I consider myself an active person, and Montana definitely provides endless opportunities for such a lifestyle. So, I was pleasantly surprised at how active we were on this trip. There were even some adventures that were brand new to me, like trekking on a glacier…
Let’s start with that one now that I’ve peaked your interest. It began with a boat ride across a gray-blue glacial lake, then a strenuous hike to the front of the glacier tongue. Here, we strapped on harnesses, crampons, and clutched our pick axes in preparation to summit Jostedalen Breforarlag glacier. (It simply sounds intimidating!) It is definitely not for the faint of heart. Our guide, Stein, actually decided that some of our group should stay behind for the own safety! As intense as it was, the dramatic views and intimate experience with a massive body of constantly moving ice were beyond what I could ever have imagined!
Hike up Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock (Jenny Johnston)
Another activity that surpassed my every expectation was our hike up Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock. I have hiked my fair share, but summiting this gigantic rock that juts out over a glimmering fjord was unlike anything I had ever seen.
Kayaking on the Sognefjord (Jenny Johnston) Rafting in Voss (Jenny Johnston)
From kayaking through a fjord in Flam, to rafting the rapids of a river in Voss. From riding a speed boat by seals on the Sognefjord, to hiking through wildflowers up a mountain to be met by goats along the way. Norway is full of lovely surprises that seem unreal. I still have to convince myself that it all really happened! And that makes the memories even MORE magical.
Hike up Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock (Jenny Johnston)
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
