challenging
5–7 hours
Requires good cardiovascular fitness and leg strength; suitable for experienced hikers comfortable on steep, uneven terrain.
Take on the steep trails of Kjerag after a serene fjord cruise with Lysefjorden Adventure. Witness jaw-dropping cliffs and daring BASE jumpers in one unforgettable day near Stavanger, Norway.
Lysefjord in Rogaland, Norway, unfolds a dramatic stage of towering cliffs and deep blue waters, setting the scene for the Kjerag Hike and Fjord Cruise by Lysefjorden Adventure. Situated near the city of Stavanger, this day trip offers a gripping blend of rugged mountain trekking and pristine fjord travel, capturing the raw spirit of southern Norway’s coastline.
Your journey begins with an early morning cruise along Lysefjord, a 42-kilometer-long inlet cut into the sandstone bedrock by glacial forces. The slow glide over reflective waters reveals sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls that rise straight from the sea, including the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) perched tantalizingly nearby. After soaking these views, the cruise docks where the hike to Kjerag commences.
Kjerag mountain itself is a challenging ascent, rising 1,110 meters above the fjord. The trail is a mix of well-marked paths, steep rocky sections, and occasional chains and ladders to aid climbers, demanding solid fitness and sure footing. Rewards await on the Kjerag plateau, where you’ll pause for a packed lunch and panoramic vistas of the fjord spanned below. The crag’s standout feature—Kjeragbolten, a massive boulder lodged between two cliff faces—beckons for adventurers daring enough to step onto it.
Adding to the adrenaline rush, the area is popular with BASE jumpers, who launch themselves from the precipices into freefall over the water, providing both a lively spectacle and a stark reminder of the fjord's vertical scale. Lysefjorden Adventure stands out as a trusted local outfitter who combines smooth fjord travel and expert guiding for one of Norway’s most iconic hiking experiences.
This trip is not only a physical challenge but a plunge into geological history and Scandinavian outdoor culture, offering unique access to remote natural beauty that few other destinations match. Whether you’re a serious hiker or a nature lover, the blend of water-born approach and mountain summit captures the essence of Norway's fjordland in a single unforgettable day.
Begin your hike early in the morning to take advantage of cooler temperatures and avoid crowds on the narrow trail.
Choose sturdy hiking boots with solid grip to safely navigate rocky and sometimes slippery terrain.
Bring enough water to stay hydrated during the roughly 5-hour round-trip hike, as there are no spots to refill along the trail.
When near Kjeragbolten, stay clear of jumpers’ launch areas and follow guides’ instructions carefully.
The Lysefjord area has long been part of Norwegian rural life, with the name 'Lyse' meaning 'light' or 'bright,' referencing the fjord’s clear waters and open cliffs.
Lysefjorden Adventure supports low-impact tourism by following strict leave-no-trace policies and using clean, quiet boats to protect fjord ecosystems.
Protects feet and provides traction on rocky, uneven surfaces.
Keeps you dry in sudden rain or wind gusts common in fjord climates.
spring|fall|summer specific
Holds food, water, and layers needed for a full day on the trail.
Provides stability on steep ascents and descents, easing joint strain.