Norway
Summer (June - August): Warmest period, average daytime highs 10-18°C (50-64°F). Temperatures climb to 20°C (68°F) on pleasant days. Long daylight hours, up to 20 hours. Highest precipitation. Showers can be intense but pass quickly.
Spring (April - May): Temperatures slowly rise from 0-10°C (32-50°F). Characterized by significant snowmelt, making waterfalls powerful. Fewer crowds than summer. Mountain roads typically open late May or early June. Some tourist services begin to open.
High Season (Late June - Mid-August): All tourist services operate fully. Widest range of tours, kayaking, and hiking. Weather is mild. Long daylight hours. Most crowded period. Prices for accommodation and services are highest.
Shoulder Season (May, early June, late August, September): Fewer crowds. Often lower prices for accommodation and tours. Hiking conditions are good, especially in September. Some roads or services may remain closed early in May or close late in September. Weather is more variable.
Pros & Cons
Quiet experience. Almost no tourists. Snow-covered landscape is distinct. Prices for limited services are low.
Most tourist services closed. Many roads closed. Access to Geiranger village very limited.
Ideal Timing
June through August. Good weather, widest selection of tours. Water is calmer, longer daylight.
Outside these months, options are limited and weather less predictable.
Ideal Timing
Hiking: July to September. Trails free of snow, relatively dry. Driving: Late May or early June until September/October.
Early spring hikes are muddy. High-altitude trails may retain snow longer. Check road status for Dalsnibba and Trollstigen.
Specific opening dates for mountain roads like Dalsnibba (Nibbevegen) and Trollstigen change each year. These dates depend on snow clearance. Snowfall levels affect these dates. Check conditions before you visit in spring or autumn.
Use the Norwegian Public Roads Administration website, vegvesen.no, for the most current information on road status.
Always bring layers of clothing. Weather changes quickly.
Always include waterproof clothing, regardless of the forecast.
Fog impacts views from higher viewpoints.
Check road status (vegvesen.no) for mountain passes before driving.
Many roads close in winter due to snow.
Norway is a member of the Schengen Area, a group of 27 European countries with no passport or other border control at their mutual borders.
Citizens of Schengen member states and many countries outside the Schengen Area (like USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand) can enter Norway without a visa for short stays.
If your nationality does not fall into visa-free categories, a Schengen visa for Norway is necessary.
Immigration procedures are standard for entry into the Schengen Area. Upon arrival, present your passport and any required visa to immigration officers.
Norway is known as a relatively expensive country. Geirangerfjord reflects this.
The official currency of Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). The symbol is kr. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Norway. Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted for almost all purchases.
ATMs are available in Geiranger village for cash withdrawals. Using an ATM is often the most cost-effective way to get cash. Exchange bureaus are rare outside major cities like Oslo or Bergen.
Daily Estimates: NOK 1,000-1,800 / USD 90-160 (excluding international flights)
Accommodation: Camping (NOK 200-400), hostel dorm (NOK 300-600).
Meals: Self-catering (NOK 200-400/day). Occasional cheap bakery item.
Daily Estimates: NOK 1,800-3,500 / USD 160-310 (excluding international flights)
Accommodation: Guesthouse/basic hotel/cabin (NOK 1,000-2,000).
Meals: Mix of self-catering and casual restaurant (NOK 500-1,000).
Daily Estimates: NOK 3,500+ / USD 310+ (excluding international flights)
Accommodation: High-end hotels/premium cabins (NOK 2,000-5,000+).
Meals: Dining in hotel restaurants/finer establishments (NOK 1,000-2,000+).
| Category | Item | Price Range (NOK) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Campsite pitch | 200-400 |
| Accommodation | Mid-range hotel room | 1,000-2,500 |
| Meals | Mid-range restaurant main course | 250-450 |
Norway is a very safe country, and Geirangerfjord is no exception. However, understanding basic health and safety considerations supports a secure and healthy trip.
UV radiation is strong at higher altitudes or on water. Use Sunscreen with a high SPF, a Wide-brimmed hat, and Sunglasses. Consider Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55.
Mosquitoes and midges are present, especially near water in summer. Use an effective Insect repellent like Repel 100 Pump Spray.
Weather changes rapidly in mountains. Carry appropriate layers, including waterproof clothing. Dress for sudden drops in temperature.
Norway has a high-quality public healthcare system.
EU/EEA citizens: European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides public healthcare at same cost as Norwegian citizens. Non-EU/EEA citizens: Full cost for medical services applies. Comprehensive travel insurance is useful. Geiranger village has a medical center. Nearest hospitals are in Ålesund or Volda.
Tap water is safe to drink throughout Norway, including Geirangerfjord. It is of excellent quality. Bring a Reusable water bottle to refill.
Food hygiene standards are high. Eat at restaurants and purchase food from supermarkets with confidence.
Call for law enforcement. Free to call from any phone.
Call for medical emergencies. Free to call from any phone.
Call for fire emergencies. Free to call from any phone.
Norway ranks among the safest countries. Geirangerfjord is generally safe. Main risks: opportunistic petty theft, outdoor activity accidents. No "unsafe" neighborhoods in Geiranger.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for all travelers. Ensure your policy has proper coverage.
Medical emergencies, trip cancellation/interruption, personal property, adventure activities.
Keep multiple copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance policy, emergency contacts) digitally and physically.
Share your itinerary with a trusted person. Know contact for your country's embassy in Norway. Inform someone of hiking routes.
