Lofoten is known for excellent fishing and nature attractions, and small villages off the beaten track. During winter the fjord fills up with Orcas, or killer whales, and there are organised safaris to experience them. During summer, the sun never sets over white beaches with clear green water and sea teaming with fish. There are towering mountains with pointed peaks which reflect the red glow of the midnight sun.

Killer whale safaris

Every autumn the herring and killer whales swim up the Tysfjord and Vestfjord to spend the winter here. From mid-October until mid-January, killer whale safaris set out from Lofoten in large passenger boats and rubber dinghies. You will become part of a natural phenomenon as you study these enormous animals up close. An experience of several tonnes.

Lofoten is also known for great scuba diving, small fishing villages that are still intact and running the same way as always, and an interesting Viking Museum.

National Geographic about Lofoten

"Chilly, high-latitude islands form a 'masterpiece' of spectacular outcrops steeped in cherished tradition. Many of the villagers rent out cosy rorbu, the historic fishermen's cabins". "There are several excellent museums and art galleries".

"As is true with most of Norway, the local authorities have been careful in making sure that tourism coexists with the traditional culture."

The principal islands

Lofoten is the archipelago to the west in the ocean, north of the Arctic Circle, at the 67th and 68th degree parallels. The seven principal islands of Lofoten are Austvågøy, Gimsøy, Vestvågøy, Flakstadøy, Moskenesøy, Værøy and Røst.

How to get to Lofoten