If you’re craving an adrenaline rush while soaking in some of Norway’s most stunning mountain scenery, the Wild Viking white water rafting tour might just be what you’re looking for. Located in the scenic Vestland County near Geilo, this trip promises a high-energy adventure on Norway’s toughest and most exciting river — the Numedalslågen. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the detailed reviews and info suggest it’s a genuine thrill for those ready to tackle Grade 3 rapids.
What immediately catches your eye about this experience are the expert guides and the breathtaking landscape. They truly make the adventure safe and memorable. On the flip side, keep in mind that this isn’t for everyone — especially if you’re pregnant, under 15, or have back issues, as safety and comfort are paramount. This tour suits anyone with a taste for adventure who is comfortable in water and eager for a challenge.
Key Points
- Thrilling experience: Designed for adrenaline junkies, with challenging rapids up to Grade 5.
- Safety-focused: Guided by highly experienced, friendly instructors and including all necessary safety gear.
- Stunning scenery: The mountains and clear waters of the Hardangervidda National Park add a scenic backdrop.
- Practical details: About 3 hours long, with flexible start times, and good value at $112 per person.
- Limited age group: Suitable for ages 15 and up, not recommended for young children or pregnant women.
- Photos & memories: Action shots available for purchase afterward, perfect for reliving your adventure.
What is the Wild Viking White Water Rafting Tour?
This experience offers a serious dose of fun and adrenaline for those looking to push their limits. As a Level 3 tour, it’s not the most extreme available — that would be Level 5 — but it’s a solid step up from beginner trips. The focus here is navigating the powerful rapids on Norway’s best rafting river, the Numedalslågen, which is renowned for its alpine and technical qualities.
You’ll be in good hands, as Serious FUN, the local outfit running this trip, has been operating since 2005 with over 30 years of experience. Their guides are described as friendly and professional, and their safety measures are thorough, with all gear provided and a detailed safety briefing before you hit the water.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins at the Serious Fun rafting base, where you’ll be greeted in a friendly manner and given all the necessary gear: wetsuits, water shoes, helmets, and life jackets. The process is straightforward, and the guides are known to be approachable, making it easier if you’re new to rafting. Once suited up, there’s a safety briefing that covers what to expect and how to remain safe — a crucial step, especially for those new to the sport.
After the briefing, you’ll hop onto a bus or coach that takes you to Seterdalen, the starting point for the actual rafting. The drive itself is scenic, giving you a taste of the rugged Norwegian landscape. Once you arrive, you’ll get the chance to practice paddling, which is helpful for first-timers or those looking to refine their skills.
The main event is the two-hour rafting stretch down the river. Here, you’ll navigate through some exhilarating rapids, feeling the rush with every turn and splash. The rapids are challenging but manageable with expert guidance, and the overall experience balances excitement with safety. On a good water day, you’ll be tackling some rapids up to Grade 5, which many find to be a highlight.
Throughout the trip, the guides will follow along in a support boat, occasionally stopping to check on everyone and capture photos. These action shots are available afterward, allowing you to relive the adventure and share your experience.
The trip wraps up as you return to the base, where you can change out of your gear, relax, and chat over coffee, reminiscing about the adrenaline-filled moments. If you like, you can purchase the photos for around NOK 300, which makes for great keepsakes.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The guides are a key part of the experience. One review highlights, “Very friendly and professional guides! The Viking Tour was a perfect mix of roughness and safety.” Knowing that you’re in capable hands is a huge comfort, especially on a river with tough rapids.
The scenery is another big plus. Norway’s mountain environment provides a stunning backdrop, with clear waters from the Hardangervidda National Park. This isn’t just about the water — it’s about combining adrenaline with natural beauty, making the whole trip more memorable.
The balance of challenge and safety is well-managed. The rapids are intense enough to thrill, yet guides will ensure everyone stays safe. The safety gear, including wetsuits and helmets, helps you feel secure even on the wildest sections.
The duration is just enough to satisfy your adventure craving without overdoing it — approximately three hours including transport, briefing, and rafting time. Price-wise, at $112 per person, it offers good value given the experience and professional guidance.
What to Expect on the Day
The adventure starts early at the Serious Fun base. Expect to be greeted warmly and outfitted with gear in a quick, organized manner. The safety briefing is essential — guides explain paddling techniques, safety protocols, and what to do if you fall in (which, with some rapids, is a real possibility).
The bus ride to Seterdalen is about 15 minutes, giving you some time to enjoy the scenery and get excited. Once at the river, you’ll get to practice paddling, which helps build confidence before you hit the rapids.
The rafting itself lasts roughly two hours, with occasional stops for photos and to check on less experienced paddlers. The river’s flow varies with water levels, which can make some sections more wild than others. When rapids are too wild, the guides will transport you around those sections by bus, ensuring safety without sacrificing the thrill.
Afterward, you’ll return to the base, where you can stretch, dry off, and relax. Many find the post-activity coffee a nice touch, giving you a chance to reflect and share stories from the water.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is best suited for adventurers aged 15 and up who are comfortable in water and looking for a challenging, adrenaline-pumping experience. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or anyone who isn’t a confident swimmer.
If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities and mountain scenery, you’ll appreciate how the stunning backdrop enhances the excitement. However, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer calmer waters, this might not be the experience for you.
For solo travelers, groups, or couples seeking a memorable adventure, this tour offers a fantastic mix of thrill, scenery, and professional guidance. Families with older teens who love water sports might also find it a perfect fit.
Final Thoughts
The Wild Viking white water rafting trip near Geilo offers a robust and safe way to experience Norway’s rugged river wilderness. With highly experienced guides, a scenic setting, and a good balance of challenge and fun, it really stands out as a go-to adventure for thrill-seekers.
At $112, the price reflects the professionalism and safety measures, along with the unforgettable adrenaline rush you’ll get from navigating powerful rapids. It’s an experience that combines mountain vistas, technical river sections, and a sense of accomplishment — ideal if you’re looking to push your limits and enjoy Norway’s wild side.
While it may not be suitable for everyone, those who meet the criteria and crave action will likely find this trip well worth it. Just remember to bring swimwear, a towel, and a sense of adventure — and prepare for a day you won’t forget.
Dagali/Geilo: Wild Viking white water rafting – level 3
“Very friendly and professional Guides! The Viking Tour was a perfect mix of roughness and safety. Top 2 Raftingtour so far :)”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children under 15?
No, the trip is designed for participants aged 15 and up because of the level of difficulty and safety considerations.
What should I bring with me?
You’ll need swimwear and a towel. The tour supplies wetsuits, water shoes, helmets, and life jackets, so just dress appropriately underneath.
Are photos available after the trip?
Yes, action photos can be purchased for around NOK 300, allowing you to relive your adventure and share it with friends.
What is the duration of the entire experience?
It lasts about 3 hours, including the safety briefing, transportation, and the rafting itself.
Is this tour safe?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced and professional, and all safety gear is provided. The safety briefing ensures everyone understands how to stay safe during the trip.
Can someone with no rafting experience join?
Yes, beginners are welcome, but you should be comfortable in water and willing to follow instructions carefully.
What happens if the water level is too high or rapids are too wild?
The guides will transport you around the more challenging sections by bus, ensuring safety while maintaining the thrill.
Is this experience weather-dependent?
Rafting is weather-dependent, but the guides monitor conditions closely. The trip can be canceled for safety reasons, but usually, it proceeds in most weather conditions.
If you’re after a wild ride with stunning mountain views and professional guidance, this Level 3 white water rafting trip offers a fantastic way to experience Norway’s rugged waters. Just come prepared, and you’re sure to have a day full of excitement and achievement.
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