Snowshoeing, kayaking and the Northern Lights in Arctic Norway
In summary
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Sports
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Duration6 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationNorway / Lapland
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AgeFrom 10 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions88.56 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
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Languages
English
In a few words
Explore the wild landscapes of Norway's Far North on an active 6-day trip between Bodø and Svolvær . This trip combines land and sea, offering days of adventure and comfortable hotels .
Your journey begins in Bodø , an Arctic city surrounded by fjords. A guided snowshoe hike immerses you in snowy landscapes, before a RIB boat trip on the powerful Saltstraumen current, where white-tailed eagles can be observed.
Then take the ferry to the Lofoten Islands . From Svolvær , a coastal town with towering granite peaks, explore the coastline by winter sea kayak . As night falls, set off in search of the Northern Lights under a pristine Arctic sky.
Led by local guides , this crossing offers an authentic and rhythmic discovery of northern Norway, between snowy fjords and magical lights.
The highlights
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Snowshoeing and kayaking in the heart of the snow-covered fjords of Lofoten
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Safari in a RIB at Saltstraumen in search of majestic sea eagles
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Guided Northern Lights tours under the clear, wild skies of Northern Norway
Photos
Sport
Level
Kayaking and Canoeing
The expert's opinion
This trip is designed for active travelers with a beginner level of fitness, adapted to winter conditions. The snowshoeing excursion lasts approximately 6 hours and involves walking on snowy terrain; therefore, participants should be comfortable outdoors in cold weather for extended periods, although several breaks are planned along the route.
The RIB (rigid inflatable boat) excursion in Saltstraumen is not physically demanding, although participants should be comfortable boarding a boat and navigating on the open sea in winter weather. Winter kayaking is suitable for beginners but requires basic mobility, comfort on the water, and a tolerance for cold temperatures.
Chasing the Northern Lights involves waiting outdoors at night, often in sub-zero temperatures; therefore, wearing several layers of warm clothing is essential. In northern Norway, the weather can change rapidly in winter, and activities may be adapted for safety reasons. Appropriate winter clothing, footwear, and accessories are indispensable throughout your stay.
In figures
Snowshoes
- Average duration/day: 6h
- Average distance/day: 4 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 100 m
- Average daily descent: 95 m
Canoeing / Kayaking
- Average duration/day: 2h
- Majority river class : Class 2 - some simple rapids
Management
English
Guides are only present during excursions.
Program
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Arctic winter adventure
- Activity Snowshoes
- Duration of the activity 6h per day
- Distance 4 km
- Positive elevation gain 100 m
- Negative elevation 95 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Welcome to Bodø , a vibrant coastal city nestled between the sea and snow-capped mountains. After settling in, you'll experience the refreshing Arctic air. At the end of the day, you'll embark on a snowshoe hike with your local guide. You'll discover the surrounding winter landscapes, traversing wild panoramas bathed in the unique light of Northern Norway . It's the perfect first step to gently immerse yourself in the Nordic spirit.
You'll board a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) for a thrilling excursion to Saltstraumen . Here, one of the world's most powerful tidal currents occurs, offering a breathtaking natural spectacle. As you navigate through the heart of the fjord, keep a sharp eye out for white-tailed eagles , these impressive sea eagles that soar above the area. You'll then enjoy the rest of your day exploring Bodø at your own pace and soaking up its welcoming atmosphere.
Days 1 to 3 -
In the heart of the Lofoten archipelago
- Activity Canoeing / Kayaking
- Duration of the activity 2h per day
- Majority river class Class 2 - some simple rapids
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You take the ferry from Bodø to Svolvær , in the heart of the Lofoten archipelago. This iconic fishing village, surrounded by rugged peaks, is an ideal starting point for exploring the coast. In the evening, you join a local guide for a Northern Lights hunt . Far from the city lights, you scan the Arctic sky in search of these magical, luminous displays.
You'll embark on a sea kayaking excursion amidst spectacular winter scenery. You'll paddle in the crisp Arctic air, at the foot of snow-capped mountains plunging into the ocean. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Svolvær at your own pace, wander through its traditional cod-drying sheds, and soak up the unique atmosphere of these northern islands.
Days 4 to 6
Note
This itinerary is designed for active travelers and combines snowshoeing, coastal exploration, wildlife viewing, kayaking, and Northern Lights hunting. Activities are planned in advance, but the program remains flexible to adapt to winter weather and sea conditions.
Warm outerwear, sturdy winter boots, and thermal layers are essential throughout the trip. Snowshoeing and kayaking require a moderate level of fitness and good cold tolerance.
Rigid inflatable boat (RIB) trips, kayaking and Northern Lights viewing are subject to weather and safety conditions; local providers will make the final decision if adjustments are necessary.
Accommodation
Located in the heart of Bodø, the Comfort Hotel Bodø offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the city and the surrounding Arctic landscapes. With its modern rooms, relaxed atmosphere, and easy access to restaurants, shops, and local attractions, it's a practical choice for an active stay in Northern Norway.
Located in the heart of Svolvær, the Thon Hotel Svolvær offers a comfortable and modern base for exploring the Lofoten Islands. Thanks to its convenient location on the harbor, guests are close to restaurants, shops, and the town's waterfront, making it an ideal base for enjoying outdoor adventures and the coastal scenery of the region.
Access
The journey begins at the hotel.
This is a self-guided holiday, with guides only during excursions.
All excursions have a meeting point accessible on foot from the hotel.
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation for 5 nights with daily breakfast
- Activities mentioned in the program
- English-speaking guide during activities
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
- Ferry crossing between Bodø and Svolvær
The price does not include
- International flights
- Airport transfers
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
For connecting flights operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements applicable to the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with all applicable regulations, including the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return), visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. Remember to also be aware of any customs restrictions and other requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information is subject to change up to the departure date — remember to check official websites regularly.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
All the specialized and safety equipment required for the guided activities is provided by the local providers. This includes snowshoes and poles for the excursion to Bodø, life jackets and flotation thermal suits for the rigid inflatable boat (RIB) trip to Saltstraumen, as well as kayaks, paddles, drysuits and dry suits or thermal clothing for the winter kayaking session in Svolvær.
Warm outdoor clothing or blankets can also be provided for evening aurora hunting, as can the binoculars used during the sea eagle safari. Finally, qualified guides carry all necessary safety equipment throughout each activity, including first aid kits and communication devices.
Equipment to bring
Bring a daypack (20–30 L) to carry extra layers of clothing, water, and snacks on excursions. A headlamp or small flashlight will be very useful for early morning departures, evening activities, and aurora hunting, when you'll be out in the dark.
Remember to bring a reusable water bottle and a thermos for hot drinks, which will be especially welcome while snowshoeing and waiting for the Northern Lights. Pack a fully charged camera or smartphone, as well as spare batteries or a power bank: cold temperatures drain batteries quickly, and you wouldn't want to miss this spectacular sight. Finally, hand and foot warmers will be a real plus if you're spending an extended amount of time outdoors.
Clothing to bring
Pack appropriate gear for true Arctic winter conditions, with temperatures ranging from mild to well below zero. Bring a warm, windproof, and waterproof outer jacket, as well as waterproof, lined trousers for outdoor activities.
Layering is essential: pack thermal underwear (top and bottom), a mid-layer (fleece or down jacket), and several pairs of warm wool socks. Waterproof, insulated winter boots with good traction are indispensable for snowshoeing and icy surfaces.
Bring a warm hat covering the ears, a neck warmer or scarf, and warm waterproof gloves or mittens; a spare pair is recommended in case they get wet.
The Julia team
Our local expert's goal is to offer exceptional experiences that connect travelers with Norway's nature and heritage. Through strong local partnerships, sustainable practices, and a commitment to excellence, they ensure that every trip is immersive, meaningful, and responsible. Based in southern Norway, our local expert speaks English, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.
