Norway is considered to be a safe country to live in and to visit. You are nonetheless responsible for your own safety when travelling, and when hiking in wild and untamed nature in our country, you should always take some precautions and listen to some good advice. There are also a set of 9 mountain codes that you should follow at all times. We give you the information you need here!
Our top 10 practical hiking tips
Wear sturdy footwear for hiking, such as mountain shoes. Flip flops in the mountains are not a good idea. Norwegian Outlet or MX-Sport at Jørpeland.
Wear practical hiking clothing, and bring extra clothing in case of change in weather. Examples of practical clothing are wind and waterproof clothing. You could even wear light wool closest to your skin during summer, because wool breathes and let you sweat without being wet and cold. And you can always peel away a layer of clothing if you have dressed too much. Weatherproof clothing can be found at Dale of Norway Concept store in Stavanger or on their internet shop. Lovely silk and wool clothing from Oleana.
Bring along something to drink so that you do not risk dehydration (water or sports drinks).
Bring along snacks and food. You never know what could happen, and it is good to have some extra food to keep your energy levels up in case of any emergency.
Get to know all the emergency telephone numbers in Norway*
Good physical condition is a plus when you plan to embark on a strenuous hike. Plan in advance, and train before coming to Norway. Some of our most spectacular hikes are not for everyone, such as Kjerag.
Hiking with kids – choose the kids’ friendly hikes. Unfortunately, some of the most spectacular hikes we do not recommend small children to do, such as Kjerag.
Get informed. Visit one of our tourist offices when you have arrived at the destination. Or contact us before you arrive. We can most likely answer most of your questions, and we would be happy to help.
Hiking on your own? It can be a beautiful thing to experience being alone and at one with nature, nevertheless, inform someone about where you are, when you are planning to return, and how they can reach you if you don’t. Someone loves you! We have no one to loose.
For good measure, we throw in an eleventh tip – please don’t act on stupid urges such as taking dangerous selfies too close to an edge, or jumping on narrow mountain plateaus where the potential fall is deadly. We are sure you know where your boundaries should go, your body most often tries to tell you by reacting negatively, and in most cases it is a good idea to listen to it. You do not have to act on all crazy urges. Think twice. #besafie, visitnorway
We wish you a safe and happy hike! We can guarantee the beauty of the destination, but you must be the one taking control of your own safety!
*Emergency telephone numbers:
110 – Fire
112 – Police
113 – Ambulance
120 – Emergency at sea
22 59 13 00 – Poisons Information Centre
1412 TDD (text phone for the deaf or hearing impaired)
Please do also read the National Mountain Codes of 2016 (made by DNT and Røde Kors – Fjellvettreglene 2016):
#1 Plan the hike ahead and report to someone where you are going
#2 Adjust the hike according to ability and conditions
#3 Take weather and avalanche conditions into consideration
#4 Be prepared for bad and cold weather, even on short hikes
#5 Bring necessary equipment in case of having to help yourself or other
#6 Make safe route choices. Recognise terrain endangered for avalanches and unsecure ice
#7 Use map and a compass. Always know where you are
#8 Turn back in time. There is no shame in going back
#9 Save your energy levels, and seek shelter if necessary
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