Hjørundfjord is one of Norway’s most dramatic fjords — and one of the best-kept secrets in the region. While many travelers head straight for the famous UNESCO fjords, Hjørundfjord offers something rare: towering mountains, deep fjord waters, authentic villages, and far fewer crowds.
If you’re visiting Ålesund and want a fjord experience that feels wild, scenic, and truly Norwegian, a Hjørundfjord tour should be at the top of your list.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
• Why Hjørundfjord is so special
• The best ways to visit from Ålesund
• What to expect on a fjord safari
• RIB vs boat: which is best for you
• The best time to go
• Practical travel tips and FAQs
Check out all our boat trips here: https://uteguiden.com/en/activity/boat-and-rib
Where is Hjørundfjord?
Hjørundfjord is located in the Sunnmøre region of Western Norway, surrounded by the Sunnmøre Alps. The fjord stretches deep into a landscape of steep peaks and narrow valleys, creating some of the most dramatic fjord scenery in the country.
From Ålesund, Hjørundfjord is one of the closest “big fjord” experiences you can reach without spending an entire day in transport.
Why Hjørundfjord is worth visiting
Hjørundfjord is often described as one of Norway’s most beautiful fjords — and for good reason.
Unlike more famous fjords, Hjørundfjord feels raw and untouched. The fjord is framed by sharp alpine mountains, and the small settlements along the water still feel authentic.
Here’s what makes it special:
• Dramatic fjord scenery with steep mountains
• A “hidden gem” feel with fewer crowds
• Stunning photo opportunities in almost every direction
• A mix of fjord, ocean, and alpine landscapes
• Excellent for travelers who want nature, not tourist traps
The best Hjørundfjord tour from Ålesund (Top pick)
Fjord Safari by RIB to Hjørundfjord
If you want the most scenic and efficient way to experience Hjørundfjord, a guided RIB fjord safari is the top choice.
RIB boats (Rigid Inflatable Boats) are fast, stable, and designed for adventure. This allows you to cover more distance, reach deeper fjord areas, and experience more scenery in a limited amount of time.
A typical Hjørundfjord RIB safari includes:
• Safety equipment and briefing
• A professional captain and local guide
• Photo stops along the route
• Guiding and storytelling about the fjord, local history, and nature
• An unforgettable mix of speed and scenery
https://uteguiden.com/en/experience/fjordsafari-rib-hjorundfjorden
RIB vs boat tour: Which should you choose?
Both RIB and classic boat tours can be fantastic — but they are very different experiences.
Choose a RIB safari if you want:
• More speed and excitement
• More scenery in less time
• A small-group, personal experience
• The feeling of exploring “beyond the tourist route”
Choose a classic boat tour if you want:
• A calmer, slower pace
• Maximum comfort
• A more relaxed sightseeing style
If you’re short on time in Ålesund, RIB is often the best way to get a full fjord experience in one trip.
What you will see on a Hjørundfjord tour
Hjørundfjord is all about scenery. Expect steep mountain walls rising directly from the water, narrow fjord arms, and asense of scale that is hard to describe until you see it in person.
Depending on the route and conditions, you may experience:
• Deep fjord waters and dramatic cliffs
• Small villages and fjord farms
• Snow-capped peaks (even in summer)
• Waterfalls after rain
• Changing light and reflections on calm days
This is also a fjord where the weather can change quickly — which makes the experience even more dramatic.
Best time to visit Hjørundfjord
The best time to visit Hjørundfjord is from late spring to early autumn.
Summer (June–August):
• Long daylight hours
• Most stable sea conditions
• Peak season for tours
Spring (May–June) and Autumn (September):
• Fewer crowds
• Dramatic lighting for photos
• Crisp air and strong seasonal atmosphere
Hjørundfjord is beautiful in all conditions — but calm, clear days provide the most “mirror fjord” photo opportunities.
How long does a Hjørundfjord tour take?
Most guided Hjørundfjord tours from Ålesund are designed as half-day or full-day experiences, depending on the format. Our RIB-tours are runned as a 2 hour trip.
RIB tours are typically the most time-efficient option, because you can cover large distances quickly while still having time for photo stops and guiding.
Booking tip: direct vs GetYourGuide
Some fjord tours in Ålesund are sold through large booking platforms such as GetYourGuide. These platforms are convenient, but the experience quality depends on the local operator.
Booking directly with a local operator often gives you:
• Clearer communication about meeting points and timing
• More accurate updates if weather changes
• Better flexibility if you have special requests
• Direct support for local guiding and outdoor tourism
Uteguiden is a local operator in Ålesund, running guided outdoor experiences in the region.
FAQ – Hjørundfjorden tours
Is Hjørundfjorden better than Geirangerfjord?
They are different. Geiranger is iconic and famous, while Hjørundfjord is more wild and less crowded. Many travelers prefer Hjørundfjord for its hidden-gematmosphere.
Do you need a guide to visit Hjørundfjord?
Not strictly, but guided tours provide local knowledge, safety, and the best route planning — especially on the water.
Is a RIB fjord safari safe?
Yes. Tours include safety equipment, briefing, and professional captains.
What should I wear?
Dress for wind and sea conditions. A windproof outer layer is recommended even on warm days. All participants will get handed out a thermal suite together with a life vest on our tours.
Conclusion
A Hjørundfjord tour from Ålesund is one ofthe most spectacular experiences you can have in Western Norway. With dramaticmountains, deep fjord scenery, and far fewer crowds than the most famousfjords, Hjørundfjord is the perfect choice for travelers who want an authenticand unforgettable fjord adventure.
If you want the best combination of speed, scenery, and local guiding, a RIB fjord safari is hard to beat.
