Best Glacier Hiking in Norway 2026
Norway is one of the world's premier destinations for glacier hiking, with 3 top spots offering this experience. Guided hikes across living glaciers with crampons and ice axes provided, exploring a frozen world of crevasses, ice formations, and meltwater channels. Available at Iceland's Vatnajökull and Sólheimajökull, Svalbard's numerous glaciers, and in Patagonia. Always hire a certified guide — glaciers are dynamic environments where conditions change rapidly. In Norway, the activity is typically best experienced during Year-round (guide required) — when conditions align perfectly with the country's unique polar landscape.
Top 3 Spots for Glacier Hiking in Norway
Svalbard earns one of the planet's highest aurora scores and is particularly noted for: Bucket-list adventurers wanting the ultimate Arctic experience with maximum aurora intensity. An excellent base for glacier hiking with well-established local operators.
Lofoten Islands earns an aurora score of 8/10 and is particularly noted for: Aurora photographers seeking the world's most dramatic reflections and landscapes. An excellent base for glacier hiking with well-established local operators.
Lyngen earns an aurora score of 8/10 and is particularly noted for: Ski mountaineers, photographers, and aurora chasers seeking dramatic scenery without the crowds. An excellent base for glacier hiking with well-established local operators.
Practical Tips for Glacier Hiking in Norway
- 1Book glacier hiking tours at least 4–8 weeks ahead during peak season — popular operators sell out fast.
- 2Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a mid-layer fleece, and a wind/waterproof outer shell. Temperature extremes are common in Norway.
- 3Most reputable operators include transport from the nearest town. Confirm pickup arrangements when booking.
- 4Travel insurance that covers outdoor activities and extreme weather cancellations is strongly recommended.
- 5Shoulder-season visits (start/end of Year-round (guide required)) often offer the best combination of conditions and availability.