If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring Norway’s incredible landscapes, the Nigards: Kayaking and Glacier Hike tour is a compelling option. While we haven’t personally strapped into a kayak or crunched on crampons ourselves, the countless reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of a truly memorable outdoor experience. This tour perfectly combines the thrill of paddling across a tranquil glacial lake with the awe of walking on a glacier—something every adventure lover should consider.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning scenery of Nigardsbrevatnet lake and Nigardsbreen glacier promises picture-perfect moments. Second, the expert guidance from knowledgeable guides like Marcelo and Nahir ensures safety and enriches your understanding of glaciers. Third, the variety of activities — kayaking, glacier hiking, and exploring local history — keeps the day engaging from start to finish.
A possible consideration? The tour lasts around 6 hours, so it requires a reasonable level of physical activity and some comfort with outdoor gear and colder weather. It’s not ideal for very young children or visitors with mobility issues. Still, if you love nature, adventure, and scenery, this experience is likely to leave a lasting impression.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy being active outdoors, are comfortable in variable weather, and want to see Norway’s glaciers from a truly hands-on perspective. Families in May and June, as well as anyone looking for a mix of adventure and education, will find this trip particularly rewarding.
- Stunning scenery of Nigardsbrevatnet lake and Nigardsbreen glacier, ideal for photography.
- Expert guides like Marcelo and Nahir enhance safety and provide fascinating insights.
- Active experience combining kayaking and glacier hiking for a full day of adventure.
- Accessible for most with proper outdoor clothing; not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues.
- Flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay later.
- Includes all necessary gear for glacier walk, such as crampons and ropes, ensuring safety and comfort.
Meeting Point and Transportation
Your journey begins at the Breheimsenteret visitor center, where an Icetroll guide will welcome you. From there, you’ll follow the guide in your own vehicle to the lakeside, with a small toll fee of 90 kr (about $9-10 USD), payable by card or coins. This setup allows for a more flexible and personalized start rather than a large bus load.
You can check availability for your dates here:Safety Briefings and Preparation
The tour kicks off with a 15-minute safety briefing. This quick session is designed to ensure everyone feels confident before hitting the water and stepping onto the glacier. The guides are known for their friendly, approachable manner—reviewers like Edward particularly appreciated Nahir’s thorough instructions and care for safety.
Kayaking Across Nigardsbrevatnet
Once briefed, you’ll hop into your kayak for a 30-minute paddle across the serene lake. The calm waters provide a perfect environment for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. The setting is breathtaking—surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks and the glacier’s edge, making for unforgettable photo moments. Several reviewers mention how peaceful and beautiful this first part of the trip is, with Roman describing the guides as “friendly, helpful, and informative.”
Walk to the Glacier
After the kayak, you’ll walk about 15 minutes to the glacier. Along the way, your guide will share insights about glacier formation, local history, and the glaciers’ past and ongoing changes. This part is not just a stroll but an educational experience that adds context to what you’re about to explore on foot.
Glacier Exploration and Crampon Climb
Arriving at the glacier, you’ll gear up with crampons and ropes—all provided—to explore the ice firsthand. The guides emphasize safety and instruct you on how to navigate the icy surface. The 2-hour glacier hike allows plenty of time for exploration, photos, and a packed lunch (must bring your own). Reviewers like Diana describe the glacier walk as “amazing,” with the guides making it accessible and informative, even for those new to glacier hiking.
More Great Tours NearbyReturning via Kayak and Reflection
After the hike, you’ll retrace your steps back to the kayaks, paddling back across the tranquil lake. The final paddling stretch offers more opportunities for photos and soaking in the views. The tour concludes back at your starting point, giving you a full, balanced day of adventure.
Expert Guiding
The praise for guides like Marcelo and Nahir highlights the value of knowledgeable, attentive leaders. They’re not just safety officers but storytellers—sharing insights about glaciers, local history, and answering questions along the way. This enhances the experience beyond just the physical activity.
Variety and Pace
The combination of paddling and hiking keeps the day dynamic. You’ll never feel like you’re just doing one thing; instead, you get a well-rounded adventure that caters to different interests—nature, physical activity, and learning.
Photogenic Views
Both the kayaking and glacier walk offer ideal photo opportunities. Reviewers mention how the scenery is “perfect for photos,” with panoramic views of snowfields, icy formations, and the tranquil lake.
Family Friendly in Spring and Early Summer
While not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues, the tour is excellent for families visiting in May or June, when the weather is generally mild and the scenery is especially vibrant.
- What to bring: Dress warmly with outdoor clothing, including a hat, sunglasses, rain gear, hiking shoes, water, and snacks. The weather in Norway can be unpredictable, so layered clothing is advisable.
- When to go: Check availability for the specific start times; the tour runs around 6 hours.
- Price and value: While the exact cost isn’t specified, including gear and guides, the diverse activities packed into one day make this an excellent value.
- Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility impairments—be prepared for some physical effort.
- Booking flexibility: With options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with peace of mind.
This experience is ideal for adventure seekers looking to combine kayaking and glacier hiking in Norway’s spectacular outdoors. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning scenery, while curious travelers will value the educational insights from experienced guides. Families with older children in search of a memorable day outdoors will find this both fun and inspiring. If you’re a photographer or simply want a complete, active day surrounded by nature, this tour ticks all the boxes.
The Nigards: Kayaking and Glacier Hike tour offers an inviting mix of physical activity, scenic beauty, and educational commentary in one compact package. It’s a chance to get close to Norway’s glaciers while enjoying the serenity of the lake and the thrill of a glacier walk. The expert guidance, combined with the variety of activities, makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking a full day of authentic outdoor adventure.
While it demands some effort and preparation, the payoff—stunning views, memorable experiences, and a deeper understanding of glaciers—is well worth it. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveler eager to explore Norway’s icy landscapes, this trip promises a rewarding glimpse into some of the country’s most breathtaking natural features.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with multiple stops including kayaking, glacier hiking, and walking.
Do I need experience to participate?
No prior experience is necessary. The guides provide safety briefings and instructions, and the activities are suitable for most levels, within age and mobility restrictions.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes all necessary gear for kayaking and glacier walking, plus the guide. Transportation from Breheimsenteret is not included.
Is it suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 8 years old due to the physical demands and gear involved.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly with outdoor clothing, including a hat, sunglasses, rain gear, and hiking shoes. Layering is recommended to adapt to changing weather conditions.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.
This comprehensive tour blends adventure, education, and stunning scenery in a way that appeals to active travelers craving an authentic taste of Norway’s icy wonders.
You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby