Lofoten Islands

Sea kayaking and hiking trips in the Lofoten Islands

4,5/5 (15 reviews)

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Sea kayaking and hiking trips in the Lofoten Islands

In summary

Sports

Hiking / Trekking , Kayaking and Canoeing
Duration
10 days
Level
Confirmed

Levels

Hiking / Trekking

Kayaking and Canoeing

Beginner

For those wishing to walk for up to 3 hours with minimal elevation gain (max. 300m) along roads, tracks, trails, or rolling terrain. Suitable for everyone.

Intermediate

For those wishing to hike for 4 to 5 hours a day, covering an elevation gain of around 600m on trails. You hike occasionally and are in good physical condition.

Confirmed

For those wishing to hike for up to 6 hours a day and/or cover an elevation gain of 600 to 800 meters, both on and off-trail. High-altitude sections are possible. You engage in a sporting activity once a week, hike regularly, and are in very good physical condition.

Advanced

For those wishing to undertake multi-day hikes involving over 6 hours of walking and an elevation gain of 700 to 1,200 meters, off-trail or over rugged terrain. High-altitude sections are possible. You engage in endurance sports several times a week, hike regularly, and are in excellent physical condition.

Expert

For those who want a challenging hike of 7 to 8 hours per day with over 1200 meters of elevation gain off-trail or on rough terrain. High-altitude sections. You have been practicing high-intensity endurance sports several times a week for several years, and you are training for this event.

Beginner

For those who have never tried kayaking or canoeing. Outings generally last less than 3½ hours per day.

Intermediate

For those who have tried canoeing or kayaking at least a few times and are in good physical shape. The days involve less than 4½ hours of paddling to cover a distance of approximately 20 km.

Confirmed

For those who have already logged some miles in a kayak and are now looking for a more spirited adventure! You are in good physical shape and engage in regular sports activity. The trip involves less than 5 hours of paddling per day, covering 25 km at a speed of 3 knots.

Advanced

For enthusiasts in good physical condition who are seeking increasingly greater challenges and impressive scenery. The days involve less than six hours of paddling, at a speed of 3.5 knots and covering a distance of approximately 32 km.

Expert

For those who have mastered kayaking: you are looking for someone to guide you to the locations you wish to explore. You are in excellent physical shape and up for a challenge. The days last less than 6.5 hours, covering a distance of 38 km at a speed of 3.5 to 4 knots.
Destination
Norway / Lofoten Islands
Age
From the age of 18
CO₂-Emissions
118.69 kg CO2
Type of stay

This group trip is perfect for travelers who want to experience a sporting adventure with other enthusiasts and be guided.

Type of stay
In a group
Languages

🇫🇷
French

In a few words

Explore the Lofoten Islands off the beaten track!

Embark on a unique sea kayaking journey, guided by a local expert who will lead you through a wild archipelago, far from the crowds. Between secret fjords, secluded beaches and breathtaking peaks, each paddle stroke takes you to pristine and spectacular landscapes: Selfjord, Skjelfjorden, Flakstadpollen… dominated by the imposing Hermannsdalstinden, the highest peak in Lofoten.

Over the course of several days, alternate between paddling and hiking along ridges offering breathtaking panoramas. Sea kayaking provides complete independence and access to secluded campsites, facing pristine landscapes where nature sets its own pace. A gentle yet comprehensive adventure, combining exploration, self-reliance, and wonder in one of Norway's most beautiful corners.

The highlights

Sea kayaking: an unusual and immersive way to travel
Secret bivouacs accessible only by sea
Unforgettable hikes and sailing trips in the Lofoten Islands

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Photos

Sport

Level

Hiking / Trekking

Confirmed

For those wishing to hike for up to 6 hours a day and/or cover an elevation gain of 600 to 800 meters, both on and off-trail. High-altitude sections are possible. You engage in a sporting activity once a week, hike regularly, and are in very good physical condition.

The expert's opinion

Circuit characteristics

Each day includes 4 to 6 hours of activity combining kayaking and hiking. Conditions can be challenging: wind, rain, and changeable weather. The route is rated level 3 under favorable conditions, but can become level 4 in case of deteriorating weather. This nearly self-supported trek demands physical and mental commitment: endurance, exposure to the elements, and nights spent camping. A good capacity for adaptation is essential.

Recommended physical preparation

Excellent physical condition is essential. This trip is designed for athletes accustomed to prolonged exertion, days exceeding 6 hours, and hikes with 700 to 900 meters of elevation gain. Kayaking experience and a good level of outdoor fitness are strongly recommended, as well as specific training.

Health and safety

The areas traversed are isolated and rescue operations can be lengthy. The guide carries a first-aid kit. A medical consultation before departure is recommended.

Activities during the stay

Loaded kayaks require more skill. The route is gradual: sheltered areas at the start, then the more exposed coast of the Vestfjord. The trips, sometimes short, can involve significant elevation changes and technical sections.

Life in a bivouac

Life in a bivouac involves discomfort, dampness, and fatigue. The trip is participatory and relies on mutual support and group cohesion.

Accessible from age 16 for young people accustomed to strenuous activities.

In figures

Canoeing / Kayaking

Average duration/day: 3h
Average daily elevation gain: 125 m
Average daily descent: 125 m

Hiking

Average duration/day: 4h30
Average daily elevation gain: 605 m
Average daily descent: 605 m

Management

During this stay, a supervisor will be present to guide and assist you.

Languages spoken:

🇫🇷

French

Supervisor

Based in the Lofoten Islands for many years, our agency offers you much more than just a trip: an active adventure, led by passionate guides and made possible by perfectly managed local logistics. Throughout your stay, you will be accompanied by a specialist guide, a true all-rounder of adventure: they will manage the group and prepare meals.

Versatile, available and passionate, our guides are here to help you experience the best of Norway, safely and in a good mood.

Learn more about supervision

Program

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Heading towards Norway – Arrival in Bodø
- Accommodation Youth hostel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The big departure begins!
We embark for northern Norway and land in Bodø in the late afternoon.
Once there, we met with the local team and the rest of the group: the first exchanges already sparked the spirit of the trip.
In the evening, we settled into our accommodation and spent our first night on Norwegian soil.
Day 1
Crossing to the Lofoten Islands – Kayaking initiation in the Selfjord
- Transportation Ferry - 03h15 - 100km
- Activity Canoeing / Kayaking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, we take the ferry. From the deck, the view is breathtaking: the Lofoten archipelago rises like a wall of mountains plunging into the sea.
We meet up with our guide, familiarize ourselves with the equipment and prepare our pack: everything must fit in the kayaks, including food.
First paddle strokes in the sheltered Selfjord: a gentle introduction among rocky islets and golden beaches. Our passionate and expert guide gives us essential safety instructions and also takes advantage of this trip to reveal the secrets of the Lofoten Islands: Arctic flora, marine fauna, local traditions, and the geological history of the mountains that surround us.
At the end of the day, the camp is set up: bivouac tents, a convivial mess tent, and the experience of nomadic life begins.
Day 2
Hike to the summit of Ryten
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Positive elevation gain 560 m
- Negative elevation 560 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Today, we're leaving the kayaks at home for a walking excursion. The trail climbs gently through moors and ridges, offering new views of the Selfjord and its countless islets at every step.
At the summit of Ryten, the reward is magnificent: a breathtaking panorama of the wild Kvalvika beach, an expanse of blond sand encircled by steep walls, and of the Moskenesøya mountain range.
In the afternoon, return to camp for free time. Depending on your preferences, you can go paddling again on the Norwegian Sea, or try your hand at fishing in the lively currents at the entrance to the fjord.
Day 3
By kayak from Fredvang to Skjelfjord
- Activity Canoeing / Kayaking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After a hearty breakfast, we pack up camp and load the kayaks.
Heading towards the Sundstraumen, a narrow and spectacular strait linking two of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago.
The west coast reveals beaches and turquoise waters, the east coast reveals a more mineral world, sheltered from the wind and animated by fishing villages with red rorbus.
We pass by the picturesque village of Sund before entering the Skjelfjord, the site of our bivouac for two nights.
Little by little, everyone finds their place: unloading, setting up tents, preparing meals… a true expedition life.
Day 4
Hiking to Volandstinden
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A short morning sail to reach the starting point of our hike.
The steady climb leads us to the summit of Volandstinden, whose three peaks offer an exceptional panorama of the fjords and the kayak route covered in recent days. At the end of the day, we take up the kayaks again to reach a new bivouac, accessible only by sea: a rare privilege to enjoy an isolated site, in complete tranquility.
Day 5
Heading towards Nusfjord
- Activity Canoeing / Kayaking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
We are traveling along the east coast of Flakstadøya, an area conducive to encounters with seals and porpoises.
Today's objective: Nusfjord, one of the oldest fishing villages in Lofoten, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What a thrill to arrive at this setting of little houses on stilts… by kayak! Setting up camp and exploring the village.
Day 6
Nusfjord – Hiking in the Heights
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Day without kayaking: departure on foot from the camp for a panoramic hike. Here, the scenery is wild and mineral: little vegetation, rough stones sculpted by the elements.
The heights offer us an unobstructed view of the fjord, the village and the vast Vestfjord.
Maritime atmosphere, authenticity and tranquility: Nusfjord reveals its preserved soul.
Day 7
End of the raid – Back to comfort
- Transportation Minibus - 00h30 - 25km
- Activity Canoeing / Kayaking
- Duration of the activity 1h
- Accommodation Apartment
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Last navigation through the meanders of Nusfjord before the shuttle that takes us back to Fredvang, the starting point of our journey.
Rinsing, packing up the gear… then the simple pleasure of returning to comfortable accommodation. Hot shower, cozy bed: after a week of adventure, the comfort takes on a whole new meaning.
Day 8
Ascent of Munkan – A spectacular finale
- Transportation Ferry - 03h15 - 100km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Positive elevation gain 860 m
- Negative elevation 860 m
- Accommodation Youth hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Our latest adventure takes us to Munkan (798 m), an iconic peak in the Lofoten Islands. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful hikes in the archipelago, but it's a challenge: the elevation gains are demanding, but the reward is well worth it.
At the summit, the plunging view encompasses all the islands, offering a true high mountain atmosphere lost in the middle of the sea.
At the end of the day, we take the ferry back to Bodø, our hearts still filled with these magnificent landscapes.
Day 9
Back to France
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Last morning overlooking the Norwegian coast. Transfer to the airport, return flight.
We leave Norway with intense images in our memories: raw nature, changing lights, powerful encounters and the rare feeling of total immersion.
Why not come back in winter? When hiking is done on snowshoes, when the fjords freeze under the snow and when the Northern Lights set the sky ablaze, Norway reveals a new magic.
Day 10

Note

This itinerary is provided as an indication: depending on weather and operational conditions, your tour guide may modify the day-by-day itinerary for your safety and that of the group or for organizational reasons.

For departures in June and from mid-August onwards, the number of ferries between the islands is reduced. Some days may therefore be adjusted to take this into account.

Things to know before you leave:

Light and seasons:

From late May to early August: midnight sun (the day hardly sets).

From the first days of August: night gradually returns. At this time, it is sometimes possible to observe the first northern lights, provided the sky is clear.

Accommodation

During this stay, you will sleep in several different accommodations.

🏠 Youth hostel - Day 1 and 9

In Bodø:

In town, you will stay in a youth hostel or hotel, ideally located near the center. The dormitory rooms, which are single-sex, have between 4 and 6 beds, with a shared bathroom.

⛺️ Bivouac / Tent - Days 2 to 7

In a bivouac:

During the trek, you will sleep in tents. Lightweight three-person tents, shared between two people, ensure comfort and practicality in the Norwegian conditions. A large mess tent provides a sheltered space for sharing meals and enjoying convivial moments together.

Your guide will introduce you to the essential skills of bivouacking: setting up camp, unloading kayaks, organizing and storing equipment, etc.

🏨 Apartment - Day 8

In rorbus cabins or apartments:

After your kayaking trip, you'll spend the night in rorbuers—those famous fishermen's cabins on stilts—or in similar charming apartments, often nestled in the heart of nature or in picturesque little villages. These colorful buildings, once fishing lodges or family homes, have been carefully restored to combine modern comfort and authenticity, while preserving their strong connection to local history.

Accommodation in Fredvang: rorbuer (traditional fisherman's cabin) or dormitory with 4 to 8 beds. Some more rustic accommodations charm with their character, friendly atmosphere, and the magnificent surrounding landscapes. Occasionally, rooms with bunk beds can accommodate up to four people.

Shared room:

If you are travelling alone, you will be accommodated in a shared room with another participant.

⛺️ Camping

While camping:

During the expedition, one or more nights may be spent camping. These offer the opportunity for a hot shower (sometimes at an extra cost; the guide will give you a token) and a little comfort after a day outdoors.

Access

Departure

Bodø, Norvège

Day 1

End of stay

Bodø, Norvège

Day 10

Go to the starting point

Access by plane

The nearest airport isBodø

Your flight with us

Your e-ticket will be available in your customer account 8 to 10 days before departure. Your login details and password will be sent to you upon registration.

To reach Norway, we mainly work with two regular airlines, via Oslo: SAS and Norwegian.

SAS: 1 checked bag of 23 kg + 1 hand bag included per person.

Norwegian: 1 checked bag of 20 kg + 1 hand bag included per person.

Note: Meals and drinks are not included on board and are available for purchase.

This information is provided for guidance purposes only and will be confirmed at the time of booking.

New legislation in progress

New Norwegian legislation strictly regulating passenger transport no longer allows our guides to drive the minibuses used for transfers. We therefore use external providers to ensure travel complies with local regulations and guarantees a high level of safety, albeit with less flexibility. These transfers will be carried out using 9- or 16-seater minibuses.

Would you like to travel on other dates?

Create an alert and we'll notify you by email if new departures are added.

Price details

The price includes

Flights Paris / Bodø / Paris
Air taxes
Airport transfers
Travel and activities as described in the program
The accommodation as described
The meals mentioned as included in the program
Loan of kayaking equipment (two-person kayak, paddle, drysuit...)
Loan of bivouac equipment
The tour is led by a French-speaking tour guide who is a specialist in the destination.

The price does not include

The contribution to carbon neutrality
Pre-delivery to Paris
Meals indicated as free in the day-by-day
Airport transfers if the arrival or departure day differs from that of the rest of the group and the program

Options

You will be able to select these options when booking.

Additional night in Bodø in a double or twin room (price per person) : CHF112.10 / person
Additional night in Bodø in a single room : CHF197.60 / person
Additional night in Oslo in a double or twin room (price per person) : CHF83.60 / person
Additional night in Oslo in a single room : CHF167.20 / person
Single room supplement for several nights of your stay : CHF304.00 / person
Flex fare and insurance

Practical information

Specific formalities

Equipment

Equipment provided on site

We will provide you with high-quality equipment that is impressively lightweight, so that you can have a pleasant stay without suffering any discomfort.

Camping equipment (3-person tents for two people, mattresses, utensils, mess tent for communal meals...) excluding sleeping bags.
Kayaking equipment (kayak, life jacket, paddle, drysuit, Crocs-type shoes, dry bag...(13L for personal belongings/ 22L shared between 2 for the sleeping bag)).
Fishing equipment

Equipment to bring

A pillowcase and a sleeping bag liner, as sometimes only blankets are provided in accommodations.
A sleeping bag (comfortable from 0°C to +10°C) that can be compressed to the maximum
A microfiber bath towel
A personal first aid kit
Mosquito repellent
A biodegradable soap
A biodegradable toothpaste
Sunscreen (face and lips)
A lip balm
Toilet wipes
A water bottle of at least 1 liter
A Tupperware container, covered
High-protection sunglasses
A headlamp, with spare batteries (until May and from August onwards)
Plastic bags to keep your belongings dry
A rain cover for your backpack
A specialty from your region to discover and share together

Optional:

Walking poles: They are invaluable for saving your knees on the descent (up to 30% of your weight and that of your bag are supported by the poles) and for supporting your effort on the ascent (the arms help in addition to the legs).
Earplugs
A knife (to be put in checked baggage)
An external battery (to be placed in carry-on luggage)
A camera
A sleep mask (constant daylight can disrupt sleep)
A thermos
An inflatable pillow
Head mosquito net

Clothing to bring

A pair of trekking shoes for hiking. They must have three qualities: sturdiness, good foot and ankle support (high-tops), and waterproofing (the terrain is sometimes wet). Choose shoes with non-slip soles and relatively rigid soles; they must grip the ground well.
Pairs of hiking socks
A waterproof mountain jacket (Gore-Tex type). The most effective jackets against wind and rain are made of Gore-Tex or Micropore, a "breathable" material that allows for the rapid evaporation of perspiration.
Waterproof mountain trousers (Gore-Tex type)
Hiking shorts
Waterproof trekking over-trousers or a rain cape
A down jacket, optional but very practical for midday picnic breaks.
A fleece jacket. This has the advantage of being durable, warm, lightweight; it dries quickly and offers a soft feel.
Technical base layers, top and bottom. This is your first layer of insulation, so make it worthwhile. Choose synthetic or natural fibers. Avoid cotton, which takes a very long time to dry; opt instead for several short-sleeved and long-sleeved t-shirts, and a pair of tights (breathable material). Be prepared for all situations.
A swimsuit
Clothes for trips around town
Nightwear
A pair of gloves
A beanie
A cap
A Buff-style neck warmer

Please note that your clothes will be sorted to keep only the essentials and repackaged before departure.

The climate in Norway is changeable. You can experience all four seasons in the same day.

They traveled with us

Discover the authentic experiences of our travelers

4,5/5

(15 reviews)

At Decathlon, the reviews are reliable.

Reviews displayed in reverse chronological order

Stephane

august 2025

Translated from French

The trip was exceptional: the bivouac, the hikes, the kayaking excursions—the guide was extraordinary, professional, and knew how to manage the group with an iron fist when necessary. He even prepared delicious meals for us at the bivouac, despite the conditions. The only downside was the pre-trip information regarding what to pack for such a trip and the accommodation on the return journey, with the hiccups with the taxis and breakfast. But overall, the trip was extraordinary with a top-notch guide.

Published on 09/09/2025

Damien

august 2025

Translated from French

Lofoten Islands kayak trip: demanding due to 10 days of non-stop rain in mid-August (summer ends at the end of July, then it's autumn), and the provided wetsuit wasn't waterproof enough to keep you dry for 10 days. We suggest adding a pair of diving booties for thermal comfort; they're inexpensive, not bulky, and make a real difference. Our kayak instructor, Tomas, was extraordinary, providing delicious meals at our campsites every evening. His constant, infectious good humor proved crucial to our active trip.

Published on 01/09/2025

Bérénice

august 2025

Translated from French

Despite the extremely rainy weather, the trip was very enjoyable. We had some wonderful encounters, beautiful scenery, and created incredible, unique memories. Our guide, Thomas, did everything he could to ensure the trip was a success despite the rain. A huge thank you to him and the logistics team, and thank you again for this fantastic active holiday.

Published on 26/08/2025

Decathlon Travel Partner

The Paulin team

4.4/5 (2842 reviews) • 821 stays

For over 30 years, our local partner has been designing adventure walking trips around the world. Specializing in small-group treks, they cater to both casual hikers and seasoned trekkers seeking unspoiled natural environments and a return to the essentials. Their key strength? They own their own agencies in over 30 countries, guaranteeing complete trip creation from start to finish, without intermediaries. This direct, on-the-ground expertise ensures memorable active experiences and total freedom amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Discover their team and their trips

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In summary

In a few words

The highlights

Photos

Sport

Level

Hiking / Trekking

The expert's opinion

In figures

Canoeing / Kayaking

Hiking

Management

Program

Heading towards Norway – Arrival in Bodø

Crossing to the Lofoten Islands – Kayaking initiation in the Selfjord

Hike to the summit of Ryten

By kayak from Fredvang to Skjelfjord

Hiking to Volandstinden

Heading towards Nusfjord

Nusfjord – Hiking in the Heights

End of the raid – Back to comfort

Ascent of Munkan – A spectacular finale

Back to France

Note

Accommodation

Access

Go to the starting point

Price details

The price includes

The price does not include

Options

Practical information

Specifics

Equipment provided on site

Equipment to bring

Clothing to bring

They traveled with us

Stephane 100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.

Damien 100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.

Bérénice 100% Verified Reviews: Only travelers who have booked with us can leave a review. All reviews are subject to human moderation. Reviews that do not comply with the moderation rules are rejected.

The Paulin team

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