Head into Dovrefjell's wide alpine plateaus in search of musk oxen on a 4–7 hour guided safari from Oppdal. Expect moderate hiking, expert naturalist guides, and close but respectful wildlife viewing with a 200 m safety buffer.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You crest a low ridge and the tundra opens: wind-twisted lichens cling to rock, distant gullies cut pale shadows, and a hulking dark silhouette grazes, calm and deliberate. The guides lower their voices; the musk ox does not hurry. This is Dovrefjell — broad, glacial-sculpted plateaus where cold air still carries the fossil smell of ancient ice.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderately fit: able to hike on uneven terrain for several hours with occasional elevation changes
Wildlife
History
Dovrefjell has long been a strategic mountain corridor and today represents one of Norway's key alpine conservation areas; musk oxen were reintroduced in the 20th century after local extinction.
Conservation
Keep the 200 m distance and follow your guide: minimizing disturbance to musk ox and trampling sensitive lichen mats helps preserve the fragile alpine ecosystem.
Reserve your spot on the Musk ox Safari in Dovrefjell National Park, Oppdal Safari today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Pack layered, weatherproof clothing
Dovrefjell can switch from sun to wind and sleet quickly—bring waterproof outer layers and insulating mid-layers.
Wear ankle-supporting waterproof boots
Tundra and occasional boggy ground demand supportive, waterproof footwear to stay comfortable and safe.
Bring binoculars and telephoto camera
Guides keep a 200 m safety distance from musk ox; optics let you see details without closing the gap.
Start early for the best conditions
Wind often builds through the afternoon; mornings usually offer calmer air and better chances to find wildlife.
Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support
Protect against wet tundra and provide stability on uneven ground.
spring
Windproof/waterproof shell and insulating mid-layer
Layering keeps you comfortable through rapid weather shifts typical of alpine plateaus.
summer
Binoculars or spotting scope
Allows detailed viewing at the mandatory 200 m safety distance.
fall
Packed lunch and 1–1.5 L water
Sustenance for a full-day outing where services are limited.
winter