Oslo might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of outdoor adventures, but it’s surprisingly well-suited for hiking and trekking. Wide-open forests, scenic fjord vistas, and peaceful islands mean you can escape the urban buzz without venturing far. We particularly love the Best View of the Oslofjord Hike — it’s a relaxed walk that rewards you with one of the most stunning panoramas of Norway’s capital. Whether you’re after a gentle walk or a more rugged trek, Oslo offers options that suit different tastes and fitness levels.
If you’re visiting Oslo, you’ll find that the city’s proximity to natural landscapes makes outdoor exploration easy and rewarding. Plus, many tours include charming local touches, like enjoying waffles on the island or sharing hot drinks in cozy cabins, adding a warm, inviting feel to your adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of tours: from easy scenic hikes with spectacular views (Best View of the Oslofjord Hike) to intimate forest walks with a friendly dog (Oslo: Scenic Forest Hike with Dog & Local Guide), as well as wildlife spotting trips (Wildlife Forest Hike) and island adventures (Malmøya Island Guided Hike). For those seeking a more energetic climb, there’s also a Vettakollen summit hike (Oslo Summit).
1. Best View of the Oslofjord Hike
At number 1, the Best View of the Oslofjord Hike is a standout for its combination of accessibility and breathtaking scenery. For about $127, you’ll enjoy a 3.5-hour guided walk that starts with a scenic train ride to Frognerseteren, followed by an easy hike to Vettakollen Mountain. From this vantage point, you’ll see Oslo, the fjord, and its small islands all at once. The route covers roughly 3.3 miles over gentle slopes, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
What makes this tour special is the combination of transport, nature, and panoramic views. The guide makes navigation straightforward, ensuring you focus on the scenery rather than map-reading. The hike passes through lush forests and small lakes, with a cozy cabin stop at DNT Fuglemyrhytta where you can relax and take in the natural beauty. Reviewers praise the stunning vistas and friendly guide, with one noting, “Miles was our very well experienced and seasoned guide with a view of Oslo.” This tour is perfect for anyone wanting a relaxed but memorable outdoor experience with some of Oslo’s best views.
Bottom Line: If you want a manageable, scenic hike with incredible city and fjord vistas, this is the top pick.
2. Oslo: Scenic Forest Hike with Dog & Local Guide
Second on our list is a more intimate, relaxed experience that combines nature and companionship. This 2.5-hour hike takes you through peaceful forests, past lakes, and up to spectacular viewpoints, all with a friendly dog named Nero leading the way. The tour typically starts from Kolbotn, with the walk including a traditional village visit and a picnic with local snacks and hot drinks.
What sets this tour apart is its small group size, which offers a personalized feel, and the chance to interact with the guide and Nero. Many reviews highlight how much participants enjoy the relaxed pace and personal connection — one wrote, “Nero the dog is a great companion and lots of fun.” The route includes scenic views and the possibility to swim in the lake if you’re brave enough, making it ideal for outdoor lovers who enjoy some playful moments along the way.
Considering its affordability and cozy vibe, this tour suits those who want a low-pressure, authentic experience with local flavor. It’s especially good for travelers looking for a gentle walk with plenty of charm and a friendly atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for dog lovers and those seeking a peaceful, social hike in Oslo’s countryside.
3. Wildlife Forest Hike
For those interested in wildlife and unspoiled nature, the Wildlife Forest Hike is an excellent choice. This 6-hour tour costs around $65 and explores the forests of Nordmarka, just north of Oslo. The focus here is on spotting animals like foxes, deer, and moose, as well as discovering wild strawberries, herbs, and rare plants.
Led by an experienced guide, you’ll traverse trails that balance moderate difficulty with rewarding scenery. The main highlight is the chance to see wild animals in their natural habitat — though, of course, nature doesn’t guarantee sightings, so patience and a good camera are essential. The tour also visits a traditional forest cabin where you can purchase refreshments, adding a cultural touch to the experience.
This tour is best suited for hikers with some fitness, as the terrain can be challenging at times. Reviewers describe it as a “climb under the shade of trees” with great opportunities for photos. If you love exploring forests and want to learn about Norway’s flora and fauna, this full-day adventure offers excellent value.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers comfortable with longer, moderate terrain.
4. Oslo: Malmøya Island Guided Hike with Waffle and Drink
Number 4 brings you to Malmøya Island, a peaceful escape just a boat ride from Oslo. This 3-hour guided hike combines natural beauty with delightful local treats: enjoy a waffle and warm drink at the iconic Skinnerbaken. Your journey begins with a short bus/coach ride, followed by exploring beaches, lush forests, and waterfronts, all with spectacular views of the Oslofjord and nearby islands.
The tour emphasizes relaxed sightseeing and discovering hidden corners of the island. The guide shares insights about the island’s history and natural environment, making it both educational and scenic. Participants love the casual vibe, noting how the waffle break and drinks add a cozy touch to the walk. One reviewer said, “The island is very beautiful, the guide is very friendly and knowledgeable,” making it a fun, low-key experience.
This trip is perfect for travelers wanting a gentle walk with scenic vistas and a taste of local life. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy combining outdoor activity with relaxing stops and good company.
Bottom Line: A charming, laid-back outing ideal for island lovers and those wanting a taste of Oslo’s coastal beauty.
5. Oslo: Forest Hike with Guide & Husky
Number 5 offers a unique twist—a hiking adventure led by a husky. For $142, this 2-hour tour combines the thrill of a forest walk with the company of a friendly sled dog. Starting from General Ruges vei 66, you’ll trek through quiet trails, enjoy a lake swim, and stop at a cozy cabin for cinnamon buns and hot drinks.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to connect with a husky while exploring Oslo’s peaceful forests. The guide ensures a safe, enjoyable experience, sharing stories about the local environment along the way. Reviewers note the “friendly husky” and the “scenic views,” making for a memorable outing with furry companionship.
This tour is perfect for dog lovers and those seeking an active, engaging forest walk. It’s more energetic than some other options, but still accessible for most fitness levels with a love for animals and nature.
Bottom Line: Great for families, animal lovers, or anyone wanting a lively, fun hike with a furry friend.
$142 per person
6. Oslo Summit: A Scenic Hiking Adventure to Vettakollen
Finally, the Oslo Summit offers a more intensive experience. For around $1,643, a group of up to 10 people can enjoy a 3-hour guided hike through Oslo’s Oslomarka forest to reach Vettakollen Viewpoint. Starting from Jernbanetorget station, the tour includes a scenic train ride to Frognerseteren, a guided walk through the forest, and the climb up to the summit for spectacular views of Oslo and the fjord.
This tour emphasizes the journey through Norway’s natural landscape, with a focus on immersion and tranquility. The guide offers insights into the local environment, making it suitable for those interested in a deeper connection with nature. The group size allows for a more personalized experience while still maintaining a social atmosphere.
While pricier, this tour is ideal for experienced hikers or those traveling with a group who want a comprehensive, scenic adventure. Review highlights include the “spectacular views” and quality of the guided experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for nature lovers wanting a meaningful, guided trek with a small group and plenty of photo opportunities.
$1,643 per group up to 10
How to Choose the Right Hiking Tour in Oslo
Choosing between these options depends largely on your budget, fitness level, and what you want to get out of the experience. If you’re after a classic panoramic view with minimal effort, the Best View of the Oslofjord Hike is hard to beat. For a more relaxed, personal outing, the Scenic Forest Hike with Dog & Guide offers intimacy and charm. Wildlife enthusiasts should consider the Wildlife Forest Hike, while island lovers will enjoy the Malmøya Island walk with waffles.
If you’re traveling with dogs or enjoy active, furry companions, the Husky Forest Hike is a fun choice. For those seeking a more comprehensive, in-depth trek, the Vettakollen summit tour provides an immersive experience, though at a higher price point.
Practical tips: Book early, especially for popular tours, and consider the weather when planning your hike. Most tours are suitable year-round, but always check current conditions and availability.
Final Thoughts
Oslo’s outdoor scene offers a range of hiking and trekking options for every interest and fitness level. Whether you want a quick scenic overlook, a wildlife adventure, or a peaceful island walk, there’s something to suit your style. We recommend pairing a shorter, scenic hike like the Best View of the Oslofjord with a longer, more immersive experience like the Vettakollen summit.
For families or animal lovers, the Husky Forest Hike or the Dog & Guide Walk are perfect. For those wanting to combine wildlife spotting with a bit of adventure, the Wildlife Forest Hike hits the mark. Whatever your preference, Oslo’s natural landscapes are ready to welcome you — so lace up your boots and start exploring. Don’t forget to book early, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons!