Intrepid Travel

Northern Norway Explorer

Northern Norway Explorer

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. Leave the Arctic Circle behind and discover northern Norway’s captivating sights and long, fabled history. Begin in the capital, Oslo, and make your way to Trondheim, the Viking city home to the Nidaros Cathedral and the remains of St Olav, Norway’s patron saint. Explore the rugged, unbelievably picturesque Lofoten Islands by land and water before finishing in Tromso, a vibrant city famed for its cultural offerings despite its relative isolation.

Activities

  • Trondheim – Bymarka forest walk
  • Bodø – Leader-led orientation walk
  • Svolvær – Trollfjord Cruise & Sea Eagle Safari
  • Svolvær – Leader-led hike to Linken Peak
  • Tromsø – E-bike city tour

Highlights

  • Spend three nights in the long-adored Lofoten Islands, a patchwork of fishing villages. Head out to the narrow Trollfjord for a chance to see sea eagles and take in some of the most breathtaking scenery.
  • Visit Trondheim, which translates as ‘a good place to live’, stroll past the colourful wooden storehouses flanking the river, ride the northernmost tram and enjoy a forest walk and picnic just like the locals do.
  • Gaze at the immense Nidaros Cathedral, an incredible Gothic building that houses the remains of St Olav, the patron saint of Norway.
  • Hop on an e-bike in Tromso, and learn about life hundreds of kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, where the arts and culture scene is thriving despite its isolated, northerly location.
  • Be joined by a locally-based leader who knows all of the hard-to-find spots and can offer the best local advice and connect with your small group of like-minded travellers.

05/15/2025 through 08/24/2027
05/15/2025 through 08/28/2027

Day 1 This capital of Norway has lots of things to offer such as the waterside Norwegian Maritime Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, with Viking ships from the 9th century. The Holmenkollbakken is a ski-jumping hill with views of the fjord and a ski museum. Art lovers, make sure you don't miss National Gallery, which houses Edvard Munch's famous painting The Scream!
Day 2 Nestled along the Trondheim Fjord in central Norway, Trondheim offers a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant modern life. As Norway’s first capital, Trondheim boasts a legacy that includes the striking Nidaros Cathedral, an iconic landmark whose construction began in the 11th century. This majestic cathedral, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world, serves as a pilgrimage site and offers breathtaking Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows.

The city's Old Town, known as Bakklandet, enchants with its charming wooden houses and picturesque canals. Stroll across the historic wooden bridges and explore the cobblestone streets that are home to quirky boutiques, cozy cafes, and local art galleries. The area is perfect for leisurely exploration and offers a glimpse into Trondheim’s past while embracing its contemporary culture.

For nature enthusiasts, Trondheim is a gateway to stunning landscapes. Just a short drive from the city, you can hike up to the top of Rønninge Mountain for panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding countryside. In winter, the area transforms into a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, providing year-round outdoor activities.

Fun fact: Trondheim is home to the world’s northernmost university, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), which adds a youthful and innovative vibe to the city’s atmosphere. The university’s presence contributes to Trondheim’s reputation as a hub for technological advancements and research
Day 3 Nestled along the Trondheim Fjord in central Norway, Trondheim offers a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant modern life. As Norway’s first capital, Trondheim boasts a legacy that includes the striking Nidaros Cathedral, an iconic landmark whose construction began in the 11th century. This majestic cathedral, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world, serves as a pilgrimage site and offers breathtaking Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows.

The city's Old Town, known as Bakklandet, enchants with its charming wooden houses and picturesque canals. Stroll across the historic wooden bridges and explore the cobblestone streets that are home to quirky boutiques, cozy cafes, and local art galleries. The area is perfect for leisurely exploration and offers a glimpse into Trondheim’s past while embracing its contemporary culture.

For nature enthusiasts, Trondheim is a gateway to stunning landscapes. Just a short drive from the city, you can hike up to the top of Rønninge Mountain for panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding countryside. In winter, the area transforms into a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, providing year-round outdoor activities.

Fun fact: Trondheim is home to the world’s northernmost university, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), which adds a youthful and innovative vibe to the city’s atmosphere. The university’s presence contributes to Trondheim’s reputation as a hub for technological advancements and research
Day 4

Lofoten, a breathtaking archipelago in northern Norway, is a destination that captures the heart of every traveler who sets foot on its dramatic shores. Renowned for its towering peaks, pristine beaches, and quaint fishing villages, Lofoten offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking the beauty of the Arctic wilderness. The village of Reine, often described as one of the most beautiful in Norway, is a must-see. Nestled amidst steep mountains and tranquil fjords, it is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding landscapes. Here, visitors can take a boat trip to the secluded Bunes Beach or hike to Reinebringen for a panoramic view that will leave them breathless.

Lofoten’s natural wonders extend beyond its picturesque villages. The archipelago is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, especially from September to April when the skies come alive with vibrant displays of green, pink, and purple. For those who visit in the summer, the Midnight Sun bathes the landscape in a surreal golden glow, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight from late May to mid-July. This unique phenomenon allows for extended outdoor adventures, such as kayaking through the fjords, hiking the rugged trails of the Munken or Ryten mountains, or exploring the archipelago’s many beaches, like the white sands of Haukland Beach, often cited as one of Norway's most beautiful beaches.

For a taste of local culture, the fishing village of Henningsvær, often referred to as the "Venice of Lofoten," offers charming galleries, cafes, and the Lofoten Hus Gallery, which displays works inspired by the island’s dramatic scenery. Fishing has been the lifeblood of Lofoten for over a millennium, and visitors can delve into this heritage at the Lofoten Museum or the Stockfish Museum in Å, the southernmost village of the archipelago. Here, the traditional drying racks filled with cod offer a glimpse into the industry that still shapes the local way of life. For an even more immersive experience, join a local fishing trip and try your hand at catching the famous Arctic cod, known locally as "skrei".

Fun fact: Lofoten is home to the world's largest cod fishery. Every winter, millions of cod migrate from the Barents Sea to the waters around Lofoten to spawn, a phenomenon that has sustained local communities for centuries. This is also when the annual Lofoten Winter Festival takes place, celebrating the region’s fishing heritage with local food, music, and cultural events.


Day 5

Lofoten, a breathtaking archipelago in northern Norway, is a destination that captures the heart of every traveler who sets foot on its dramatic shores. Renowned for its towering peaks, pristine beaches, and quaint fishing villages, Lofoten offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking the beauty of the Arctic wilderness. The village of Reine, often described as one of the most beautiful in Norway, is a must-see. Nestled amidst steep mountains and tranquil fjords, it is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding landscapes. Here, visitors can take a boat trip to the secluded Bunes Beach or hike to Reinebringen for a panoramic view that will leave them breathless.

Lofoten’s natural wonders extend beyond its picturesque villages. The archipelago is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, especially from September to April when the skies come alive with vibrant displays of green, pink, and purple. For those who visit in the summer, the Midnight Sun bathes the landscape in a surreal golden glow, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight from late May to mid-July. This unique phenomenon allows for extended outdoor adventures, such as kayaking through the fjords, hiking the rugged trails of the Munken or Ryten mountains, or exploring the archipelago’s many beaches, like the white sands of Haukland Beach, often cited as one of Norway's most beautiful beaches.

For a taste of local culture, the fishing village of Henningsvær, often referred to as the "Venice of Lofoten," offers charming galleries, cafes, and the Lofoten Hus Gallery, which displays works inspired by the island’s dramatic scenery. Fishing has been the lifeblood of Lofoten for over a millennium, and visitors can delve into this heritage at the Lofoten Museum or the Stockfish Museum in Å, the southernmost village of the archipelago. Here, the traditional drying racks filled with cod offer a glimpse into the industry that still shapes the local way of life. For an even more immersive experience, join a local fishing trip and try your hand at catching the famous Arctic cod, known locally as "skrei".

Fun fact: Lofoten is home to the world's largest cod fishery. Every winter, millions of cod migrate from the Barents Sea to the waters around Lofoten to spawn, a phenomenon that has sustained local communities for centuries. This is also when the annual Lofoten Winter Festival takes place, celebrating the region’s fishing heritage with local food, music, and cultural events.


Day 6

Lofoten, a breathtaking archipelago in northern Norway, is a destination that captures the heart of every traveler who sets foot on its dramatic shores. Renowned for its towering peaks, pristine beaches, and quaint fishing villages, Lofoten offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking the beauty of the Arctic wilderness. The village of Reine, often described as one of the most beautiful in Norway, is a must-see. Nestled amidst steep mountains and tranquil fjords, it is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding landscapes. Here, visitors can take a boat trip to the secluded Bunes Beach or hike to Reinebringen for a panoramic view that will leave them breathless.

Lofoten’s natural wonders extend beyond its picturesque villages. The archipelago is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, especially from September to April when the skies come alive with vibrant displays of green, pink, and purple. For those who visit in the summer, the Midnight Sun bathes the landscape in a surreal golden glow, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight from late May to mid-July. This unique phenomenon allows for extended outdoor adventures, such as kayaking through the fjords, hiking the rugged trails of the Munken or Ryten mountains, or exploring the archipelago’s many beaches, like the white sands of Haukland Beach, often cited as one of Norway's most beautiful beaches.

For a taste of local culture, the fishing village of Henningsvær, often referred to as the "Venice of Lofoten," offers charming galleries, cafes, and the Lofoten Hus Gallery, which displays works inspired by the island’s dramatic scenery. Fishing has been the lifeblood of Lofoten for over a millennium, and visitors can delve into this heritage at the Lofoten Museum or the Stockfish Museum in Å, the southernmost village of the archipelago. Here, the traditional drying racks filled with cod offer a glimpse into the industry that still shapes the local way of life. For an even more immersive experience, join a local fishing trip and try your hand at catching the famous Arctic cod, known locally as "skrei".

Fun fact: Lofoten is home to the world's largest cod fishery. Every winter, millions of cod migrate from the Barents Sea to the waters around Lofoten to spawn, a phenomenon that has sustained local communities for centuries. This is also when the annual Lofoten Winter Festival takes place, celebrating the region’s fishing heritage with local food, music, and cultural events.


Day 7 Tromsø, a gem nestled in the Arctic Circle, offers an unparalleled blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," this Norwegian city is famed for its spectacular Northern Lights. Between September and April, Tromsø becomes a prime location for witnessing the aurora borealis, a mesmerizing display of green, purple, and pink lights dancing across the polar sky.

A stroll through Tromsø’s city center reveals a vibrant blend of modern and historical architecture. The striking Arctic Cathedral, with its distinctive triangular shape and stained-glass windows, stands as a testament to the city's unique aesthetic. The Polar Museum provides fascinating insights into Tromsø’s history as a base for Arctic expeditions, including those of famed explorers like Roald Amundsen.

Tromsø is also a gateway to Arctic adventures. From whale watching tours that offer glimpses of orcas and humpback whales to snowshoeing and dog sledding across the snow-covered landscapes, the city offers a wealth of outdoor activities. For those keen on experiencing the midnight sun, Tromsø is one of the best places to enjoy this phenomenon from late May to late July.

Fun Fact: Tromsø is home to the world’s northernmost university, UiT The Arctic University of Norway. This makes Tromsø a hub of both academic and cultural activity in the Arctic region.
Day 8 Tromsø, a gem nestled in the Arctic Circle, offers an unparalleled blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," this Norwegian city is famed for its spectacular Northern Lights. Between September and April, Tromsø becomes a prime location for witnessing the aurora borealis, a mesmerizing display of green, purple, and pink lights dancing across the polar sky.

A stroll through Tromsø’s city center reveals a vibrant blend of modern and historical architecture. The striking Arctic Cathedral, with its distinctive triangular shape and stained-glass windows, stands as a testament to the city's unique aesthetic. The Polar Museum provides fascinating insights into Tromsø’s history as a base for Arctic expeditions, including those of famed explorers like Roald Amundsen.

Tromsø is also a gateway to Arctic adventures. From whale watching tours that offer glimpses of orcas and humpback whales to snowshoeing and dog sledding across the snow-covered landscapes, the city offers a wealth of outdoor activities. For those keen on experiencing the midnight sun, Tromsø is one of the best places to enjoy this phenomenon from late May to late July.

Fun Fact: Tromsø is home to the world’s northernmost university, UiT The Arctic University of Norway. This makes Tromsø a hub of both academic and cultural activity in the Arctic region.
Day 9 Tromsø, a gem nestled in the Arctic Circle, offers an unparalleled blend of natural wonders and cultural richness. Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," this Norwegian city is famed for its spectacular Northern Lights. Between September and April, Tromsø becomes a prime location for witnessing the aurora borealis, a mesmerizing display of green, purple, and pink lights dancing across the polar sky.

A stroll through Tromsø’s city center reveals a vibrant blend of modern and historical architecture. The striking Arctic Cathedral, with its distinctive triangular shape and stained-glass windows, stands as a testament to the city's unique aesthetic. The Polar Museum provides fascinating insights into Tromsø’s history as a base for Arctic expeditions, including those of famed explorers like Roald Amundsen.

Tromsø is also a gateway to Arctic adventures. From whale watching tours that offer glimpses of orcas and humpback whales to snowshoeing and dog sledding across the snow-covered landscapes, the city offers a wealth of outdoor activities. For those keen on experiencing the midnight sun, Tromsø is one of the best places to enjoy this phenomenon from late May to late July.

Fun Fact: Tromsø is home to the world’s northernmost university, UiT The Arctic University of Norway. This makes Tromsø a hub of both academic and cultural activity in the Arctic region.

05/24/25 - 06/01/25

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06/28/25 - 07/06/25

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05/08/27 - 08/28/27

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