Recently, Norway cancelled a campaign meant to attract more foreign tourists to its rural areas, highlighting a preference for preserving the natural environment over increasing tourism revenue. Despite Norway’s stunning landscapes, like the Lofoten Islands with their northern lights and fjords, some Norwegians prioritize protection over profit. Tourist numbers have surged, with Lofoten experiencing a 15% increase in tourism from 2022 to 2023. Direct flights from Western European cities like London and Amsterdam, as well as the drop in currency rates, have made it easier and cheaper for tourists, particularly from Europe and the U.S., to visit. While some destinations impose visitor fees, like Venice’s €5 tourist tax, Norway opts to quietly cut back on tourism promotion, allowing nature to speak for itself.
In Norway, nature holds a special place in the national psyche. From a young age, Norwegian children are taught that “bad weather doesn’t exist, only bad clothing.” Babies are bundled up in warm gear and taken on outdoor adventures. Cross-country skiing, foraging for wild mushrooms or berries, and hiking are all common weekend activities.
The country’s cold and dark winters, lasting up to six months, make outdoor activities like skiing essential for mental well-being. However, with increased tourism comes concerns about the impact on Norway’s natural areas. The tradition of “allemannsretten,” which grants people the right to roam freely and camp in the wilderness, could be strained by overuse, leading to overcrowded hiking trails and environmental degradation.
A long-standing tradition managed by the Norwegian Tourist Organisation allows members to access small, rustic cabins in scenic areas at low cost. Foreigners can join, but the organization intentionally avoids promoting this option internationally to limit numbers. Unlike countries reliant on tourism income, Norway, which has the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund, is less dependent on it. Ironically, while Norway is one of the largest oil exporters and contributes to global warming, the country is passionate about preserving its natural beauty. Even green initiatives like onshore wind farms face opposition due to environmental concerns.
Despite the economic challenges of high inflation, interest rates, and a weakening currency, there is still a debate about whether tourism could be a way to diversify Norway’s economy away from fossil fuels. Introducing tourism infrastructure and stricter regulations, like limiting cruise ship visitors to 8,000 per day in Bergen, could help balance the need for economic growth with environmental preservation.
While charging fees for sites like Pulpit Rock may not align with Norwegian values, regulating the influx of tourists may be necessary to protect both nature and tradition.