If you’re looking to swap your hotel room for a night under the stars, this overnight glacier camping experience on Norway’s third-largest glacier, Folgefonna, offers a rare blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic wilderness. While it’s not your average overnight stay, it’s a chance to really connect with Norway’s stunning natural landscape and meet some adorable huskies along the way.
Two things we particularly love about this tour are the opportunity to sleep on a glacier — a truly unique experience — and the chance to interact closely with friendly huskies and their puppies. The possibility of cuddling a puppy while gazing at rugged mountain scenery is a highlight. A slight consideration is the 30-minute hike to reach the campsite, which can be a challenge for those with mobility issues or very young children.
This adventure is perfect for travelers who crave something out of the ordinary and enjoy being outdoors, even in cooler weather. It suits those who value authentic experiences and are eager to see Norway’s wilderness from a different perspective.
Key Points
- Unique overnight experience on Norway’s Folgefonna Glacier, the third-largest glacier in the country.
- Includes hearty Norwegian dinner, breakfast, and hot beverages to keep you warm and satisfied.
- Meet and cuddle with huskies and puppies, adding a fun, personal touch to your Arctic adventure.
- Comfortably sleep in traditional Scandinavian tents with reindeer hides and warm duvets.
- A 30-minute hike to the campsite adds an element of light adventure; suitable for most but worth noting.
- Limited group size (up to 6 participants) for a more intimate experience.
The Full Experience: What You Can Expect
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Jondal.
Starting Point and Journey to the Glacier
The tour begins just outside the Fonna Glacier Ski Resort, a familiar spot for winter sports enthusiasts. After meeting your guide, you’ll walk for about 30 minutes, ascending through scenic Norwegian terrain to reach the campsite. This walk offers its own set of beautiful views, so pack comfortable shoes and be prepared for a gentle climb.
The toll fee of 100 NOK per vehicle is a small price to pay for maintaining access to this pristine environment, and it also covers parking. The walk to the camp is part of the adventure, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and take in the raw beauty of the surrounding mountains and snowfields.
The Glacier Campsite
Once at the campsite, you’ll notice the traditional Scandinavian tents designed for outdoor comfort. These aren’t flimsy bivvy sacks but sturdy, well-equipped tents with double beds, pillows, duvets, and plenty of reindeer hides — perfect for cozying up after a day of exploring.
The campsite’s setting on the edge of the glacier offers spectacular views of the surrounding ice formations, rugged peaks, and possibly even some distant waterfalls. The sense of being on a glacier is palpable, with a landscape that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring.
Dining and Warmth
Norwegian cuisine is hearty, and during the tour, you’ll be treated to a traditional Norwegian dinner. Think dishes that reflect local ingredients—robust, warming, and designed to keep you comfortable in the cold night. Breakfast the next morning includes hot beverages, giving you a perfect start to the day.
The tents are equipped with warm clothing and boots on loan, ensuring guests stay comfortable in the cool mountain air. A fire inside the tent adds to the cozy atmosphere, and you’ll find plenty of opportunity to relax while soaking in the silence and beauty around you.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting the Huskies
One of the tour’s most delightful features is the encounter with huskies. These friendly animals are eager to meet visitors, and the experience often includes cuddling puppies—a highlight for dog lovers and families alike. Several reviews mention how affectionate and well-behaved the huskies are, making it a memorable touch to the adventure.
What You Can Do
Beyond simply sleeping on a glacier, you’ll have time to explore the surroundings, take photos, and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness. The experience is designed to give a genuine feel of Norway’s icy landscapes while ensuring you stay warm and comfortable.
Practicalities and Logistics
The 20-hour duration includes the hike, camp setup, dinner, and breakfast. It is suitable for children aged 3 and up, making it an accessible adventure for families. The activity is limited to small groups (up to 6 participants), which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
The tour operates daily from May through July, with start times around 3:00 PM, but always check availability. The price begins at 3500 NOK per person, which includes all sleeping equipment, meals, hot beverages, and the husky meet-and-greet.
Value and Considerations
While this experience isn’t inexpensive, it offers exceptional value for those who want to sleep on a glacier and enjoy authentic Norwegian hospitality in a truly unique setting. The inclusion of meals, warm clothing, and equipment means you won’t need to pack much extra, and the intimate group size ensures a more personal experience.
One consideration is the 30-minute hike to the camp, which might be challenging for some travelers with mobility issues or very young children. Plus, the experience is weather-dependent; clear skies will maximize your chances of stunning views and good weather, but you should be prepared for possible cool nights and variable conditions.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is ideal for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and those looking for an authentic Arctic experience beyond typical sightseeing. Families with children over age 3 can enjoy it as a memorable outing, and dog lovers will find the husky interactions particularly charming. It’s perfect for travelers who value small group experiences and are comfortable with a hike and outdoor camping, even if well-equipped.
Those seeking luxury accommodations might find this too rustic; however, if you’re after a truly memorable night among glaciers, this will tick all the boxes.
The Sum Up
Spending a night on the Folgefonna Glacier is a rare opportunity to see Norway’s icy wilderness from a different perspective. The combination of stunning vistas, cozy tents, hearty Norwegian food, and friendly huskies creates a memorable adventure that balances thrill and comfort. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to get closer to nature and experience the Arctic in a genuinely authentic way.
While not for everyone — especially those who prefer a warm hotel bed or have mobility constraints — this experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to sleep on a glacier and meet the animals that thrive in Norway’s cold landscapes. For those willing to embrace the adventure, it promises beautiful scenery, genuine hospitality, and unforgettable memories.
FAQ
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins around 3:00 PM, but check availability for precise start times, as they can vary daily.
How long does the entire experience last?
It’s a 20-hour experience, including the hike, camping, meals, and breakfast.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the experience is recommended for children aged 3 and older. Keep in mind the hike and outdoor conditions.
What should I bring?
Guests are advised to bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and warm shoes. The tour provides warm clothes and boots on loan.
How much does it cost?
Pricing starts at 3500 NOK per person, which covers meals, sleeping equipment, and the husky encounter.
Where do we meet?
The meeting point is just outside the Fonna Glacier Ski Resort. The tour includes a 30-minute walk to the campsite.
Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, clear skies will enhance the views, but the experience can proceed in various conditions, so dress accordingly.
Are meals included?
Yes, the tour features a traditional Norwegian dinner, breakfast, and hot beverages.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing plans.
Whether you’re eager to sleep under the stars on a glacier or want a chance to cuddle adorable huskies in Norway’s wilds, this tour offers a genuinely different way to experience the country’s rugged beauty. It’s a chance to step out of the ordinary and into a landscape few get to witness overnight.
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