Sandnes is a fantastic base for exploring some of Norway’s most stunning natural sights. Unlike many tourist spots, Sandnes offers a range of active tours that immerse you in the landscape — whether you’re hiking up to panoramic views, cycling through scenic countryside, or cruising along fjords. We particularly like the Dalsnuten Private Hiking Tour, because it combines family-friendly hiking with incredible vistas of the fjord and nearby towns. Plus, the provided pick-up service takes the hassle out of transportation, making it easier for travelers to focus on the experience.
If you’re after a longer, more adventurous trip, the Lysefjorden: 4-Day Cycling Tour with Preikestolen Hike offers a comprehensive look at Norway’s natural beauty. And for those wanting a full-day guided experience, the Stavanger: Kjerag and Lysebotn Guided Tour provides a scenic journey with expert commentary. Each of these tours lets you see Norway from a different angle, whether by foot, bike, or boat.
1. Dalsnuten: Private Hiking Tour with Pick-up Service
This family-friendly hike takes you to the top of Dalsnuten, one of the most popular peaks overlooking Gandsfjorden in Sandnes. The tour includes a convenient pick-up service, which makes it ideal for travelers who prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing transport. Once on the trail, you’ll follow a wide hiking route passing Gramstadtjørn and through a small forest, offering a manageable walk for most fitness levels. During spring, you can admire the remains of the Revholen farm and the old orchard — a peaceful reminder of the area’s rural past. Along the way, simple shelters offer spots to rest and enjoy the views.
The stunning vistas of Stavanger, Sandnes, and the fjord make this hike worth every step. The route is accessible, well-marked, and offers a balance of nature and history. With a typical duration of around 3 hours, you can tailor your start time to your schedule. Rave reviews highlight the expert guidance and the convenience of the pickup service. Perfect for families or anyone looking for a scenic walk with a rewarding payoff.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those wanting a gentle, scenic hike with excellent views and minimal planning fuss.
2. Lysefjorden: 4-Day Cycling Tour with Preikestolen Hike
If you’re ready to cover ground and see Norway’s countryside in depth, this guided 4-day cycling tour is a standout. It includes ferry rides across Lysefjord from Lauvik to Oanes, giving you a different perspective on the landscape. The trip features stays in charming hotels and guesthouses, so you can relax in authentic settings and enjoy local hospitality. The highlight is a guided hike to Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, which is famous for its jaw-dropping cliff edge that plunges 270 feet into the fjord below.
This tour is designed for active travelers comfortable on a bicycle and eager to explore Norway over several days. The itinerary offers a mix of cycling, sightseeing, and hiking that captures the essence of the region. Expect to enjoy swimming in serene waters and soaking in panoramic views. It’s priced at $1,908 per person, reflecting the quality lodging, guided hikes, and ferry rides included. Reviews praise the tour for its well-organized schedule and stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for active travelers who want to combine cycling, hiking, and scenic ferry crossings over multiple days.
$1,908 per person
3. Stavanger: Kjerag and Lysebotn Guided Tour
For a full-day adventure, this guided tour takes you to Lysebotn and Kjeragbolten, two of Norway’s most iconic landmarks. Starting from Stavanger, the tour includes pickup and a comfortable coach journey lasting about 2.5 hours. Once there, you’ll spend around 2 hours exploring Lysebotn and marveling at the fjord from above. The highlight is hiking to the famous Kjeragbolten, a boulder wedged between two cliffs—an exhilarating experience for those with a good level of fitness. The tour is perfect for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free trip with informative commentary.
Rated at 4.2/5, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, history, and outdoor activity. The coach is small, accommodating only six people, ensuring a more personalized experience. The guides speak both English and Polish, and are well-versed in local lore, making the journey engaging as well as scenic. While the hike to Kjerag takes about 6 hours, the effort is rewarded with some of the most memorable views in Norway.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a guided, full-day adventure with high-quality scenery and expert insights.
$225 per person
4. Stavanger: Kjerag Guided Tour & Lysebotn Fjord Ferry Tour
For a comprehensive experience combining land and water, this 10-hour guided tour from Stavanger delivers. It includes a bus ride to Kjerag, where you’ll spend about 6 hours hiking and exploring the famous mountain. The guide, fluent in Norwegian, English, and Polish, shares stories about the mountain’s formation, Norwegian life, and local customs. After the hike, the group returns via ferry across the stunning Lysefjord, ending with spectacular views from the water.
The tour is priced at $283 per person, making it one of the more expensive options, but it includes transportation, guided commentary, and the ferry ride. The full-day format is perfect for serious outdoor enthusiasts or those wanting a deep dive into the region’s natural beauty. The ferry crossing adds a relaxed, scenic element, giving a different perspective of the fjord. Reviews mention the knowledgeable guides and the awe-inspiring scenery.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting a full immersion into Kjerag’s rugged landscape paired with a scenic ferry cruise.
$283 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the best tour in Sandnes, consider your fitness level, interest in outdoor activities, and time availability. For a light, scenic walk, the Dalsnuten hike offers a manageable adventure with rewarding views. If you’re looking for a multi-day active holiday, the Lysefjorden cycling tour provides a perfect mix of cycling, hiking, and relaxing in cozy accommodations. For those who prefer guided day trips, the Kjerag and Lysebotn Tour is ideal, especially if you want to focus on hiking and sightseeing without planning logistics.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular excursions like the Preikestolen hike or Kjerag tours, which fill up quickly during peak season. Think about your physical readiness: the longer hikes require good stamina, while shorter options suit families or casual walkers.
Final Thoughts
Sandnes offers a surprising variety of outdoor tours that showcase Norway’s dramatic landscapes. Whether you prefer a gentle hike with stunning views, a multi-day cycling adventure, or a guided day trip to iconic fjord landmarks, there’s a tour tailored for you. For travelers seeking a balanced mix of active exploration and comfort, the Dalsnuten hike is a great starting point. If you’re craving a more intensive, multi-day experience, the Lysefjorden cycling tour delivers.
Whatever your interest, booking your tour in advance ensures you don’t miss out on these unforgettable Norwegian adventures. The natural beauty of Rogaland is waiting — all you need to do is pick your perfect trip.