Rogaland is a spectacular region for outdoor lovers, offering a mix of breathtaking fjord vistas, towering cliffs, and pristine nature. Unlike many destinations where crowds spoil the view, Rogaland’s tours often focus on authentic, crowd-free experiences—like the Preikestolen Hidden Trail Hike + Canoe + Lunch which promises a peaceful trek with stunning views, away from the busy crowds. We love how this tour combines both a relaxing canoe ride and a quiet trail to what is arguably Norway’s most famous cliff, Preikestolen.
If you’re after adrenaline and scenic drives, the Kjerag Hike with Guide and Transportation offers a challenging trek to stand on the famous Kjerag boulder while taking in the wild beauty of the Lysefjorden. For water-based fun, the Guided Fjordtour Kayak from Jørpeland provides a calm paddling experience near Preikestolen islets, perfect for beginners or those wanting a peaceful paddle.
For those seeking less strenuous activities but still want grand views, the Pulpit Rock Off the Beaten Path offers a different perspective of this iconic site, appealing to experienced hikers looking for a fresh angle. And if a shorter, family-friendly trip is your preference, the Månafossen Waterfall Guided Tour allows you to enjoy Norway’s natural beauty without a full-day commitment.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, what makes them special, and tips to help you choose your perfect Rogaland adventure. Whether you’re after a tough climb, a peaceful paddle, or a scenic drive, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
1. Stavanger: Preikestolen Hidden Trail Hike + Canoe + Lunch
This uniquely curated tour is the best daytime hike to Preikestolen you can find—and it’s not even close. For around $273, you get a 9-hour adventure that includes a relaxing canoe ride to start your day, followed by a hidden trail to the famous cliff that avoids most travelers. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on crowd avoidance; even in summer, the trail remains quiet, providing a more intimate connection with nature.
The tour’s guides are highly experienced, ensuring safety and sharing fascinating insights about the landscape and local culture. A big feature is the full-day experience: you’re picked up from a choice of 12 locations, paddle across a peaceful fjord, then hike to a vista that’s often less crowded than the main trail. The included packed lunch is perfect for refueling, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
Guests praise the professionalism of the guides—”The hidden trail was as promised a hidden trail—and very safe,” says one. The canoeing adds a tranquil start, and the personalized experience means no minimum hikers, so even small groups can join without concern.
Bottom Line: If you want a peaceful, well-organized way to see Preikestolen with fewer people and enjoy canoeing, this tour offers great value and memorable views.
2. Stavanger: Kjerag Hike with Guide and Transportation
This full-day adventure (11 hours) takes you on a challenging hike to Kjerag, renowned for the famous Kjeragbolten boulder wedged between two cliffs. For $182, your guide will transport you through scenic mountain roads and a massive glacial trough, making the journey as spectacular as the destination.
The highlight? Standing on the edge of nearly 1000 meters above Lysefjorden, peering down at the deep blue water below. The hike itself lasts about 5.5 hours, and guides are expert in keeping everyone safe while sharing insights about the area’s flora and geology. The drive to the trailhead is part of the experience, offering stunning views of the fjord landscape.
Guests consistently note the difficulty but agree the stunning views make it worthwhile. “Sean was an excellent guide—knowledgeable and encouraging,” is a typical comment. This tour is ideal for fit hikers looking for a serious challenge and those who want a more authentic, less touristy experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re physically prepared and crave a thrilling hike with jaw-dropping scenery, the Kjerag tour is a top pick for an unforgettable day.
3. Jørpeland: Guided fjordtour kayak
For a more relaxed pace, the Guided fjordtour kayak offers a 2.5-hour paddle around the islets near Jørpeland, just 10 minutes from Preikestolen. The calm waters make it perfect for beginners or those wanting a peaceful, close-to-nature experience.
The tour features safe double kayaks and a guide who will help you navigate the fjord’s calm waters, sharing stories about the local wildlife and geography. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the tranquility of Norway’s coastline without strenuous activity or technical skill.
Guests appreciate the friendly guides and the chance to see the fjord from a different perspective. It’s a scenic and calming option for families or travelers short on time but eager to connect with nature.
Bottom Line: If paddling sounds appealing and you prefer a gentle, scenic experience, this kayak tour is a solid choice.
$93 per person
4. Stavanger: Pulpit rock off the beaten path
This tour is for experienced hikers seeking a fresh view of Norway’s iconic Pulpit Rock. The Pulpit Rock off the beaten path takes you to less-traveled routes and offers unique vantage points of Lysefjorden.
Expect a 7-hour hike through rugged terrain, with guides leading you to viewpoints that most travelers never see. The tour emphasizes adventure and exploration beyond the standard trail, making it ideal for those already familiar with the area or those wanting to add a touch of challenge to their visit.
While it’s suited for experienced hikers, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking vistas and a sense of discovery. The tour’s reviews mention “The views from above were unlike anything I’ve seen on the main trail,” emphasizing its exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for seasoned hikers wanting a more secluded and adventurous perspective on Pulpit Rock.
5. Stavanger: Hiking to world-famous Pulpit Rock
This 6.5-hour guided hike is a great choice for those who want a classic experience with added safety. For around the same price as other hikes, this tour includes two pickup locations and a full guided experience to Norway’s top photo spot.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the route covers 4 hours of hiking with stops for photos and rest. The highlight, of course, is reaching the precarious perch of Pulpit Rock with its spectacular views over Lysefjorden. The tour also includes a short detour along the fjord, providing additional scenery.
One guest notes, “Our guide Tore was the best—friendly and very informative,” reflecting the personalized approach. This tour suits travelers who want a full but manageable day with a dependable guide and the iconic photo opportunity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers and those looking for a well-organized, classic Norwegian hike with professional guidance.
6. Stavanger: Månafossen Waterfall Guided Tour with Transport
For nature lovers seeking a shorter outing, the Månafossen Waterfall Guided Tour offers a 3-hour trip from Stavanger. The highlight is the spectacular Månafossen waterfall, one of Norway’s tallest cascades, flowing over dramatic rocks.
The tour includes round-trip transportation and a guided hike through the Frafjordheiane landscape. The trail provides beautiful views of the river Frafjordelva and the surrounding natural scenery—perfect for photography or just soaking in the landscape. The experience is suitable for all fitness levels, making it accessible for families or those with limited time.
Guests enjoy the local guide’s knowledge and the opportunity to combine a scenic drive with a manageable hike. One reviewer said, “The waterfall was breathtaking, and the guide shared interesting facts about the landscape,” making this a reliable, enjoyable choice.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a shorter, scenic outing with minimal fuss but maximum natural beauty, this waterfall tour delivers.
How to Choose Your Rogaland Tour
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For a peaceful, scenic experience, the Preikestolen Hidden Trail Hike + Canoe + Lunch offers a unique twist. If you’re seeking a physical challenge, the Kjerag Hike is unmatched for its rugged terrain and breathtaking views.
For gentle water adventures, the kayak trip near Jørpeland is perfect, while seasoned hikers will appreciate the Pulpit Rock off the Beaten Path. The shorter Månafossen Waterfall tour is ideal if time is limited but you still want a memorable natural highlight.
Always consider your physical fitness, budget, and interest in specific landscapes or activities. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Rogaland offers a spectrum of outdoor tours catering to different tastes—from tranquil paddling and scenic drives to challenging hikes and waterfalls. For a less crowded experience, the hidden trail hike and Kjerag trek are excellent choices. For a relaxing day with stunning scenery, kayaking or the waterfall tour will suit you nicely. No matter your choice, these tours allow you to truly connect with Norway’s rugged beauty and leave with unforgettable memories.