Norway Trip June 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are you doing this?
In short, I love travel, planning travel, sharing travel, and I understand that some people find travel planning challenging and/or want to travel with others. And, of course, it’s Norway! Our past trips were absolutely incredible and an amazing experience for each traveler, and I am super excited to share this new experience with others.
Is this trip for me?
Fitness Level: The hiking trails on the Lofoten Islands range from “easy” to “hard”. Because of the unique way we will be visiting the islands, all hiking will be optional. While there are no extremely technical climbs, hiking requires a reasonable level of fitness and we may be doing 2-3 hikes per day of varying lengths and difficulty. If you're comfortable with regular walks or hikes, you should be able to manage the trails with proper preparation.
Hiking Experience: While prior hiking experience is not essential, some familiarity with walking on uneven terrain and carrying a daypack is beneficial. If you're a novice hiker, consider training beforehand to build endurance and get accustomed to hiking gear.
Enjoyment of the Outdoors: The Lofoten Islands offer a rich immersion in nature, with diverse landscapes ranging from serene seaside locations to rugged mountains. If you appreciate spending time outdoors, relish fresh air, and find beauty in natural surroundings, this trip will likely resonate with you.
Sense of Adventure: The Lofoten Islands trip is an adventure that calls for a spirit of exploration and a willingness to embrace the challenges of a multiple day hikes. If you're eager to step out of your comfort zone, discover new places, and challenge yourself physically, this trip could be an enriching experience. There are also other unique opportunities like sea kayaking and sea safaris.
Appreciation for Norwegian Culture: The Lofoten Islands trip provides a glimpse into Norwegian heritage and culture, with charming villages, historic sites, and opportunities to interact with locals. If you're intrigued by Norwegian traditions and enjoy cultural immersion, this trip will be a delightful journey.
Desire for Camaraderie: A group trip offers a unique opportunity to bond with fellow travelers, share experiences, and create lasting memories. If you enjoy socializing and connecting with others, this trip could provide a fulfilling group dynamic.
If you find yourself nodding along to these factors, then the Lofoten Islands group trip could be an excellent fit for you. It's a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Lofoten Islands, challenge your physical limits, and forge new connections with like-minded adventurers. Embrace the spirit of exploration and embark on a journey that will leave a lasting impression.
Why should I travel with this group?
Forget impersonal, organized group travel. This is a unique, small-group, personalized travel experience. Travel with a diverse but similarly-minded group of people together on this once-in-a-lifetime journey!
How much will it cost?
Total cost for all 11 days is $2650 USD (see below for what is included/excluded). I am doing everything I can to maximize the experience while keeping costs as low as possible. Trip prices may increase for late bookings if space is still available.
What’s included?
2-night stay in at least 3-star accommodations in Oslo (one night at the start of the trip and one night at end)
Transportation to/from hotel in Oslo to Oslo airport to fly to/from the Lofoten Islands
Round trip airfare (economy class) between Oslo and the Lofoten Islands
Charming accommodations for each night while in the Lofoten Islands
Breakfast at Oslo hotel. If our trip to Oslo aiport on 17 June for Lofoten requires us to leave before breakfast is served, you’ll receive the local currency equivalent credit of $20 to get breakfast at the airport
Van transportation, drivers, and fuel while in the Lofoten Islands
Fully guided trip by an experienced hiker and guide
What’s not included?
Airfare to and from Norway at the start and end of trip
Meals, food, and drinks unless otherwise indicated as included (e.g. breakfast in Oslo)
Travel Insurance. More details below
Personal hiking equipment /gear
Optional activities like sea kayaking, sea safaris, museums, etc.
How large will the group be?
In order to maximize the experience, I have limited the maximum group size from 8-10 people (including myself).
Do I need to be in good shape? How difficult is the walking/hiking?
You should be in reasonably good shape prior to starting this trip. During the trekking experience, we will be hiking on average 4-7 hours a day over varied terrain. The Lofoten Islands have easy to more difficult level trails and should be suitable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. While some trails may be well-maintained and easy to follow, there may be others that will be more challenging with some rock scrambles and muddy sections. As each hike will be optional, we will discuss in detail before starting each day so that you can make an informed decision about the hikes planned for that day.
Jogging, biking, swimming, yoga, or whatever your favorite exercises are great to keep up (or start) well before the trip (at least 3-6 weeks prior). If you have any concerns related to your health and ability to complete this experience, please consult your physician.
What kind of pace will we hike?
We’ll tailor the pace each day based on everyone’s abilities, how much hiking we want to accomplish, start time, weather conditions, and breaks. Please don’t be afraid to speak up if you think we need to slow down or take a break. We’ll do our best to accommodate everyone and ensure the pace we walk is enjoyable.
Speaking of start times, when will start each day?
Again, we’ll consider a variety of factors each day, similar to above. Additionally, we will have the benefit of the midnight sun, so we may have earlier morning and later afternoon/evening hikes to help avoid crowds. I’ll have a better feel for each day’s start times after our first day of walking to see how we move as a group.
Is this a luxury tour?
This is not a luxury tour, at least in the traditional sense. The luxuries will come in the form of the very unique experiences we’ll have on this journey. Most of the accommodations are 3-star level.
What are sleeping accommodations like?
We will be staying in at least a 3-star hotel in Oslo. For the walking experience, we will be staying in charming accommodations in the villages along the way. These may be large, self-catering homes or smaller inns or cabins. Most rooms are double occupancy (either a queen/double bed or two twins), but I may be able to make single occupancy arrangements in advance and with an upcharge (at cost). You can share your room with your traveling companion or another member of the group (if traveling solo).
What if I want my own room?
Please coordinate this in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate. There would be a single supplement upcharge TBD.
Why aren’t we camping instead of staying in other accommodations?
Camping in the Lofoten Islands is another great way to experience the trail. That said, it creates a series of logistical challenges, especially when planning even small group travel and is arguably much less comfortable than staying in places with a proper roof over our heads. Further, the amount of gear needed (and that one must carry while walking) goes up significantly.
What do I need to bring?
We’ll provide a more detailed list later, but here are some items you will likely need to bring (keep in mind that the weather may vary wildly from warm sunny periods to cold and rain):
Hiking shorts, trekking pants, lightweight underwear, t-shirts (ideally quick drying), thermal underwear, light waterproof jacket, Gore-Tex jacket, fleece jacket or pullover, down jacket/coat liner, gloves, hat, daypack, electricity adapters (EU), e-book reader, glasses and sunglasses, medications for the whole trip, toiletries, quick-drying towel, soap, wet wipes, sanitizer, water purification tablets or water filter device (as a backup), refillable water bottles and/or bladders, hat, sunscreen, lip balm, trekking poles (optional depending on preference), portable device charger/battery, good hiking boots, lighter shoes/sandals to wear post hike on trek, sweatpants/joggers, tennis/walking shoes, an eye mask (if sensitive to light)
Should I wear hiking boots or trail shoes?
The choice is really up to you and your previous experience. Hiking boots can be heavier and arguably more cumbersome, but they also provide ankle support where trail shoes do not. My recommendation is for hiking boots (ideally with some degree of water protection), but if you have done long walks/hikes in trail shoes and prefer those, please follow your gut.
Do I need trekking poles?
Again, the choice is really up to you. I personally have mixed feelings about them. People who carry two and walk with them on regular/flat terrain tend to walk more slowly than those without. However, there are times on steep or unstable terrain that they can be helpful. My personal preference is to (sometimes) carry one and only use it when necessary.
What are the elevations gains like? Are they difficult?
The hiking trails of the Lofoten Islands have varying elevation profiles. Some start at sea level and the highest point of any peak is 1,161 meters (3,809 feet).
What’s the weather going to be like?
The Lofoten Islands in late June experience a mild summer with unpredictable weather. Expect averages around 10°C (50°F) for highs and 8°C (46°F) for lows. It can be surprisingly sunny with highs reaching 20°C (68°F) or dip down and turn rainy and cool. Be prepared for anything by packing layers and a rain jacket. Overall, June offers a pleasant balance of milder temperatures and relatively less rain, making it a favorable time to visit the islands.
What is the midnight sun going to be like?
In northern Norway, the midnight sun is an otherworldly experience that disrupts your usual sense of time. Here's how it feels:
Sun Dips Below the Horizon, But Never Sets: The sun dips towards the horizon around midnight, bathing the landscape in an ethereal golden light. But unlike a sunset, it never fully disappears.
Twilight Extends for Hours: Imagine twilight stretching for hours, with the sky ablaze in fiery oranges, pinks, and purples. This extended twilight creates a dreamy, almost mystical atmosphere.
Endless Daylight: The most striking aspect is the sheer amount of daylight. It allows you to hike, kayak, or explore for extended periods without feeling rushed. You can enjoy activities well past midnight, like taking a midnight swim or picnicking under the never-ending twilight.
Energy Boost: The constant daylight can disrupt sleep patterns, but it also creates a surge of energy. Locals often take advantage of this by participating in late-night hikes, fishing trips, or social gatherings.
Keep in mind: The exact experience depends on the time of year and location. In Lofoten, the midnight sun occurs from late May to mid-July, with the sun dipping lower each night as the season progresses.
You may want to consider bringing an eye mask to help you sleep if you are at all sensitive to light.
If it’s raining, will we still hike?
Most likely yes. There is a good chance we will have some rain at some point during our hikes. Waterproof gear is essential. If the weather is very bad or dangerous during a hike, we will try to find shelter and wait for it to clear. Also, we may delay or omit certain hikes in the event of inclement weather. Although June is one of the most dry months on the Lofoten Islands, the weather is unpredictable. Rainy days/periods could be a good opportunity to take an easier hike, check out a museum or cafe, or simply relax in a cozy spot with a good book and a hot tea.
How much do I need to put as a deposit to hold my space? When is the balance due?
I kindly ask that you pay a $300 deposit to secure your space on the trip. It is fully refundable up to 20 Dec 2024. The balance is due 1 March and is non-refundable. Trip insurance can help cover any unforeseen obstacles to travel. If you have a unique situation and need some flexibility with this, please contact me directly. Advanced payment is necessary due to the popularity of the Lofoten Islands and the limited availability of accommodations as a result. Many places require prepayment and finding replacement travelers can be challenging. Thank you for understanding!
Do I need insurance?
Although not mandatory, it is HIGHLY recommended in the event you need to cancel or alter your travel plans. It is also helpful in the extremely unlikely event you need medical care or evacuation while you are traveling. There are many options available out there. I recommend World Nomads; however feel free to chose whomever you like.
What time should I arrive into Oslo on the first day?
The choice is yours; however please keep in mind that we will have an early start the next morning. We will also try to have a welcome dinner for the group that first night. You are welcome to arrive as early as you like if you want to explore Oslo. I can help you make hotel arrangements if arriving before the start of the group trip.
What if I want to stay longer and see other things?
That’s an EXCELLENT idea if you are able. There is so much to see and do in Norway!
I have dietary restrictions, can you accommodate them?
We will do our best to accommodate, but please communicate any restrictions or concerns prior to booking.
How do I reserve a spot???
Just let me know! Once you share all of your pertinent details and pay the $300 refundable (up to 20 Dec), you’re in!!
Anything else I should know?
Here are some additional pointers to make sure you get the most of this experience:
Expect the unexpected. Although this trip is fairly structured, this is adventure travel
As mentioned above, try to be more of a traveler and less of a tourist
Always seek the beauty and fun of an experience and people. There’s charm everywhere
Try everything you can (be openminded) and be open to pushing your boundaries
Breathe deeply and fully
Pack some patience and a lot of kindness