Discover Saltstraumen

by coach & on foot

Discover Saltstraumen and marvel at the maelstrom created by the strongest tidal current in the world!

Norway is packed with natural wonders but the tidal currents and whirlpools of Saltstraumen are very unique. Saltstraumen is a narrow strait that connects the Saltfjord to the large Skjerstadfjord. At its narrowest point, the strait is just 150m (492ft) wide. With wide bodies of water on both sides, the strait is a major bottleneck for the tidal water and so every six hours, tides push or pull the water through the straight at an immense speed of up to 37kmph (23mph) at its strongest. The fast-flowing water creates some very distinctive whirlpools which constantly change shape. These whirlpools can be up to 10m (33ft) in diameter and 4 to 5m (13 to 16ft) deep and are a sight to witness.

You begin with a scenic drive from Bodø. Your experience is timed to coincide with the change of tides at Saltstraumen, when the whirlpools are at their peak. You will have around 80 to 90-minutes to spend as you wish, capturing photos or just enjoying the Arctic scenery around you. If you would like to get a closer look at the power of nature, you may like to walk down the fairly steep path to the shoreline. Alternatively, you can get a bird’s-eye view of the phenomenon from the top of the bridge. The area is home to an abundance of fish, and attracts a large number of seabirds, including the white-tailed sea eagle, so keep your eyes peeled for these majestic birds in their natural habitat.