1. About I Fri Natur and choosing your experience
Who are I Fri Natur?
We are a local mountain guiding and course provider based in Henningsvær in the Lofoten Islands, Norway. We offer guided experiences and practical training in ski touring, rock climbing and alpine terrain.
Where are you based?
Our base is in Henningsvær, and we use different mountain and climbing areas throughout Lofoten. Your meeting point depends on the activity you book.
What activities do you offer?
We offer guided ski touring, rock climbing, snowshoeing, ski weeks, and climbing and avalanche courses. We also create tailored programmes for private groups and companies.
Are your activities suitable for beginners?
Yes, several activities require no previous experience. Others have specific skill requirements. Tell us about your experience, and we will help you choose.
Do you offer activities for experienced skiers and climbers?
Yes. Share your experience and ambitions with us, and we will suggest suitable guiding or training based on your level, availability and conditions.
What is the difference between a guided trip and a course?
On a guided trip, the guide leads the experience and manages its technical aspects. A course dedicates more time to instruction, practice and developing your own skills and judgement.
How do I choose the right trip or course?
Tell us about your experience, fitness, preferred activity and travel dates. Examples of previous trips or courses help us recommend a suitable programme.
Can I join on my own?
Yes. You can book an individual place on open-group trips and courses when spaces are available. Private guiding may also be an option.
Can we book a private guide?
Yes. We agree on the objectives, duration, group size and programme according to your wishes and experience.
Can you arrange activities outside the advertised dates?
Send us your preferred dates, group size and activity. We will check availability and explore the options.
2. Booking, prices and payment
How do I book?
Use the booking option on the relevant activity page where available, or send us an enquiry through our contact form, by email or by phone.
Does submitting the contact form confirm a booking?
A form labelled as an enquiry or expression of interest is used to contact us. Availability, price and booking terms must be agreed before the booking is confirmed.
How do I know my booking is confirmed?
Look for your booking confirmation and the accompanying information. If you are unsure about your booking status, contact us before making further arrangements around the activity.
How much does a trip or course cost?
Current prices are shown in the booking system or in a written quotation from us. Prices may depend on the activity, group size and any requested adjustments.
Is the price per person or for the whole group?
This depends on the product. Check your booking details or quotation, and ask us if the total price for your group is unclear.
What is included in the price?
Inclusions vary between products. Check the description for guiding, instruction, equipment, accommodation, meals and transport. Any additional costs should be clarified before booking.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
The payment schedule and any deposit requirements are set out in your quotation or booking terms.
Can I pay by invoice?
Contact us before booking if you need an invoice, for example for a company or organisation. We will clarify payment arrangements and the required billing details.
Can you hold a place while I organise my trip?
Please ask us. A place is only held once you have received written confirmation of the reservation and any deadline.
What should I do if payment fails or I do not receive a confirmation?
Check your spam folder and whether the payment has been processed. Contact us with your name, activity and date before attempting another booking.
3. Changes, cancellations and weather
What is your cancellation policy?
Please refer to the terms for your specific booking. Courses, day trips, private programmes and packages may have different conditions. Ask for written clarification if anything is unclear.
Can I move my booking to another date?
Contact us as early as possible. We will check availability and the conditions for changing your booking.
Can someone else take my place?
Please contact us before transferring your place. The replacement participant must meet the activity requirements, and we need to confirm the change and receive their details.
What happens if I become ill or injured before the trip?
Let us know as soon as possible. Your booking’s cancellation terms apply. Any insurance cover must be discussed with your insurer.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Contact us immediately. We will consider the options, but cannot guarantee a delayed departure or refund. Allow plenty of time between your arrival and the activity.
Do you cancel activities if it rains or snows?
Precipitation alone does not determine whether an activity runs. The guide assesses the weather, ground or snow conditions, terrain and activity together. Rock climbing and winter activities have different requirements.
What happens if conditions are unsuitable for the planned trip?
We consider a different start time, another objective or an adjusted programme. Any rescheduling, cancellation or financial settlement follows the terms of your booking.
When will we know whether the trip can go ahead?
The assessment may change right up to departure and during the activity. We monitor conditions and let you know if the plan needs to change.
Can you guarantee a particular summit or route?
No. The objective must suit the conditions and the group. The guide may change the plan or turn back when necessary.
Can you guarantee powder snow, clear views or the northern lights?
No. Natural conditions vary. We plan around the opportunities available, but cannot promise particular snow conditions, visibility or natural phenomena.
4. Safety, guides and personal requirements
Who leads your activities?
We use guides and instructors with qualifications appropriate to the activity. Our team includes IFMGA/NORTIND mountain guides and guides in training. See the relevant activity description or ask us about guide qualifications.
Can I find out who my guide will be?
Please ask us. Staffing can change, so a particular guide should be specifically agreed upon if this is essential to your booking.
Are mountain activities completely risk-free?
No. Mountain activities involve risk. We work to reduce it through assessment, planning and adapting the activity, and provide relevant information before and during the trip.
Who decides the route and whether we turn back?
The guide is responsible for operational decisions during the trip. Your observations and needs matter, and the plan is adapted to the conditions and the group.
Should I tell you about injuries or medical conditions?
Please tell us about anything that may affect your participation, stamina or safety. Discuss this with us privately before booking if you are unsure whether an activity is suitable.
Can I join if I am afraid of heights?
It depends on the activity and how strongly you react. Let us know beforehand. We can discuss less exposed alternatives and help you assess what might suit you.
What happens if I become frightened or tired during the trip?
Tell your guide early. They will assess breaks, pace and how to proceed. In steep terrain, it is not always possible to leave the activity or descend independently.
Can people with different ability levels join the same group?
Some programmes work well with mixed abilities, while others require similar skills. Describe the differences before booking so we can assess the activity and whether additional guides are needed.
Do I need insurance?
Check that your insurance covers the activity, destination and any cancellation. Ask your insurer specifically about off-piste skiing, climbing or alpine activities where relevant.
Can I participate after drinking alcohol?
You must be able to follow instructions and participate responsibly. Arrive rested and unimpaired. Tell your guide about anything that may affect your reactions or judgement.
5. Guided ski touring
Who is guided ski touring suitable for?
You should be able to ski outside groomed pistes in variable snow and have the fitness for several hours outdoors. Describe your ability so we can recommend a suitable programme.
Do I need previous ski touring experience?
Not necessarily, but your skiing ability must suit the trip. Let us know when booking if you need an introduction to touring equipment or uphill techniques.
When is the ski touring season in Lofoten?
The main season normally runs from February to May. Actual opportunities depend on snow, weather and the terrain being considered.
How long is a guided ski day?
A guided day can last up to eight hours. Meeting time, expected duration and objectives are agreed for your booking.
How many people are in a ski touring group?
Our standard guided ski touring is offered for one to six participants. More demanding terrain or significant differences in ability may require smaller groups.
Where do we meet the ski guide?
Common meeting points are Trevarefabrikken in Henningsvær and Svinøya in Svolvær. Follow the location and time in your confirmation.
Can I join on a splitboard?
Yes. We will assess whether the trip, group pace and planned terrain are suitable.
Can we book two or three days instead of a full week?
Yes. Send us your dates and preferred number of days. We will check availability and suggest a guiding programme.
Can we request particular mountains or steep couloirs?
Yes. Tell us your objectives and relevant experience. Final route choices depend on conditions and the group. More demanding objectives may require a different arrangement and fewer guests per guide.
Are transport and ski equipment included?
This depends on your booking. Check the activity description or quotation, and clarify transport and any equipment rental before arrival.
6. Avalanche courses and the Ski & Avalanche Academy
Which avalanche course should I choose?
Choose the two-day introductory course for the foundations, the five-day advanced course for more depth in avalanche skills, or the Ski & Avalanche Academy for a longer programme combining avalanche training and alpine skills.
Do I need avalanche knowledge before the introductory course?
No. You should have basic skiing skills and be able to participate in ski touring. The course covers terrain, tour planning and basic companion rescue.
Who is the advanced avalanche course suitable for?
For people with ski touring experience and basic avalanche knowledge. You should be comfortable touring on consecutive days without needing basic skiing instruction.
What is the Ski & Avalanche Academy?
A two-week advanced programme with ten training days. It combines avalanche training with tour planning, skiing technique, navigation and alpine winter skills.
How much does the Ski & Avalanche Academy cost?
The advertised course price is NOK 20,000. Check the current product description and booking details for inclusions and any additional costs.
Is the Ski & Avalanche Academy suitable for complete beginners?
No. You should have ski touring experience, basic avalanche knowledge and the stamina for long days on skis. Contact us if you are unsure about your level.
Is there training every day during the two weeks?
The programme consists of five training days, two rest days and five further training days. Check the dates for your chosen departure.
Is accommodation included in the avalanche courses?
Accommodation should be clarified separately. It is not included in the Ski & Avalanche Academy course fee. Ask us about options in Henningsvær.
Will I qualify as an avalanche instructor or guide after the Academy?
The Academy develops your skills and experience. It does not itself award an instructor or guide qualification. Formal professional training has separate requirements.
Can I participate without my own avalanche equipment?
Arrange rental or borrowing before signing up. You must have access to the required equipment, and any rental or loan arrangement must be confirmed before the course starts.
7. Svolværgeita
Can I climb Svolværgeita without previous climbing experience?
Yes. The trip is suitable for beginners with a normal level of fitness. You receive guidance throughout, but should be prepared for a steep approach and exposed sections.
How long does the trip take?
Allow around four hours in total. The group’s pace, conditions and other climbers on the mountain can affect the duration.
How difficult is the climbing?
The usual route is approximately Norwegian grade 4+. Your guide helps with technique and manages the rope protection. You do not need to climb this grade independently.
Where do I meet the guide?
At the Sherpa Steps in Svolvær, at the time confirmed for your booking. Check your meeting-point information before setting off.
How many participants are in the group?
Our open groups have up to four participants. You can book one place without putting together your own group.
Is climbing equipment included?
Yes, the necessary technical equipment is included. Bring suitable footwear for the approach and clothing appropriate to the weather.
Can children climb Svolværgeita?
We generally recommend the trip for participants aged 14 and above. Younger participants must be discussed with us beforehand, taking into account experience, physical ability and confidence with heights.
Do I have to jump between the horns?
No. Jumping is not required to join the trip. Any requests must be discussed with the guide and assessed separately.
How do we get down?
The descent includes abseiling under guidance, followed by the walk back. No previous abseiling experience is required.
Can I climb if I am afraid of heights?
The route is exposed. Some nervousness is common, but a strong fear of heights may make the trip unsuitable. Speak to us before booking.
8. Other climbing trips and families
What other climbing trips do you offer?
We offer private climbing trips and classic objectives such as Presten, Vågakallen and Rock and Roll Ridge. The chosen objective depends on experience and conditions.
How do we choose a suitable climbing route?
Tell us what you climb indoors and outdoors, whether you have multi-pitch experience, and your preferred trip length. We will suggest a suitable objective.
Can I join if I have only climbed indoors?
Yes, on suitable trips. Tell us about your belaying, leading and experience with heights so we can choose an appropriate introduction to outdoor climbing.
Can we book family climbing with younger children?
Send us the children’s ages, experience and your wishes. A tailored day at a suitable crag may work better than a long, exposed mountain route.
Does everyone in the family have to climb?
We clarify this when planning the day. Meeting arrangements, terrain and supervision of children must also work for anyone who chooses not to climb.
Do I need my own climbing partner?
Not necessarily on a guided trip. Tell us if you are travelling alone so we can assess suitable options and availability.
Can we climb Presten without much experience?
Presten is a long and demanding objective. We need information about your climbing ability, endurance and previous long routes before assessing whether it is suitable.
Can I wear normal hiking shoes for climbing?
It depends on the route. Suitable approach footwear is important, and some routes require climbing shoes. Follow the equipment list for your activity.
How many guests can climb with one guide?
This depends on the route, terrain and participants’ experience. The group size used on Svolværgeita does not necessarily apply to longer or more demanding routes.
Can we choose a shorter or less exposed experience?
Yes. Tell us your preferences before booking. We can consider suitable crags, shorter routes or other activities.
9. Climbing courses, the Academy and Chamonix
What will I learn on a trad climbing course?
You practise placing protection, building anchors, climbing-team routines, abseiling and multi-pitch climbing. The course combines techniques with practical use on the rock.
Do I need trad climbing experience before the five-day course?
No, but you should have some climbing experience and understand the basic use of a harness, rope and belay equipment.
What is the Mountain Climbing Academy?
A two-week course with ten training days for climbers who want to become more independent in the mountains. It provides time for practice, feedback and progression.
What level should I have before joining the Mountain Climbing Academy?
You should have climbing and belaying experience and be able to lead sport routes around Norwegian grade 5+. Describe your experience if you are unsure whether your level is suitable.
Do I need to buy my own nuts, cams and ropes?
We provide the necessary shared equipment on the courses described. Check the equipment list for personal items and arrange any borrowing before the course.
Are accommodation and local transport included in the Mountain Climbing Academy?
No. These are arranged separately. Access to a car is recommended because the course uses different climbing areas.
Will I be ready to climb independently after the course?
The aim is to improve your skills and judgement. What you are ready for afterwards depends on your experience and progress. Your instructor can advise on suitable further practice.
Who is the climbing self-rescue course suitable for?
For climbers with experience of traditionally protected multi-pitch routes who want to practise problem-solving and managing difficult situations.
Do you offer further courses in the Alps?
See our available Chamonix courses or contact us. Alpine trips have specific experience, equipment and preparation requirements that must be clarified before booking.
Are NF courses the same as your other climbing courses?
No. Courses that form part of a formal qualification pathway have their own entry requirements and assessment criteria. Check the current course information for the skills or qualifications it may provide.
10. Ski weeks and stays in Henningsvær
What is a Private Premium Ski Week?
A package with six nights at Henningsvær Bryggehotell and four days of private IFMGA-guided ski touring. The tours are planned around your ability and the conditions.
What is included in the Premium Ski Week?
The described package includes a Superior double room with breakfast and four guided ski days. See your quotation for room arrangements and any adjustments.
What is not included in the Premium Ski Week?
Flights, car rental, ski equipment, lunch and dinner are not included in the standard package. Check your quotation for any special arrangements.
Is the guide private for our group?
Yes, the Premium Ski Week is a private programme. Group size and any additional guide requirements are agreed when booking.
How does a ski week at Trevarefabrikken differ from the Premium Ski Week?
The accommodation and package contents differ. Check the specific offers for room type, meals, number of guided days and price.
What is Trevaretur?
A ski holiday based at Trevarefabrikken. See the relevant package for dates, guided days, the social programme and included meals.
Can we book a shorter ski and accommodation package?
Send us your dates, group size, and preferred number of ski days and nights. We will explore what is available.
Can we have a single room or upgrade our room?
Please ask when enquiring. This depends on availability and may affect the total price. Room type and price are confirmed when booking.
Does everyone in the group need the same skiing ability?
A private programme offers flexibility, but significant differences may require separate groups and additional guides. Describe everyone’s ability before booking.
Is there guiding or an activity every day of the ski week?
Check the number of guided days in your package. Your stay may also include rest days and arrival and departure days without guiding.
11. Equipment, clothing, food and practical needs
Will I receive an equipment list before the trip?
Check the information accompanying your activity and booking. Ask us for the list well in advance if you need to rent or buy anything.
What equipment do I need for ski touring?
Usually touring skis or an agreed splitboard setup, suitable boots, skins, poles and avalanche equipment. Ski crampons, a helmet and other items depend on the requirements of your trip.
What is avalanche equipment?
An avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel. You must have access to working equipment that meets the activity requirements and take part in the pre-trip equipment briefing.
Do I need an ice axe and crampons?
For some courses and trips, yes. Bring them when required by the equipment list, or arrange borrowing or rental beforehand.
Can I rent equipment through you?
Ask about options and availability before arrival. We will clarify sizing, collection, price and which equipment is included.
Can I use my own climbing equipment?
Ask us beforehand and bring it if agreed. The guide assesses whether it is suitable for the activity.
What should I wear?
Wear clothing appropriate to the season and activity, including wind and rain protection and extra warm layers. Breaks and waiting can be cold even on fine days.
Are food and drinks included?
This varies. For day trips and courses, you should normally bring your own food and drinks unless the product or quotation specifically includes them.
What about toilets during the trip?
There are often no facilities in the terrain. Use a toilet before meeting and ask your guide about practical arrangements during the day.
Can I bring a dog, drone or a lot of camera equipment?
Please clarify this before booking. Terrain, other participants, local rules and the activity may make it unsuitable. Equipment must not interfere with participation or safety.
12. Travel, accommodation, groups and contact
Do I need a car in Lofoten?
Access to a car gives you flexibility between your accommodation and activity areas. It is specifically recommended. Clarify local transport before booking your travel.
Do you offer hotel or airport pickup?
Pickup must be agreed separately. Send us your preferred pickup address, time and group size so we can clarify availability and price.
Can I stay in Reine and join activities near Henningsvær or Svolvær?
This can involve substantial driving. Check the specific route and meeting time before booking, and consider whether accommodation closer to the activity would suit you better.
Where can I stay during a course?
Henningsvær is a useful base for several courses. We work with local accommodation providers and can explain the options. Check your booking for what is included.
Can I stay in a dorm at Trevarefabrikken?
Ask about availability for your dates. Some course offers have dorm accommodation from NOK 750 per person per night. The price and included meals are confirmed when booking.
Can I join a snowshoeing trip without skiing skills?
Yes. Snowshoeing can be an option if you want to experience the winter landscape without skiing. Tell us about your fitness and experience so we can clarify the trip requirements.
Do you offer corporate trips and larger events?
Yes, we welcome enquiries for groups and tailored programmes. Send your dates, group size, budget and preferred activities so we can assess availability.
Do you work with travel agents and DMCs?
Yes. Contact us about local activities or a tailored programme. Responsibilities, inclusions, prices and terms are agreed for each booking.
Can guiding and instruction be provided in English?
State your preferred language when booking. On open courses, the teaching language must work for the whole group and be confirmed for that particular course.
How do I contact you?
Email vegard@ifrinatur.no or Niels@ifrinatur.no call +47 920 63 303. Include your preferred activity, dates, group size and experience. We will reply as soon as we can between trips.
