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Norway hiking trips and Iceland hiking trips and multi-activity adventure tours. Plus whale watching, rafting, horseback riding, bird watching and more! |
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Hiking in Norway and hiking and adventure tours in Iceland. Why not experience rich cultures and exceptional outdoor activities such as rafting, whale watching, bird watching, horseback riding and more?
"Your guides treated me like royalty. My expectations were high and you exceeded them!"
Iceland truly is the land of fire and ice. Our trips take in the best of this place of extreme natural forces. Rafting, hiking and wildlife tours are all a part of our journeys, but are by no means all that provides the adventure. Each Iceland Adventure is heightened by soaking in natural hot springs and getting sprayed by mists of thundering waterfalls. Topped off by getting to know the people that revel living on the edge of hospitable earth, these tours offer everything an adventure traveler could hope for. Destination Wilderness is proud to offer two different Iceland Adventures: Iceland Outdoors, which features incredible tastes of the Icelandic wilderness with softer adventure activities; and the Iceland High Adventure, which gives adventure travelers the opportunity to take part in more challenging activities. Each trip has a unique flavor but both capture the essence of the great Icelandic wilderness. Our Iceland Outdoors journey allows for eight days visiting and experiencing numerous natural phenomenon: rivers, lakes, whale-filled coastal waters, island bird sanctuaries, fjordlands, and more await the visitor seeking an outdoor adventure with more relaxing activities. For those looking for adventure challenges, our Iceland High Adventure may be the trip for you. Seven days long, this trip features rafting a remote, rapid-filled class IV-IV+ river, an overnight backpacking trip through the Icelandic backcountry, horseback riding and so much more. We invite you to review the itineraries of these two great trips on our Iceland Adventures Trip Information page This island, physically the size of Ohio, but with only 2% of Ohio's population, is a relatively undiscovered adventure destination. With miles and miles of open space, repeated evidence of ongoing tectonic activity, a myriad of adventure activities, and Viking villages resting on the edge of the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, Iceland is an amazing blend of time-worn landscapes, present-day geologic occurrences, and time-honored traditions. Spending time here, with these people, is time well spent. Join us on Iceland.
ICELAND HIGH ADVENTURE Iceland High Adventure Overview This trip begins and ends in Reykjavik. We meet in Reykjavik on the first day of the trip to discuss the trip itinerary and address any last minute concerns. We depart for Saudarkrokur, in Northern Iceland, that morning. This trip includes round trip transportation between Reykjavik and northern Iceland where our base accommodations are located. All specialty adventure gear is also included for the river running and other activities that are included in this journey.
Meeting Time: Our guide will meet you at the Hotel Loftleider, in the city center, at 8:00 a.m. the morning of the first day of the trip. All flights from the U.S. arrive in Iceland in the early morning, allowing you to arrive in Iceland on the first day of your trip. Trip Departure: We leave Reyjkavik at approximately 9:30 a.m that day and travel by plane to Saudarkrokur, in Northern Iceland. The countryside and waters outside Saudarkrokur serves as the base for the adventures of the next few days. Trip Itinerary: We spend the first day adjusting to the time change, soaking in a hot spring pool, and participating in a short hike through the farmlands of Northern Iceland. The following two days we trek over a scenic and isolated fjord headland and possibly spend time exploring a glacier. On this portion we spend one night at a trekker's hut and another at a charming farmhouse lodge. On days four and five we raft the classic Austari Jokulsa (East Glacial) River, with challenging class III-IV+ rapids and phenomenal seclusion and scenery. We spend the two nights along the river at trekker's huts, complete with a natural hot springs pool. On day six we venture out into the North Atlantic fjords and cruise to Drangey Island, a refuge that is home to thousands of sea birds. This trip also includes the opportunity to catch our own dinner as we troll the waters near Drangey. The following day we venture again into the Icelandic backcountry, this time on the back of the graceful and powerful Icelandic horse. That evening we have a celebration dinner in Saudarkrokur before your flight back to Reykjavik.
Meeting Place: Hotel Loftleider, Reykjavik Meeting Time: 8:00 a.m. Trip Departure: 9:30 a.m. that day. We return to Reykjavik in the evening at approximately 8:00 p.m. on the last day of the trip.
By Air: There are regularly scheduled flights from the U.S. to Reykjavik on IcelandAir. It is a five to six hour flight from New York to Reykjavik. IcelandAir flies out of New York, Baltimore, Boston, Minneapolis-St. Paul and Orlando. Flights from the U.S. arrive early in the morning. The international airport in Iceland is approximately 25 miles from downtown Reykjavik. There is bus service for international passengers from the airport to the Hotel Loftleider. Please contact our office for information or for help booking your flights.
There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses in and around Reykjavik. This variety also includes a variety of prices. We recommend the following hotels in Reykjavik for before and after your trip. For a current list of guesthouses, please contact our office. The hotels are listed by price, with the Hotel Borg being the more expensive. For help getting reservations or for a more complete list of accommodations, please contact our office. Note: It can be difficult finding open stores and other businesses on Sundays in Iceland. If you arrive in Iceland on a Sunday please prepare accordingly. Hotel Borg 354-551-1440 / Fax: 551-1420 Hotel Loftleider 354-505-0900/ Fax
505-0905 Hotel Skjaldbreid 354-511-6060 / Fax: 511-6070
You've probably heard the story of the Vikings who discovered two different islands in the North Atlantic. They named one Iceland and one Greenland. However, it was the warmer, more hospitable, and resource-rich country they labeled Iceland. It seems that those explorers didn't want other explorers to go to "Iceland" for fear of competition for its treasures. Instead, they apparently preferred that their enemies head toward "Greenland", an island largely covered in white. However "misguided" those early explorers were, the names stuck. The green one is still called Iceland, and it still holds treasures. Today, Iceland is very sparsely populated. Over 80% of the island is undeveloped. One-fourth of the land is used for grazing, much as it has been for generations. Ice caps, in the form of ice fields and glaciers, cover 10% of the country. These areas of ice produce a myriad of rivers and streams. Given these waterways and Iceland's position smack dab in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, water is an important part of the Icelandic economy. These waters also provide exceptional recreation opportunities. River running is increasing in popularity, particularly among foreigners who have heard of the dramatic canyons and fun whitewater. The waterfalls of this country are equally spectacular. Countless, dramatic, and earth shattering (the most powerful falls in Europe are in Iceland), these waterfalls are found throughout the country. Geysers also abound, as the volcanic activity and geologic plate movement leave holes in the earth's crust through which hot water jets upward at regular intervals. In fact, the word "geyser" is a derivative of the name of the actual Icelandic geyser, "Geysir". And, natural hot springs are found throughout the country, providing yet another recreation opportunity to both visitors and residents of Iceland. The geologic activity on Iceland is clearly visible. Bubbling mud pools, lava flows, barren patches of moon-like surfaces, and the smell of sulphur are common features of Iceland's landscape. The ongoing volcanic activity that creates Iceland makes it geologically the youngest country in Europe. Estimates put the age of Iceland at only 18 million years old. With both volcanic activity and glacial influences affecting the landscape, one can see how Iceland became known as the "Land of Fire and Ice". Culturally, Iceland is unique and rich. For example, children are named using either their mother or father's surname, depending on the sex of the child. New born males are given the surname that is related to the father (such as Gustavsson) and females are given the surname related to the mother (Gunnarsdottir). In addition, it is illegal for Icelanders to give their children foreign sounding names, and immigrants to Iceland must adopt Icelandic names before becoming citizens. Iceland is also the most literate of all western countries. More books are written, printed, and read per capita than any where else on earth. It also has the second highest average life expectancy rates on earth. Written history of Iceland is found in their often anonymously written sagas, which have served as important historic and entertainment documents for generations of Icelanders. Reykjavik, the capital, hosts a variety of museums and theatres, and houses more than half of the island's 250,000 people. The northernmost capital city on earth, Reyjavik means "Smoky Bay" and was so named by the early explorers who saw geothermal steam rise from the land. Other evidence of the explorers' culture is found throughout Reykjavik and Iceland, as the people regularly celebrate their heritage by wearing traditional Nordic clothes and participating in centuries old dance and song. Iceland, despite all of its natural and cultural greatness, still remains a relatively unknown adventure travel destination. We hope you are able to come see for yourself a country steeped in tradition and filled with countless adventure opportunities.
Weather: The weather of Iceland is...interesting. As the result of warm gulfstream waters Iceland has warmer winters than New York. However, that same climatic phenomenon leads to radical shifts in summer weather patterns, even in the span of minutes. Often sunny and warm in the summer, Iceland is also prone to dramatic rain storms, fog, and winds. Summer temperatures can range from the eighties to the thirties during the day. However, if one comes prepared for inclement weather Iceland is one of the most spectacular and enjoyable places on earth to visit! Equipment: Each guest must bring his or her own sleeping bag and pad and a medium-sized rucksack, large enough to carry the sleeping gear, insulating clothes such as wool or fleece sweaters, rain pants and jacket, extra socks, water bottle, some food, and other optional adventure items such as binoculars, hats, etc. All specialty gear is provided by Destination Wilderness. Although our itinerary includes overnighting in cottages, having sleeping bags and pads allow us to use trekking huts. Experience Required: Our Iceland High Adventure is an ideal vacation for veteran adventurers and adventurous and fit first-time first-timers. The rafting trip encounters several class IV-IV+ rapids. The hikes are not overly strenuous, but do require participants to be agile and in good health, as the topography varies and some weight must be carried. All adventures are led by experienced professional wilderness guides. Note: Those looking for a more mild adventure trip should consider our Iceland Outdoors Adventure. Meals and Beverages: We serve gourmet meals of Iceland, prepared with fresh ingredients. We also provide coffee, tea, water, and juices with our meals. Let us know if you have special dietary needs and we will plan accordingly. All meals are provided by Destination Wilderness beginning with lunch on the first day and ending with a celebration dinner the last evening of the trip.
Daughter of Fire&endash;A Portrait of Iceland. Katherine Scherman. Little, Brown and Co. Iceland Saga. Magnus Magnusson. The Bodley Head Last Places&endash;A Journey in the North. Lawrence Millman. Houghton Mifflin Guide to the Geology of Iceland. Gudmundsson/Kjartansson. Orn og Orlygur Press
ICELAND OUTDOORS
This trip begins and ends in Reykjavik. We meet in Reykjavik the evening before the trip start date to discuss the itinerary and address any last minute questions or concerns. We depart for Saudarkrokur, in Northern Iceland, the following morning. This trip includes round trip transportation between Reykjavik and northern Iceland where our base accommodations are located. Several adventures make up this journey, including, whale watching, an overnight hike, a river float trip, boating to a bird sanctuary island, and traveling over the interior of Iceland. All specialty adventure gear is included for the river running and other activities that are included in this journey.
Meeting Time: Our guide will meet you at the Hotel Skjaldbreid, in the city center, at 8:00 p.m. the night before your trip. Most flights from the U.S. arrive in Iceland in the early morning, allowing you time to visit Reykjavik and recover from jet lag before your adventure begins. In addition to meeting your guides and discussing the itinerary, any last minute concerns will be addressed at this meeting. Trip Departure: We leave Reyjkavik at approximately 9:00 a.m the following day and travel by plane to Husavik, in Northern Iceland. The countryside and waters of Northern Iceland serve as the base for the adventures of the next few days. Trip Itinerary: Like our Iceland High Adventure tour, this trip offers immersions into the spectacular Icelandic backcountry, but features more tranquil activities. Several incredible sights and activities make up this eight-day journey. We spend the first day plying the waters of northern Iceland, hoping to spot the various whales that swim in these waters. Minke, Humpback, Orca, and other whales are spotted on over 90% of these excursions. The next day we spend exploring the indescribable Lake Myvatn, a fascinating geologic treasure that is rich in bird life. Days three and four we hike the fjord headlands and mountains of this region, spending these nights at charming farmhouse lodges and trekker's huts. The following day we raft on the fun and dramatic West Glacial River, stopping along the way to make hot chocolate with naturally boiling spring water. On day six we ride on horseback to explore the Icelandic countryside. Day seven brings a boat ride out to Drangey Island, a bird sanctuary in the middle of a fjord. While cruising to Drangey we have the chance to catch our own dinner for that night. The final day we travel overland in a van, visiting active geysirs and plunging Gullfoss, one of Icelands most dramatic waterfalls. That evening we arrive in Reykjavik, where we have a celebration dinner before you retire to your respective accommodations. Nights on this trip are spent in cottages, farmhouses, and trekker's huts. The opportunities to get to know the culture and people are numerous, the traditional Icelandic meals delicious, and the activities fun and fulfilling. This is an excellent trip for those seeking a rewarding and fun outdoor adventure, with creature comforts provided at every turn. Trips depart on July 14, August 4 and August 26. Other dates may be available.
Meeting Place: Hotel Skjaldbreid, Reykjavik Meeting Time: 8:00 p.m. the night before your trip Trip Departure: 8:00 a.m. the following day. We return to Reykjavik in the evening at approximately 7:00 p.m. on the last day of the trip.
By Air: There are regularly scheduled flights from the U.S. to Reykjavik on IcelandAir. It is a five to six hour flight from New York to Reykjavik. IcelandAir flies out of New York, Baltimore, Boston, Minneapolis-St. Paul and Orlando. Flights from the U.S. arrive early in the morning. The international airport in Iceland is approximately 25 miles from downtown Reykjavik. There is bus service for international passengers from the airport to the Hotel Loftleider. Please contact our office for information or for help booking your flights.
There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses in and around Reykjavik. This variety also includes a variety of prices. We recommend the following hotels in Reykjavik for before and after your trip. For a current list of guesthouses, please contact our office. The hotels are listed by price, with the Hotel Borg being the more expensive. For help getting reservations or for a more complete list of accommodations, please contact our office. Note: It can be difficult finding open stores and other businesses on Sundays in Iceland. If you arrive in Iceland on a Sunday please prepare accordingly. Hotel Borg 354-551-1440 / Fax: 551-1420 Hotel Loftleider 354-505-0900/ Fax
505-0905 Hotel Skjaldbreid 354-511-6060 / Fax: 511-6070
You've probably heard the story of the Vikings who discovered two different islands in the North Atlantic. They named one Iceland and one Greenland. However, it was the warmer, more hospitable, and resource-rich country they labeled Iceland. It seems that those explorers didn't want other explorers to go to "Iceland" for fear of competition for its treasures. Instead, they apparently preferred that their enemies head toward "Greenland", an island largely covered in white. However "misguided" those early explorers were, the names stuck. The green one is still called Iceland, and it still holds treasures. Today, Iceland is very sparsely populated. Over 80% of the island is undeveloped. One-fourth of the land is used for grazing, much as it has been for generations. Ice caps, in the form of ice fields and glaciers, cover 10% of the country. These areas of ice produce a myriad of rivers and streams. Given these waterways and Iceland's position smack dab in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, water is an important part of the Icelandic economy. These waters also provide exceptional recreation opportunities. River running is increasing in popularity, particularly among foreigners who have heard of the dramatic canyons and fun whitewater. The waterfalls of this country are equally spectacular. Countless, dramatic, and earth shattering (the most powerful falls in Europe are in Iceland), these waterfalls are found throughout the country. Geysers also abound, as the volcanic activity and geologic plate movement leave holes in the earth's crust through which hot water jets upward at regular intervals. In fact, the word "geyser" is a derivative of the name of the actual Icelandic geyser, "Geysir". And, natural hot springs are found throughout the country, providing yet another recreation opportunity to both visitors and residents of Iceland. The geologic activity on Iceland is clearly visible. Bubbling mud pools, lava flows, barren patches of moon-like surfaces, and the smell of sulphur are common features of Iceland's landscape. The ongoing volcanic activity that creates Iceland makes it geologically the youngest country in Europe. Estimates put the age of Iceland at only 18 million years old. With both volcanic activity and glacial influences affecting the landscape, one can see how Iceland became known as the "Land of Fire and Ice". Culturally, Iceland is unique and rich. For example, children are named using either their mother or father's surname, depending on the sex of the child. New born males are given the surname that is related to the father (such as Gustavsson) and females are given the surname related to the mother (Gunnarsdottir). In addition, it is illegal for Icelanders to give their children foreign sounding names, and immigrants to Iceland must adopt Icelandic names before becoming citizens. Iceland is also the most literate of all western countries. More books are written, printed, and read per capita than any where else on earth. It also has the second highest average life expectancy rates on earth. Written history of Iceland is found in their often anonymously written sagas, which have served as important historic and entertainment documents for generations of Icelanders. Reykjavik, the capital, hosts a variety of museums and theatres, and houses more than half of the island's 250,000 people. The northernmost capital city on earth, Reyjavik means "Smoky Bay" and was so named by the early explorers who saw geothermal steam rise from the land. Other evidence of the explorers' culture is found throughout Reykjavik and Iceland, as the people regularly celebrate their heritage by wearing traditional Nordic clothes and participating in centuries old dance and song. Iceland, despite all of its natural and cultural greatness, still remains a relatively unknown adventure travel destination. We hope you are able to come see for yourself a country steeped in tradition and filled with countless adventure opportunities.
Weather: The weather of Iceland is...interesting. As the result of warm gulfstream waters Iceland has warmer winters than New York. However, that same climatic phenomenon leads to radical shifts in summer weather patterns, even in the span of minutes. Often sunny and warm in the summer, Iceland is also prone to dramatic rain storms, fog, and winds. Summer temperatures can range from the eighties to the thirties during the day. However, if one comes prepared for inclement weather Iceland is one of the most spectacular and enjoyable places on earth to visit! Equipment: Each guest must bring his or her own sleeping bag and pad and a medium-sized rucksack, large enough to carry the sleeping gear, insulating clothes such as wool or fleece sweaters, rain pants and jacket, extra socks, water bottle, some food, and other optional adventure items such as binoculars, hats, etc. All specialty gear is provided by Destination Wilderness. Although our itinerary includes overnighting in cottages and farmhouses, sleeping bags are required at the trekker's hut and some cottages. Experience Required: Our Iceland Outdoors Adventure is an ideal vacation for first-time and veteran adventure travelers. The outdoor activities are fun but not overly challenging. The overnight accommodations are at quaint, charming and clean cottages and farmhouses. The hikes are not overly strenuous, but do require participants to be agile and in good health, as the topography varies and some weight must be carried. The rafting trip is on a scenic class II-III river. All adventures are led by experienced professional wilderness guides. Note: Those looking for a more active and challenging adventure trip should consider our Iceland High Adventure. Meals and Beverages: We serve gourmet meals of Iceland, prepared with fresh ingredients. We also provide coffee, tea, water, and juices with our meals. Let us know if you have special dietary needs and we will plan accordingly. All meals are provided by Destination Wilderness beginning with lunch on the first day and ending with a celebration dinner the last evening of the trip.
Daughter of Fire&endash;A Portrait of Iceland. Katherine Scherman. Little, Brown and Co. Iceland Saga. Magnus Magnusson. The Bodley Head Last Places&endash;A Journey in the North. Lawrence Millman. Houghton Mifflin Guide to the Geology of Iceland. Gudmundsson/Kjartansson. Orn og Orlygur Press
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Simply put, Norway is one of the most spectacular natural places on earth. Fjords, rivers, forests, wildlife, bucolic farms, mountains, and salt of the earth people define this arctic wonderland. Destination Wilderness offers two exceptional trips, each of which allows for unique and unforgettable immersions into Norway's finest wildlands and wildwaters. Our Heart of Norway Trek features trekking through the largest protected wilderness area in Scandinavia. Our Journey to the Edge of Earth Adventure takes place on the northern Lofoten Islands, an above the arctic archipelago that is breathtakingly beautiful. Whale watching, day hikes, archeological exploration and more are included in this trip. Both trips are one week long, and feature overnight accommodations such as high mountain lodges and waterside cabins. We invite you to join us on these once in a lifetime adventures.
Heart of Norway Trekking Adventure With only 4 million people living in an area roughly the size of California, Norway is a country filled with pure wilderness. Some of the most dramatic mountain country is found in Jotunheimen National Park, which serves as the setting for this exceptional adventure. Our Heart of Norway Trek takes in the best of the best of Jotunheimen and is made even more special because of our American and Scandinavian guides who have spent years adventuring throughout this fascinating country and who guide with safety, camaraderie and your desires at heart!
After meeting in the small central Norwegian town of Otta, we travel to Jotunheimen, home to Norway's tallest mountains and largest protected backcountry. Here, we spend six days exploring a region that is almost indescribably beautiful and raw. We overnight in remote, trail-side mountain lodges, replete with comfortable beds, delicious meals, and classic Norwegian charm.The hikes each day vary in length and difficulty, with some regarded as somewhat strenuous and others mild. Each day includes one stunning natural feature after another. Some days we hike from lodge to lodge and others we dayhike and return to a lodge for a second night. Since these cottages are fully furnished,your pack need only hold clothes, a lightweight sleeping bag,and accessories for the trip. The unmatched scenery and solitude of Jotunheimen, our knowledgeable and caring Norwegian and American guides, the immaculate accommodations, and seamless logistics render an unforgettably enjoyable trip. In addition, you have the option of adding to your adventure a day of rafting, mountain climbing, or exploring the historic lost valley of Heidal. There are countless highlights on this trip. First is the hike to Fanarokkan, the highest peak in West Jotunheimen. This mountain often thrusts above cloud line, affording views of other great peaks in the park.This night we stay at a wonderfully refurbished weather station on the peak that has seen its share of intense weather. Next, we trek down the mountain along a stone stairway that was actually built into the mountain. This hike leads down below tree line into a thick forest from which that night's lodge appears like an oasis, with home brewed beer beckoning deserving hikers. The following days we hike through enchanting valleys that feature glaciers hanging off ridges above and river after river reaching canyon floors via plunging waterfalls. We also scamper along ridges that drop precipitously into emerald lakes and meandering mountain streams below. Each day provides immeasurable pleasure as dramatic scenery appears around every corner and good company abounds. After emerging from the park on day six we head east into the Heidal valley,a region of Norway famous for its old farming practices and venerable buildings. Those needing to head home board an evening train. Others wishing to explore more of the heart of Norway on day seven have the option of rafting the wild and wooly Sjoa river, climbing to the top of Glittertind, Norway's second highest mountain, or just exploring the cultural artifacts of old Norway. Regardless of how you finish your trip we are confident that from the start you will be glad you visited this corner of the earth.
Trip Overview Day-To-Day
Itinerary Day Two: After a leisurely morning and filling breakfast we embark on a predominantly downhill four-mile hike. A portion of this hike is on a one-mile long stone stairway, the steps of which were carved right out of the mountain. We descend into an amazing valley basin where rivers fall down terraced waterfalls and through unbelievable green meadows before merging and becoming the Stor Utla river that carves its way through the Utta valley. The beauty of this place prompts us to pause often in order to soak it all in. After stopping mid-trail for lunch we arrive at Skagadalsboen, a remote, helicopter-served lodge that features panoramic views and its own home brew. This venerable lodge is located in a rich alpine forest. We spend the night comfortably settled in the heart of these Norwegian woods. Days Three and Four: On day three we hike to Olavsbu, another charming hut that is surrounded by lakes and glaciers. This hike, approximately six miles long, takes us up to an area surrounded by hogback mountains, one of which we may choose to summit after leaving our packs at the lodge. Olavsbu is located virtually in the center of Jotunheimen. As such it is lightly used and known for the solitude it offers to those who overnight here. In fact, because of Olavbu's tranquility, elevation (4,800 feet), and exceptional location for day hikes we choose to make it a layover lodge, allowing us on day four to climb nearby peaks or visit alpine lakes. Day Five: After spending the second night at Olavsbu we depart for the dramatic high mountain fjord Bygdin. This day begins with a generally downhill hike. We hike in the morning to Fondsbu where we enjoy lunch on the banks of Bygdin. We then head south and east around Bygdin fjord, as the trail passes an alpine lake, and climbs and traverses a ridge that offers views of the fjord. This night we sleep at Yksendalsbu lodge with panoramas of dramatic cliffs and alpine meadows. Day Six: Following a leisurely breakfast we begin the hike out of the park. We leave Yksendalsbu and hike past another beautiful lake. After the three hour hike we meet our shuttle van at the east end of Bygdin and head east out of the park. On this drive we stop at Ridderspranget, a spot on the powerful upper Sjoa river where the canyon walls constrict to less than ten feet apart. From there we head to the town of Heidal where we toast a great adventure and new friends, and enjoy a Jotunheimen explorers celebration dinner. After dinner, those not participating in the day seven adventures will be shuttled to the train station for their evening trip back to Gardermoen or Oslo. Optional Day Seven: On this day you have a choice of adventures: rafting the Sjoa river, a roller-coaster ride that is ideal for first timers; exploring the museums and churches of Heidal; or climbing to the top of Glittertind, which affords a dramatic top-of-the-world 360-degree view. Each activity provides one more unforgettable taste of the Norwegian countryside and its charming people. This evening you board a train for Gardermoen or Oslo, unless you opt for another add-on adventure!
Rendezvous Information Pre-Trip Meeting and
Accommodations Getting
To Norway By Air: There are regularly scheduled flights from the U.S. to Norway on several major carriers, including American Airlines, SAS, Delta, British Air, and Icelandair. The new international airport at Gardermoen is located approximately 30 miles north of Oslo, and is served by taxi and express train. Destination Wilderness is an agent for Icelandair. We have access to special rates that are summarized below. However, these seats are very limited and should be booked as early as possible. By Train: Trains from throughout Europe arrive several times a day at the Oslo Sentrum train station, the common terminus for international trains arriving in Norway. Oslo Sentrum is located in the heart of downtown, providing easy access to the main walking streets sidewalk cafes and our rendezvous. From Oslo, you will take a train north, approximately four hours, to the town of Otta. Please contact our office for schedules and fares. Additional Information Participant Fitness
and Activity Levels Trek Lengths and
Difficulty Equipment Weather
Mountain Lodge Accommodations Meals and
Beverages Destination Wilderness Guides
2001 Trip Cost
If hiking among razor-back mountains on islands in the Norwegian Sea and Arctic Ocean, watching the sun dip but never set, and feeling the power of giant sperm whales as they blast to the surface sound like adventures not to be missed, then consider this trip. If the sun dipping, but never setting into the ocean seems like something you should see, then consider this trip.
After taking a train all night from Trondheim to Bodø, we board a ferry for the town of  (that's right, Â), at the southern end of the Lofotens. From there we travel to the fishing village of Reine, famous for its scenic setting and dried fish unique to this region. Here we will spend two days, exploring the mountains and coastal plains that sit exposed on the Norwegian Sea side of these sentinel Islands. Next, we will spend a day biking the backroads of central Lofoten before traveling on to Vesterålen. Day five is spent aboard a World Wildlife Fund charter and research vessel, with sightings of the giant leviathan sperm whales likely throughout the day. This whale watching excursion was recently named one of the world's top ten by "E" Magazine. On this night we camp in the dunes on the northernmost tip of the Lofoten/Vesterålen Islands, soaking up rays of the midnight sun and strolling along the edge of the earth. The last day we spend traveling back to Bodø by boat, then on to Trondheim by train. Simply put, this is a trip for the ages and all ages, one that any adventure traveler will consider completely fulfilling and enjoyable. Itinerary Day-To-Day
Itinerary Day One: Ferry Day! After an all-night train ride to Bodø we board the ferry to the Lofotens. This ferry ride, approximately four hours long, affords great views of the Norwegian coast as we pull away from the mainland, and increasingly dramatic views of the Lofotens as we approach this knife-edged archipelago. After landing in the village of Å we will travel via vehicle to the Reine/Hamnøy area. Here we will settle in to our rørbus before going on a hike in the afternoon. Day Two: Hiking Day! After sleeping (or trying to, given the short hours of darkness!) we will head out for an all-day hike into the wilderness of the Lofoten Islands. On this day we will carry our lunch with us and visit mountain passes that provide unbelievably dramatic views as far as you can see (weather permitting). We return this afternoon to our rørbus and have the option of rowing a boat around the inlet that hosts the towns of Reine and Hamnøy. Day Three: Refikshula Cave Day! After being picked up at the rørbu by the Zodiac raft we head out to the waters surrounding the Lofotens and travel south along the jagged coast until we reach the docking point for Refikshula. From here, we walk up and into the cave that hosts centuries-old cave paintings. Here, our naturalist/guide explains how the ancient people chose to visit and inhabit the cave. After returning to the rørbus we have the option of hiking again, just relaxing at the rørbus, or exploring the friendly confines of Reine. Day Four: Overland Day! On this day we travel overland to Vesterålen, along the stunning rural roads of this arctic island. We will also stop to visit one of the bigger "cities" on the island. We arrive in Andenes on the northernmost tip of the island, and get comfortable in rørbus, which could be considered to be some of highest latitude island dwellings on earth! This afternoon we can hike, bike or just relax at this seaside village. It is also fun to visit the decades old lighthouse that for generations has warned those at sea of the coastal perils. Note: Due to a limited number of bikes participants may need to ride bikes at different times. Day Five: Whale Watching Day! This day begins with a visit to the Andenes Whale Center which features a museum and interpretive presentation by a local naturalist. Following this tour we board a research vessel and head out to sea for three to five hours, depending on weather and sightings. One of the most highly regarded whale watching tours on earth, this trip typically features numerous sightings of the giant sperm whale. However, while over 90% of these tours have whale sightings there is no guarantee. Also, in the case of extreme weather, the trip may be canceled. Although rare, if this does happen we may be able to reschedule for the following day. After this trip we have time to hike and bike around Andenes. Day Six: Travel Day. On this, the last day of the trip, we have a leisurely morning exploring the coastal lands and town of Andenes before beginning the return to Bodø and Trondheim. We return via vehicle, ferry, and plane. We drive to Svolvaer, fly to the mainland, join in a celebration dinner, and then train back to Trondheim. Note: If there is no whale trip on day five due to the highly unlikely case of extreme weather, you have the option of flying back to Bodø, from Andenes, provided space is available. Those who choose to exercise this option will be responsible for the cost of the flight from Andenes to Bodø. After a night train ride we arrive in Trondheim early morning one week to the day after we departed this grand city. Rendezvous Information Getting To
Trondheim, Norway By Air: As noted above, there are regularly scheduled flights to Norway from throughout the U.S. To get to Trondheim, it is most common for international air travelers to fly to Oslo or Stockholm and then Trondheim. There are regular flights from Stockholm and Oslo on SAS, Brathens Safe, and others. There are over 20 flights per day between Oslo and Trondheim. Please contact our office for details. By Train: From Oslo there are day and night trains to Trondheim. Be sure to allow enough time to arrive in Trondheim by 7:00 p.m. the evening of the trip departure. It takes approximately 8 hours to travel from Oslo to Trondheim by train. It is one of the most spectacular train rides in the world. Experience
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Difficulty The hikes on this trip are spectacular and definitely in open country. None of the hikes are mandatory, and none more than moderate in difficulty. We spend time hiking in the afternoon of the first day on the Lofotens, and on the first full day we are on the island. We will also hike up and in to Refikshula Cave. With daylight lasting almost all night there will be lots of hiking time. Please be sure to bring a medium-sized rucksack or backpack to carry your foul weather gear and other items while hiking. Waterproof boots and wool socks are also required. Equipment Weather
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