Folgefonna Glacier Hike

The Folgefonna glacier hike is a guided walk onto the Folgefonna icecap in Kvinnherad municipality, Vestland, Norway, starting from the Bondhus car park near Mauranger. Folgefonna is one of the largest glaciers in mainland Norway and sits within Folgefonna National Park, and the Bondhusbreen arm descends towards a lake in the valley below. Guided trips cover roughly 8 km over four to five hours, with an approach on foot along a valley path before the group puts on crampons and walks on blue ice, past crevasses and ice formations. The activity requires good fitness and comfort on uneven ground, since the approach and return are long and the ice walking is tiring. No prior glacier experience is needed on guided trips, but participants must be able to walk for several hours; age limits are set by the guiding company and are often around 10 to 12 years or older. Crampons, ice axe and harness are provided by the guide, while visitors wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots, warm layers, gloves, a hat and a windproof jacket, and carry food and water. Glacier guides give a briefing on walking in crampons and keeping to the marked route, and they use ropes and rescue equipment where needed. Glacier travel without a guide is dangerous because of hidden crevasses and changing ice conditions. The season runs from June to September, when snow has retreated from the approach and the ice is exposed; fog, heavy rain and strong wind are the conditions to avoid. Guided hikes cost roughly NOK 800-1,200. Visitors should confirm the guiding company, meeting point and equipment requirements when booking.