The Bird Safari Tour

Travelers looking for a unique wildlife experience in Norway will find the Bird Safari Tour in Honningsvåg offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Europe’s largest bird colonies. This tour combines scenic drives through Arctic landscapes with an exciting boat trip around bird-rich islands—perfect for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and curious travelers alike.

While it’s not a budget experience, the value lies in close-up wildlife encounters and stunning scenery. The tour’s highlight is the boat excursion to the Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve, where puffins, eagles, and gannets are just a boat ride away. It’s a trip that promises both picturesque views and memorable animal sightings, making it an appealing choice for those wanting an authentic Arctic adventure.

Three things we love about this experience:
First, the opportunity to see large colonies of puffins, kittiwakes, and other seabirds in their natural habitat. Second, the scenic ride across fjords, mountains, and ocean offers picture-perfect moments. Third, the chance to get up close to arctic wildlife, including majestic White-tailed Eagles, is truly special.

A possible consideration is that the boat ride can be quite wavy, which might make photography challenging and cause discomfort for some travelers. It’s advisable to be prepared for movement on the water, especially if you’re prone to seasickness.

This tour suits nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those eager to explore Arctic wildlife in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s also ideal for cruise passengers or anyone craving a scenic day out in Norway’s northernmost landscapes.

Good To Know

• Wildlife close encounters with puffins, eagles, gannets, and more
• Scenic journey through fjords, mountains, and ocean landscapes
• Visit to Gjesvær village, a charming fishing settlement with Viking roots
• Expert-guided boat tour exploring one of Europe’s largest bird colonies
• Comfortable transportation from Honningsvåg to the boat, with arctic suits available
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later choices

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Travel to Gjesvær

The adventure begins in Honningsvåg, where your meeting point is conveniently located right next to the cruise pier and tourist information. The bus ride, which lasts about 30 minutes, takes you through some of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes. Expect sweeping views of fjords, rugged mountains, and open ocean—a visual feast that sets the tone for the wildlife encounter ahead.

Reviewers have praised the scenic drive, with one noting it’s “beautiful, offering views of ocean, fjords and mountain scenery.” The bus is well-marked and comfortable, making the journey both relaxing and visually rewarding.

Arrival in Gjesvær and Preparations for Boating

Gjesvær, a small fishing village with Viking roots, provides a charming contrast to the wild nature nearby. The village’s history and picturesque setting add a layer of authenticity to the experience. Here, you’ll board the boat that will take you to the Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve—a 15 km stretch of rocky islands teeming with birdlife.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with toilet facilities onboard. During the trip, you may use arctic suits provided to stay warm—highly recommended, since even in summer, Arctic waters can be breezy and chilly. The boat is about 10 minutes from the pier to the bird cliffs, giving you plenty of time to get settled and ready for wildlife watching.

The Boat Trip: Up Close with Arctic Birds

The core of this tour is the boat excursion exploring the bird colonies. Passage around the islands reveals one of Norway’s biggest puffin populations, easily recognizable by their colorful beaks and comical appearance. Seeing puffins nesting in holes amid grassy hills is a highlight, especially during the breeding season from April to September.

From reviews, many travelers remarked on the abundance of birdlife: gannets, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants, Arctic skuas, and fulmars are all part of the colony’s lively scene. The White-tailed Eagles are frequently seen soaring overhead, hunting for prey, which adds a majestic element to the voyage.

However, the seas can be rough, affecting photo quality and comfort. One reviewer mentioned that the boat’s movement made it difficult to get good pictures, and another noted that the audio guide—a taped commentary—was intermittently unavailable, which slightly diminished the experience. Still, the captain was available for questions, and onboard commentary was appreciated when working.

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Wildlife Encounters and Photo Opportunities

The bird colony is the main event, and the sheer number of nesting birds is impressive. Puffins, with their vivid beaks, are a favorite, but the sight of soaring White-tailed Eagles is truly breathtaking. “You can observe one of Norway’s largest groups of puffins and kittiwakes,” said a traveler, reinforcing the experience’s value for birdwatchers.

The tour offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially for those with a zoom lens or telephoto camera. The landscape, combined with active birdlife, creates photo-rich moments, perfect for sharing or just recording the trip.

Returning to Gjesvær and Honningsvåg

After the boat ride, you’ll return to the village to explore a bit and then head back to Honningsvåg. The entire tour lasts around 3 hours, making it a manageable excursion even for those with limited time in the region.

One traveler mentioned that, despite some hiccups like a canceled trip due to low participation, the alternative North Cape tour they took was enjoyable, though it lacked the birdwatching component. This highlights the importance of checking the tour’s availability beforehand.

Evaluating the Value

The $263 price point covers transportation, the boat excursion, and the visit to Gjesvær. While some reviews suggest that the tour feels slightly pricey relative to the limited duration, the quality of the wildlife encounters and scenic views justifies the cost for many.

It’s important to note that the tour is suitable for all ages and physical abilities, with minimal walking involved. The boat trip’s comfort and the availability of arctic suits help make the experience accessible and enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance, especially during peak season (April-September), to secure your spot.
• Bring warm clothing and waterproof gear—even with suits, layers are key.
• Use a zoom lens or camera with a good telephoto for the best wildlife photos.
• Be prepared for potential seasickness; choosing a seat in the middle of the boat can reduce motion sickness.
• Check the weather forecast; clear days will give you better views and wildlife sightings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for bird lovers and wildlife photographers eager to see puffins and eagles in their natural habitat. It also appeals to those wanting scenic views of the Arctic landscape and a taste of traditional fishing villages. However, if seasickness or rough boat rides are a concern, it’s worth considering that the boat can be lively.

It’s also an excellent choice for cruise passengers or anyone wanting a short, impactful nature excursion in northern Norway. The combination of scenic bus ride, charming Gjesvær village, and the wildlife-filled boat trip makes it a well-rounded Arctic adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3 hours, including bus, boat, and time in the village.

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers transportation to Gjesvær, the boat trip exploring the bird colony, and a visit to the village of Gjesvær.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed to be accessible for everyone, with minimal walking and plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife comfortably onboard.

What should I wear?
Wearing warm layers, waterproof clothing, and comfortable shoes is recommended. Arctic suits are provided on the boat for extra warmth.

Can I see White-tailed Eagles on this tour?
Yes, White-tailed Eagles are commonly seen soaring overhead during the boat trip, hunting for prey.

What happens if my tour is canceled?
If the minimum number of participants isn’t met, the tour may be canceled, and a full refund will be issued or an alternative offered.

Final Thoughts

The Bird Safari Tour in Norway offers a captivating mix of scenic views and close-up wildlife sightings. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to experience Arctic seabird colonies without a strenuous hike or long expedition. The combination of a scenic bus ride, a charming fishing village, and a lively boat tour make it a well-rounded nature outing.

While the price might seem high, the opportunity to observe puffins, eagles, and gannets in their natural environment makes it worthwhile for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. The tour provides a genuine glimpse into the Arctic’s vibrant seabird colonies, with plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way.

If you’re eager for an authentic, wildlife-focused adventure in northern Norway, this tour is worth considering—just be prepared for the weather and sea conditions, and bring your camera!

In essence, the Bird Safari Tour is a memorable Arctic experience best suited for those who want a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and local charm. It’s a trip that rewards patience, curiosity, and a love of nature.

You can check if your dates are available here: