If you’re wondering what to do in Geiranger, prepare for one of Norway’s most breathtaking adventures. Standing at the edge of the cliffs overlooking the Geirangerfjord, you’re surrounded by blue waters, green slopes, and waterfalls tumbling down from dizzying heights. The question isn’t just what to do in Geiranger—it’s how many extraordinary experiences you can fit into your visit.
This UNESCO World Heritage site stands as one of the world’s most photographed fjords. But what actually makes Geirangerfjord so special? And how can you combine a scenic helicopter flight with other great activities in the area? Let’s look at how to make your stay unforgettable.
Why is Geirangerfjord so photogenic?
Ever seen a travel brochure for Norway? Odds are, you’ve seen a picture of Geirangerfjord. The fjord stretches deep into the landscape, carved over thousands of years by glaciers. Vertical cliffs rise from the water, creating a dramatic effect you won’t forget.
Why do photographers love this place so much? First, no two angles are the same here. From the water, the fjord feels endless. From above, you see zig-zagging rivers, meadows, and old mountain farms perched impossibly on the slopes. Then there are the waterfalls. Think of the Seven Sisters roaring down in seven separate streams. Or the Suitor, cascading on the opposite side. Sunlight and mist combine to paint rainbows against the green and blue.
You spot all of this from every direction: on the water, the hiking trails, and especially from the sky. The fjord’s curves, cliffs, and cascades reveal new patterns with each viewpoint. Have you ever wondered what it looks like from a bird’s-eye view?
See Geiranger from above – Why try a helicopter tour?
A helicopter tour is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Geiranger, offering a complete view of Norway’s most famous fjord. As you lift off, the landscape unfolds beneath you: narrow valleys, glistening lakes, and steep cliffs plunging into deep-blue water.
The sense of scale changes from the air. You start to understand just how deep the water cuts into the land, and how high the mountains loom above the villages. Waterfalls look even more powerful when you see them in context—several of them tumbling down sheer walls at once.
A helicopter tour also saves you time. In 20 to 60 minutes, you can see distant glaciers, turquoise lakes, and fjord arms that would take hours to visit by road or ferry. Imagine flying over famous sights like the Seven Sisters, Dalsnibba viewpoint, and even the remote Lodalskåpa peak. You get the highlights of Western Norway in a single unforgettable journey.
For more details about options, check OPPLEV GEIRANGER. You can book classic sightseeing flights from Loen, which include everything from quick overviews to complete fjord and glacier expeditions.
How can you combine a helicopter tour with other Geiranger activities?
If you’re still deciding what to do in Geiranger after your helicopter flight, there’s plenty to fill your itinerary. The best Geiranger adventures combine sky-high excitement with local experiences on water and land.
You might start with an early morning flight, catching the first rays of sun over the fjord. With the “Geiranger Explorer” or “Geiranger Experience” tours, you take in glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls in as little as 20 or 30 minutes. When you land, your day is still open—so what should you do next?
Rent a kayak and paddle along the glassy surface of the fjord. Can you spot the same mountain farms you just saw from above? The water feels peaceful, but you’ll feel the power of the landscape all around you.
Try a scenic fjord cruise. The local ferries bring you right up to the base of the waterfalls. From the deck you watch water tumble hundreds of feet directly into the fjord.
Love hiking? Geiranger offers trails for every level. Walk up to Flydalsjuvet for a classic fjord photo, or tackle the challenging climb to Skageflå, an abandoned farm high above the water.
After a day outdoors, enjoy Geiranger’s local restaurants and hotels. Many accommodations offer views straight out across the fjord. If you want a true local touch, ask about traditional Norwegian food or a sauna session with a view.
Want to keep exploring the region? Pair your Geiranger visit with a trip to Loen’s famous Skylift—a cable car that takes you in minutes from fjord level to panoramic mountain viewpoints. This lets you see more of the Sunnmøre Alps, turquoise Lovatnet, and glacier arms that define the Nordfjord area.
When is the best season for a scenic flight?
Timing matters when deciding what to do in Geiranger, especially for scenic flights. The peak season runs from late May through September, when the waterfalls roar and the days stretch long into the evening.
During early summer (May and June), meltwater fills the rivers and waterfalls. The Seven Sisters perform at their best, roaring down the cliffs in white ribbons. This is ideal if you want to see the fjord at its wildest.
July and August bring warmer weather and high activity on the fjord. You see more cruise ships in port and more energy in the small village, but the landscape remains as beautiful as ever. Early mornings and evenings bring a special glow, perfect for photos from the air.
Autumn has its own charm. In September, fall colours sweep the slopes. The air turns crisp, and the fjord gets quieter as the crowds thin. If you crave peace, consider flying then. You may even see the first touches of snow crown the peaks.
Some helicopter operators offer flights year-round. Winter flights show you a Geiranger wrapped in snow and silence, with icy waterfalls hanging from the cliffs. However, be aware that winter weather often brings clouds, wind, and changes to flight schedules. Always check in advance.
Practical tips: Booking and preparing for your tour
You can book your helicopter tour online. It’s simple to request your preferred date and time, but flights are confirmed based on weather and aircraft availability. If you want a flight within the next 24 hours, contact the operator directly for a fast answer.
All flights run as private tours for up to seven people. Bring your camera, sunglasses, and a light jacket for comfort. Tours last between 20 and 60 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy other things to do in Geiranger afterward.
For more booking details, find your perfect route, or check current availability, visit OPPLEV GEIRANGER. This is where you can secure your spot and start planning a trip that mixes the best of Geiranger and Loen.
Why choose Geiranger for your next fjord adventure?
If you’re still deciding what to do in Geiranger, remember that this is one of the few places in the world where you can experience such variety in a single day, from helicopter flights and fjord cruises to mountain hikes and world-class dining.
What to do in Geiranger? Begin with the sky. Let yourself fly above the fjord, waterfalls, and mountains, then come back down to earth and see how the experience shapes your next steps. Do you want to taste traditional lamb stew, or sample a local cider? Will you chase the sound of waterfalls, or stroll the quiet village streets at sunset?
So, what to do in Geiranger first? Begin with the sky. See Norway’s most iconic fjord from above, then come back down to explore its trails, tastes, and traditions. This is a journey you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Book your next adventure and see why Geirangerfjord remains one of the most iconic destinations on earth.
