Norway is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in Europe, with deep fjords, wild rivers, and thrilling rapids that make for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re looking for a high-adrenaline ride through class III to IV rapids or a family-friendly float down calmer waters, there’s a rafting experience in Norway for everyone.
If you’re planning to book rafting in Voss, this guide will help you discover the top five spots to hit the water along with what to expect, how to choose the right experience, when to go, and tips for getting the best Norway whitewater rafting experience.
1. Voss: The Rafting Capital of Norway
Located just over an hour from Bergen, Voss is considered the epicenter of rafting, and the adventure capital of Norway for a good reason. The area offers a mix of exciting class II, III, and IV rapids, crystal clear rivers, and stunning canyon scenery.
- Why go: This is the place to be if you’re looking for adventure rafting in Norway. From family rafting to full-on whitewater challenges, Voss has it all.
- Best for: Those looking for a mix of action and accessibility. Ideal for groups, families, and adventure travelers alike.
We recommend starting with a whitewater rafting day trip in Norway from our base in Voss. It's the perfect way to combine adrenaline with scenic beauty. You can also explore other Voss rafting experiences like SUP tours, fjord kayaking, or guided hikes.
See all adventure tours from Outdoor Norway
2. Dagali: Technical challenge
Dagali offers family rafting, premium rafting, and extreme rafting for those daring enough to take on the challenge. The popularity of this destination stems from the Numedalslågen River, known as the most technical rafting river in Northern Europe. As the snow melts, the river’s volume increases, making it steeper and more demanding requiring greater skill and focus. And it’s just 25 minutes from Geilo!- Why go: Fewer crowds, continuous Class III–V rapids, and a true backcountry whitewater experience.
- Perfect for: Experienced rafters looking for intense water and remote terrain, or adventure travelers combining it with hiking or mountain biking in Hardangervidda.
- Bonus: Dagali is also home to Norway’s steepest commercial rafting sections, making it one of the most extreme whitewater destinations in Scandinavia.
3. Sjoa River
Gudbrandsdalen offers more than trolls and fairytale landscapes, it's also home to one of the world’s best rafting rivers: the Sjoa. Flowing from Lake Gjende to the village of Sjoa, the river then joins the Gudbrandsdalslågen. You can experience a wide range of rafting adventures, all tailored to your needs. Choose from rafting, canyoning, riverboarding, rappelling, or even fishing!
This iconic river runs through the scenic Gudbrandsdal Valley and offers technical rapids and long runs, making it a favorite for both guides and guests.
- Why go: It’s the go-to destination for experienced rafters who want a longer, more technical ride.
- Best for: Those with some rafting experience or looking for a multi-day whitewater trip.
4. Evje
When people think of Southern Norway, they often picture beautiful summer cabins and the sea. But for those who can’t travel further north, there are also great rafting opportunities in the south. In Evje, you'll find the Otra River, the largest river in Southern Norway where you can try both white-water rafting and family rafting, perfect for those bringing kids along. The Otra flows from the Setesdal mountains in Bykle municipality, Aust-Agder, all the way south to Kristiansand in Vest-Agder.
Located in Sunnfjord, Jølstra is recognized as one of Norway’s top rafting spots. The rafting stretch is around 350 meters long, with a drainage area of about 716 km², half of which originates from Lake Jølstravatnet, which is fed by the Grovabreen glacier, part of the Jostedalsbreen ice cap. The area is also ideal for kayaking adventures!
How to Choose the Right Rafting Tour
Rafting experiences are often categorized by difficulty level, like this:
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Family Rafting (Grade 3): Moderate currents with some required maneuvering, but with a low risk of falling out of the raft. Suitable for families with children.
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Standard or Super Rafting (Grade 3–4): A step up in speed and technical demands, offering more excitement. Best suited for participants without small children who want a more thrilling experience, age limit 10+.
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Extreme Rafting (Grade 4–5): Designed for those with prior rafting experience. Usually has an age limit of 18+, and there’s a high chance of the raft flipping over.
Rafting Near Bergen: What You Need to Know
If you're staying in Bergen, Voss is the closest major rafting hub and it’s incredibly easy to access. Many travelers book rafting in the Bergen area as a day trip to Voss.
- Travel time: 1.5 hours by train or car.
- Booking advice: Look for rafting near Bergen booking sites that include pick-up options.
- Guide cost: Expect Bergen rafting prices to vary from NOK 850 - 1500 depending on the trip type and duration.
- Whitewater rafting in Norway is seasonal and best enjoyed during the late spring to early autumn months typically from May to mid-October.
- The best time for rafting near Voss is between June and August, when the rivers are fed by snowmelt from the mountrains, offering the most thrilling rapids and the highest water flow.
- Spring (May–June): Great for adrenaline-seekers, rivers like the Raundalselva are full and fast.
- Summer (July–August): Warmer temperatures and more predictable weather make it ideal for both families and first-time rafters.
- Early autumn (September–mid-October): Quieter rivers, beautiful fall colors, and a more peaceful nature experience.
Ready to hit the rapids?
Rafting in Norway is more than just a summer thrill, it’s a way to connect with the wild beauty of this stunning country. From the roaring rivers of Voss to the tranquil waters of Trysilelva, each destination offers something unique.
Whether you're looking for a rafting trip in Norway, check Norway rafting tours prices, or explore all our Voss rafting experiences, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit.
Ready to book? Book rafting in Voss now or explore our adventure tour packages that include mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and more here.
Let the river lead your next adventure.
Check out our Ultimate Voss Guide to plan your adventure
