Trolltunga Overnight Hike: Sunset, Reindeer Stew & Campfire

Summary

Catch Trolltunga’s quiet side with campfire food and sunrise views

You’ll hike to Trolltunga after most crowds have left, eat lunch by a hidden waterfall, share reindeer stew around a campfire under open sky, and sleep in real mountain tents. Wake up early for quiet sunrise views and time for photos without rushing—the kind of moments that stick long after your boots are dry.

What’s the experience like?

Honestly, we almost missed the bus from Odda because I’d packed my rain jacket but forgot my gloves—classic. Our guide, Sondre, just grinned and said, “It’s Norway. You’ll need both.” The trail to Trolltunga starts out steeper than I expected (my calves were already complaining), but there was this weird calm in the air—just boots on rock and the distant splash of water somewhere below. We passed a couple of hikers heading down, looking tired but happy. Sondre pointed out a patch of wild cloudberries growing near the path. He popped one in his mouth and handed me another—tart and sweet at once, like the air itself.

We took a detour most people skip—a waterfall tucked into a fold of green rock where we stopped for lunch. I think it was brown bread with cheese? It tasted so much better than it sounds after all that walking. Sondre told us stories about hiking here as a kid; he said his dad used to bring him up for sunrise before school started in August. When we finally reached Trolltunga, it was just us and this huge sweep of sky over Ringedalsvatnet lake. No lines for photos—just wind tugging at my sleeves and that weird feeling you get when you realize how small you are.

Dinner was reindeer stew simmered over a camp stove while the light turned everything gold. I tried to pronounce “fårikål” right (Li laughed at me for that one), but honestly, I was too busy watching the clouds drift past Preikestolen rock across the valley. The tents were surprisingly warm—Fjällräven mats really do their job—and I fell asleep listening to someone snoring softly nearby. Woke up before dawn to cold fingers and pink light spilling through canvas.

We got one last go at Trolltunga before heading back down—no rush, just coffee in hand and feet dangling off stone. It’s hard to describe what it feels like seeing that view twice: first with nerves buzzing from the climb, then again with sleepy eyes and empty trails all around you. I still think about that silence sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Trek to Trolltunga and camp nearby

• Reach Trolltunga after crowds leave
• Take photos at Trolltunga cliff
• Enjoy sandwich lunch
• Relax around campfire
• Dine on Norwegian Reindeer Stew
• Sleep in Fjällräven tents

Day 2 — Breakfast and final Trolltunga visit

• Eat hot oatmeal porridge breakfast
• Visit Trolltunga for second photo session
• Return to starting point

Top questions

Is food included on the Trolltunga overnight hike?

Yes, lunch, dinner (with reindeer stew), and breakfast are included.

Do I need to bring my own camping gear?

No, tents, sleeping bags, and mats are provided on this tour.

How many people will be on the hike?

The group is kept small for a more personal experience.

Is there hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

The tour focuses on traditional Norwegian food; contact them about specific needs before booking.

How difficult is the hike to Trolltunga?

You should have moderate fitness; not recommended for those with bad knees or poor cardiovascular health.

Are there toilets along the trail?

This isn’t specified; expect basic conditions typical for remote hikes in Norway.

Can I take photos at Trolltunga without waiting in line?

Yes—the overnight timing means you reach Trolltunga after most crowds have left.

What’s included

Your overnight trip includes all meals—lunch by a waterfall spot, dinner with hot reindeer stew around the campfire, plus breakfast with mountain views—as well as quality Fjällräven tents with warm sleeping mats so you can rest comfortably after hiking with your local guide through Norway’s high country.