Nigards: Kayaking and Glacier Hike

Explore Norway’s Stunning Glacial Landscapes with Nigards: Kayaking and Glacier Hike

The Nigards: Kayaking and Glacier Hike offers an engaging 6-hour experience in Vestland County, Norway, designed for outdoor enthusiasts eager to combine water adventures with glacier exploration. Priced with a toll fee of 90kr, this tour provides kayaking across Nigardsbrevatnet and a guided glacier walk on Nigardsbreen, making it a comprehensive introduction to Norway’s icy wonders. The tour is limited to 9 participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 26 reviews that highlight its high quality and memorable moments.

This tour is especially suitable for those interested in active outdoor experiences, with a mix of kayaking, walking, and glacier exploration. It’s important to note that children under 8 years and individuals with mobility impairments are not suited, but the experience is perfect for families visiting in May or June. The 6-hour duration includes multiple activities, guided explanations, and ample time for photos and lunch, making it a well-rounded adventure.

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Key Points

• Includes kayak trip and glacier walk with equipment provided
• Guides are knowledgeable, providing safety briefings and insightful explanations
• Tour duration is approximately 6 hours, with multiple activity stops
• Limited small group size ensures personalized experience
• Perfect for outdoor lovers and families (excluding children under 8 and those with mobility issues)
• Requires outdoor clothing, hiking shoes, and weather gear for comfort and safety

Meeting at Breheimsenteret Before the Adventure Starts

The tour begins at the Breheimsenteret visitor center, where an Icetroll guide waits to lead the group. From here, participants follow in their own vehicles, with a payable toll of 90kr (cards or coins accepted), to the starting point near Nigardsbrevatnet. This setup allows flexibility in transportation and ensures everyone is ready for the day’s activities.

The initial part of the journey includes a brief safety briefing, lasting about 15 minutes, to prepare everyone for kayaking and glacier walking. This small but essential step guarantees that all participants feel confident before heading onto the water and ice.

Kayaking on Nigardsbrevatnet: Gliding in Norway’s Iconic Lake

The kayak trip is scheduled for approximately 30 minutes across Nigardsbrevatnet lake. This peaceful waterway offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, with plenty of photo opportunities. The calm waters make kayaking accessible for most, providing a smooth paddle and a chance to enjoy the serene glacial environment.

Travelers appreciate how the guides explain the scenery and glacier history during the paddle, adding an educational element to this outdoor activity. After crossing the lake, participants walk toward the glacier, setting the stage for glacier exploration.

Walking Up to Nigardsbreen Glacier: Insights and Scenic Views

Following the kayak, the group embarks on a short walk to the Nigardsbreen glacier. This walk, guided and approximately 45 minutes long, provides insights into glaciers, their formation, and their historical significance. The guides share stories about where glaciers have been historically, enriching the experience with local history and science.

The walk offers spectacular vistas of the glacier and the surrounding landscape. It’s a perfect moment for photography and learning, setting the scene for the glacier walk ahead.

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Glacier Walk with Crampons and Rope: Exploring Nigardsbreen for 2 Hours

Once at the glacier, participants don crampons and rope gear provided by the tour. The 2-hour guided glacier hike allows for an up-close exploration of Nigardsbreen, one of Norway’s most accessible and striking glaciers. During this time, visitors can wander at their own pace, examining ice formations, crevasses, and the glacier’s surface features.

The guides are known for their friendly, helpful, and informative approach, making sure everyone remains safe while providing interesting facts about the glacier’s dynamics. Many find this part of the tour both educational and awe-inspiring, with the chance to enjoy a packed lunch (must bring your own) amid the stunning icy surroundings.

Returning to the Kayaks and Paddling Back

After the glacier exploration, the group retraces its steps back to the kayaks for the paddle return across Nigardsbrevatnet. This 30-minute kayak trip back offers another chance to appreciate the scenery and reflect on the day’s adventures. The calm waters and mountain backdrop create an ideal setting for photos and quiet moments.

The tour concludes at the Breheimsenteret visitor center, where participants gather their belongings and say farewell to guides. The entire experience balances adventure, education, and scenic beauty, making it a highlight for outdoor and nature enthusiasts.

Logistics and Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants meet at Breheimsenteret and must follow their own vehicle to the starting point, paying a toll fee of 90kr, accepted via card or coins. The tour’s small group size ensures an intimate experience, with guides delivering briefings and instructions in English. It is not suitable for children under 8 years or travelers with mobility challenges, so consider this before booking.

What to bring includes warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, snacks, hiking shoes, water, rain gear, and outdoor clothing. The tour recommends a warm hat for the glacier walk, and advises participants to dress in layers for comfort in variable weather conditions.

The Experience of Guides and Group Atmosphere

Guides such as Nahir and Marcelo are praised for their friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable approaches, making safety a priority while sharing interesting facts about glaciers and local history. The small group setting fosters a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and ample opportunity for questions.

Reviewers highlight that guides explain glaciers and surroundings well, contributing significantly to the overall enjoyment and educational value of the tour.

Photos, Views, and Photo Opportunities

The tour emphasizes perfect photo opportunities at every stage: paddling on Nigardsbrevatnet, walking with scenic vistas of the glacier, and exploring ice formations during the glacier walk. Participants often find these moments highlight the beauty of Norway’s icy landscapes and make for memorable keepsakes.

The calm lake and expansive glacier scenery provide a natural backdrop for stunning images, suitable for sharing or personal keepsakes.

Suitability for Different Travelers and the Best Time to Go

This tour is ideal for families visiting in May or June, when conditions are most favorable for outdoor activities. It is not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility impairments, due to the physical nature of kayaking and glacier walking.

The 6-hour duration offers a balanced pace, with enough time for activities, explanations, and breaks. Travelers should be prepared for outdoor weather and bring appropriate gear, especially warm clothing and rain protection.

Final Thoughts on the Nigards: Kayaking and Glacier Hike Tour

The Nigards: Kayaking and Glacier Hike stands out as a well-rounded adventure, combining water-based fun and glacier exploration in a setting known for its stunning scenery. The expert guides and small group size enhance the experience, making it suitable for those looking to learn about glaciers while actively engaging.

While the physical activity and outdoor conditions may not suit everyone, those eager to try kayaking and walk on a glacier will find this tour rewarding. The inclusion of equipment, guiding, and educational insights adds value, making it a memorable highlight for Norway’s natural landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 8 years due to the physical demands of kayaking and glacier walking.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, snacks, hiking shoes, water, rain gear, and outdoor clothing. A warm hat is strongly recommended.

How long is the glacier walk?
The glacier walk lasts approximately 2 hours with crampons and ropes provided for safety and exploration.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a kayak trip, glacier walk, guide, crampons, and rope for the glacier hike.

What is the meeting point?
Guests meet at Breheimsenteret, where an Icetroll guide waits to lead the group.

Are transportation and toll fees included?
Participants follow their own vehicles to the starting point; transportation is not included. A toll fee of 90kr applies, payable via cards or coins.

How physically demanding is this tour?
The activities involve moderate physical effort, suitable for most healthy adults. Mobility impairments are not accommodated.

When is the best time to do this tour?
The tour is especially recommended in May and June, with an optional Motorboat & Glacier Tour in July.

What do reviews say about this experience?
Guides are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and safety-conscious, and the scenery consistently receives high marks for its stunning views and photogenic spots.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for planning.

This Nigards: Kayaking and Glacier Hike offers an authentic and active way to experience Norway’s incredible glacier landscapes, combining adventure, education, and spectacular scenery into one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby