Jostedalen: Nigardsbreen Glacier Kayak & Hiking Tour Small Group

Summary

Kayak the glacier lake and hike icy blue crevasses in Jostedalen

You’ll paddle across Nigardsbreen’s cold blue lake, then follow your local guide up to the glacier itself—crampons strapped on tight—for two hours of exploring crevasses and listening to stories about this wild corner of Jostedalen. Expect small group vibes, real Norwegian weather, and a few laughs along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the turn for Breheimsenteret because I was distracted by the sheep blocking the road — classic Norway. When I finally parked, our group was already swapping nervous glances about kayaking in that glassy, freezing-looking lake under Nigardsbreen. The air smelled sharp, like wet stone and moss. Our guide, Sindre, handed out life jackets and made a joke about “Norwegian summer” (it was barely 12°C). He showed us how to paddle without spinning in circles — which I immediately failed at, but nobody seemed to mind.

The kayak part wasn’t long — maybe half an hour? — but it felt like time stretched out on that water. Every dip of the paddle echoed off the cliffs. When we landed, Sindre pointed up at the blue ice and started telling glacier stories: how far it used to reach, why it’s shrinking so fast. I tried repeating “Nigardsbreen” like he did but gave up after my third attempt. We walked uphill for a while; my boots squelched through mud and I kept stopping just to stare at those weird turquoise streaks in the ice.

At the edge of the glacier, Sindre passed out crampons and ropes — he checked every harness twice, which made me trust him more than I expected. The first step onto the ice was weirdly crunchy and slippery at once. My fingers went numb after five minutes but I couldn’t stop grinning. There were moments when everyone just fell silent except for our boots scraping over ancient ice. I still think about that quiet sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and hike on Nigardsbreen Glacier

• Meet at Breheimsenter
• Follow Icetroll vehicle to lake
• Pay 90kr toll if needed
• Kayak 30 minutes across lake
• Walk 45 minutes to glacier
• Listen to guide's glacier explanation
• Put on crampons and rope
• Hike on glacier for two hours

Top questions

How long is the kayak trip on Nigardsbreen Glacier tour?

The kayak trip takes about 30 minutes each way across the glacier lake.

Where does this glacier hiking & kayaking tour start?

The tour meets at Breheimsenteret in Jostedalen before heading to Nigardsbreen.

Is equipment provided for kayaking and glacier hiking?

Yes, all necessary kayak equipment and glacier gear are included.

How difficult is this day trip on Nigardsbreen Glacier?

You should have moderate fitness; there’s a 45-minute walk plus time on ice.

Is there public transport near Breheimsenteret?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Do I need to pay any extra fees during this tour?

There’s a toll of 90kr for entering the National Reserve; you can pay online up to 48 hours after your trip.

Can families join this kayak & hike tour in May or June?

This tour is great for families visiting in May or June before tours move to Styggevatnet in July.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayak equipment for crossing Nigardsbreen’s lake, plus crampons and safety gear for hiking on the glacier itself—along with stories from your local guide before returning back across the water together.