Norway strengthens sustainable tourism with new measures

Improving quality, safety and infrastructure in Norwegian tourism

Norway is taking further steps to better manage growing visitor numbers while ensuring the long-term quality of its tourism offerings. The new measures aim to protect nature-based experiences, improve safety and support destinations facing increasing visitor pressure.

A key element is the new Visitor Contribution Act, which came into force on 1 July 2026. From 1 January 2027, municipalities with high tourism pressure will have the option to introduce an accommodation fee. The revenue will be used to support tourism-related infrastructure such as toilets, parking areas, hiking trails and other public facilities where demand increases due to higher visitor numbers.

Potential impact for tour operators

The introduction of the fee will not apply automatically across Norway but will depend on decisions made by individual municipalities. If introduced, the fee can amount to up to three percent of the accommodation price (excluding VAT).

For tour operators, this means that potential local fees may need to be considered when planning and pricing Norway programs in the future – particularly for itineraries in highly visited regions.

The possible fee applies to paid accommodation such as hotels, hostels, holiday homes, apartments, cabins and other accommodation providers. Exemptions include, among others, motorhomes, caravans and tents at campsites, as well as leisure boats in guest harbors.

Cruise ships may also be affected by a separate visitor contribution from 2027. Municipalities may introduce a fee of NOK 100 per passenger per 24-hour period. The revenue will support tourism infrastructure, nature protection and local visitor services.

Higher standards for nature experiences and guides tours

In addition to improving tourism infrastructure, Norway is focusing on higher quality standards for guided experiences. Together with the tourism industry, a national standard for guide competence has been developed under the supervision of Standard Norway.

The new standard aims to help guides document their qualifications more transparently and ensure that visitors can expect a higher level of professionalism, safety and quality during guided tours.

Long-term focus on sustainable development

With these measures, Norway aims to develop a competitive and attractive year-round tourism sector while balancing the interests of visitors, local communities, nature and cultural heritage.

For tour operators, these developments provide greater clarity and quality assurance when planning Norway products – particularly in the fields of nature travel, outdoor experiences and guided tours.

More about Norway's new tourism measures.