Norway’s Lofoten Islands Hike – 8 Days

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital. Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

AVAILABILITY

This walk is available from June through August only wherein relatively mild temperatures (about 10°C–16°C), perfect for extended outdoor adventures under the midnight sun.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

ARRIVAL :

Your adventure begins in Bodø, Norway, a picturesque town easily accessible by air. Fly into Bodø Airport (BOO) via Oslo International Airport (OSL) with multiple regional flights available. Upon arrival, a short drive will take you to your accommodation, where you can settle in and prepare for the journey ahead. Be ready to immerse yourself in the striking landscapes of the Lofoten Islands, starting with a scenic ferry transfer to Moskenes on Day 2.

DEPARTURE:

Concluding your journey back in Bodø, you will reflect on the breathtaking beauty and adventures experienced throughout the Lofoten Islands. After a leisurely breakfast, check out of your accommodation and take a moment to explore the charming surroundings of Værøy before continuing with your onward travel plans. A ferry ride departs from Værøy back to Bodø, offering one last chance to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery before your trip comes to an end.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

TRANSFERS

Ferry from Bodo to Moskenes: 3.5 to 4 hours

Ferry from Reine to Kjerkefjord: 40 minutes

A rental car will be waiting for you at your arrival at Moskenes on Day 2. You’ll have to leave it at the same spot on Day 7.

RENTAL VEHICLE

Rental Agreement: Key Requirements and Responsibilities

Driver and Renter Requirements
Both the driver and the primary renter must be at least 23 years old and possess a valid driver’s license.

Fuel Policy
Your rental car comes with a full tank of gas and should be returned with a full tank.

Renter’s Responsibility
You are responsible for the rental car throughout the entire rental period, until it’s returned. This includes all associated costs and penalties such as:

• Illegal parking fines
• Speeding tickets
• Toll road charges
• Towing fees
• Other related costs and penalties

You must pay these charges within their specified time limit. Rent a Car Lofoten will apply a 250 NOK late payment fee for any delayed payments.

Insurance Coverage
Standard Insurance
Each rental booking includes full insurance coverage.

Full coverage includes damage to the car with a CDW excess of 0 NOK (this is an additional cost).

Exclusions from Insurance Coverage
The insurance does not cover the following:

• Tow truck services
• Window damage
• Roof damage (e.g., from standing on the roof)
• Wheel damage caused by off-road or improper driving
• Lost keys
• Engine damage resulting from neglecting warnings (e.g., high temperature, low engine oil)
• Failure to report damage, even if it would otherwise be covered
• Other damages caused by negligent behavior

What the Insurance Covers

The insurance covers damage to your rented car as well as other vehicles and individuals involved in traffic accidents.

Vehicle Maintenance During Rental
You are also responsible for regularly checking the car’s fluid levels (e.g., oil, coolant). Any expenses incurred for these checks will be reimbursed upon receipt.

Additional Charges
Car Cleanliness
If the car is returned excessively dirty (e.g., with large amounts of dirt, garbage, empty bottles), an additional cleaning fee of 500 NOK may apply.

Fuel Surcharge
If the car is returned with an empty fuel tank, your credit card will be charged for the fuel. Additionally, Rent a Car Lofoten will charge a 250 NOK invoice fee in these situations.

Compulsory Amount (Excess)
Your credit card will be charged if you fail to pay the compulsory amount (excess) as stated in your contract:

• 10,000 NOK if Basic insurance is applied.
• 0 NOK if Full insurance is applied.