Jotunheimen, literally “the home of the giants”, is a realm of Norway’s towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and rugged wilderness—and for the week, it’s all yours to explore. With comfy and superbly located lodges as your base, you’ll have 7 days to discover surreal landscapes of Jotunheimen, including some all-star hikes like the Besseggen! Every day here brings a new challenge, a new summit, and a new reason to fall in love with Norway’s wilderness. With seamless logistics sorted and the greatest hikes handpicked, all that’s left to do is enjoy the journey.
Jotunheimen National Park tour plunges you into Norway’s wildest landscapes, where jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and endless valleys set the stage for adventure. Hike legendary ridges like Besseggen and Bukkelægret, cross high passes, and wander through silent, untamed terrain. With boat rides, cozy DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) lodges, and all logistics handled, each day is a fresh thrill—epic views, unforgettable trails, and the kind of wilderness that makes you feel alive at every step.
After a scenic bus ride from Oslo through valleys and mountains, you arrive at Gjendesheim, perched at the edge of the stunning Lake Gjende. Here, you’ll drop your luggage at the lodge, lace up your boots, and step straight onto the trail—no transfers, no delays, just pure mountain air and alpine adventure. An optional hike from Gjendesheim to Bessheim (out-and-back or loop) takes you across open highlands to another traditional mountain lodge with a welcoming atmosphere. The trail offers sweeping views, gentle ridges, and a real sense of journey without technical difficulty. You can stop for a warm drink or lunch at Bessheim before returning the same way, rewarded by a scenic day hike that shakes off your travels.
Meals: Dinner
Hiking: Out and back: 8 km (5 mi), 2.5-3 hours; Loop: 10.6 km (6.6 mi), 3.5-4 hours
Elevation: Out and back: +/-290 m (951 ft); Loop: +/-555 m (1,821 ft)
Accommodation: Gjendesheim Lodge
Start the day with an unforgettable boat ride across the emerald waters of Lake Gjende. At 7:45am, you’ll board the ferry from Gjendesheim to Memurubu (20 minutes), gliding beneath towering peaks as the trail ahead comes into view. From Memurubu, the real adventure begins. The Besseggen Ridge is one of Norway’s most iconic hikes—14 km with 1,040 meters of elevation gain—and the views will stay with you for life. The trail climbs steadily to a sharp ridgeline where, at its most breathtaking point, turquoise Lake Gjende lies far below on one side, and the darker, glacial waters of Lake Bessvatnet on the other. It’s dramatic, exposed, and wildly beautiful. Expect a full day on the trail, with time for breaks, photos, and soaking in the scenery. You’ll descend back to Gjendesheim in the afternoon, tired but exhilarated—having conquered one of Norway’s greatest hikes.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi), 6 hours
Elevation: +1,040 m (3,412 ft), -1,035 m (3,395 ft)
Accommodation: Gjendesheim Lodge
Your adventure continues with another stunning early-morning boat ride—this time the full length of Lake Gjende, from Gjendesheim to Gjendebu (45 minutes), Norway’s oldest DNT lodge. Departing at 7:45am, the journey carries you into the remote western end of the lake. After dropping your bags at the lodge, head out for the Gjendetunga hike—a 7 km out-and-back trail with 525 meters of elevation gain. The route climbs steadily from the valley floor to a panoramic summit overlooking the entire lake, with layers of jagged peaks stretching out in every direction.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 7 km (4.3 mi), 3-4 hours
Elevation: +/-525 m (1,722 ft)
Accommodation: Gjendebu Lodge
Today’s route takes you deeper into the heart of Jotunheimen with a full-day mountain crossing from Gjendebu to Fondsbu. After leaving your main luggage at Gjendebu, you’ll pack only what you need for one night—light, efficient, and ready for the trail. This 16 km crossing with 500 meters of elevation gain winds through high alpine valleys, rocky ridgelines, and quiet plateaus. It’s a true point-to-point hike, offering solitude, sweeping vistas, and a strong sense of moving through wild terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass streams, open tundra, and dramatic backdrops that shift with every kilometer. By afternoon, you’ll arrive at Fondsbu, a warm and welcoming lodge nestled by the shores of Lake Bygdin.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 16 km (10 mi), 4.5-5 hours
Elevation: +500 m (1,640 ft), -330 m (1,083 ft)
Accommodation: Fondsbu Lodge
After a relaxing morning at Fondsbu, you’ll board the 11:30am boat across Lake Bygdin, traveling from Eidsbugarden to Torfinnsbu (1 hour). From the dock, the trail leads straight into one of Jotunheimen’s most spectacular routes: Svartdalen, or “The Black Valley.” This 14 km crossing, with 470 m of elevation gain, winds through a dramatic glacial valley flanked by some of the region’s highest peaks. Towering cliffs, cascading streams, and deep silence define this unforgettable trail. It’s a wild, raw landscape that feels truly remote. The scenic route eventually brings you back to Gjendebu, where your luggage awaits.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi), 4.5-5 hours
Elevation: +470 m (1,542 ft), -550 m (1,804 ft)
Accommodation: Gjendebu Lodge
On your final day of hiking, you’ll drop off your luggage at 8:35am at Gjendebu dock for it to take the morning boat ride, reuniting with you at Gjendesheim at the end of the day. Today’s hike is the stunning Bukkelaegret Trail, a 10.5 km route with 665 m of elevation gain from Gjendebu to Memurubu. The trail meanders through high mountain terrain, offering sweeping views of Lake Gjende and the surrounding peaks. It’s a challenging hike, with a rewarding mix of alpine landscapes and dramatic ridge walks. Once you arrive at Memurubu, you’ll board the 4:55pm boat back to Gjendesheim, where your hiking journey began—a perfect way to conclude an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Jotunheimen.
Optional hike extension: skip the ferry and walk directly to Gjendesheim, continuing past Memurubu and hiking along the lake. This extension doubles the distance, but adds just a little elevation change over that extra distance.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 10.5 km (6.5 mi), 4-5 hours; or 20.9 km (13 mi), 7-8 hours with the extension
Elevation: +665 m (2,182 ft), -640 m (2,100 ft); +790 m (2,590 ft), -815 m (2,674 ft) with the extension
Accommodation: Gjendesheim Lodge
In the morning, after breakfast, you’ll board the bus from Gjendesheim back to Oslo, enjoying the scenic ride as you leave the highlands behind. The journey returns you to the city, where you can relax and explore Oslo’s vibrant cultural scene. If you’d like to extend your stay, extra nights in Oslo are available upon request, giving you the chance to unwind further, visit museums, or enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere. The tour concludes upon arrival in Oslo.
Meals: Breakfast
Included:
Add-ons (available to add at checkout):
Not included:
This Jotunheimen National Park tour includes demanding, lengthy days of hiking, covering distances of up to 16 km (10 mi), or 20.5 km (12.7 mi) optional, and navigating challenging terrain with significant elevation gains of up to 1,040 m (3,410 ft). Due to Norway’s rugged landscape and trail conditions, as well as exposure to substantial heights, this trip requires great fitness. Trails are characterized by ruggedness, often involving scrambling and encounters with loose rocks along the way.
For more hiking adventures in Norway, click here!
The following items are required for this Jotunheimen National Park self-guided hiking tour unless otherwise noted. When packing, think layered clothing systems that work together and can be easily added or removed.
Avoid cotton or cycling-specific clothing. Synthetic fabrics dry quickly and perform well in active conditions. Merino wool is also an excellent option — it dries fast, is comfortable to wear, and naturally resists odors even after extended use.
Clothing:
Gear:
First aid kit suggestions:
Carrying a basic personal first aid kit is strongly advised, as unforeseen situations may arise during travel. Access to medications and first aid supplies can be limited in certain destinations, making it essential to bring necessary prescription and over-the-counter items. Travel plans, vaccinations, and medication use should be reviewed with a healthcare provider in advance to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Here’s a basic list of what’s generally a good personal travel first aid kit:
Optional items:
Self-guided tours are perfect for those who enjoy exploring on their own terms—at their own pace, and with the company they choose. By going on this Jotunheimen National Park tour, we take care of…
Rather than joining a guided group, you’ll navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the tour operator. For a hassle-free journey with everything arranged for you in advance, there’s no better option!
Digital travel package includes documents available in English, French, and German, sent by email, and provides access to a smartphone travel application for navigating hikes and accessing local maps (available in English only). It also contains the list of booked accommodations, and all the detailed information needed for a successful trip.
As a self-guided tour is built around your preferred travel dates, your guide will take care of arranging accommodations and details after you book. Note that exact accommodations and dates might shift slightly, so don’t make any travel arrangements until the details of your adventure are confirmed.
Group sizes and pricing
can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this self-guided Jotunheimen National Park tour is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.
The starting point of your Jotunheimen National Park tour is Oslo. To get there, most people fly into Oslo Airport (OSL). From there, you can take a shuttle service or public transport to reach Oslo downtown.
Your self-guided journey begins with a bus ride from Oslo to Gjendesheim (included in the price). If you’d like to get an optional hike in on Day 1, we recommend taking the bus in the morning.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
