11 days, guided 115km circular trek with qualified International Mountain Leader
Jotunheimen National Park: Norway’s “Home of the Giants”
Gjende Lake, Besseggen Ridge, Glitterheim Valley
3 nights hotels, 7 nights mountain refuges
8 dinners and 7 picnic lunches included
All transfers: starts and ends at Oslo
The Jotunheimen National Park is a wilderness paradise in Norway, known for its towering peaks and dramatic landscapes. This trek takes you through a circular route, including highlights such as the iconic Besseggen Ridge, the emerald waters of Gjende Lake, and the serene Glitterheim Valley. The terrain is diverse, ranging from rocky trails to lush valleys, with opportunities to encounter reindeer and alpine flora. Nights are spent in cosy mountain huts, blending rustic charm with modern amenities. This challenging trek promises unparalleled natural beauty and a deep connection with Norway’s outdoor traditions.
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Walking Grade 5
Tough
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Local Cuisine
A mix of Norwegian and international meals
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Quality Accommodation
Comfortable hotels and good mountain huts
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Qualified Hiking Guides
Experienced International Mountain Leaders
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Small Group Sizes
Minimum 6 / Maximum 14 people
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Guaranteed Departures
All scheduled treks will run with our minimum group size
Guided trek in the wilds of the Jotunheimen National Park.
Meet at our hotel in Oslo
Upon reaching our hotel in central Oslo you will have the opportunity to settle in and explore the city. The hotel is easily accessed from the airport by the airport express train to Oslo S (Oslo Central Station) in 20 minutes. It is 5 minutes walk from the station to the hotel.
Arrival details:
Check-in time: From 3pm.
Exploration: Spend the afternoon exploring Oslo’s highlights such as the Opera House, Akershus Fortress, or the National Gallery.
Accommodation & Meals:
Hotel: Stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in central Oslo, close to key attractions and amenities.
Dinner not included: Dinner will be at a local restaurant.
Journey to Gjendesheim
Transportation: Morning departure from Oslo by public bus, heading towards Jotunheimen National Park.
Scenic Route: 4-hour journey, passing through Norway’s picturesque landscapes, including lush valleys, dense forests, and quaint villages.
Short afternoon hike: Arrive at Gjendesheim Mountain Hut, the starting point of the trek, located by the beautiful Gjende Lake. Short warm-up walk.
Accommodation & Meals:
Mountain Hut: Stay at Gjendesheim Mountain Hut, offering small rooms with shared facilities.
Meals Included: Dinner served in the hut’s communal dining area.
Ferry to Memurubu, Trek to Gjendebu
Trek Route:
Transportation: Begin the day with a scenic 30-minute ferry ride across the deep blue Gjende Lake to Memurubu Mountain Station.
Scenic Route: Climb up and over Sjugurtinden, crossing a high-altitude plateau and passing multiple alpine lakes with stunning views of the glaciated surroundings.
Descent: Steep descent down to the lakeside, followed by an often-wet singletrack trail leading to Gjendebu Mountain Station.
Highlight: The light green colour of Gjende Lake, caused by glacial runoff carrying clay and rock flour, creates a breathtaking backdrop throughout the trek.
Trek Stats:
Duration: Approximately 6 hours
Distance Covered: 10.4km
Ascent: 728m
Descent: 790m
Accommodation & Meals:
Mountain Hut: Stay overnight at Gjendebu Mountain Station, offering small rooms with shared facilities.
Meals Included: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.
Trek from Gjendebu to Leirvassbu
Trek Route:
Scenic Route: Follow the wide Storådalen valley, trekking alongside a wide river and passing four large glacial lakes.
Surroundings: Enjoy views of stunning mountains and cascading waterfalls.
Mountain Pass: Climb up to the Høgvaglen mountain pass and then descend towards the Leirvassbu Mountain Station, located by the picturesque Leirvatnet lake.
Trek Stats:
Duration: Approximately 7 hours
Distance Covered: 19km
Ascent: 872m
Descent: 710m
Accommodation & Meals:
Mountain Hut: Stay overnight at the Leirvassbu Mountain Station, offering small rooms with shared facilities.
Meals Included: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.
Trek from Leirvassbu to Spiterstulen
Trek Route:
Scenic Route: Begin the day trekking past three stunning alpine lakes: Leirvatnet, Panna, and Troget, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes.
Descent: Follow rocky trails into the vast and wild Visdalen valley, which stretches for an impressive 25 kilometres.
Arrival: Continue along the trail beside a wild river until reaching Spiterstulen Mountain Hut.
Trek Stats:
Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours
Distance Covered: 15km
Ascent: 500m
Descent: 810m
Accommodation & Meals:
Mountain Hut: Stay overnight at Spiterstulen Mountain Hut, offering small rooms with shared facilities.
Meals Included: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.
Trek from Spiterstulen to Glitterheim
Trek Route:
Scenic Ascent: Begin the day by climbing into a higher valley, gradually turning south.
Landmarks: Enjoy views of Norway's highest peak, the glaciated Galdhøppigen, and Glittertinden, the often snow-capped second-highest peak, to your left.
River Trail: Just before reaching Glitterheim Mountain Station, follow a wide glacier-fed river as the valley turns eastward.
Trek Stats:
Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours
Distance Covered: 19.5km
Ascent: 986m
Descent: 480m
Accommodation & Meals:
Mountain Hut: Overnight at Glitterheim Mountain Station, for 2 nights, providing small rooms with shared facilities.
Meals Included: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.
Free day - optional hike to Glitterheim summit.
Trek Route:
Optional Activity: Spend your free day with an optional hike to Glittertinden summit (2452m), weather permitting.
Scenic Route: The ascent follows rocky trails with potential snow at the top. Descend the same route or via an alternate route, passing a lake and a smaller summit.
Historical Significance: Glittertinden was once Norway’s highest mountain due to its glacier-crowned peak, which has now completely melted as of September 2023, marking a profound environmental change.
Trek Stats:
Duration: Approximately 7-9 hours
Distance Covered: 16km
Ascent: 1300m
Descent: 1350m
Accommodation & Meals:
Mountain Hut: Stay overnight at Glitterheim Mountain Hut, for a second night.
Meals Included: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.
Note: The hike to Glittertinden is challenging and requires a good level of fitness.
Trek from Glitterheim to Memurubu
Trek Route:
Scenic Route: Hike along well-trodden paths over a mountain pass, leading to the vast and open Russvatnet Lake with stunning views of Besshøe Mountain.
Highlight: Observe the rare ice-core moraine surrounding a small glacier lake on the north-eastern side of Besshøe.
Descent: From the far end of Russvatnet, climb to a mountain pass and descend to Memurubu Mountain Station, marking a return to the starting point of the trek.
Trek Stats:
Duration: Approximately 7 hours
Distance Covered: 19km
Ascent: 800m
Descent: 1,190m
Accommodation & Meals:
Mountain Hut: Stay overnight at Memurubu Mountain Station, offering small rooms with shared facilities.
Meals Included: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.
Hike the spectacular Besseggen Ridge, bus to Beitostølen
Trek Route:
Scenic Route: Follow a trail below Besshøe mountain to a narrow gap separating two lakes—Gjende (green) and Bessvatnet (blue), each at different altitudes.
Climb: Ascend the rocky Besseggen Ridge, one of Norway’s most famous hikes, offering breathtaking views of lakes, waterfalls, and glaciers.
Descent: Cross Veslfjellet summit, traverse an open plateau, and descend to Gjendesheim Mountain Hut.
Evening Transfer: Take a 30-minute evening bus to Beitostølen for a comfortable hotel stay.
Trek Stats:
Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours of hiking
Distance Covered: 14km
Ascent: 1,200m
Descent: 1,226m
Accommodation & Meals:
Hotel: Stay overnight in a comfortable hotel in Beitostølen.
Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Note: The Besseggen Ridge can feel a bit exposed and can be demanding, especially in wet conditions. However, it is approximately 20 metres / 60 feet wide.
Early morning bus to Oslo. Free time to Explore the city
Travel Route:
Transportation: Early morning bus from Gjendesheim to Oslo, taking approximately 4 hours.
Free Time: Arrive in Oslo with the afternoon free to explore the city.
Food Options: Purchase snacks or meals from the shop in Gjendesheim for the bus journey.
Trek Stats:
Duration: Approximately 4 hours of travel
Distance Covered: Scenic 300km drive
Accommodation & Meals:
Hotel: Stay overnight in central Oslo.
Meals Included: Breakfast.
Trek ends. Check out of the hotel after breakfast
Check-Out Information: Check-out from the hotel is 12 pm.
Accommodation & Meals:
Meals Included: Breakfast.
This map is for illustrative purposes only.
Essential Information . . .
The Jotunheimen Trek covers approximately 115km/71 miles and is a challenging route with significant ascents and descents. This trek is ideal for experienced walkers who are comfortable hiking 15-20km (9-12 miles) per day and tackling varied terrain, including steep climbs and descents.
Each day typically involves 6-8 hours of walking, with some days extending to 8-9 hours outdoors. While much of the trek follows well-maintained trails, there are sections with rocky, uneven paths and areas where the ground may be loose underfoot. Certain parts of the route include stream crossings, where there is a possibility of wet feet. This trek demands good physical fitness and a sense of adventure, rewarding participants with breathtaking views and an unforgettable wilderness experience.
Practical Information
What's Included
Essential Information
Is it for me?
The Jotunheimen Trek is a challenging adventure suited for fit hikers with prior experience in multi-day mountain treks. Typical days include:
15-20km of hiking
600-1200m of ascent/ descent
6-8 hours of hiking
Varied terrain, including rocky paths and alpine meadows
Carrying a 45-50L backpack with extra layers, picnic supplies, and overnight essentials when staying at mountain huts
The Jotunheimen Trek is comparable in technical difficulty to the TMB and the Dolomites treks that we run, but you have to carry your own gear for the duration. There are some long days with consistent ascent/ descent. Accommodation is in remote mountain huts where you only have what you carry in your back-pack. The huts, however, are regarded as the best in Europe and are very comfortable. There are no luggage transfers on this trip: with careful packing you can keep the weight of your backpack to a minimum. You are able to wash your clothes by hand and use the drying rooms at the huts.
The terrain is not technical but can be steep, rocky, and uneven in places. Good quality hiking boots are essential for this trek.
We grade this trip: 5 - Tough
The Jotunheimen Trek is a challenging trek designed for fit and experienced hikers who are accustomed to multi-day mountain trekking. Typical days are quite long, but no more so than other treks we run, such as teh TMB. The difference is that you need to carry your own gear for the week.
Days typically involve 6-7 hours of hiking, covering 12-20km per day, with ascents and descents ranging from 800-1200m. The route traverses through varied terrain such as well-trodden trails, rocky and uneven paths, and faint tracks. You will need a high level of fitness and confidence when hiking.
Although we hope the weather will be kind, it can be unpredictable, with strong winds and cold rain being possible, adding to the physical challenge.
Daily distances: 12-20km
Elevation changes: 800-1200m ascent/descent
Daily hiking duration: 6-7 hours
Terrain: Uneven, rocky paths, and faint trails
Backpack: Carry essentials for overnight stays at refuges
Price and what it includes
3 nights in comfortable hotels (double/twin rooms, ensuite bathrooms)
7 nights in remote mountain huts (2 or 4 bedded room with shared bathrooms)
10 breakfasts, 7 picnic lunches on trekking days, 8 dinners
All transport as detailed in the itinerary
Experienced English-speaking International Mountain Leader (IML) guiding the trek
Extra expenses & money
In addition to the trek cost, you should budget for the following extra expenses:
Flights to and from Oslo Gardermoen International Airport
Dinners on 2 nights (Oslo): allow NOK 400-600 per meal
Lunches on 2 days (arrival and departure days): NOK 100-200 per meal
Drinks (coffee, tea, soda, beer) and snacks (energy bars, fruit, chocolate): NOK 30-80 per day
Tips for your guide (optional but always appreciated) – NOK 500-1,000 per person suggested
Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Norway. However, cash is preferred for small purchases in the mountain huts. We recommend carrying about NOK 1,000-1,500 in cash for snacks, drinks, and other minor expenses. ATMs are available in Oslo and Beitostølen.
Clothing and equipment
Sturdy, good quality, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support (leather or Gore-Tex recommended).
High-quality waterproof jacket and trousers – Gore-Tex is ideal; avoid lightweight ‘pac-a-macs’.
Hiking shorts and/or convertible trousers with zip-off legs for versatility.
Layered clothing, including moisture-wicking t-shirts, a fleece jacket, and a lightweight down gilet for cooler evenings.
Sun hat, visor, or cap for sunny days.
Warm hat and gloves for early mornings or windy conditions.
A 45-50L backpack with a rain cover to carry your daily essentials.
Trekking poles for stability on uneven terrain.
Water bottles or a hydration reservoir with a minimum 2L capacity.
Sunglasses to protect against glare.
Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 30+) to protect against UV rays.
Backpack rain cover, dry bags (supermarket plastic bags are also good!).
Biodegradable bags for toilet waste when on the trail.
Basic toiletries and any personal medications.
Accommodation and meals
Hotels (3 nights)
3 nights in comfortable 3 and 4-star hotels
Double or twin rooms with ensuite bathrooms
Mountain Huts (7 nights)
7 nights in well-equipped mountain huts located in scenic areas
Rooms with 2-4 beds
Shared toilets and showers
Pillows and blankets/ duvets provided
Communal dining areas for group meals
Meals
10 breakfasts
7 packed lunches
8 dinners
Typical meals on trek
Breakfast
Breads and rolls
Butter, jams, and honey
Yogurt with granola or muesli
Fresh fruit
Fruit juice
Tea and coffee
Lunch
Picnic lunches are included during trekking days. These typically feature sandwiches, fresh fruit, and snacks that you make up yourself from the ingredients provided at the huts.
Dinner
Starter soup or salad
Main dishes such as lamb, salmon, or regional Norwegian specialities
Side dishes of vegetables or potatoes
Desserts like berries, cakes, or ice cream
Trail snacks are essential to keep your energy up during the day. Dietary restrictions, including vegetarian options, can usually be accommodated with advance notice. Vegan choices are limited due to the nature of the region’s cuisine, so bring some supplements. Please inform us of any allergies or special requirements well in advance.
Group size
Our Jotunheimen Trek accommodates a maximum of 14 participants, with most groups averaging 8-12 people. This small group size ensures:
Personal attention and guidance from your experienced trekking leader
Opportunities to connect with fellow trekkers and form lasting friendships
The minimum group size is 6 participants. In the rare event that the minimum is not reached, we will offer to transfer you to an alternative date or provide a full refund.
Transport during the trek
Arrival and departure transfers in Oslo
These are not included. You need to get yourself from Oslo Airport to the hotel in the city centre (20 mins by train)
It is the same at the end of the trip when you check out of the hotel in Oslo
Local transfers
Public buses to and from the trailhead
Ferries
If your flight is delayed and it means you don't make it to the hotel on day 1, you should call us for information on how to
get to the start of the trek on day 2. Any costs incurred will be your responsibility. Please note
that it is 4-4.5 hours by road to Gjendesheim: there are daily buses. A taxi will be expensive.
Our Staff
The Jotunheimen Trek is led by a qualified hiking guide who is knows the mountains. All our guides are:
Certified International Mountain Leaders (IMLs)
First Aid responders
Fluent English speakers (many are multilingual)
Knowledgeable in local nature, wildlife, and Norwegian heritage
Friendly, professional, and passionate about trekking
In addition to your guide, our logistical support team ensures the trek runs smoothly. This includes our reservations team and the mountain hut staff who provide warm hospitality along the way.
What is Not Included
Flights to and from Oslo Gardermoen Airport
Alcoholic and soft drinks; tea, coffee, etc.
Lunches on days 1, 2, 10 and 11. Dinner on day 1, 10 and 11
Personal travel and medical insurance (required)
Tips for your guide (optional but appreciated)
Getting to Norway and the Jotunheimen trek
Flying into Oslo is straightforward, with regular connections from many European and international hubs. We meet at the hotel in central Oslo.
The transfer to Gjendesheim Mountain Hut starts early on Day 2, and takes approximately 4 hours.
If you miss the group transfer, you'll need to arrange your own transportation to Gjendesheim at your expense.
Departure: On Day 11, you need to get back the airport for your flight.
Extending your stay in Norway
You might wish to extend your stay to explore Oslo with iconic landmarks such as the Oslo Opera House, Vigeland Sculpture Park, or the Viking Ship Museum. Accommodation can be booked through websites like booking.com for competitive rates. Oslo also serves as an excellent gateway for further travel to destinations throughout Norway, Scandinavia and Northern Europe.
Passports, Visa Requirements
Passports: A passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay is required to enter Norway.
Visas: Requirements vary based on your nationality and country of residence. Currently, UK, EU, US, Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days in the Schengen Zone, which includes Norway. It is your responsibility to check for updated visa and entry rules before travelling.
Customs: There are no customs checks for internal travel within the Schengen Zone.
It is your responsibility to verify your specific passport, visa, and entry requirements to ensure you have the necessary documents for the trek. Regulations can change, so review the rules before you travel.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all our treks. Your policy should cover::
Trip cancellation or interruption
Flight delays or cancellations
Overseas medical expenses
Medical evacuation
Emergency assistance
Lost or delayed baggage
Repatriation to your home country
Guided trekking in mountainous regions
Please carry a copy of your insurance policy, including emergency contact numbers, with you during the trek. It is also advisable to leave a copy with someone back home.
Weather
The summer hiking season in Jotunheimen runs from July through to early-September. During this time, weather conditions are generally favourable for trekking, with long daylight hours and mild temperatures. However, mountain weather can be unpredictable, and trekkers should be prepared for sudden changes, including rain and wind.
Temperature: Expect daytime highs of 15-20°C (59-68°F) in the valleys and 5-10°C (41-50°F) at higher elevations. Night temperatures can drop to 0-5°C (32-41°F), feeling colder in exposed areas.
Precipitation: While summer is relatively dry, rainfall is not uncommon, often in the form of light showers or occasional storms.
Wind: Strong winds are frequent at higher elevations and exposed ridges, making it feel much colder. Ensure you have windproof layers.
Sun: The sun is strong. Pack adequate sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Snow: Most trails are snow-free by July. However, snow patches may remain on higher passes.
It's essential to come equipped for varying mountain weather with layered clothing, allowing you to adjust to conditions throughout the day.
Your guide will monitor the weather daily to ensure safety and maximum enjoyment of the trek.
How to book
Choose your trek
Select your trek and check availability, either by phoning us or sending an on-line enquiry.
Complete a booking form
Complete an on-line booking form and pay a deposit of 20% of the tour.
How to Pay
Payments are in British Pounds (GBP). You can pay by bank transfer, credit or debit card.
Email Confirmation
Once the payment has been received we will send you an e-mail confirmation.
Dates, Prices & Bookings . . .
Salamander Adventures has over 30 years experience running adventure holidays throughout the world. Key staff have worked for Exodus, Explore and Trailfinders.
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The Jotunheimen Trek demands excellent physical fitness and endurance to hike 12-18km per day for up to 7 consecutive days. The route includes rugged trails with steep ascents and descents, requiring trekkers to maintain a steady pace across uneven terrain. Strong legs, a robust cardiovascular system, and a resilient mindset are essential for enjoying this challenging adventure.
This trek is rated 5 out of 5 (Hard), designed for experienced hikers seeking a demanding experience. Expect to hike for 6-8 hours daily, with significant elevation changes and minimal rest opportunities. The terrain includes rocky ridges, alpine meadows, and glacial streams, offering a mix of rewarding challenges and breathtaking scenery.
To prepare, focus on building aerobic fitness and leg strength. Engage in regular hiking, running, cycling, or other cardiovascular activities. Incorporate training on hilly or mountainous trails with a weighted pack to simulate the trekking conditions. Aim to complete several full-day hikes (15+km, 1000+m elevation gain) on consecutive days to prepare your body for sustained effort.
The more trekking-specific preparation you do, the more enjoyable the experience will be, allowing you to focus on the spectacular landscapes rather than the physical exertion. A positive attitude, mental resilience, and a love for adventure are just as important as physical fitness. The Jotunheimen Trek offers the incredible reward of exploring Norway’s rugged wilderness and experiencing its stunning natural beauty firsthand.
What kind of terrain can I expect?
The Jotunheimen Trek takes you through Norway’s dramatic and pristine landscapes, featuring well-established trails designed for trekkers. These trails are suitable for experienced hikers but present some challenging terrain in parts.
Trail surfaces Expect a variety of surfaces underfoot:
Soft dirt paths through alpine meadows and birch forests
Smoother paths along fjordside trails or glacial valleys
No technical climbing is required, but there are some exposed sections with steep drop-offs. Trekking poles are highly recommended for balance and reducing strain on knees.
Elevation The Jotunheimen Trek features significant elevation gain and loss on most days. The trails include:
Long ascents and descents with limited flat sections
Switchbacks on steeper inclines
Passes and ridges with elevations up to 2,300m
Gradual approaches to scenic viewpoints like Besseggen Ridge
While the climbs are demanding, they are achievable with a steady pace and regular breaks. The stunning views at the top make every effort worthwhile.
Water crossings Several streams and rivers are encountered on the trek:
Stepping stones or small bridges across narrow streams
Wooden or suspension bridges over larger rivers
Rock-hopping across shallow water channels
Water crossings are generally safe and manageable. After heavy rains, levels may rise temporarily, but guides ensure all crossings are safe, providing assistance as needed. Quick-drying footwear is helpful for maintaining comfort.
Trail hazards As with any mountain trek, the Jotunheimen terrain includes potential challenges:
Loose rocks on slopes and ridges
Slick sections after rain or near waterfalls
Dense vegetation or thorny plants in lower areas
Variable weather, including sudden rain or wind
Sun exposure at higher altitudes
Your guide will provide tips on navigating these hazards safely, ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With the right preparation and a sense of adventure, the terrain of Jotunheimen will be one of the highlights of the trek.
How do sleeping and bathrooms work in the mountain huts?
For an authentic Norwegian trekking experience, the Jotunheimen Trek includes several nights in remote mountain huts. Staying in these rustic accommodations allows you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning wilderness without the burden of carrying heavy camping gear.
While the huts are comfortable, they are simpler compared to hotels. Here’s what to expect in terms of sleeping arrangements and bathrooms:
Sleeping
Shared dormitories with bunk beds, accommodating 6 to 20 people per room
Mattresses, pillows, and blankets provided (bring your own sleep sheet or sleeping bag liner)
Beds are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis
Earplugs are essential due to shared spaces with fellow trekkers
Lights-out is typically around 10pm, with early wake-up times for the day’s trek
Charging outlets are limited to communal areas, not dormitories
Quiet time is observed after dinner to ensure everyone gets adequate rest
Bathrooms
Shared toilet and shower facilities, separate from the dormitories
Toilets are usually western flush style or composting toilets
Bring your own soap, towel, and toiletries as these are not provided
Showers often have limited hot water, with usage capped at 5-10 minutes
Queues for showers can form during peak evening hours
Sinks are available for freshening up, but space for toiletries is minimal
Facilities are unisex and basic but generally clean
Staying in the huts offers a unique sense of camaraderie and a chance to share the experience with fellow hikers. Evenings in the huts are spent enjoying hearty Nordic dinners, swapping trail stories, and marvelling at the stunning mountain views. While the setup is simple, the connection to nature and the social atmosphere more than compensate for the lack of luxury.
Embrace the adventure and the shared experience of the huts—it’s all part of what makes trekking in Jotunheimen so memorable!
How can I communicate with family on the trek?
Staying connected during the Jotunheimen Trek can be a challenge due to the remoteness of the national park and the rugged terrain. However, with some advance preparation, you can still check in with family and friends at certain points along the trek. Here’s an overview of your communication options:
Cell Service
4G/LTE is generally available in larger towns near the trek’s start or end, such as Beitostølen or Lom.
3G or basic voice service may be accessible in some villages or along popular trails.
No service in most valleys, forests, and remote sections of the trek (e.g., near Glitterheim or Memurubu).
Norwegian mobile carriers typically provide coverage; ensure your phone plan supports roaming in Norway.
If you plan to use your phone, ensure your plan includes international roaming with data. Charges can add up, so consider purchasing a prepaid Norwegian SIM card for better rates. You’ll need an unlocked phone that accepts international SIM cards.
WiFi
Hotels in Oslo, Beitostølen, and Lom provide free WiFi, but speeds can vary depending on location and usage.
Mountain huts such as Gjendesheim and Memurubu do not offer WiFi services, so plan accordingly.
When WiFi is available, use it to check in, share photos, or make a quick video call. However, try not to rely too heavily on technology—use this time to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty around you.
Satellite Communication
For critical communication needs, consider renting or purchasing a satellite communication device such as a Garmin inReach or Somewear Global Hotspot.
These devices allow you to send and receive texts from remote locations and often include GPS tracking and SOS functionality for emergencies.
While these devices can be costly, they provide peace of mind for those who need reliable communication in remote areas.
Protocol
Before starting your trek, establish a communication protocol with family or friends. Share your itinerary, trek dates, and realistic expectations about when you’ll be able to check in. Given the limited cell and WiFi coverage, it’s best to plan on updating loved ones every few days when you’re in a village or hotel. Reassure them that no news is good news during the trek.
Your guide will carry a satellite phone or similar device for emergencies, and Salamander Adventures monitors each group’s progress. Should anything unexpected occur, we can quickly contact your emergency contacts.
Remember, one of the greatest joys of the Jotunheimen Trek is unplugging from daily life and immersing yourself in nature. Trust your guide, embrace the moment, and enjoy the serenity of Norway’s pristine wilderness. The rest of the world can wait!
What should I pack for the trek?
Packing for the Jotunheimen Trek requires a balance between being prepared for the unpredictable Norwegian weather and keeping your load manageable. You’ll benefit from layers and lightweight gear to ensure comfort and safety. Here’s a recommended packing list:
Luggage
35-45L backpack with rain cover
1 medium duffel (70-90L) for luggage transfers
Dry bags or stuff sacks to organise gear
Small daypack or summit pack for side hikes (optional)
Clothing
2-3 quick-dry hiking shirts
1-2 lightweight hiking trousers
1-2 shorts or convertible pants
1 set thermal baselayers (top and bottom)
2-3 pairs hiking socks (wool or synthetic)
3-4 pairs underwear
Sports bra
Warm hat and sun hat
Buff or neck gaiter
Lightweight gloves
Rain jacket with hood
Rain pants or poncho
Warm jacket (fleece or synthetic)
Down or synthetic vest
Casual outfit and shoes for evenings
Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Lightweight trail runners or approach shoes
Camp shoes (crocs, slides or sandals)
Gaiters (optional but recommended)
Gear
Trekking poles (collapsible or telescoping)
Headlamp with extra batteries
Water bottles or hydration system (2-3L capacity)
Water filter or purification tablets
Sleeping bag liner (silk or cotton)
Compact quick-dry towel
Sunglasses
Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 30+)
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
Personal first aid kit (blister treatment, painkillers, antihistamines, etc.)
Avoid cotton which retains moisture and takes longer to dry
Dress in layers for versatility in changing weather
Compress bulky items like jackets using stuff sacks
Keep essentials like rain gear and snacks easily accessible
Pack in dry bags to keep gear organised and protected
Remember, luggage transfers are provided on 6 out of 10 trekking days, so you won’t need to carry all your gear every day. Bring essential items for refuge nights, but keep the load light for comfort on the trails.
Finally, break in your boots and test your pack during training hikes. Comfortable, well-fitted gear will make your Jotunheimen adventure even more enjoyable, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Norway’s stunning landscapes.
OUR TREK 
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