Northern Norway Explorer

Intrepid Travel · 9 days

3.9

12 Reviews

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Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Enter a world of extremes where night looks like day, day looks like night and regardless of the season, the scenery's more than perfect.

Highlights

Spend three nights in the Lofoten Islands, where lucky visitors may spot sea eagles in the narrow Trollfjord landscape.
Visit Trondheim, translating to 'a good place to live', and take a ride on the world’s northernmost tram or enjoy a forest walk and picnic just like the locals do.
Look up at the medieval Nidaros Cathedral, a Gothic-style building that houses the remains of St Olav, Norway's patron saint.
Hop on an e-bike in Tromso and learn about the life of people who live hundreds of kilometres north of the Arctic Circle.
Set sail along the Norwegian coastline on Norway’s famous Hurtigruten cruise line, loved by visitors and locals for over 100 years.

Trip Details

Duration

9 days

Transportation

Train,Public bus,Plane,Overnight Ferry,Tram,E-bike

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Oslo, Norway

Finishes

Tromsø, Norway

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Oslo

Welcome to Norway, where you’ll discover the irresistible charm and eccentricity of Oslo. With so much to see and do in Oslo, we recommend that you arrive a few days before the trip begins, so you can see as much of the city as possible. Tonight why not seek out some traditional Norwegian fare with the group?

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Trondheim

Today you'll leave Oslo behind and take the train across the stunning countryside to Trondheim. Trondheim was the first capital of Norway (although some historians would argue that) and remains the city where kings go through their coronation. Its name translates as 'a good place to live', with 'trond' meaning 'a good place' and 'heim' home, and it truly is. The city is situated on the Trondheimsfjord and colourful wooden storehouses flank the Nidelva River that runs through town, while the city's outskirts are surrounded by hilly wilderness. Ask your leader about the best places to get fresh seafood in town.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Trondheim

The forested Bymarka awaits you today – a large nature reserve in Trondheim’s west. Take an easy walk around Lianvatnet, a freshwater lake surrounded by grassy slopes and shady paths. Head back to Trondheim and embark on Norway’s famous Hurtigruten ferry towards your next stop, Bodo. Operating for over 130 years, the Hurtigruten ferries transport both visitors and locals across Norway’s waters and offer regional ingredients during their onboard experience. Enjoy a night on board the ferry, but while it’s still light, make sure to spend time looking out along the incredible Norwegian coastline.

Included Activities:

Trondheim - Bymarka forest walk

Optional Activities:

Trondheim - Ringve Music Museum (150 NOK)
Trondheim - Rockheim National Museum of Popular Music (170 NOK)
Trondheim - Kristiansten Fortress - Free
Trondheim - Sverresborg Folk Museum (200 NOK)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Lofoten Islands

Arrive in Bodo sometime this morning. There's ample time for you to explore this interesting town until we leave on the afternoon ferry to Svolvaer on the Lofoten Islands. Bodø is a modern city, as it was rebuilt after essentially being destroyed by German bombers during WWII. With a dramatic backdrop of rugged ranges, Bodø has the densest population of white-tailed sea eagles in the world, so once you're done exploring, why not grab a drink or some food by the quay and take in the vista while these impressive birds circle above (just watch your food). While in Bodø, you also have the possibility to hop on a public bus taking you to Saltstraumen, the strongest tidal current in the world and see Norwegian nature in action. Board the afternoon ferry to the Lofoten Islands. After arrival, check in at a traditional Norwegian rorbu, which has a history of being the home of local fishermen, but has now been rebuilt to accommodate guests. The sunny atmosphere provides a unique experience of Lofoten's landscape. It's a short distance from the cabins to fishing spots at sea, beaches, mountains and notably the iconic Svolværgeita mountain.

Included Activities:

Bodø - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Bodø - Public Bus to Saltstraumen Maelstrom (84 NOK)

Accommodation:

Rorbu (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands are known for picturesque fishing villages, pristine nature and, of course, the Midnight Sun. This is viking country, and the beauty of the area is unparalleled and near-impossible to convey in words. Svolvaer, one of the main towns on the islands, relies heavily on fishing and an ever-growing tourism industry as it's used as a primary base to explore the other islands. This morning head out on an excursion by RIB (rigid inflatable boat) to the narrow and steep-sided Trollfjord. On this exhilarating trip around the small islands and skerries of the Raftsundet Strait, you'll also get the chance to see sea eagles, it’s a special experience when one circles just a few metres above your head. The afternoon is free to explore as you wish and there are several optional activities for you to choose from. Perhaps enjoy a sea kayaking trip around Svolvaer's picture-perfect harbour (subject to availability) or hike through the dramatic granite peaks jutting out of the ocean.

Included Activities:

Svolvær - Trollfjord Cruise & Sea Eagle Safari

Optional Activities:

Svolvær - Sea Kayaking Excursion Day (1095 NOK)
Svolvær - Traditional Fishing Trip (1195 NOK)
Svolvær - Lofoten War Museum (120 NOK)
Svolvær - Bike Hire (450 NOK)
Svolvær - Sea Kayaking Excursion Evening (1395 NOK)

Accommodation:

Rorbu (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Lofoten Islands

Today, after breakfast, enjoy a hike to Linken peak (105 m above the sea level). This is a picturesque and easy hike (approximately 2 hours) that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. For those who are up for a further challenge and exercise your leader can additionally take you for Tjeldbergtinden hike to enjoy a spectacular view over the sea and fjords and Svolvær city below. Those feeling less energetic can return to Svolvaer after the Linken Peak hike and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Included Activities:

Svolvær - Leader-led hike to Linken Peak

Accommodation:

Rorbu (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Tromsø

Depart the Lofoten Islands on a long but scenic travel day to Tromsø. Start with a local bus ride to Harstad, you'll have some free time here so perhaps take your time for lunch or explore the little town. Later on continue by local ferry past stunning scenery, plenty of fjords and even a maelstrom to Tromsø. Located far above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is northern Norway's major cultural centre thanks to a range of music and arts festivals and an increasing student population courtesy of the University of Tromsø. Enjoy a free evening on arrival in town.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Tromsø

This morning, start exploring Tromsø on an e-bike tour with a local guide and learn about life north of the Arctic Circle. You'll stop at some of the local's favourite city sites like MS Polstjerna, an extremely well-preserved vessel that took part in seal hunting (entry not included), an old farmstead from the 19th century, Prestvannet, the biggest lake on the island and more. Then, explore Tromsø at your leisure. Perhaps learn about the region's fascinating history at the Polar Museum and Tromsø Museum, check out the many art galleries or take a boat cruise in the surrounding waters (the city is actually built on an island). No visit to Tromsø would be complete without a beer at the city's oldest pub, Olhallen, part of the Mack Brewery that is even older than the pub. It was founded by Ludwig Mack, a baker who cared not for the drunkenness of the townsfolk. Mack started brewing beer in 1877 as a less alcoholic alternative to the spirits drunk by most. The brewery is still family-owned and frequented by young and old, traveller and local, student and teacher. Perhaps meet in the evening for an optional final group dinner together.

Included Activities:

Tromsø - E-bike city tour

Optional Activities:

Tromsø - Tromsø Museum (120 NOK)
Tromsø - The Polar Museum (120 NOK)
Tromsø - Cable Car to Fjellheisen (350 NOK)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Tromsø

Your trip comes to an end today. There are no activities planned for this final day. If you want to extend your stay in Tromsø we are happy to book additional accommodation for you, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $6,390

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 9 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Enter a world of extremes where night looks like day, day looks like night and regardless of the season, the scenery's more than perfect.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 09 May 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Danielle

Traveled, August 2022

08/28/2022

Highly recommend the Northern Norway Explorer tour. It was truly amazing, beautiful scenery and sights. The tour gave plenty of time to see things and we had the most amazing tour guide Jo who made this trip a truly memorable experience.

5.0

Asher

Traveled, August 2022

08/28/2022

Amazing way to see Norway and experience the culture. Gives you independence over your trip but takes out all the stressful hassle so you can just have a great time and enjoy the sights

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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