords and islands. You can admire the snow-capped scenery from the water as you explore the shoreline around Svolvaer.

You’ll be provided with a dry suit and the trip is suitable for beginners, though bear in mind that kayaking in the cold can be more challenging than in warm conditions.

Go on a northern lights hunt

Head out into the wilderness with an experienced photographer, who can help you get the best pics of the spectacular northern lights. On this four-hour tour , you’ll learn all about the aurora borealis and drive out to where you can get the best views.

Hot drinks are included, as is a souvenir photo! We love that this is a tour you can do in December when it’s completely dark, although March and October are actually the months with the most solar activity. 

Explore the islands on an eco-boat trip

Take a silent tour of the Trollfjord on this electric catamaran. We think this is one of the most environmentally friendly ways of seeing the fjords without disturbing the wildlife that lives there.

The boat even has an underwater drone so that you can see the wildlife beneath the sea as well as the birds flying overhead.

Take a nature hike on snowshoes

When the snow is thick on the ground, the best way to get around is with snowshoes. On this three-hour guided trek , you’ll explore some of the stunning snow-covered scenery of the Lofoten islands.

Snowshoes and poles are provided, as is an expert guide who can teach you how to walk in snowshoes and tell you tales of the Lofoten, its history and culture. 

Visit a Sami camp and meet some reindeer

Learn about the life and traditions of the Sami people on this fascinating five-hour trip to a Lapland reindeer herd .

The Sami have been herding reindeer in Lapland for hundreds of years, and on this (admittedly very touristy) tour you’ll visit a Sami camp and learn all about their culture and history.

We think the best part of this tour is that you can get up close and personal with some fluffy reindeer, and feed them their favourite food – moss.

There’s even a warming bowl of reindeer stew round a campfire included too!

Spot seals and sea eagles on a wildlife safari

See seals, sea eagles and stunning scenery on this speedy RIB tour of the Trollfjord . 

This two-hour trip whizzes you past pretty fishing villages and dramatic sea cliffs in search of wildlife. We think that going on a tour with an expert guide gives you the best chance of spotting swimming seals and watching sea eagles soar and dive for fish.

Tips for visiting in winter

Of course, travelling this far north in winter involves a level of preparation. It will be cold, so make sure you pack well and bring the following essentials.

• Warm, waterproof coat
• Thick jumpers or fleeces
• Thermal layers 
• Woollen gloves, hat and scarf
• Sturdy waterproof walking boots and thick woollen socks
• Sunglasses – if the sun comes out, it can be blindingly bright when reflected in the snow.
• An umbrella – it rains a lot up here too!

3 spectacular places to stay in the Lofoten islands

One of the best things about a visit to the Lofoten islands is staying in a cosy rorbuer , where you can keep warm and enjoy the views even when it’s snowing outside. Here are three of our favourite rorbuer in the Lofoten islands.

Nusfjord Arctic Resort

Nusfjord Arctic Resort is a whole village of fishing huts that have been converted into cosy cottages that you can stay in.

There’s an excellent restaurant here that serves local and seasonal food, but our favourite thing is the outdoor hot tub and sauna when you can warm up after a quick dip in the sea!

Eliassen Rorbuer

Eliassen Rorbuer is a series of red-painted wooden traditional fishing cottages on the island of Hamnøy. Surrounded by sea, the cottages range from comfortable doubles with a stunning sea view to bargain bunk-bed rooms sleeping six.

We love that there’s a good breakfast included, and they can organise loads of local tours and trips.

Right down at the far southern tip of the Loftoen islands, Å Rorbuer has upmarket converted cottages on stilts over the sea. Å is the furthest south that the E10 highway goes, which gives this charming, picturesque village a remote end-of-the-road atmosphere.

The cottages here are comfortable and cosy and there’s a good restaurant on-site.

Is it worth visiting the Lofoten islands in winter?

We say categorically, yes! Apart from the stunning scenery, which looks even more beautiful when covered in snow, there’s a whole raft of fun activities that you can do in winter.

So, take our advice: wrap up warm and head north to Norway’s Lofoten islands for a magical winter trip!

See also : Visiting Oslo in winter Visiting Stockholm in winter Visiting Copenhagen in winter The best winter tours in Sweden

Visiting Norway in autumn: is it worth it?

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