Nærøyfjord - Kayaking the Narrowest Fjord in the World (with Nordic Ventures - Gudvangen, Norway)
Kayaking in Norway is already a dream come true. Kayaking along the narrowest fjord in the world (which also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is beyond your wildest dreams. Starting from the Viking Village and Nordic Venture’s Kayak Base in Gudvangen, you are in for an experience of a lifetime as you paddle down the Nærøyfjord (also commonly written as ‘Naeroyfjord’).
In this article, I’m going to share with you the best tips for kayaking along the Nærøyfjord and describe all the guided kayak tours (and kayak rental) options so you can decide, which suits you best. In addition, you will also find information on how to get to the Naeroyfjord (from Bergen and Voss), where to stay around Gudvangen, and other things to do and see around the Naeroyfjord (such as ferry tours, Flam Railway, and Stegastein in Aurland).
Content
Naeroyfjord - Things to Know
Kayaking the Naeroyfjord - with Nordic Ventures
Guided Kayak Tours & Kayak Rentals - Naeroyfjord
Preparing for your Kayak Tour
Transport: How to get to Gudvangen?
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Gudvangen?
Interactive Map: Bergen to Naeroyfjord
1. NAEROYFJORD - Things to know
Nærøyfjord is just around the corner from Flam and Aurland, two popular tourist spots. It’s also one of the many sub-branches from the world’s deepest and 2nd longest fjord - the Sognefjord. However, despite being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, I feel like not many people know about this little gem - but that’s precisely what makes it so special.
Interesting fact: there is no road access after the village of Bakker. After this point, the rest of the fjord can only be explore on water - either by kayak or boat/ferry. From the base of Gudvangen, you have the option of doing guided kayak tours (and multi day tours) with Nordic Ventures - I will elaborate on the different kayak tours soon!
When is the Best Time to Kayak the Naeroyfjord?
The weather can vary from year to year, but being Norway, you can expect a lot of rain. The main kayak season runs from May to September, with the peak months being June, July and August. Here is a quick breakdown:
April and May: season starts late April. Still quite cold with some snow on the peaks which makes hiking up to the mountain summit quite difficult, if not impossible. Days slowly get longer.
June, July, August: best months to go, longest days and super short nights, supposedly the best weather period = peak tourism.
September: starts to get colder and rainier. Days get shorter and shorter. End of September usually marks the end of the season.
If you want to avoid peak season, then I’d suggest late May/early June as the weather gets better and days get longer.
PS. Don’t let rainy forecasts deter you from going out in the fjord because that’s when you get all the gushing waterfalls down the mountain sides, rainbows across the fjord and mystic, dream-like scenery. As a photographer, I think moody weather suits Norway best!
2. Kayaking the Naeroyfjord - with Nordic Ventures
If you’re looking to do a guided kayak tour along the Naeroyfjord (or even just rent a kayak for a few hours), then I can highly recommend Nordic Ventures. They offer a range of different tours from half day tours to multi day tours, where you also get to hike up a mountain and go wild camping.
I’ll be outlining each of their different tours in a little more detail below, but keep in mind that stopovers, paddle routes and camping spots are always subject to change due to weather and other unexpected circumstances. All guided tours include delicious cooked food - and there is often more than enough! Prices are also subject to change, so you’re best to find the most current information on their website here: Nordic Ventures .
Half Day Tour - 4hrs total
Starting point is the Kayak Base in Gudvangen. You will paddle down to a spot just opposite Bakker and the Tuftofossen (Waterfall). Along the way, you’ll get to see some beautiful waterfalls on both sides.
This is a good option if you have limited time but still want to kayak. However, keep in mind that you can drive through a tunnel to get to Bakker so this stretch can actually be seen by car so-to-say (of course not when you’re in the tunnel). Yummy cooked lunched included.
Full Day Tour - 7hrs total
In terms of best value for money and time efficiency - I would recommend the Full Day Tour, purely because it doesn’t cost that much more than the Half Day and you get to see the most beautiful parts of the fjord.
Starting from Bakker, you get to paddle the middle part of the Naeroyfjord with a quick stopover at an impressive waterfall (Odnesfossen). Then Dyrdal marks the halfway point where you get to stop for a nice lunch break before heading back.
From Dyrdal, you also get to see the end of the Naeroyfjord, where it then meets up with the Aurlandfjord. The scenery on this route is seriously amazing - highly recommend their Full Day Tours!
Two Day tour - Wild Camping
This multi day tour usually starts from Gudvangen and ends in Undredal with a one night of wild camping somewhere near Dyrdal. The great thing about the multi days is that it’s a one way route, so you never paddle the same stretch twice, which keeps it exciting and interesting.
Day 1: usually start from the kayak base at Gudvangen and set up camp near Dyrdal or Styvie.
Day 2: complete the rest of the Naeroyfjord and venture out along the Aurlandsfjord down to Undredal, which is a beautiful finish point.
There are so many stunning waterfalls along the way, this route definitely offers the best photo opportunities! I think the wild camping is a very unique and special experience. Especially sitting around a campfire, chatting away and getting to know new people. It’s nice to slow things down a little, really get to enjoy the present moment, and being surrounded by nature.
PS. You get to walk away telling people you kayaked the entire length of the world’s narrowest fjord, and technically kayaked along two fjords in two days!
Three Day Tour - mountain Hike
The kayak route is the same as the Two Day Tour, but you have an extra day in the middle for a nice big hike up to Breiskrednosi summit. This is such a unique opportunity to see the world’s narrowest fjord from above. The additional day is so worth the extra time and money, because you get two nights of wild camping and the view from the summit is just priceless.
About the hike: The second day is entirely taken up by the hike and the ascent is roughly 1200m of elevation. Starting early in the morning and getting back early evening, it’ll take roughly 9hrs return, including breaks. The track itself is not that demanding up until the last 1.5hrs. This is when you really have to just march on because the view at the top will (quite literally) take your breath away.
Honestly, photos don’t even do justice to that skipped heartbeat feeling as you stand at the edge of a 1000m face cliff drop and over look the dramatic landscape of the world’s narrowest fjord.
How to decide between the Two or Three Day Tour?
Two Day Tour: if you’re tight on time and want to try out wild camping but don’t quite fancy a long, sweaty trudge up a huge mountain.
Three Day Tour: if you have the time and extra money to spend. You don’t have to be super fit, but those with an adventurous spirit will love it!
*Little Disclaimer: So, I was actually an outdoor guide for Nordic Ventures (back in 2018), which is why I can describe all these tours in such depth. But despite having worked there, these are my own honest opinions and are not unaffiliated with the company. It was the coolest job I’ve ever done and I had so much fun guiding people!
3. Guided Kayak Tours & Kayak Rentals - Naeroyfjord
One of the biggest questions people have is whether they should do a guided tour or rent a kayak? While I can’t make that decision for you, I can outline the pros & cons, so that you can make a more informed decision.
Rental Kayaks
Who is it for? People on a tight budget, confident kayakers, adventurous souls who prefer paving their own paths over following a group.
Pros: You get to choose where to go and what to see. When to stop and how long for. If you want to spend 30mins photographing a waterfall - you can!
Cons: It’s every man out for himself out there! While you do get a safety briefing, you are responsible for your safety, having enough food and water, and getting back on time!
How long can you rent kayaks for? The minimal rental period is 4hrs and I’ve had people who rented kayaks for as long as 10 days! You can also hire out camping equipment (if you plan on wild camping) from Nordic Ventures .
Guided Tours
Who is it for? People who are willing to spend more money to ensure that everything is well-organised, prefer the safety aspect of having a guide and also the social aspect that comes with being in a group.
Pros: You have everything organised for you - from drinks and food (and half a kitchen), to transport, gear, and camping equipment. They make it stress-free so that you can spend more time enjoying the experience!
Cons: The group paddles as fast as the slowest. While you get a lot of free time, you can’t exactly shoot off on your own all free-willy-nilly. If you’re on a guided tour, it’s best to stick with the group (from a safety aspect).
How many people per tour? Depending on the month and type of tour, you can have anywhere between 2 people to over 30 people. Average number is between 8-14 people. Private Guided Tours can be requested.
If you’re interested in some of the reviews about the different tours, you can check them out here: Trip Advisor - Nordic Ventures
4. Preparing for your Kayak Tour
The good news is, you don’t have to bring much at all because Nordic Ventures literally has EVERYTHING! It still blows my mind to think about the huge amount of gear they have.
On top of life jackets and spray skirts, they offer: Paddle Jackets, Wetsuits, Wet Shoes, Dry Bags for your clothes, Waterproof casing for your phones and cameras, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, tents, even hiking poles. There’s a few more hidden surprises but I won’t spoil that for you. They’ve literally thought of everything to try make things as easy and smooth as possible for you guys.
However, here are a few things that you should bring:
- Drink bottle
- Gloves if your hands get cold quickly
- Extra pair of warm clothes if going on multi day trips
- Your own waterproof phone case if you don’t want a waterproof ‘box’
Tips on preparing for the 3 day tour:
Fit in some training and mountain hiking because some people find it challenging and stop right before the most spectacular (yet hardest) last ascent up to the summit. It would be a pity to hike all that way and miss out on the most amazing view at the end. So don’t underestimate the hike and try get your fitness levels up before the trip!
5. Transport: How to get to Gudvangen?
You have a few options here. As most people come from Bergen, Voss or Flam, I’ll break it down into each of these start points. Of course there are other ways too, I’ve just simplified and narrowed it down to the most scenic routes to Gudvangen.
From Bergen
Train & Car: Take a scenic train to Voss (1h20) and then pick up a rental car and drive to Gudvangen (45mins).
Car: Pick up rental car in Bergen and drive the whole way - about 2.5 hours to Gudvangen.
Private Transfer: Nordic Ventures does airport pickups if you book a multi day tour through Much Better Adventures (MBA)
From Voss
Car: about 45min drive from Voss to Gudvangen but would recommend you allow 1.5 hours to enjoy the landscapes and make a few photo stops. Can highly recommend a stop at Tvindefossen on the way.
Bus: about 50mins from Voss Stasjon to Gudvangen E16 (Aurland) usually with bus NX450. Download SKYSS.NO app for more up-to-date bus information.
Private Transfer: Nordic Ventures does pick ups from Voss for those doing Day Tours, Two Day or Three Day Tours only.
From Flam
Car: about 20mins from Flam to Gudvangen and half of the driving time will be through a very dark sketchy looking tunnel. Norwegians love their tunnels - they are very efficient though.
Ferry: the more expensive but scenic option. There are a variety of ferry providers. I’d say do your own research as I have yet to take a ferry here!
Tvindefossen
Road from Voss to Gudvangen
Tvindefossen & Tiny Human
6. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Gudvangen?
There is a huge range of accommodation around the area. If you’re unsure where to start looking, here are my recommended links to accommodation in the region:
Sogn og Fjordane - the wider area of that region
Voss - many people stay in the larger town of Voss and just make the short 45min trip to Gudvangen for kayaking.
Airbnb - there are plenty in and around Voss.
Flam and Aurland (Sognefjorden) region - due to higher tourism, the option in this area are more expensive, but plentiful.
Gudvangen - right next to the kayak base. Can recommend the cozy huts at Gudvangen Camping or the luxury rooms at Gudvangen Fjordtell & Apartments.
Keep in mind that freedom camping is legal in Norway, just do your research and be respectful of private property and nature, take what you bring and leave no trace :)
7. Interactive Map: Bergen to Naeroyfjord
You’ll find all the places mentioned in this article pinned on the map below. Feel free to click on the link below (to open in new tab) and then save it to your own Maps List.
Map Link: Naeroyfjord and Surround
LOCATIONS PINNED:
Towns: Bergen // Voss // Flam & Aurland
Villages: Gudvangen // Bakka // Undredal // Dyrdal
Nature: Breiskrednosi Summit // Odnesfossen // Tvindefossen
Disclaimer: This article includes some affiliate links that direct you to a particular accommodation or region to make your life a little easier. If you book something through my links, I get a small commission from the company but it doesn’t change the price for you at all! How great is that?
Have you ever been to Norway? If so, what were some of your favourite places? Or perhaps you’re planning on travelling to this part of Norway? If you have any questions regarding kayaking the Naeroyfjord, drop a comment below or slide into my DM’s on Instagram @emilypeilan.
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