Stavanger: Preikestolen Sunrise Hike + Breakfast Buffet

Travelers seeking a blend of adventure, scenery, and authentic Norwegian charm often find themselves dreaming of catching Preikestolen’s famous sunrise. This guided tour from Stavanger promises just that — a peaceful early-morning ascent to one of Norway’s most iconic viewpoints, topped off with a warm breakfast. We’ve gathered insights from past adventurers to give you a clear picture of what to expect, what’s worth planning for, and why this experience might just be your next favorite memory.

What we love about this tour is the chance to beat the crowds and enjoy the serenity of dawn, the expertise of guides like Stefan and Alan who bring local knowledge and humor, and the reward of a cracking breakfast after the hike. Yes, it’s a bit of an early start, but for those who love stunning vistas with fewer people and a good dose of adventure, this is a winner.

A potential drawback? The hike is physically demanding — around 4 km each way with a total ascent of about 500 meters — so it’s best suited for active travelers with some hiking experience. Also, weather can change quickly in the mountains, so packing layers is essential. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activity, breathtaking scenery, and don’t mind a little exertion for a big payoff.

Who should consider this tour? Adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, solo travelers, or anyone craving a memorable sunrise with fewer visitors on the trail. If you’re new to hiking or have mobility concerns, it’s recommended to assess your fitness level first.

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Key Points

Early start avoids crowds and offers a more peaceful experience at Preikestolen.
Experienced local guides like Stefan and Alan make the hike informative and fun.
Stunning views of Lysefjorden from the 604-meter-high cliff are the highlight.
Includes transportation from Stavanger and hiking poles, headlamps, and snacks.
Post-hike breakfast in a mountain lodge is a perfect way to unwind.
Weather variability makes proper gear essential for comfort and safety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off early in the morning with pickup from designated Stavanger locations, making it straightforward to join. You’ll be driven roughly 40 minutes to the trailhead, where your guide will brief you on the upcoming hike, including trail conditions and safety tips. This initial briefing is particularly valuable for first-timers or those unfamiliar with the route.

Once you’re ready, the guide will switch on your headlamp, and the real adventure begins. You’ll hike in the dark, guided by your headlamp and moonlight, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The trail is about 4 km one way, with stone steps that can sometimes be high, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must. Along the way, your guide might share spooky folklore, local stories, or interesting facts about the surrounding landscape — a touch that makes the journey richer.

The ascent takes approximately 2.5 hours, with the trail gradually gaining elevation and offering stunning views of the forest and fjord. Many reviewers, like Cindy, appreciated guides like Stefan for their friendliness and knowledge — “Hike was fabulous—amazing views, highly recommend.” The effort is well worth it when you reach the top, where you’re greeted by panoramic vistas of Lysefjorden and the surrounding mountains.

The sunrise moment is a true spectacle. If luck is on your side, you’ll see the first rays of sun illuminating the fjord walls, with fewer visitors around — a rare experience during the high season. As Mary shares, “Arriving at the top and seeing the sunrise is a memory I’ll never forget.”

Once at the summit, you get time to soak in the views, take photos, and simply revel in the moment. The silence of dawn, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes this a special experience. After some relaxed sightseeing and photo ops, you’ll begin the descent, retracing your steps back to the mountain lodge for a well-earned breakfast.

Back at the lodge, a warm, fresh breakfast awaits — simple but tasty, with options like berry juice, and perhaps some local bread or pastries. Many reviews, including Eve’s, praise the breakfast as a lovely way to end the hike: “The guide was very kind and knowledgeable, and the breakfast was a perfect way to recharge.”

The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to Stavanger, a nice way to reflect on your morning adventure without the hassle of planning the logistics yourself.

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What’s Included and What to Prepare For

Included in the tour:

Transport from Stavanger and back
An experienced, passionate local guide
Use of hiking poles and headlamps
A small snack and hot berry juice
Breakfast in the mountain lodge

What you should bring:

Warm hat, gloves, and socks
Waterproof jacket and water-resistant pants
Hiking shoes (or rent if you prefer)
Daypack for your gear and snacks
Food and drinks for the hike
Layers to adjust for changing weather

Not allowed:

Jeans and high-heeled shoes (not suitable for hiking)
Children under 5 or those with mobility issues should consider other options

Weather considerations are crucial; mountain weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, rain gear, and sturdy footwear to stay comfortable and safe.

The Real Experience from Reviewers

Based on 52 glowing reviews, this tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating. Travelers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and proactive approach. Ivica highlights Stefan’s ability to keep the group active and engaged, remarking, “He was friendly and very proactive, able to animate and keep our group very active.” Meanwhile, Julie shares that her guide Alan, along with his dog Baba, made the hike unforgettable: “Alan was a wealth of knowledge and a great host. Baba made the hike even more special!”

Multiple reviewers mention the breathtaking views and the unique experience of witnessing the sunrise with fewer people. Cindy notes, “Hike was fabulous — amazing views,” emphasizing how the early start enhances the experience. The post-hike breakfast is also a favorite, often described as fresh, simple, and satisfying.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $262 per person might seem steep, the value lies in the combination of guided expertise, transportation, early access to the trail, and a cozy breakfast — all arranged seamlessly. Avoiding the crowds during high season means you’ll get a more intimate experience, making the effort more rewarding. Plus, the included gear like headlamps and hiking poles saves you from extra expenses and hassle.

This tour is an especially good deal for solo travelers or small groups who want a guided, hassle-free way to experience Preikestolen’s magic at sunrise. The fact that it runs with no minimum number of participants offers flexibility for spontaneous travelers or those with uncertain schedules.

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Who Will Love This Experience?

This is a top pick for those who want to see Preikestolen’s iconic views without the crowds, coupled with expert guidance to enhance safety and storytelling. It’s a perfect option for travelers comfortable with physical activity and keen on experiencing Norway’s wilderness in its quietest hours. The inclusive breakfast and transportation also make it an excellent choice for visitors who want a hassle-free, well-organized adventure.

If you’re craving a scenic, soulful start to the day, and don’t mind waking up early, this tour will serve up unforgettable memories. Just remember to pack your layers, sturdy shoes, and a sense of adventure.

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FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This hike is best suited for those with prior hiking experience. The trail is about 4 km each way with some high stone steps, and the total ascent is around 500 meters. If you’re active and comfortable on similar terrain, you’ll be fine.

What should I bring to the hike?
Bring a hat, gloves, socks, rain gear, waterproof pants, hiking shoes, a small backpack, water, and snacks. Layers are essential because mountain weather can change rapidly. Gear can also be rented if needed.

When does the tour start?
The start time depends on the month and your pickup location, so it’s important to check your specific schedule when booking. The tour begins pre-dawn, with pickup from designated locations in Stavanger.

How long is the hike?
It’s approximately 2.5 hours to reach the top, covering about 4 km with a total elevation gain of 500 meters. The return trip is of similar length.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, the guided hike, hiking poles, headlamps, a small snack, hot berry juice, and breakfast after the hike.

Can I take photos during the hike?
Absolutely. The early morning light and fewer people make this an ideal opportunity for photos. The guides are happy to help with taking pictures or recommending good spots.

Is the breakfast in the lodge substantial?
The breakfast is described as fresh, tasty, and simple, perfect for recharging after the hike. It’s included in the tour price, offering a cozy end to your adventure.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 5 years of age or those with mobility impairments. It’s designed for active travelers comfortable with hiking terrain.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can change quickly; packing layers, rain gear, and waterproof clothing is strongly recommended. The guides will assess conditions, but safety comes first.

This sunrise hike to Preikestolen is a well-crafted experience that balances adventure, comfort, and the chance to see Norway’s stunning fjord landscape without the crowds. The knowledgeable guides, seamless logistics, and warm breakfast make it a standout choice for travelers who want more than just a tourist photo — they want a genuine memory. If you’re fit, curious, and ready for a mountain morning that’s both invigorating and scenic, this tour deserves serious consideration.

Perfect for solo travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, or couples seeking a special sunrise moment, it offers an adrenaline rush with a side of tranquility. Just remember, early mornings are the price for those incredible views, but the reward is totally worth it.