Visitor guidelines

Be a great guest!

Want to be a thoughtful explorer and an awesome adventurer?

Be the friendly guest you'd love to welcome in your own home with our top tips!

You probably already know the basics:

Take only photos, leave only footprints.
Dispose of waste responsibly – leave no traces behind.
Stay on marked trails and paths.
Be considerate of wildlife – observe from a distance.
Travel and hike safely – plan ahead and know your limits.
When nature calls, head to a restroom – not outside.
Please respect local culture and support local businesses.
Share your experiences responsibly – inspire others to care.

Welcome! You are free to enjoy the great outdoors in Norway – as long as you show respect for nature, animals and the local community.

The Norwegian right to roam

The right to roam applies to open country, also known as "uncultivated land", which is land that is not being used for agriculture. In Norway, the term covers most shores, bogs, forests, and mountains. Small islands of uncultivated land within cultivated land are not regarded as open country and one is not permitted to camp there.

The right does not apply to property around houses and cabins, cultivated land, such as ploughed fields with or without crops, meadows, pastures and gardens, as well as young plantations, building plots and industrial areas, and fenced gardens and parks. Note that “fenced” does not mean that an area needs to have a fence; owners may prohibit passage through land that is liable to cause significant damage regardless of whether or not the property is fenced.

Please note that you need to be aware of your obligations under the right to roam, as well!

The Norwegian right to roam

The Camping Code of Conduct

The Camping Code of Conduct helps to ensure you have an enjoyable and safer experience while visiting. It also helps us protect nature and support our local communities.

1. Follow the rules of the right to roam

The Norwegian right to roam entitles everyone to travel freely in the great outdoors, but remember it comes with certain obligations – you need to show consideration for nature, wildlife and other people.

2. Use dedicated campsites and motorhome pitches whenever possible

It’s safe. And it is often the best choice as it promises a better experience and helps to support local communities.

3. Show consideration when camping in the wild

Remember to camp at least 150 metres away from any buildings, avoid private property and farmland, and do not drive off-road. Do not park in passing places on the side of the road. Picnic areas are primarily for short stops. Pay attention to signs and weather forecasts, some areas may be at risk of landslides and flooding.

Camping in a tent

How to travel in Norway with a motorhome

4. Keep at least four metres distance from other vehicles etc.

For reasons of fire safety and comfort, ensure there is at least four metres between you and other motorhomes/caravans/tents.

5. Respect signs and rules

Respect signs that prohibit overnight stays, parking or access.

6. Drive safely and considerately

Adapt your speed to the road and driving conditions. Some roads are narrow and not suitable for motorhomes/caravans. You don’t always have to drive as fast as the legal speed limit. Pull into passing places to let other road users pass you. Show consideration for oncoming traffic. Winter roads can be challenging, make sure you have the necessary driving skills and that your vehicle is equipped for winter driving.

Driving in winter conditions

7. Shop locally – experience more

Support local producers and discover new tastes, unique traditions and exciting experiences.

8. Respect domestic and wild animals

The best you can do for wildlife is not to disturb it. Do not feed any animals. Close gates behind you and keep animals on a leash when required by law.

9. Take your rubbish with you

Use rubbish bins, toilets and waste emptying stations for motorhomes/caravans to help keep nature clean. Recycle whenever possible.

10. Give nature a rest

Avoid sharing nature’s ‘hidden’ gems on social media if they’re not designed for camping. Certain places are best enjoyed without too many visitors.

Source: Norsk turistutvikling

There are countless incredible places to discover in Norway, and many of us are eager to experience them. That’s why it’s so important that we take good care of the places we visit by respecting local rules and regulations designed to protect nature, and by supporting the communities that welcome us.

The main rule is short and sweet: be considerate and thoughtful!

The right to roam give everyone the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors almost everywhere. But please note that you need to update yourself on your obligations under the right to roam, too!

Use designated and public campsites whenever possible, and be considerate and follow the camping rules if you decide to go camping outside such areas.

Don't harm nature and the surroundings. Leave nature as you would want to find it.

Drone flying might also be very disturbing for animals and people, so show great consideration. Flying drones in Norway.

If you want to go hiking, we've also collected some very useful tips and guidelines for you (click below)!

Hiking tips and safety in the mountains

All about camping in Norway

Learn the rules and find the best spots!

Foraging and fishing

In general, you may pick berries, mushrooms, and wildflowers, but special rules apply to cloudberries in Northern Norway.

Norway has some of the best fishing in the world, and you may fish for saltwater species without a licence, as long the catch is for your own consumption. Note there are rules as to how many kilos you are permitted to export.

Many more rules apply if you want to fish in inland waters. Almost all waters require a fishing licence, but there are also special rules for different landowners. Always check the local rules where you are headed.

NOTE: Always disinfect your fishing equipment between use in one body of water and another, to prevent the spread of fish diseases.

Fishing in Norway – all you need to know