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Useful information

The Fjord Pledge – How to Be a Responsible Tourist in Fjord Norway

Summer, winter, spring, autumn
Last updated: 22.01.2025
Mardalsfossen
© Mattias Fredriksson
© Mattias Fredriksson

We promise you an unforgettable and truly amazing travel experience in Fjord Norway—if you can promise us a few small things in return.

1. I pledge to be well prepared

Western Norway consists of many small villages and rural communities where services and accessibility are often more limited than in larger cities. To make the most of your visit, it's wise to check local opening hours and plan ahead for what you need to bring. Being well-prepared enhances your experience and that of your travel companions while also showing consideration for the local community.

people at a cider-tasting in Hardangerfjord
© Toke Riskjær

2. I pledge to follow local advice for a safe nature experience

The weather and nature in Fjord Norway are dramatic, beautiful, and unpredictable. Always dress appropriately and bring extra layers for sudden weather changes—even if the forecast predicts sunshine.

Explore your destination with those who know it best—the guides. For the best experience and your own safety in the mountains, use a guide!

Need a packing list for your mountain hike? Read more here:

https://www.fjordnorway.com/en/inspiration/packing-list-for-mountain-hikes--and-everything-else-you-need-to-know-to-go-hiking-in-fjord-norway

Telt ved havkanten hos Nothaugen fiskecamping
© Thomas Berglund / Nothaugen

3. I pledge to camp with care for nature and the local community

Use designated camping areas, primarily established campsites and motorhome parks. These locations are safer from rockfalls and flooding and contribute to a positive local environment.

Read more about camping etiquette here: Camping Code of Conduct.

Geit på beite
© Myrdal Gård

4. I pledge to respect local conditions and private property

Camping should be done at a good distance from settlements (at least 150 meters from houses and cabins). Follow signs indicating restrictions on parking or camping, and be considerate of private properties and cultural heritage sites.

Be especially cautious around farmland, and always close gates behind you to prevent livestock from escaping.

Bil Sognefjorden
© Espen MillsMatlangsnasjonaleturistveger.no Visitnorway.com

5. I pledge to be a considerate driver

Keep a safe distance when overtaking, especially cyclists. Pull over and let cars pass if you are slowing down traffic. Do not park in passing places along narrow roads. Use public transport when possible.

Atlanterhavsvegen over flere øyer ut i havet.
© Nordlandblog/Fjord Norge

6. I pledge to leave no trace in nature

Take all your trash and equipment with you, and recycle bottles instead of discarding them. Do not disturb birds and wildlife or leave marks in nature, such as cairns, tent rings, or similar. Avoid picking plants in protected areas.
Stick to established trails to prevent the creation of new paths. Respect leash laws for dogs.

Use established toilets where available. If none are accessible, dig a hole in the ground and take all paper and wet wipes with you—these materials decompose very slowly and pollute nature.

Ostehuset baker eget brød
© Ostehuset

7. I pledge to support local businesses and services

For the most authentic and enriching experience of Fjord Norway, choose local activity providers and buy locally sourced food and drinks.

This supports a vibrant local community and offers you the best immersion into Norwegian fjord culture.

Dame går langs stien på Ognasanden.
© Anita Hamremoen

8. I pledge to respect protected nature areas

Fjord Norway offers world-class natural experiences, and we want to preserve the beauty around us. National parks and protected areas have special rules on how to travel and interact with nature.

If you're unsure whether you are in a protected area, contact the nearest tourist information center.

Check if you are in a protected area and follow the applicable rules.

Hygge rundt bålet på Vangshaugen med bålplass
© Eline Karlsdatter Fladseth

9. I pledge to respect the fire ban

From April 15 to September 15, open fires are generally prohibited in Norway. Fortunately, many designated barbecue and fire pits can be used year-round.

Always have water available for extinguishing fires, and remember that the person lighting the fire is responsible for fire safety.

Preikestolplatået og utsikt over Lysefjorden.
© Preikestolen365

10. I pledge to take photos safely

Our region is made for photography, but always be cautious and responsible when taking pictures—no photo is worth risking your safety. Do not venture onto cliffs, ledges, or overhangs. If you take pictures of other people, ask for their permission first.

Follow drone regulations—it is, for example, illegal to fly drones in national parks or near airports.

Read more about Norwegian drone regulations: https://www.visitnorway.com/plan-your-trip/drone-rules/

Drone bilde utsnitt av Sandvesanden
© Visit Haugesund

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