lysefjord visitor guide

Welcome to the Lysefjord!

As you experience this majestic landscape, remember that your actions hold the power to protect and celebrate our unique destination for all who follow in your footsteps.

A Commitment to Nature, Community and Sustainability

Respect Nature

When you visit the great outdoors of the Lysefjord, you take on an important role in protecting its environment. Conservation areas protect unique ecosystems and biodiversity. By leaving no trace, you ensure that the landscape remains as beautiful for future visitors as it is for you today.

Do's
  • Leave no trace: take photos, leave only footprints, and carry out all trash. Dispose of trash properly: separate recyclables and waste as directed.
  • Check if you are in a conservation area and follow local regulation.
  • Keep to designated trails.
  • Always leash your dogs to protect wildlife and livestock.
  • Close all gates after passing to prevent livestock from straying.
  • Camp responsibly; choose locations that are safe and minimize ecological impact.
  • Use public restrooms whenever possible; if you must go outdoors, do so responsibly, away from trails, water and camps.
  • Follow national and local fishing regulations. For freshwater angling, adults must pay a national fishing fee and obtain a local fishing license. Stay informed of specific local restrictions, as well as rules concerning fishing gear and methods, catch seize, and seasonal windows.
Don'ts
  • Refrain from picking plants or removing natural items like rocks and shells.
  • Do not approach or feed wildlife, birds, and farm animals.
  • Respect wildlife and other visitors by avoiding noise and music.
  • Respect fire restrictions: a bonfire ban applies from April 15 to September 15. Never use disposable barbecues.
  • Do not build rock cairns, which can disrupt the environment and mislead hikers.
  • Avoid off-roading or any activities that could harm the natural terrain and vegetation.

Be Part of the Local Community

Visiting the Lysefjord goes beyond experiencing the breathtaking landscapes. Engaging with the community is not just about the economic support you provide; it’s about fostering mutual respect and cultural exchange. By supporting local businesses and respecting local customs, you become more than just a visitor. Every greeting, interaction, and purchase not only contributes to the community’s well-being but also enriches your travel experience.

Do's
  • Practice courtesy and show respect to both locals and fellow travelers.
  • Purchase local products and souvenirs, choose locally owned accommodations, and dine at local restaurants and cafeterias.
  • Use local guides for the best experience and to learn about the area.
  • Listen to advice offered by locals; they know the area best.
  • Respect all signage, especially “no camping” and “no parking” signs.
  • Fly drones with care, ensuring you follow all local regulations. Respect personal privacy – do not fly over people. Regulations often prohibit flying over the fjord to ensure safety and prevent disruption to air traffic and power infrastructure.
  • Participate in local festivities and cultural events.
Don'ts
  • Avoid behavior that could be disrespectful to local people, including excessive noise or inappropriate conduct.
  • Do not trespass on private property or restricted areas, maintaining respect for the local landowners and residents’ space and privacy.

Stay Safe

Preparation, awareness and caution are the cornerstones of a safe and enjoyable experience. It is also a collective responsibility. The rugged terrain and unpredictable weather can make rescue operations particularly challenging. These efforts often require extensive resources and can put both rescue personnel and those in need of immediate medical attention elsewhere at risk.

Do's
  • Match your plans to your experience levels, always considering current trail/road conditions and weather forecasts.
  • Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time.
  • Wear bright clothing or a reflective item to be visible to others.
  • Pay attention to all informational and directional signs. Stay on the trails.
  • Pack essentials: food, water, extra clothing, and necessary gear.
  • Don’t rely on mobile phones alone for navigation or emergencies, as service can be unreliable; bring a physical map.
  • Be aware that hiking is at your own risk. Know when to turn back.
  • For emergencies, dial 110 (fire), 112 (police), or 113 (medical help).
Don'ts
  • Avoid taking risks for a photograph or better view that could jeopardize your safety.

Choose Sustainable Alternatives

In this magnificent but fragile environment, the efficient use of resources is essential. Sustainable practices help preserve the fjord’s natural beauty and cultural integrity. As a visitor, you are encouraged to make choices that align with eco-friendly principles, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to the area’s longevity.

Do's
  • Choose eco-friendly tourism operators.
  • Use public transport or rent bicycles to explore locally.
  • Carpool with fellow travelers whenever possible.
  • Engage in ‘pliking’ or picking up litter during hikes and other outdoor activities.
  • Carry and refill a water bottle to minimize plastic waste.
  • Use reusable materials instead of single-use plastics.
  • Recycle as much as possible, separating waste according to local guidelines.
  • Choose local and organic products.
  • Turn off lights and electronics when not in use.
  • Reuse your linens and towels to conserve water.
  • Take shorter showers.
Don'ts
  • Don’t waste food.

Useful Websites

Plan your Lysefjord trip with these useful websites. These sites will keep you updated on travel, show you how to travel responsibly, tell you about local events, and give you safety information. They will guide you to great hiking spots, teach you about protecting nature, and help you connect with the local community. Use this guide to make your Lysefjord visit safe, enjoyable, and respectful of the area’s environment and culture.

Preikestolen365.com | Official Preikestolen Website

Ryfylke.com | Visit Ryfylke

Visitnorway.com | Sustainable Tourism in Norway

Dnt.no/stavanger | Stavanger Hiking Association

Ryfri.no | Ryfylke Outdoor Council

Folkehjelp.no | Local Norwegian’s People Aid

Yr.no | Norwegian Weather Forecasts

Varsom.no | Natural Dangers Warnings

SVR.no | Setesdal Vesthei-Ryfylkeheiane-Frafjordheiane Protected Areas

Villrein.no | Reindeer Information

Njff.no | Local Hunting and Fishing Association

fiskeravgift.miljodirektoratet.no | Nasjonal Fishing Fee

Miljodirektoratet.no | Norwegian Environment Agency

Kulturminnesok.no | Portal for Norwegian Cultural Heritage