Where to Go in Norway
The breath-taking scenery and unique wildlife that inhabit Norway’s cold north make it a top location for those looking for an off-the-beaten-track experience. From the tranquil fjords of the Lofoten Islands, to searching for polar bears in the harsh Arctic coast of the Spitsbergen archipelago, and Swimming with Killer Whales and Humpbacks in Skjervoy, Norway's coastline spans hundreds of kilometres and provides beautiful scenery throughout.
Tromsø
The majority of our Norway safaris travel during the winter months to make the most of the whale species that can be seen off the coast around Tromsø and the dog sledding adventures that can be had in the snow. If you feel like a casual coffee or something freshly baked, stop by Smørtorget for delicious pastries and local artwork in a friendly and relaxed setting. Koseverden is another option for fans of baked goods, boasting an impressive array of options along with a lunch menu and coffee from a local roaster. Read more about what to do in Tromsø.
Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands are a collection of islands lying in the Nordland county of Norway. This region is known for its dramatic scenery; towering ice-capped mountains and sprawling open sea, contrasting with stunning sheltered bays and pristine sandy beaches. The Lofoten Islands are quite an anomaly when it comes to climate, as they experience relatively warm temperatures for their high Arctic latitude. This warmth makes them an ideal place for exploring in summer as you can make the most of the midnight sun while enjoying outdoor activities and birdwatching.Thanks to its varied topography, the Lofoten Islands are home to a huge variety of wildlife both on land and out to sea. The southern islands actually lie on the Røst Reef which boasts the world’s largest deep water coral reef. Other water-based wildlife that can be seen during boat trips or coastal walks includes birdlife such as sea eagles, cormorants and puffins and otters which are common throughout the fjords. On land, look out for moose and other bird species that nest in the mountains and cliffs.
Lyngen Alps
Lying east of the northern city of Tromso, the Lyngen Alps region of Norway is a stunning area perfect for enjoying outdoor activities in both summer and winter alike. In winter, enjoy snow-shoeing, dog sledding and, of course, looking up to the night sky in search of the Aurora Borealis. In summer however, the area is great for hiking, kayaking, cycling and heading out onto the fjords to seek out whales. Thanks to the huge differences in light and climate between the seasons, it is worth visiting the Lyngen region more than once to discover all the highlights this area has to offer.
Spitsbergen
The Svalbard archipelago is Europe’s largest wilderness, a fascinating collection of islands within Norway that are closer to the North Pole than they are to the capital city of Oslo. The northernmost human settlements on earth are found here, specifically on the largest island of Spitsbergen, where the ‘cold edge’ of Svalbard (its literal meaning) is tempered by the moderating Gulf Stream, making it a more habitable environment. When Spitsbergen was first discovered by the Dutch explorer William Barents, it was named so for its jagged peaks. Whilst the other islands of Svalbard are nature reserves and therefore inaccessible without gaining special permission, Spitsbergen, which broadly includes its group of surrounding islands Barentsøya, Edgeøya, Nordaustlandet and Prins Karls Forland, is where the modest population of the area – approximately 3,000 - go about their daily lives, and also is the starting and finishing point for your voyages of exploration into this arctic wilderness.
Longyearbyen
The capital of Svalbard, Longyearbyen is located more or less in the middle of the main island. Originally called Longyear City, the town was founded by John Longyear in 1906, and renamed Longyearbyen in 1926. With around 2300 inhabitants, the population of Longyearbyen is steadily growing as tourism to Svalbard gains popularity. When Spitsbergen was first discovered by the Dutch explorer William Barents, it was named so for its jagged peaks. Whilst the other islands of Svalbard are nature reserves and therefore inaccessible without gaining special permission, Spitsbergen, which broadly includes its group of surrounding islands Barentsøya, Edgeøya, Nordaustlandet and Prins Karls Forland, is where the modest population of the area go about their daily lives, and also is the starting and finishing point for your voyages of exploration into this Arctic wilderness. Read more about what do in Longyearbyen.