Traveling to Norway for outdoor adventure may seem daunting. The open spaces are big, the weather can be unruly, and the language is foreign. In reality, Norway is not so tough. Few places run as smoothly and the outdoors infrastructure is the best of the best. Stop dreaming and start planning: here is your step-by-step travel guide to Norway outdoors:
Step 1. Buy a Round-Trip Ticket to Oslo
Pick the time of year and length of your trip to Norway. Summer and early fall are prime for hiking; Norway in winter is one of the top cross-country skiing destinations in the world. There is also plenty to do in the spring and fall.
Step 2. Decide Which Places in Norway to Visit
This is the most fun part of planning any trip. Let the imagination run wild: explore and research the various parts of the country for what appeals most to you. Interested in unwinding on some of the most unique islands in the world? Rent a rorbuer on the Lofoten Islands located above the Arctic Circle. A challenging hut-to-hut hiking trip? The Hardangervidda is Europe’s largest mountain plateau and home to herds of wild reindeer. Norway’s famous fjords? You can visit the biggest and best-known fjords or get off the beaten path to places that few tourists see.
Step 3. Get the Necessary Gear
There aren't many specialty items required for traveling in Norway, but you will want warm clothes, good rain gear, hiking boots, and a silk sleep sack for the huts. It’s best to complete your gear shopping before leaving home; sports stores in Norway have all the necessary equipment but you’ll pay a premium.
Step 4. Trip Part 1: Oslo
Most international flights land in Oslo, which is also the headquarters of the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). According to the man himself, Rick Steves, Oslo is one of Europe’s most underrated cities. Enjoy the stopover, visit the Viking museum, and spend some time at the DNT. There you can speak to the knowledgeable staff, buy Norway maps, and get the magic DNT key for access to over 400 huts throughout the country.
Step 5. Trip Part 2: Norway Outdoors
Wherever you decide to travel in Norway, get out and enjoy the journey. Norway has some of the most striking landscapes on the planet and kind people to match. Along the way you’ll likely experience the rugged coastline, fjords, mountains, and picturesque Norwegian towns. It doesn’t get much better.
Step 6. Return Home and Start Planning Your Next Trip to Norway
All vacations come to an end, but it’s hard the shake the “this isn’t as good as Norway” bug. Norway leaves a profound impression and the country is so vast that there is always more to see. It’s comforting to know that the Norwegians care deeply about the environment and make it one of their utmost priorities. With any luck, you’ll be back soon.