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Private Guided Hike
to Pulpit Rock

A private hiking trip to Pulpit Rock - tailored to your pace and comfort, including transport and premium photos.

⭐ Pick-Up Anywhere
in Stavanger

Comfortable, private transportation

for a smooth start and finish.

⭐ Premium
Photos Included

Professional photos included

at no extra cost.

⭐ Private & Exclusive
Experience

You never join strangers - hike is

tailored to your pace, and interests.

Fitness level

Suitable for guests with normal fitness.

Expect 4 – 6 hours of hiking on rocky, uneven terrain. Elevation gain: approx. 350–400 meters.

Prices

10,000 NOK for 1 guest 

+ 1,000 NOK per extra guest (max. 4 total)

For groups of 5 or more, please request a price.

Time & meeting

Pickup at your hotel, cruise port or any agreed location in Stavanger. Start times are flexible and adjusted to your schedule and weather conditions.

Families

Children can join if they are used to walking outdoors. We adjust pace, timing and breaks to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for younger hikers.

Hiker standing on Pulpit Rock with panoramic view over Lysefjord
Private guided hike on the Pulpit Rock trail with views towards Lysefjord

✨ What to Expect on the Trail

The hike to Pulpit Rock offers a varied mix of terrain. Sherpa-built stone steps, rocky sections, forest paths, wooden walkways and beautiful viewpoints along the way. Total duration from pick-up to drop-off is normally 6 - 8 hours, depending on conditions and your preferred pace.

Your guide ensures a comfortable pace, with breaks for photos, storytelling and enjoying the nature. After about two hours, we reach the famous 25 × 25-meter plateau standing 604 meters above Lysefjorden. Here we enjoy the view, a warm drink and a light meal.

The return down follows the same trail, offering new angles and a calm, peaceful atmosphere - before your private transport takes you smoothly back to Stavanger.

Sunrise over Lysefjord seen from the mountains near Pulpit Rock

What’s Included in Your Private Hike

Everything that’s part of your private hiking adventure.

  • Private Transportation – Comfortable, door-to-door pickup

    All Fees Included – Parking, tolls & logistics

    Flexible Pickup & Drop-off – Hotel, cruise port or any location

    Customized Route & Pace – Adjusted to fitness & weather

    Pre & Post Tour Support – Easy communication

  • Experienced Local Guide – Personal, safe, knowledgeable

    Safety Equipment – First aid kit, emergency gear, GPS tracking

    Weather-Optimized Planning – Route adjusted for best conditions

    Headlamps – Provided when needed

  • Professional Photography – High-quality photos included

    Light Meal & Hot Drinks – Simple Norwegian outdoor meal

    Local Norwegian Treats – Traditional hiking chocolate

    Learning-Focused Experience – Wildlife, fjord geology & culture

  • ​Personal hiking gear 

    ​Travel or health insurance

    Full meals - Additional drinks or food 

    ​Hotel breakfast or packed lunches

    ​Tips (appreciated but never expected)

    If you’re unsure what to bring, we’ll send you a simple packing checklist after booking.

What your day will look like

Your hike is fully personalised - from pick-up to pace, breaks and timing.


Here’s what a typical day looks like:

Group photo of hikers enjoying the scenery on a private Pulpit Rock adventure.

QUIET TRAILS & LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

We avoid the busiest moments and choose the best places for breaks and photos - using local insight to give you a calmer and more personal experience on the main trail.

With a private guide, you get tips, timing and viewpoints that most visitors miss, creating a more enjoyable and authentic outdoor day.

Couple walking with hiking poles during a private guided Pulpit Rock hike.

EASY PICK-UP & SMOOTH START

 

This seamless start ensures you save energy for the hike itself. Your guide also shares useful tips about the trail, weather and timing during the drive - giving you the best possible start to your Pulpit Rock adventure.

Small group standing on the summit of Pulpit Rock with views over Lysefjord

EPIC MOMENTS & PREMIUM PHOTOGRAPHY

At the plateau, we take time to enjoy the view, relax and take premium photos. Your guide knows the best spots for dramatic angles and less crowded photo areas, so you get stunning memories to take home.

Hiker climbing the rocky trail and stone steps on the way to Pulpit Rock.

GUIDED HIKE WITH SAFETY & COMFORT

We adjust the pace continuously based on your energy, confidence and the trail conditions.

 

Your guide helps on rocky sections, offers route choices when needed, and makes sure you always feel safe and supported - especially if it's your first mountain hike.

Hiker lying safely at the edge of Pulpit Rock with a stunning view over the Lysefjord.

A PEACEFUL SUMMIT AND A RELAXING RIDE BACK

The return follows a steady, comfortable pace with plenty of time for breaks if needed. Most guests find the hike easier on the way down, and your guide ensures a smooth finish all the way to the car.

Important to know before hiking Pulpit Rock

Pulpit Rock is one of Norway’s most visited hikes, and the trail can be crowded during summer (June - August). Being prepared for queues near the summit helps ensure a smoother and more enjoyable day.


Looking for a quieter alternative?

Try Reinaknuten, Ramnstoknuten or

The Hat.

Hiker doing a handstand on Pulpit Rock with Lysefjord in the background
Hiker walking across rocky terrain on the trail to Preikestolen

About Your Guide

My name is Espen, and I’m a local guide born and raised in the Stavanger region. I’ve spent my life exploring the mountains and fjords around Lysefjorden, and I love sharing these places with guests from around the world.

On my hikes, I focus on calm pace, safety, and creating a deeper connection to Norwegian nature.

Guide Espen on a mountain hike with panoramic fjord views in Norway
Couple enjoying a private hike at a viewpoint near Pulpit Rock overlooking Lysefjord

ABOUT  YOUR GUIDE
 

My name is Espen, and I’m the local guide behind Stavanger Adventure.


I grew up in the Stavanger region, with the mountains, forests and fjords around Lysefjorden as a natural part of everyday life.

Over the years, I’ve explored countless hiking trails - from iconic routes like Preikestolen to quiet local paths only known to people from this area.

On my guided hikes, I focus on a calm pace, safety, and creating a deeper connection to Norwegian nature. Along the way, I share insights about geology, wildlife, weather, local culture and the history of the region. For me, hiking is not about rushing to the top, but about understanding the landscape and experiencing it in a meaningful way.

Local guide Espen hiking above Lysefjord during a private guided tour

Guest Reviews 

2025

Espen was an absolutely fantastic tour guide - honestly one of the best we've ever had, and we travel quite a bit.
 
I don't usually take the time to write reviews for tour guides, but Espen absolutely deserves the recognition. If you're looking to go hiking in Norway or want a more active adventure beyond the typical tourist activities, I cannot recommend him highly enough. 10/10 review for sure. I would even go beyond to give him a 12/10 if I could.

Thank you again, Espen, for making our time in Norway so memorable!
- Alfonso 

Rating

2025

The hike was spot on given our level and what we’re looking for (not to crowded). Also the guidance was great. We felt very much safe throughout, even when the hike was challenging. During the hike Espen explained, but also really felt when some silence was needed. Furthermore he arranged snacks, lunch and coffee. He also made recordings and pictures throughout.

I would highly recommend Stavanger Adventure for guided hikes (or other adventures) in the area of Stavanger. We will certainly reach out again when we’re back in Stavanger.

Rating

2025

Espen took me and my parents up Pulpit rock and it was great! He was very nice, personable, and laid back.
 
He came prepared with a safety recording prior to the hike, had food/water for us during the hike and at the top and also came with a camera and drone for amazing pictures.
 
Overall 10/10 would recommend him as a guide!

Rating

Annie F. - Florida

2025

This was our first hike to pulpit rock. Espen is very detailed oriented. Our correspondences started way before our hiking.
 
My husband is afraid of hieight, but Espen put him at ease right at beginning. We had such wonderful time with him. He made this hike so much easier. Some of the photos Espen took were breathtaking beyond words. Thank you Espen !

Rating

Rana Q. - Bahrain

2025

This was my first time hiking at Pulpit Rock. Espen facilitated the journey by clearly outlining everything from the outset to the difficulty level, ensuring I was adequately equipped.
 
My solo travel experience was quite enjoyable.

Rating

2025

Was a really pleasure to share the adventure with Espen. For sure the best guide that I get travelling a month around Norway.
 
He always take care of us, and asking about the places and everything. He motivate us a lot for the hike and finally we could see the best sunrise that I have seen in Norway.
 
Thanks , thanks and thanks for everything, i will join him again in the summer, so i am coming back to visit this beautiful country. Also he maked beautiful pictures of us and he sendt us very soon after.

Rating

2025

Our hike with Stavanger Adventures was amazing! Espen showed us the beautiful nature of Norway during a hike off the beaten path. Just as we like it.
 
It was challenging at some points but I always felt safe under Espen’s guidance.
 
I highly recommend Stavanger Adventures.

Rating

2025

Espen was an excellent guide, always attentive and willing to help us.
 
It was an amazing hike with the most beautiful sunrise of my life. The views were incredible.
 
Every step to the top was worth it. I want to come back soon!!

Rating

2024

An incredible family adventure with true professionals.

A hike above Stavanger with two attentive guides who truly love their country.

We will never forget this amazing day!

Thank you, Espen and Alf!

Rating

FAQ  Hiking Adventures

  • We recommend sturdy hiking shoes with good grip - the Pulpit Rock trail includes rocky sections, natural stone steps and uneven terrain.

    Wear comfortable outdoor clothing in layers, such as:

    • a windproof/waterproof jacket

    • a warm mid-layer (fleece or wool)

    • hat and gloves (even in summer, depending on the weather)

    • optional: light backpack for water, snacks and extra layers

    Weather in the fjords can change quickly - even on sunny days - so dressing in layers is essential.


    If you’re unsure what to pack, we’ll send you a simple clothing checklist after booking.

  • The hiking portion of the Pulpit Rock trail typically takes 4–6 hours round-trip, depending on pace, weather, photo stops and breaks. Driving to and from the trailhead adds 1.5 hours in total. This means the full experience - from pick-up to drop-off - usually lasts 6 – 8 hours.

    The trail is well-marked and suitable for most people, but it does include:

    • rocky and uneven terrain

    • natural stone steps and boulders

    • a few short but steep climbs

    • some exposed sections near edges (all safe with guidance)

    • potentially slippery surfaces in rain or early season

    You don’t need to be an athlete to complete the hike.


    If you have normal fitness, can walk for several hours, and feel comfortable on uneven ground, you’ll manage the trail well - especially with a private guide adjusting the pace, ensuring safety and helping on the more challenging sections.

    If preferred, we can also choose a slower pace, take additional breaks, or visit alternative viewpoints to match your comfort level.

  • Yes - children can join if they are used to walking outdoors.


    We adjust the pace, timing and breaks to make the experience safe and enjoyable for younger hikers.

    There are restrooms at the trailhead, but no toilets along the trail.
    Your guide can help find discreet and suitable nature-stop locations if needed.

    Families often find the hike very rewarding, and a private guide makes it easier to adapt the day to each child’s comfort level.

  • Yes.

    We offer pick-up at your hotel, the cruise port, or any agreed location in Stavanger.


    Start times are flexible and adjusted to your schedule and the weather conditions.

    After the hike, we return you to your preferred location.


    If you’re arriving by cruise ship, we make sure the timing fits your ship’s schedule.

  • Yes.
    We regularly guide guests arriving on cruise ships and can adjust pick-up, drop-off and timing to match your ship’s schedule.

    As long as the timing is agreed in advance and fits within our guiding schedule, we will plan the hike so that you return well before departure - with a comfortable safety buffer.

  • The private tour is 10,000 NOK for one guest, plus 1,000 NOK per additional guest (up to 4 guests).

    Groups above four guests are possible, but not recommended for comfort and safety.


    Larger groups may require an additional guide/car, which increases the price. If you’re more than four, please contact us for a custom quote.

  • Yes. All Pulpit Rock tours with Stavanger Adventure are fully private, meaning:

    • only your group participates

    • no strangers join

    • the pace, breaks and timing are tailored to you

    This ensures a calmer, safer and more personal experience - especially compared to

    large group tours.

  • Yes - your guide takes premium photos throughout the hike.

    We know the best spots for:

    • safe photography

    • dramatic angles

    • quiet moments away from the main crowds

    You receive the photos after the hike.

    Please note: In heavy rain or very wet conditions, photo opportunities can be fewer, as professional camera equipment cannot be fully exposed to water. We always take photos when conditions allow, but the style and quantity may differ from what is possible on a clear day.

  • We don’t offer instant checkout.


    To book, simply send us a request with your preferred date, group size and pick-up location.


    We’ll discuss your wishes, fitness level, timing and weather to create the perfect personalised hike.

    Payment is made on the day of the hike, using a portable card terminal or cash.

    There is no charge for cancellations, but we kindly ask that you respect the agreement - last-minute cancellations take a spot someone else could have enjoyed, and affect our guiding schedule.

  • We monitor the weather conditions closely in the days and hours leading up to the hike. Light rain and changing weather are normal in Norway, and the hike is still safe in most conditions.

    If the weather makes the hike unsafe or unpleasant, we offer:

    • adjusted start times

    • an alternative nearby hike

    • rescheduling (if possible)

    • or cancellation

    Since you don’t pay anything in advance, you won’t be charged if the tour has to be cancelled due to weather.

    Sharing a phone number is optional, but highly recommended. It allows us to reach you quickly if conditions change shortly before the hike, so we can update you and confirm your preference.

    Your safety and comfort always come first.

  • Your private hike includes everything you need for a safe, comfortable experience:

    Transportation & Logistics

    • Private transportation with comfortable, door-to-door pickup

    • All fees included (parking, tolls, logistics)

    • Flexible pickup and drop-off (hotel, cruise port or chosen location)

    • Customized route and pace, adapted to fitness level, weather and preferences

    • Pre- and post-tour support with easy communication

    Safety & Professional Guiding

    • Experienced local guide - personal, safe and knowledgeable

    • Safety equipment: first aid kit, emergency gear and GPS tracking

    • Weather-optimized planning for the best hiking conditions

    • Headlamps provided when needed

    Food, Photos & Local Experience

    • Professional photography - high-quality photos included

    • Light outdoor meal and hot drinks

    • Traditional Norwegian hiking treats

  • The following items are not included in the tour price:

    Meals & Personal Gear

    • Full meals (only light snacks are provided on the trail)

    • Personal hiking gear such as boots, jackets, backpacks and water bottles

    Insurance & Extra Purchases

    • Travel or health insurance

    • Additional drinks or food purchased along the way

    • Hotel breakfasts or packed lunches

    Other

    • Tips (optional - appreciated but never expected)

    If you’re unsure what to bring, we’ll send you a simple packing checklist after booking.

  • Yes - on request.


    We can start early to avoid the crowds, or plan a special sunrise or sunset hike for the best light and atmosphere.

    These options require additional planning and may involve hiking in low light, so they are offered as part of our Custom Hike experience and may include an additional fee.
    Weather and safety conditions will determine what is possible on your date.

  • Yes - many guests with mild or moderate fear of heights complete the hike comfortably.


    There are a few exposed sections, but your guide will choose the safest lines, keep a calm pace, and support you whenever needed.

    You never have to go close to any cliff edges, and we can adjust the route or viewpoints to match your comfort level.

Simple booking - fast communication - flexible planning

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