Bergen Day Trip Chasing the Waterfalls of Hardangerfjord

If you’re visiting Bergen and craving an authentic taste of Norway’s natural beauty, this full-day waterfall adventure offers an ideal escape. With stops at some of the most spectacular waterfalls near Hardangerfjord, this tour blends impressive scenery, engaging stories, and a relaxed pace—all for around $120 per person. It’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see Norway’s iconic waterfalls up close while soaking in the culture and history along the way.

One of the standout features we love is how this trip combines jaw-dropping views with meaningful cultural insights—like prehistoric rock carvings. The guide, Bas, also earns high praise for his storytelling, humor, and extensive knowledge, making the day both informative and entertaining.

A possible consideration is the weather, which can impact visibility or comfort, especially at outdoor stops. The tour’s timing and stops suit those who enjoy a mixture of sightseeing, light walking, and photo opportunities, all within a well-organized 6-hour window. If you’re after a scenic, reliable, and well-reviewed excursion that balances nature and culture, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see iconic waterfalls, learn about Norwegian nature and history, and enjoy a small-group setting with expert guides. It’s especially good if you value stories, humor, and authentic scenery without long, exhausting hikes.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: Visit some of the most beautiful waterfalls near Bergen, including the chance to walk behind Steinsdalsfossen.
• Expert Guide: Guides like Bas make the day lively with stories, humor, and interesting facts about Norway.
• Cultural Highlights: Discover prehistoric rock carvings around Hardangerfjord, adding a historical dimension to your trip.
• Comfortable & Convenient: The tour runs about 6 hours, includes a relaxed itinerary, and is suitable for most travelers.
• High Value: At $120, it offers excellent scenery, cultural insights, and memorable experiences, according to many reviewers.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 45 travelers, making it easier to enjoy personalized attention and interact with the guide.

An In-Depth Look at the Bergen Waterfalls Tour

Starting in Bergen

The tour kicks off early at the Tourist Information center in Bergen at 8:00 am. From there, you’ll start with a scenic drive through the city, setting the tone for a day filled with nature and Norwegian charm. The small-group size (max 45) ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the journey through Bergen’s streets introduces you to the city’s mix of charm and rugged surroundings.

Mørkhølsfossen: A Gentle Introduction

Your first stop is Mørkhølsfossen, a charming, smaller waterfall that serves as a warm-up for the more dramatic sights ahead. It’s a brief 15-minute stop, giving you a taste of Norway’s lush landscape. Reviewers like Magdalena_M appreciated this stop as it prepared them for the power of the larger waterfalls. They described it as “cute” but noted it’s the next stops that truly wow.

Fossen Bratte: A Valley of Views

Next, you’ll visit the Fossen Bratte, which is tucked away in a scenic valley. Here, you have the option to walk down into the valley for a closer look or stay on top to enjoy panoramic vistas. This flexibility is key, especially for those who prefer a gentle walk or just want to capture the view from above. The 40-minute stop allows plenty of time to soak in the scenery. Reviewers often mention how stunning the views are, with one describing it as “a little valley with a stunning waterfall” that’s perfect for photos.

Steinsdalsfossen: Walk Behind the Waterfall

The highlight for many is the chance to walk behind the Steinsdalsfossen waterfall—an experience that’s truly rare and unforgettable. The accessible trail makes it easy for most visitors to get behind the cascading water, offering a unique perspective. Magdalena_M called this “magical” and noted the sound of the water hitting below is “not to be forgotten,” highlighting how immersive this experience is. It’s a favorite among reviewers, with some emphasizing how fun and close-up this encounter feels.

Norheimsund: A Quaint Village

From waterfalls, the tour transitions into the charming village of Norheimsund, sitting right beside Hardangerfjord. The 40-minute stop here isn’t just about the scenery; it’s an opportunity to breathe in authentic Norwegian village atmosphere, capture some photos, or enjoy a quick snack. Reviewers like Teresa_V appreciated this stop as a peaceful break and a chance to connect with local life.

Salthammeren Stone Age Carvings: A Touch of History

Adding an intriguing historical aspect, the tour visits prehistoric stone carvings at Salthammeren. This 20-minute stop provides a fascinating glimpse into Norway’s ancient past. Reviewers like John_G were particularly impressed with the cultural side, describing it as a “great photo stop” where you can get close to the carvings and enjoy the fjord backdrop.

Return to Bergen

After the stops, the group drives back through Bergen, giving a final chance to take in the scenery and reflect on the day. The 2-hour drive back is an opportunity to relax and share highlights with fellow travelers or review your photos. Magdalena_M pointed out how the guide’s storytelling kept the mood lively and fun during the return trip.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The combination of stunning waterfalls, cultural insights, and expert guidance really sets this tour apart. Bas, the tour guide, consistently receives praise for his storytelling, humor, and extensive knowledge. Reviewers mention how his personal stories and cultural explanations added depth and fun to the day. His ability to keep the group engaged, while providing practical advice like which waterfall viewpoints to choose, enhances the overall experience.

The waterfalls themselves are the star attraction. Many travelers comment on how beautiful and varied these waterfalls are, with some offering the chance to see both the top and bottom views, which adds a layer of flexibility and choice. Walking behind Steinsdalsfossen is particularly memorable, offering a rare chance to see Norway’s powerful waterfalls from a different angle.

The prehistoric rock carvings are a surprising bonus—adding an educational layer that appeals to history enthusiasts and those interested in Norway’s ancient story. Meanwhile, the village stop in Norheimsund offers a slice of local life, far from tourist crowds, which many reviewers appreciated.

The Value of the Price

At just over $120, this tour offers excellent value. It packs a full day of sights, stories, and experiences, all within a manageable 6-hour window. The small-group format ensures a personalized feel, and the stops are well-paced to avoid rushing. Considering the cost of private excursions or visiting these sites independently, this organized tour provides both convenience and rich content.

What Travelers Say

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that the guide’s knowledge and storytelling, especially Bas’s, are key highlights. Words like “amazing,” “magical,” and “unforgettable” appear frequently. Reviewers also value the accessibility of the stops, with many emphasizing how the trails and viewpoints are suitable for most. The opportunity to walk behind a waterfall or stand in a quaint village adds a layer of authenticity that many find worthwhile.

Some mention mild mishaps, like a traveler falling while approaching one of the falls, but the guide promptly assisted, highlighting the safety-minded approach of the team.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress for the weather: Norway’s weather can be unpredictable, so wear waterproof clothing or bring an umbrella.
• Bring a camera or smartphone: The viewpoints and waterfalls are incredibly photogenic.
• Be prepared for some walking: While mostly easy, walking into valleys and trails can require sturdy footwear.
• Arrive early: The start point is central in Bergen, so plan to arrive a little early to settle in.
• Consider your comfort: If you’re sensitive to rain or cold, bring layers and waterproof gear.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re seeking a scenic, well-organized day that combines natural beauty with cultural highlights, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for those who want a manageable half-day or full-day trip that’s rich in photo opportunities and stories. The small-group format and experienced guide make it particularly appealing for travelers who appreciate personalized insights and a friendly atmosphere.

It’s also suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers, thanks to the accessible stops and relaxed pace. Given the high praise for the guide’s humor and knowledge, this trip suits those who enjoy engaging storytelling and learning about Norwegian culture as part of their sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This Bergen waterfall tour offers a genuine taste of Norway’s stunning natural landscape combined with fascinating cultural elements. The ability to walk behind a waterfall, enjoy panoramic mountain views, and explore prehistoric carvings makes it a well-rounded experience. The high ratings, especially for the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, speak to the consistent quality of this tour.

At an affordable price, it provides great value for those eager to see iconic waterfalls and learn about the country’s history without overextending their schedule. The small-group dynamic ensures a relaxed, engaging atmosphere, making it a memorable highlight of any Bergen visit.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, storytelling, and authentic experiences, and who appreciate a mix of adventure and cultural discovery in a compact, well-organized package.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including all stops and the return drive.
• Where does the tour start and end? It begins at the Tourist Information in Bergen and ends back at the same point.
• What is the price per person? The tour costs around $120.01 per person, offering good value considering the sights and guide.
• Is the tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but consider walking distances and weather conditions.
• Are the waterfalls accessible? Yes, most stops are easy to access, with walking trails suitable for most visitors.
• Can I walk behind the waterfall? Yes, at Steinsdalsfossen, you can walk behind the waterfall, an experience many reviews call “magical.”
• What is the group size? The tour has a maximum of 45 travelers, ensuring a personable experience.
• Is there any historical or cultural element? Yes, the tour includes a stop at prehistoric stone carvings, adding an educational aspect.
• How is the guide? Highly praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills—especially Bas.
• What should I bring? Water-resistant clothing, camera, sturdy shoes, and a positive attitude for a day of scenic beauty and stories.

This full-day waterfall adventure from Bergen combines breathtaking views, cultural insights, and expert guidance, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a memorable Norwegian experience.