Fjords are magnificent natural formations that represent the essence of Norway. These long, slender bodies of water, surrounded by towering cliffs, were sculpted by the incredible force of glaciers.
Norway is home to some of the most remarkable fjords on Earth, boasting impressive length, depth, and breathtaking beauty.
National Geographic Traveler Magazine conducted a survey in which the renowned fjords of Norway were chosen as the top pristine travel destination out of 115 global options. Intriguingly, the fjord coasts of New Zealand and Chile also received high praise and recognition.
10. Naeroyfjord
The Nærøyfjord, known as the untamed and breathtaking offshoot of Norway’s Sognefjord, holds the title of being the country’s largest fjord.
Stretching across a length of 17 kilometers, it impresses with its astonishing narrowness, measuring a mere 250 meters at its tightest point.
Embarking on a journey through the Nærøyfjord offers an awe-inspiring experience, showcasing one of Europe’s most captivating and dramatic fjord explorations.
9. Ilulissat Icefjord
The Ilulissat Icefjord can be found near the town of Ilulissat, which is situated on the west coast of Greenland, approximately 250 km north of the Arctic Circle.
Stretching for 40 km (25 miles) from the Greenland ice sheet to Disko Bay, this fjord offers a truly awe-inspiring spectacle.
The head of the icefjord is particularly captivating as it showcases an incredible display of scenery, with icebergs originating from a glacier known for its remarkable speed (advancing at a rate of 19 meters per day).
8. Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound, located in the southwestern corner of New Zealand’s South Island, is an expansive and breathtaking fjord. It is renowned for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife.
Within Fiordland National Park, Doubtful Sound stands as the second largest among the 14 fjords present, dwarfing the more renowned Milford Sound in size, being three times longer and ten times larger.
7. Misty Fjords
Misty Fjords, located in the isolated and untamed southern region of the Alaska Panhandle, stands as a majestic National Monument. The magnificence of its narrow and towering fjords is unmatched, rendering them inaccessible to sizeable cruise ships.
Nonetheless, these very characteristics create a perfect haven for adventurous souls seeking breathtaking sea-kayaking adventures. Of course, one must be prepared to face the daunting tides and occasional tempests, which add an element of challenge to the boating experience.
6. Kenai Fjords
Located on the Kenai Peninsula in south-central Alaska, Kenai Fjords is a sprawling National Park that spans over 650,000 acres.
This magnificent park boasts a breathtaking landscape adorned with majestic mountains, where mighty glaciers gracefully descend to meet the vast ocean.
The park’s allure extends further with its enchanting mile-deep fjords, serving as a sanctuary for countless nesting seabirds and an array of charming marine creatures, including sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions.
5. Geirangerfjord
Geiranger truly stands out among Norway’s renowned fjords as its crown jewel. With its snowy mountain summits, picturesque waterfalls, vibrant greenery, and serene deep blue waters, the overall experience is simply exquisite.
To fully embrace the splendor of Geiranger Fjord, one can opt for a memorable adventure aboard one of the 130 annual cruise ships or embark on a scenic journey by car ferry, connecting the charming town of Hellesylt to the captivating Geiranger at the fjord’s end.
4. Milford Sound
Milford Sound holds the distinction of being one of the top tourist spots in New Zealand, and it was rightly crowned the number one destination according to TripAdvisor’s 2008 Travelers’ Choice Awards.
Located at the farthest and easiest-to-reach point of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound presents visitors with awe-inspiring coastal vistas that are truly remarkable, thanks to its imposing peaks and deep blue waters.
The region’s regular rainfall only adds to the allure of this South Island gem, as it gives rise to countless breathtaking waterfalls that gracefully tumble down the cliffs.
3. Howe Sound
Howe Sound, located just northwest of Vancouver, is a magnificent fjord that boasts the title of being the southernmost fjord in North America.
With its awe-inspiring peaks that jut out of the ocean, this natural wonder serves as a haven for various thrilling activities such as sailing, fishing, diving, camping, and more.
Not only does Howe Sound offer these exciting ventures, but it is also home to numerous islands, including three sizable ones that feature their own majestic mountains.
So, whether you’re looking for adventure or simply yearning to bask in the beauty of nature, Howe Sound is the perfect destination.
2. Lysefjord
The Lysefjord is a highly sought-after destination for tourists in the southwestern part of Norway. Aside from the breathtaking beauty of the fjord, there are two particular spots that attract a lot of attention.
The Pulpit Rock, also known as Preikestolen, is an elevated plateau with a stunning 604-meter sheer drop that provides an incredible vantage point to admire the scenic Lysefjord and the mountains surrounding it.
At the opposite end of the fjord sits the majestic Kjerag mountain, a beloved hiking spot where adventurers can experience even more awe-inspiring cliff views.
1. Aisen Fjords
The Aisén Region in southern Chile boasts a captivating terrain shaped by numerous glaciations, giving rise to a magnificent array of lakes, channels, and breathtaking fjords.
Among the most sought-after tourist attractions in the area is the Laguna San Rafael National Park, accessible solely by boat or plane. This park encompasses some of Patagonia’s tallest mountains, adding to its allure and appeal.
