Gaupne is a fantastic spot for those craving adventure and authentic experiences amid Norway’s stunning wilderness. The area’s rugged landscapes, glacier-fed waters, and remote lakes make it a natural playground for outdoor activities. We especially love the Jostedal: Elvepurka Rafting Trip because it combines adrenaline with beautiful scenery, and the Stygge: Glacier Half Day Tour offers a perfect mix of boat rides and glacier marvels. Each experience offers something different, whether you’re floating down roaring rapids or walking on towering ice formations, ensuring there’s an option for every kind of thrill-seeker or nature enthusiast.
For those planning their trip, this guide highlights the best tours and experiences in Gaupne, from whitewater rafting to glacier hikes and kayaking. Whether you’re after a quick adrenaline rush or a full-day adventure, these tours provide a genuine taste of Norway’s wild side. Dive into the details below and find the perfect match for your trip.
1. Jostedal: Elvepurka Rafting Trip
At number one, the Jostedal: Elvepurka Rafting Trip stands out for its mix of heart-pumping excitement and stunning scenery. Rafting along the Jostedøla River gives you a chance to tackle some of the most exciting rapids in the area, including the notorious Elvepurka. The tour runs for about 2.5 hours, starting at the Jostedal Hotel, and includes safety briefings, paddling instruction, and plenty of time to enjoy the rush of navigating powerful waves.
What makes this trip special is the combination of adrenaline and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river valleys. The guide typically shares interesting insights about the landscape and how the glacier-fed river has carved this territory over centuries. The reviews are stellar, with a 4.9/5 rating, and travelers often mention how the guide’s expertise made the experience both fun and safe. It’s best suited for those looking for a short, intense adventure that makes the most of Norway’s famous rapid waters.
Bottom Line: If you love water-based thrills and want a memorable introduction to Norway’s wild rivers, this is your go-to activity. Just be prepared to get wet!
2. Stygge: Glacier Half Day Tour
Next up, the Stygge: Glacier Half Day Tour offers a calmer but equally awe-inspiring experience. For around 4.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a boat cruise across Styggevatnet Lake to reach Austdalsbreen Glacier. Once there, you get to walk close to the glacier’s 30-meter-high terminal, where icebergs and calving towers create a surreal landscape.
This tour is particularly great for families or travelers less keen on strenuous activity, as the focus is on spectacular scenery and the icy wonder of the glacier. The boat trip across the lake adds a peaceful element to the adventure, offering stunning views of floating ice and snow-capped peaks. The guide shares fascinating details about the glacier’s formation and the local environment, making it an educational as well as an exhilarating outing. rated 4.9/5, this tour is praised for its family-friendly approach and photogenic scenery.
If you’re interested in walking on ice without the physical demands of hiking, this tour hits the spot. Just be sure to wear warm clothing and prepare for some spectacular sights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to see and experience a glacier without heavy hiking, and suitable for all ages.
3. Tuns: Kayaking and Glacier Hike
Finally, the Tuns: Kayaking and Glacier Hike offers a full-day immersion into Norway’s rugged wilderness. This 9-hour adventure combines the serenity of kayaking over the crystal-clear Tunsbergdalsvatnet lake with a guided hike across the Tunsbergdalsbreen glacier. The tour starts with paddling, where you can enjoy the quiet beauty of the landscape and the chance to see local wildlife.
After kayaking, you’ll hike onto the glacier, exploring crevasses, meltwater holes, and ice formations. The guide’s deep knowledge ensures you safely navigate these icy features, making this tour both safe and highly engaging. The panoramic views of surrounding mountains and forests are breathtaking, and the variety of activities keeps the experience fresh and exciting. The tour’s 4.9/5 reviews point to its reputation for delivering a comprehensive, immersive experience suitable for active travelers.
While this tour is longer and more physically demanding, it’s ideal for those wanting a full day of adventure with diverse activities. It’s a good pick for confident hikers and paddlers eager to explore Norway’s wilderness in depth.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a complete, multi-activity day in nature with a focus on glacier landscapes and paddling, this trip is hard to beat.
How to Choose
When selecting the best Gaupne tour for your trip, consider your interest level and fitness. If rapid thrills and a quick adrenaline fix appeal, the rafting trip is perfect. For a more relaxed, visual experience of glaciers, the Stygge glacier tour offers great scenery with less physical exertion. For a full-day adventure that combines both paddling and hiking, the Tuns glacier hike and kayaking is unmatched, especially for those who want a deeper dive into Norway’s wilderness.
Budget also plays a role—these tours vary in length and intensity, so match your choice to your available time and energy. Booking early is advisable, especially in the summer months when these experiences fill quickly. Look for tours that suit your fitness level and curiosity—each one offers a different way to connect with Norway’s stunning landscapes.
Gaupne’s tours cover a wide range of outdoor activities, from adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting to serene glacier walks. For quick thrills, the Jostedal rafting trip delivers exciting rapids and scenic views. For a family-friendly, awe-inspiring glacier experience, the Stygge glacier tour can’t be beat. And for those eager to spend a full day paddling and hiking in the mountains, the Tuns kayak and glacier hike offers a comprehensive adventure.
No matter which you choose, early booking and proper preparation will ensure you get the most out of these fantastic experiences. Norway’s wilderness awaits—dive in and enjoy every moment.