Review: Stavanger 5-Day Hiking Tour to Preikestolen

Dreaming of seeing Norway’s majestic fjords up close? A five-day jaunt through the Stavanger region might be just the ticket, and very, very few compare to the Stavanger 5-Day Guided Hiking Tour that includes the famous Preikestolen. But is it seriously worth the cost and the time? I’ll give you the lowdown based on what you might actually expect from this popular tour.

What’s Included? A Quick Overview

So, before even thinking about gorgeous scenery, you’re probably curious to find out what the tour packages include. Basically, this specific tour, and, like your average trip, covers accommodation for five nights. What’s nice, too, is that daily breakfasts are included. That provides the needed fuel for all that hiking. The real draw? Fully guided hikes to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), Kjeragbolten (the Kjerag Boulder), and Flørli’s 4,444 steps. That said, these are hikes with actual guides. Transportation to and from the trailheads? Yeah, that is taken care of as well. So that, like, frees you up to simply enjoy the views. Lunch isn’t covered, it’s almost always wise to pack your own.

Accommodation and Food

After a day of tackling those hikes, the accommodations are typically comfortable, or at least functional. Most likely, think of a guesthouse or a smaller hotel in Stavanger. You see, they give you a place to rest and recharge. What about the breakfasts? Well, they usually involve a simple, buffet-style setup. Expect breads, cheeses, meats, and cereals. It might even get you ready to hike! Now, that’s not haute cuisine, yet it gets the job done, is that right?

Guided Hikes: Preikestolen, Kjeragbolten, and Flørli

What the tour is all about, basically, is the hikes. Preikestolen, also called Pulpit Rock, now that offers one of Norway’s well-known sights. You’re, like, looking at incredible views over Lysefjord, which may, or may not take your breath away, of course. You know, that hike is moderately challenging, it’s almost, typically takes around four to five hours, round trip. The trail can get very crowded, very, very crowded during peak season, though. You know, guides know how to get you ahead of at least some of the crowds.

Then, Kjeragbolten is a totally different beast. Arguably, the hike is longer and a little tougher, but the prize? A boulder wedged between two cliffs. Standing on it? It’s a photo opportunity unlike any other. Is that it? Well, it can be scary for some, like your first time, and definitely not for those with a fear of heights. That hike demands respect, could be the key thing to note.

And Flørli’s 4,444 steps? A Stairway to Heaven? That’s basically what that sounds like. Actually, it’s one of the longest wooden staircases in the world. The ascent can be brutal, and arguably tough on the knees, so bringing hiking poles can be helpful.

The Hiking Experience: What to Seriously Expect

What you get out of the hike definitely depends on when you travel. Norway in summer sees long days and milder weather, which is basically ideal for hiking. Now that, and the trails, also get very crowded. What I mean is, it may feel more like a procession in certain spots.

Shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October)? Arguably, they offer a sweet spot. Fewer crowds and decent weather, though expect some rain. Basically, Norwegian weather can be super unpredictable, so pack accordingly. It might rain, is that true? You betcha.

Physical Demands and Preparation

Now, these hikes aren’t a stroll in the park, basically. So that’s why a reasonable level of fitness is needed. Preikestolen is more accessible, the Kjeragbolten hike requires some scrambling, which might be an understatement. Then, Flørli’s steps speak for themselves.

I can recommend that you break in your hiking boots before the trip. Otherwise, you might be dealing with blisters the whole week. That could definitely suck, which may or may not, leave you wishing you stayed home. Bring layers, too, I want to reiterate. I mean that the weather can shift quickly, so it’s very crucial to stay ready for everything from sunshine to rain. Also, I need to mention, that hiking poles are something that many people bring. They will seriously save your knees, very very specifically on Flørli.

The Guide Factor

You see, a good guide can seriously make or break your trip. What happens is that, like most people, I found that the guides on the Stavanger tour generally add something valuable to your experience. Or so, in that case, you’ll find out. What they have, usually, is an extensive knowledge of the trails, information about local history and folklore, plus they ensure that everyone gets there safely. If, in fact, you’re not the most seasoned hiker, their presence could bring that crucial element of safety.

Should you expect wilderness survival training? No way, is my opinion, and it could be yours as well, which reminds me that one time, on a different hiking trip, our guide, and as I was saying, he told us tales of trolls and hidden folk. Was that cheesy? Absolutely. What did it do, that? It added an interesting element to the hike, that may sound like total and complete fiction. One thing about the good guides, which is crucial. Good guides watch the weather, too. Safety first, that may be why these hikes can cost so much.

The Social Scene: Meeting Fellow Hikers

What I saw, and, to be honest, like most organized tours, this one can be an opportunity to socialize. What that also means is that, on the trails, you’re among your tour group members. At night? At the guesthouse or hotel, arguably you get to know other hikers. What if you’re a solo traveler? This could be very perfect, just so you know.

Should you count on bonding, very, very deeply with your tour group? It really is kind of hit or miss. Some groups form strong connections, others keep to themselves. Very unlike college orientation! One thing to keep in mind is, it’s mostly who is in the group with you.

Cost Analysis: Is it Worth the Money?

Cost is something you will definitely need to think about. Basically, these guided tours might not come cheap, might they? I mean, look at all the included items I pointed out. Then, there’s transportation, accommodations, and guiding services. You see, Norway itself can be expensive, too. That adds to the overall expense of the tour, or so it should, really. A very wise, cost comparison with doing it alone? This would need to factor in your comfort level regarding planning, driving in Norway, and hiking independently. Are you going to pay extra for security and not driving?

Hidden Costs and Extras

Are there, like, additional expenses that might pop up? Usually, things you should expect would be lunches, dinners, and that occasional beer after a long hike. Souvenirs and any optional activities could very well add to the total. What about tipping? Basically, tipping guides can be customary if you thought they did a swell job.

The Verdict: Who Should Take This Tour?

After considering a bunch of facets, here’s the main thought about who might take something like this. People? Mostly, but more specifically, those people, and for example, that might want a hassle-free experience that’s already been organized. That is how it looks like, for now. Basically, for a number of solo travelers it becomes a safe way of hiking. That is definitely, like, how some feel about it. Is that what every solo traveller likes, though? Of course, on the other hand, you can hike by yourself without others around. Is that why this tour is good for inexperienced hikers? Arguably yes, just a little. The safety of the guide, and all of the tips and tricks. If it’s something that really matters to you, and that can certainly depend, so it would make sense, and that could save you a lot of time and the problems linked to having to create your own trip. Now that it sounds wonderful, basically!

Should seasoned hikers wanting solitude choose a tour? Well, maybe it would not, could be. Those individuals might get the most value out of planning their own trips. Should those hikers very comfortable with roughing it and prepared to tackle challenges themselves bother? Probably not. Then there’s planning transportation and lodging, yet the guides do seriously relieve the burden.