-
Which airport do I need to fly into and out of (plus airport code)?
Fly into and out of Bergen Airport (BGO).
-
What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?
Before 3 pm ideally. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 5 pm onwards starting at the hotel.
-
What time should my flight depart on the last day?
There are no planned activities for Day 8, so you can leave any time you like. The airport is approximately 40 minutes away from your hotel in Bergen.
-
Do you include airport transfers?
If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.
Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.
The departure transfer is not included, but your Pack Leader can help you arrange a local taxi.
-
What are the drives times like?
Given the geographical landscape of western Norway, roads can be narrow and winding as they negotiate fjords and mountains. This makes for slow progress – but some truly stunning scenery. You’ll cover a lot of ground on this eight-day itinerary, requiring some early mornings and long drives. Those who suffer from motion sickness might want to pack anti-nausea pills.
-
What level of fitness do I need?
This is one of our more active itineraries, so a good level of fitness and mobility is needed. The most challenging activities are:
- Day 2: Mount Prest hike – 2.5 kilometers (2-4 hours) on marked trails, can be adapted to the group’s ability
- Day 3 – Bike ride – this is all downhill, however if you prefer you can take the train down instead
- Day 4: Glacier hike – 4 hours (1.5 hours on the glacier), not technically difficult
- Day 5: Via ferrata – 5-6 hours (3-4 hours on the via ferrata), the most challenging activity, a good head for heights and moderate to high level of fitness is needed, but no technical climbing expertise
- Day 6: Sea kayaking – 4 hours, a moderate level of fitness is needed
We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above to make sure you are happy partaking in the activities mentioned. Please get in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.
-
What will the via ferrata be like?
Via ferrata (literally ‘iron way’ in Italian) is a fixed route of iron steps, ladders and steel cables anchored into the rock face that enables climbers of varying experience to enjoy the thrill of climbing in a safe and controlled way.
You’ll be equipped with a helmet, harness and via ferrata lanyard system, which includes two carabiners. You’ll clip the carabiners onto the metal cable that runs the length of the route, sliding the carabiners along it as you move, with one carabiner always attached to the wire.
Led by an experienced guide, you’ll start by hiking up through the forest to the bottom of the cliff face, where you’ll have a chance to practice your technique on a small via ferrata section before committing to the main climb.
The via ferrata in Loen is a challenging activity that takes four to six hours to complete. Key features include narrow ledges, vertical rock faces and the thrilling Gjølmunnebrua suspension bridge, which hangs 750 meters above the valley floor.
While you don’t need any mountaineering experience, you’ll need a moderate level of fitness and a good head for heights. If you’re willing to challenge yourself and step outside your comfort zone, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable adventure and epic views over one of Norway’s most beautiful regions.
-
What equipment do I need?
Norway’s west coast has an oceanic climate and rainfall is plentiful in all seasons. Remember that the weather changes quickly in the mountains, the weather forecasts are often unpredictable and even on a summer day there can be snow.
You’ll be provided with specialist equipment needed for individual activities, such as via ferrata, kayaking and ice hiking. However, it’s important that you bring your own good-quality outdoor clothing, including:
- windproof waterproof jacket
- waterproof pants
- long trousers
- warm layers
- head necker / buff
- sturdy hiking boots
- solid sports shoes / low hiking shoes with Vibran soles (yellow mark) for the via ferrata
- gloves
- sunglasses
A full packing list will be provided upon booking.
-
Are the activities weather-dependent?
We will endeavor to continue with activities as long as it is safe to do so, but should the weather close in some activities may be cancelled.
-
Do I need a visa?
Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.
You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:
Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.
-
What vaccinations and medication will I need?
While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalized medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
1. Consult with a healthcare professional
We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.
2. Up-to-date medical advice
3. Government travel advice
4. Medication tips
If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.
We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.
-
Will this itinerary change?
Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.
