Safe summer hike to Kjerag

Summer season

Kjerag is a seasonal hiking destination. Before the county road between Sirdal and Lysebotn opens around the middle of May, Kjerag is considered to be accessible only to guests with special equipment, accompanied by a tour guide. The snow is deep and skis or snowshoes are required. The season ends when the road closes for the season due to snow conditions in October/November.

6-10 hour hike

Proper hiking equipment

Pack a 30-litre backpack to be sure that you have enough room for everything you need in the Norwegian mountains. A map and compass, first-aid equipment, a fully charged mobile phone, and a headlamp are just some of the things we recommend you keep in your backpack. Scroll down the page for a complete packing list.

Warm, suitable clothing

Always bring suitable footwear. Hiking boots are recommended. The hike to Kjerag goes across rough terrain, and you will need ample foot and ankle support. Occasional strong gusts can occur at Kjerag, so please use wind and waterproof outerwear. An extra set of clothes including a cap, a scarf, and gloves or mittens belong in your backpack.

How to get there

You can take the car ferry from Stavanger to Lysebotn and continue from there to Øygardsstøl by car or taxi. You can also drive towards Lysebotn via Sirdalen. In the summer, there is a bus service to Kjerag/Øygardsstøl from Stavanger. The bus departs early in the morning and returns to Stavanger in the afternoon. Explore the alternatives for getting to Kjerag and around.

See Kjerag tourist information on Facebook for the latest updates.

Food and drink

Always bring enough food and drink when you set out on a trip. It is important to have enough refills to make sure your energy reserves last all the way.

Guided hikes

If you are inexperienced or feel unsure about doing the trip, we recommend that you join a guided hike. A good guide can turn a bad day into a fantastic experience.

Other hiking routes in the area

There are many other hikes around Kjerag and in the nearby areas, including easier options. Check out the hiking alternatives in the area.

Weather conditions in the mountains

Even if sunshine and fair weather are predicted, the weather conditions can change quickly. Always check the weather forecast before you start your trip, and talk to the locals about what kind of weather to expect. They will often know if there is a risk of rain and windy conditions even if the weather forecast is promising.

Weather forecast from Yr, delivered by the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK). Download Yr’s free weather app for iOS or Android.

Do’s and don’ts

Every year, Norwegian volunteer rescue crews go into the mountains to retrieve travellers who have lost their way, are tired or injured or have encountered problems after dark. These travellers are often dressed in everyday clothes and lack suitable equipment.

Do this:

• Research the length, duration, and recommended physical conditioning for the hike you want to do.
• Check the weather conditions and always listen to local mountain residents.
• Buy or rent the right equipment for your trip.
• Always bring enough food, drinks, and an extra change of clothes in your backpack.
• Check out the possibility of joining a guided tour.

Avoid this:

• Don’t wear jeans, trainers, or other everyday clothing.
• Don’t start your trip too late in the day, as you might risk having to hike in the dark.
• Never start your mountain hike without being in good enough physical shape.
• Don’t depend on a map on your mobile device as there is not always coverage in the mountains.
• Don’t leave anything, including trash, behind.

Find out more about Kjerag