Kayaking in Oslo: Oslofjord from the city center

See Oslo's waterfront from a kayak seat instead of a street

A 2-hour kayak tour in Oslo that starts and ends in central Bjørvika, near the Munch Museum, paddling past the Opera House, Akershus Fortress and out to Hovedøya Island. The tour suits beginners and children from age 4. All kayak gear, life jackets and a guide are included, and the operator provides changing rooms and secure storage for your belongings.

The experience

Two hours on the water takes you through Oslo's central waterfront and out into the Oslofjord, paddling past the city's most recognizable landmarks from a vantage point you can't reach any other way. The route moves through city canals and along the promenade, then heads out to Hovedøya Island to add a nature element to the urban exploration. You don't need kayaking experience to join. The guides teach techniques as you go, and the stable kayaks are built for comfort and safety. Kids under 13 paddle in a double kayak with an adult, and the minimum age is 4.

The tour departs from Bjørvika, a short walk from Oslo Central Station, so getting to the starting point takes minutes rather than hours. All kayak equipment (kayaks, paddles and life jackets) is provided, and you have access to changing rooms and a secure place to store your belongings before you push off. The guides are trained to keep the group safe and engaged, and they photograph the tour. You collect the photos afterward, at no extra cost.

Mad Goats has been running kayak tours in Oslo for over 11 years, taking thousands of people out on the fjord. The operator recommends a moderate level of fitness and notes that the tour is not suitable for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health. Public transportation options are available near the departure point, and service animals are welcome.

What’s included

• All kayak equipment including kayaks, paddles and life jackets.
• a professional guide for the full 2 hours.
• changing rooms and secure storage for your belongings.
• photos taken by the guide, shared with you after the tour at no extra cost.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 May 2027

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (18 to 75 years) · Senior (76 and older) · Youth (13 to 17 years) · Child (5 to 12 years) · Under 5: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 20

Live guideEnglish, Norwegian and Swedish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 10.78

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Mad Goats Norway

Is this one for you?The guides speak English, Norwegian and Swedish, so you can follow the commentary in your language. The 2-hour duration and central starting point make this a fit for a morning or afternoon slot in a city visit, without eating into a full day or requiring a long commute to the water.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English, Norwegian and Swedish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 17 years); Child (5 to 12 years). Under 5: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I bring my 6-year-old on this kayak tour?

Children from age 4 can join, but kids under 13 must paddle in a double kayak with an adult caregiver. The double kayaks are stable and designed for this arrangement.

What do I need to bring or wear for the kayaking?

Dress for the day's weather and bring a change of clothes. The operator provides all kayak gear, life jackets and changing rooms. If you want a waterproof phone case to protect your phone, you can purchase one from them, though the guides take photos you can collect afterward.

How do I get to the starting point from Oslo Central Station?

The tour starts in Bjørvika, a waterside district only a short walk from Oslo Central Station, so you can reach the departure point in minutes without needing a transfer.

What landmarks will I paddle past?

The route takes you past the Opera House, Akershus Fortress and along Oslo's central waterfront, then out to Hovedøya Island. You see the city from the water, which the operator considers the best way to view Oslo's highlights.