Top of the World- Boat, Hike, Bus - We loved that this excursion had variety to it. First we took a boat to the location of the North Cape trail. From there we hiked up a beautiful zig-zag trail amongst goats. Once we got to the top we had a 360º view of the Top of the World. There was also a building that had a restaurant and bar, and a tunnel that led to various experiences of the area in the form of a movie about the North Cape, a chapel, a dark room with surround sounds and sights, including what the aurora borealis would look like. A large bus took us back to the cruise terminal.

Stunning scenery - This was a great tour that started with a rib boat ride to the base of North Cape. A rib boat is one where you sit like you are seated on a horse. Everyone faces forward and can see where you are going. Once at the base of North Cape, we were greeted by reindeer (actually they were pretty shy and moved away as we got closer). The hike was steep, but we were provided hiking poles which were very helpful for this mid-60's adult. There are 16 switchbacks so not too steep. Our guide would stop us to give us information about the area and it was all very enjoyable. Once on top, there is a lot to see at the visitor center. We had a sparkling wine toast (complimentary) to our hike where royalty walked decades before us and received a certificate for reaching the North Cape. It was a good hike and a good adventure. My only complaint is the sandwich provided contained raw fish (possibly smoked), but I don't like raw fish. I love fish, but generally cooked and warm! Luckily, we packed some nuts and chocolate bars, so I was fine. My husband ate my sandwich besides his, so he had no problem.

First, the tour operator... - First, the tour operator is very responsible. They emailed me once they knew that a boat ride would be impossible due to the waves, and offered me two options: to walk down from the top to Hornvika and then walk up back, or refund whole payment. Second, the guides/drivers are not only knowledge but also caring. Jonathan is an experienced fishing boat captain. At the fishing village, Skarsvag, he pointed at different kinds of fishing boats, which use different fishing methods. He even showed us the cod he caught. Karon presents us a lot of Sami culture and customs during our stops at a Sami village which is set up for tourists. Last but not least, the real highlight and excitement is the hike and the view during the hike. The hike itself, especially going down, is super challenging (It is not what they normally do as they normally only take people by boat to the Hornivika and walk up to North Cape). On the way down, I was literally crawling most of the time. Coming up is still challenging as the winding path is still kind of steep even with rope on one side, and the path is covered by grass, rocks, and reindeer manures.. However the view, even just during the brief stop on the way down and on the way up, is beyond amazing. There is no word that can be used to describe the beauty of nature and wildness. A pair or two of reindeer, or a small group of reindeer walking down and up the steep and rocky mountain slopes, less than 10 meters away from me. green but misty mountains, dark blue water with crystal waves hitting the rocks on shore, two small dark red cabin standing alone net to a winding bridge, which is reaching out to the water.

Not for the feint of heart - The journey begins with a 20 minute open-air boat ride to the base of the trail. It may be a bit chilly for you zipping along, so a hat and even gloves might be a great idea. Dress in layers, so you can peel them off as you go. I found a backpack to be indispensable for carrying things...and in certain places it was very helpful to have my hands free. The hike has a series of 16 switch backs, is 700 meters long, and ascends 300 meters to the top. I would not consider this hike easy, and if heights are an issue for you, you may want to reconsider. I took a photo of the trail from the boat, but it is difficult to see the route. The building at the base had photos of the trail from earlier days, so I took a picture of it to highlight the route better. The tour operator gave each of us a tasty salmon wrap with cream cheese and cucumber. We also had the chance to sample dried fish before heading up the trail. Bring plenty of water - you will need it. There is a waterfall along the way where you can get a refreshing drink, or refill your bottle. Our guide did a great job judging everyone's fitness level, so no one was left behind or exhausted along the way. You will follow a very narrow path along the face of the mountain. I felt like a goat, actually. But it was exhilarating, offered great views, and was well worth the effort. After you reach the top, there is another 15-20 minutes of walking to reach the North Cape monument and facilities. There is a gift shop, a restaurant, bathrooms, a lower level with an underground tunnel housing a church and a museum. A panoramic film shows in the theater at regular intervals. There is a post office here, but it was closed the day I came. (Saturday) There is a mailbox on site, and the gift shop sells stamps. However, I had no time to fill out postcards before the tour left, so I had to mail them from somewhere else. A well-deserved glass of champagne and a certificate of achievement wait for you at the end, and as you ride back to the meet point in comfort, you have time to reflect and bask in your accomplishment. Not everyone can say they hiked up to the North Cape from the original entrance in Hornvika!

Don't Miss This Opportunity - Don't Miss This! This hike was beautiful and we were looked after very well by our guide, Jakob. The scenery and history surrounding this location cannot be reproduced and only small groups can go. This is the only company that can dock at the original landing.