Lysefjord—meaning “Light Fjord” in Old Norse—lives up to its name with crystal-clear waters reflecting bright sunlight against mighty granite cliffs. Carved by massive glaciers during the last Ice Age approximately 10,000 years ago, this 42-kilometer fjord has become one of Norway’s most famous destinations, thanks to two iconic hiking landmarks: the flat-topped Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) and the gravity-defying Kjeragbolten boulder. With a maximum depth of 422 meters and sheer cliffs rising over 1,000 meters above the water, Lysefjord delivers some of the most dramatic scenery in all of Scandinavia.
According to Visit Norway, mountains soar over 1,000 meters above sea level along extensive stretches of the fjord, creating one of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes. In 2024, Stavanger—the gateway city to Lysefjord—welcomed 590,241 cruise passengers, ranking as Norway’s third busiest cruise port after Alesund and Bergen. This surge in visitors reflects Lysefjord’s growing international reputation as a must-visit destination for adventure travelers.
Lysefjord at a Glance
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Length | 42 km (26 miles) |
| Maximum depth | 422 m (1,384 ft) |
| Cliff heights | Up to 1,000+ meters |
| Famous landmarks | Preikestolen (604m), Kjeragbolten (984m) |
| Access city | Stavanger (1 hour) |
| Cruise passengers to Stavanger (2024) | 590,241 |
| Best season | May-September |
Top Hiking Destinations
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
According to Visit Norway, Preikestolen towers 604 meters above Lysefjord and is one of Norway’s most famous mountain hikes, attracting more than 300,000 nature-loving hikers every year. The flat-topped cliff formation—measuring approximately 25 by 25 meters—offers an unobstructed view straight down to the fjord waters below, creating one of the most photographed viewpoints in Scandinavia.
Hike specifications:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 8 km round-trip |
| Elevation gain | 500 meters |
| Duration | 4 hours total |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Season | Year-round (guided in winter) |
| Trailhead | Preikestolen Fjellstue |
What to expect: From the starting point at Preikestolen Fjellstue mountain lodge, the well-marked trail winds through patched forests and rocky terrain, providing staggering vistas along the way. The first kilometer passes through woodland with boardwalks over marshy sections. The terrain then transitions to exposed rock with some steep sections requiring careful footing. Stone steps have been installed in the most challenging areas to aid hikers. The final approach to the cliff offers increasingly dramatic views as you near the famous plateau.
Trail breakdown:
| Section | Distance | Terrain | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forest section | 0-1.5 km | Boardwalks, roots | Woodland scenery |
| First viewpoint | 1.5-2.5 km | Rocky ascent | Initial fjord views |
| Lake passage | 2.5-3 km | Level ground | Tjodanpollen lake |
| Final ascent | 3-4 km | Steep rock | Approaching cliff |
| Preikestolen | 4 km | Flat plateau | The famous view |
When to hike:
- Peak season (June-August): Best weather, longest days (up to 19 hours of daylight), but most crowded—expect 300-500 hikers on busy days
- Shoulder season (May, September-October): Fewer crowds, good conditions, fall colors in September
- Winter (November-April): Requires special equipment (crampons, poles) and guide; magical snowy scenery with potential for solitude
Preikestolen photography tips:
The iconic shot of Preikestolen requires patience and timing. For the classic view from the cliff edge:
- Arrive before 8 AM or after 6 PM to avoid crowds
- Morning light illuminates the eastern fjord wall
- Evening golden hour creates dramatic shadows
- Bring a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for cliff-edge shots
- A telephoto lens (70-200mm) captures hikers for scale
For photographing the cliff from below:
- Join a fjord cruise for the water-level perspective
- The 3-hour Lysefjord cruise positions you directly beneath Preikestolen
- Midday sun illuminates the cliff face best
Kjeragbolten (The Kjerag Boulder)
According to Lysefjorden.com, Kjeragbolten is a boulder wedged in a deep mountain gorge 1,032 meters above sea level. Standing on the famous rock—suspended between two cliff faces with nothing but air below—is one of Norway’s most iconic photo opportunities and a bucket-list experience for adventurous travelers worldwide.
The boulder itself is estimated to weigh approximately 5 cubic meters and became wedged in the crevice during the last Ice Age when glaciers retreated from the area. Despite appearing precarious, the boulder has remained stable for thousands of years.
Hike specifications:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 11 km round-trip |
| Elevation gain | 570 meters |
| Duration | 5-6 hours total |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Season | June-September |
| Trailhead | Oygardsstol parking |
Trail characteristics:
- Three steep ascents with chains for assistance
- Rocky, uneven terrain throughout the entire trail
- Requires good physical condition and hiking experience
- Not suitable for those afraid of heights or vertigo-prone individuals
- Weather-dependent (do not attempt in rain, fog, or high winds)
- The final approach to the boulder requires careful navigation
Kjeragbolten photo tips:
- Arrive early (before 9 AM) to avoid queues for the boulder—waits can exceed 30 minutes in peak season
- Wait your turn patiently (everyone wants the photo)
- Have someone ready to take multiple shots from different angles
- Check weather forecast carefully before committing to the hike
- The boulder is slippery when wet—never attempt in rain
- Consider bringing a selfie stick or asking fellow hikers for assistance
Florlitrappene (The Florli Stairs)
According to Lysefjorden.com, midway along Lysefjord lies Florli, a small roadless village famous for the world’s longest wooden stairway—4,444 steps climbing 740 meters above the fjord.
Stairway details:
- Steps: 4,444 (yes, really!)
- Height gain: 740 meters
- Duration: Less than 2 hours up, 1-1.5 hours down
- Access: Ferry to Florli village from Lauvvik or Lysebotn
- Difficulty: Physically demanding but technically easy
History: The stairs were built between 1915 and 1917 to service a historic hydroelectric power station that supplied power to surrounding communities. The power station has been decommissioned and converted into unique accommodation where visitors can stay overnight. The climb is steep but straightforward—the challenge is the relentless upward march rather than technical difficulty. However, the rewards at the top include spectacular panoramic views of Lysefjord and the surrounding mountain landscape.
Florli practical information:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ferry from Lauvvik | 30 minutes |
| Ferry from Lysebotn | 45 minutes |
| Accommodation | Old power station, cabins |
| Facilities | Basic shop, cafe (seasonal) |
| Best time | June-September |
Fjord Cruises and Water Activities
Lysefjord Cruises
According to Fjord Norway, the captivating beauty of Lysefjord up-close is best experienced from the water. Cruises offer the chance to see Preikestolen from below—a perspective that reveals just how dramatic the 604-meter drop really is. From the water, the cliff appears to hang impossibly over the fjord, and you can often spot hikers as tiny dots on the plateau above.
What you’ll see on a cruise:
- Preikestolen viewed from the fjord—the classic view from below
- Hengjanefossen waterfall plunging directly into the fjord
- Towering 1,000-meter granite cliffs on both sides
- Florli village and the visible zigzag of the famous stairs
- Other roadless villages accessible only by boat
- Wildlife including seals basking on rocks and white-tailed eagles soaring above
Cruise options from Stavanger:
| Type | Duration | Departure | Price (NOK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard fjord cruise | 3 hours | Stavanger harbor | 500-700 |
| Extended cruise | 5 hours | Stavanger | 800-1,000 |
| RIB boat adventure | 2-3 hours | Stavanger/Lysebotn | 900-1,500 |
| Sunset cruise | 4 hours | Stavanger | 700-900 |
| Private charter | Flexible | Various | 5,000+ |
Cruise comparison: What to expect
Standard 3-hour cruise: The most popular option departs from Stavanger’s harbor and takes you into the heart of Lysefjord. You’ll pass beneath Preikestolen, approach Hengjanefossen waterfall close enough to feel the spray, and turn around near Florli before returning. Comfortable seating inside with outdoor deck viewing. Cafe onboard serves drinks and light snacks.
RIB boat safari: For adrenaline seekers, rigid inflatable boats offer high-speed thrills combined with the ability to approach waterfalls, cliffs, and wildlife much closer than large cruise vessels. Expect to get wet from spray. Operators provide survival suits. Small group sizes (typically 8-12 passengers) create a more intimate experience.
Electric vessel cruises: Norway leads the world in sustainable maritime tourism. The Fjords operates electric and hybrid vessels on several routes, offering silent cruising that enhances wildlife viewing and creates a more peaceful experience. Look for “electric” or “hybrid” designations when booking for the eco-conscious option.
Kayaking
Kayaking offers the most intimate Lysefjord experience—paddling beneath towering cliffs, approaching waterfalls, and exploring hidden corners inaccessible by larger vessels. The protected fjord waters are generally calm, making kayaking suitable for beginners with proper guidance.
Kayaking options:
| Type | Duration | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guided half-day | 3-4 hours | Beginner | Waterfall approach, basic instruction |
| Full-day expedition | 6-8 hours | Intermediate | Deep fjord exploration, lunch included |
| Multi-day camping | 2-3 days | Experienced | Complete fjord traverse, wild camping |
| Rental (self-guided) | Flexible | Experienced only | Maximum freedom |
Tours depart from Forsand or can be combined with hiking for a multi-activity day. The calm, deep waters of the inner fjord provide excellent conditions, though beginners should always join guided tours for safety.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
SUP rentals and guided paddle experiences are available in Lysebotn at the fjord’s eastern end, allowing peaceful exploration of the calm fjord waters with mountain reflections. The protected location at the fjord’s head offers the calmest conditions, ideal for beginners. Morning sessions before wind picks up provide mirror-smooth water for photography.
Book Fjord CruiseGetting to Lysefjord
From Stavanger
Lysefjord is approximately one hour’s drive from Stavanger, making it highly accessible for day trips.
Transportation options:
1. Preikestolen Express Bus (recommended for hikers) According to Go Fjords, the Preikestolen Express bus runs from Stavanger city center to the trailhead in about an hour, with multiple daily departures during hiking season. This is the most convenient option for solo travelers or those without a car.
- Departure: Stavanger city center (Vagen)
- Duration: 50-60 minutes
- Frequency: Multiple daily departures (June-September)
- Price: Approximately 450-550 NOK round-trip
- Booking: Advance booking recommended, especially July-August
2. Express Bus to Kjeragbolten Go Fjords also operates an express bus to Oygardsstol for Kjeragbolten hikers, following the scenic Lysefjord Road.
- Departure: Stavanger city center
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours (scenic route)
- Includes: Ferry crossing
- Price: Approximately 600-700 NOK round-trip
3. Ferry
- Stavanger to Tau: ~40 minutes, frequent departures
- From Tau: Drive to Preikestolen trailhead (25 minutes)
- Tourist ferry services the whole length of Lysefjord
- Car ferries allow you to bring your vehicle for maximum flexibility
4. Rental Car Maximum flexibility for exploring multiple sites. Parking available at all trailheads (fee applies, typically 250-350 NOK per day). The drive along Lysefjord Road (County Road 500) from Oanes to Lysebotn is one of Norway’s most scenic routes, featuring 27 hairpin turns descending to the fjord.
5. Organized Tour Many tour operators offer combined transportation, guided hike, and sometimes fjord cruise—an excellent option for solo travelers or those preferring hassle-free logistics.
| Tour type | Includes | Duration | Price (NOK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preikestolen guided hike | Bus + guide | 8-10 hours | 800-1,200 |
| Kjeragbolten guided hike | Bus + guide | 10-12 hours | 1,000-1,500 |
| Cruise + Preikestolen | Boat + bus + guide | Full day | 1,500-2,000 |
| Complete Lysefjord | All highlights | 2 days | 3,000-4,000 |
From Oslo
- Drive: Approximately 8 hours via E18/E39, scenic route through southern Norway
- Fly: Direct flights to Stavanger Sola Airport (1 hour), then local transport—most convenient option
- Train + Bus: Train to Stavanger (8 hours via Kristiansand), then express bus—scenic but time-consuming
From Bergen
- Drive: Approximately 5 hours via E39, includes ferry crossings
- Bus: Direct bus service, approximately 5-6 hours
- Fly: Short flight (30 minutes) to Stavanger, then local transport
Where to Stay
Near the Trails
Preikestolen Basecamp According to Lysefjorden.com, Preikestolen Basecamp offers multiple accommodation styles at the trailhead, making it ideal for early-morning hiking starts:
- Mountain Lodge: Hotel-standard rooms with private facilities
- Preikestolhytta: Rustic cabin charm with shared facilities
- Hikers’ Camp: Glamping tents with beds and heating
- WaterCamp: Lakeside floating cabins—unique experience
- Camping: Traditional tent and caravan sites
Goysa Gard A small Norwegian farm with panorama views over Lysefjord, close to Preikestolen, Kjerag, and Florli. Accommodates 25 persons in 5 comfortable apartments with kitchen facilities. Perfect for families or groups wanting authentic Norwegian farm atmosphere.
Lysebotn Tourist Lodge Located at the inner end of Lysefjord in tiny Lysebotn village:
- Starting point for Kjeragbolten hike
- Simple but comfortable rooms
- Restaurant serving local cuisine
- Access to SUP rentals and kayaking
In Stavanger
Most visitors stay in Stavanger and day-trip to Lysefjord. The city offers:
- Full range of hotels from budget to luxury (approximately 800-3,000 NOK per night)
- Excellent restaurants and nightlife in the old town
- Easy access to express buses and ferry terminals
- Additional attractions including the Norwegian Petroleum Museum
- Historic old town (Gamle Stavanger) with white wooden houses
Recommended Stavanger Hotels by Budget:
| Budget Level | Hotel Options | Price Range (NOK) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Mosvangen Youth Hostel, Stavanger B&B | 600-900 |
| Mid-range | Skagen Brygge Hotel, Clarion Hotel | 1,000-1,800 |
| Upscale | Radisson Blu Atlantic, Victoria Hotel | 1,800-2,500 |
| Luxury | Scandic Stavanger City | 2,500-3,500 |
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August)
Best for: Full access to all hiking trails and maximum daylight
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit) |
| Daylight | Up to 19 hours |
| Crowds | Highest—expect 300-500 hikers daily at Preikestolen |
| Trail access | All trails open and accessible |
| Activities | Full range available including water activities |
| Cruise frequency | Maximum departures |
Shoulder Season (May, September-October)
Best for: Fewer crowds, good hiking conditions, better photography light
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 8-15 degrees Celsius (46-59 degrees Fahrenheit) |
| Daylight | 12-16 hours |
| Crowds | Moderate to low |
| Trail access | Most trails open (Kjeragbolten may close late October) |
| Special | Fall colors in September, dramatic lighting for photography |
Winter (November-April)
Best for: Unique snowy scenery, northern lights potential, solitude
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | -5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23-41 degrees Fahrenheit) |
| Daylight | 6-8 hours |
| Crowds | Minimal |
| Trail access | Guided tours only for Preikestolen (special equipment required) |
| Special | Snow-capped mountains, frozen waterfalls, aurora borealis potential |
What to Bring
Essential Hiking Gear
Footwear and Clothing:
- Hiking boots: Comfortable, durable, with good ankle support and grippy soles—essential for rocky terrain
- Layers: Weather changes quickly in the fjords; dress in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and weatherproof outer shell
- Rain jacket: Essential even on sunny days—mountain weather is unpredictable
- Gloves and hat: Temperatures drop significantly at altitude, even in summer
- Extra socks: Wet feet cause blisters; bring a spare pair
Sun Protection:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)—reflection off rock and water intensifies UV exposure
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Hat or cap for sun protection
Nutrition and Hydration:
- Plenty of water: At least 1.5 liters per person for Preikestolen, 2+ liters for Kjeragbolten
- Snacks and lunch: Limited/no facilities on trails
- Energy bars, fruit, sandwiches
Equipment:
- Phone/camera: Fully charged with backup battery
- Small first-aid kit
- Trekking poles (optional but helpful, especially for Kjeragbolten)
- Headlamp (essential for early starts or late finishes)
- Map or downloaded trail app (signal is limited in some areas)
For Fjord Cruises
- Warm layers (cooler on the water than on shore, even in summer)
- Windproof jacket (deck viewing can be cold)
- Camera with zoom lens for wildlife and distant waterfalls
- Binoculars for wildlife and cliff-face details
- Motion sickness medication if prone (fjords are generally calm but some passengers affected)
- Snacks (cafe options limited on some vessels)
Safety Tips
Hiking Safety
- Check weather: Do not hike in rain, fog, or high winds—wet rock becomes extremely slippery
- Start early: Avoid afternoon crowds and weather changes; aim to begin by 8 AM
- Stay on marked trails: Terrain is dangerous off-trail with hidden crevices and unstable ground
- Proper footwear: Rocky terrain gets slippery; sneakers and sandals are inappropriate
- Know your limits: Kjeragbolten is genuinely challenging; turn back if necessary
- Tell someone: Share your hiking plans with accommodation staff or family
- Emergency number: 113 (Norway emergency services)
- Download offline maps: Cell signal is unreliable in fjord areas
Kjeragbolten Specific
- Do not step onto the boulder in wet or icy conditions—the rock becomes dangerously slippery
- Wait your turn patiently—rushing creates danger for everyone
- Keep children and pets under control near cliff edges
- Turn back if weather deteriorates during the hike
- The boulder photo is not mandatory—assess your comfort level honestly
- Several accidents have occurred from falls; take this hike seriously
Fjord Cruise Safety
- Listen to crew safety briefings
- Stay behind designated safety barriers
- Supervise children on deck at all times
- Secure loose items (hats, cameras) in windy conditions
- Be aware of cold water temperatures if considering swimming activities
Lysefjord Wildlife
Keep eyes open for wildlife throughout your Lysefjord visit:
Marine Life:
- Seals: Often seen basking on rocks, especially in the middle sections of the fjord
- Fish: Salmon and trout in the clear waters; fishing is permitted with license
Birds:
- White-tailed sea eagles: Norway’s largest bird of prey, regularly patrol the cliffs—look for their distinctive white tail and massive wingspan (up to 2.4 meters)
- Seabirds: Cormorants, guillemots, and various gulls nest on cliff faces
- Smaller birds: Dippers, wagtails, and various woodland species along hiking trails
Land Animals:
- Mountain goats: Sometimes visible on impossibly steep cliff faces
- Deer: Occasionally spotted from cruise boats near wooded shoreline areas
- Sheep: Free-roaming in some areas during summer grazing season
Combining Lysefjord with Other Destinations
Multi-Day Itinerary
| Day | Activity | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Stavanger, explore Old Town (Gamle Stavanger) | Stavanger |
| 2 | Preikestolen hike (full day) | Stavanger or Preikestolen Basecamp |
| 3 | Lysefjord cruise + Florli stairs or kayaking | Stavanger or Lysebotn |
| 4 | Kjeragbolten hike (challenging, full day) | Stavanger or Lysebotn |
| 5 | Depart or continue to Bergen/Oslo | — |
Nearby Attractions
In Stavanger:
- Stavanger Old Town (Gamle Stavanger): Northern Europe’s largest collection of wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries
- Norwegian Petroleum Museum: Interactive exhibits on oil industry history
- Swords in Rock (Sverd i fjell): Impressive Viking monument commemorating the Battle of Hafrsfjord
- Stavanger Cathedral: Norway’s oldest cathedral, dating from approximately 1125
Beyond Stavanger:
- Jaeren beaches: Sandy coastline south of Stavanger, popular for surfing and coastal walks
- Dalsnuten hike: Easy mountain hike with panoramic views of the Stavanger region
- Flor og Fjaere: Tropical garden island accessible by boat from Stavanger
Regional Fjord Comparison
| Fjord | Distance from Stavanger | Key Feature | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lysefjord | 1 hour | Preikestolen, Kjeragbolten | Moderate-Challenging |
| Hardangerfjord | 3 hours | Trolltunga, fruit orchards | Challenging (Trolltunga) |
| Sognefjord | 5 hours | Norway’s longest, Naeroyfjord | Easy (cruises) |
Practical Information
Costs (2025 estimates)
| Item | Price (NOK) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Preikestolen parking | 150-250 | 15-25 |
| Kjeragbolten parking | 150-250 | 15-25 |
| Preikestolen Express bus | 450-550 round-trip | 45-55 |
| Standard Lysefjord cruise | 500-700 | 50-70 |
| RIB boat safari | 900-1,500 | 90-150 |
| Guided Preikestolen hike | 800-1,200 | 80-120 |
| Guided Kjeragbolten hike | 1,000-1,500 | 100-150 |
| Kayak half-day tour | 700-1,000 | 70-100 |
| Accommodation (budget) | 600-900/night | 60-90 |
| Accommodation (mid-range) | 1,200-2,000/night | 120-200 |
Facilities
At Preikestolen trailhead (Preikestolen Fjellstue):
- Parking (paid, approximately 250 NOK)
- Toilets (clean, modern facilities)
- Cafe/restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation options (lodge, cabins, camping)
- Outdoor gear shop for last-minute equipment
- Luggage storage
At Oygardsstol (Kjeragbolten trailhead):
- Parking (paid, approximately 250 NOK)
- Basic toilets
- Small cafe (seasonal, typically June-September)
- No gear shop—come fully prepared
In Lysebotn village:
- Small shop with basic supplies
- Restaurant at tourist lodge
- Limited facilities—stock up in Stavanger
Currency and Payments
Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK). Credit and debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere, including most parking facilities and small cafes. Some visitors complete their entire trip without using cash. However, carrying a small amount of NOK (500-1,000) provides backup for any card-only locations or emergencies.
Find Lysefjord AdventuresCruise Comparison: Lysefjord vs Other Norwegian Fjords
For travelers choosing between Norwegian fjord destinations, here’s how Lysefjord compares:
| Feature | Lysefjord | Geirangerfjord | Naeroyfjord |
|---|---|---|---|
| UNESCO Status | No | Yes (2005) | Yes (2005) |
| Length | 42 km | 15 km | 17 km |
| Maximum Depth | 422 m | 260 m | 500 m |
| Famous Landmark | Preikestolen (604m) | Seven Sisters waterfall | Narrowest point (250m) |
| Access City | Stavanger | Alesund/Geiranger | Bergen/Flam |
| Cruise Duration | 3 hours | 1-1.5 hours | 2 hours |
| Best For | Hiking, adventure | Photography, waterfalls | UNESCO experience |
| Crowds | Moderate | High | Moderate-High |
Final Thoughts
Lysefjord offers some of Norway’s most accessible yet dramatic experiences. Whether you’re standing on Preikestolen’s edge 604 meters above the crystal-clear water, stepping onto the suspended Kjeragbolten boulder, climbing the 4,444 Florli stairs, or cruising beneath towering granite cliffs that rise over 1,000 meters from the deep blue fjord, this “Light Fjord” delivers unforgettable memories that rank among Norway’s finest natural experiences.
Its proximity to Stavanger makes it perfect for travelers with limited time—you can fly into Stavanger Airport and be hiking to Preikestolen within two hours. Meanwhile, its range of activities satisfies everyone from casual cruisers enjoying the scenery from comfortable deck chairs to serious adventurers tackling the challenging Kjeragbolten trail.
With 590,241 cruise passengers visiting Stavanger in 2024, Lysefjord’s popularity continues to grow. Book accommodations and guided tours in advance during peak summer months, consider shoulder season visits for fewer crowds and dramatic lighting, and whatever you do, don’t forget those hiking boots.
God tur! (Have a good trip!)
For official information, visit Visit Norway Lysefjord Guide and Lysefjorden.com. Cruise statistics from 2024 Cruise Norway data.