Up Norway launches a seven-day women-led Arctic expedition

A new journey combining survival skills, reflection, and female camaraderie from Bodø to Senja

Scandinavian travel curator Up Norway has unveiled “Arctic Women Blazing Trails”, a seven-day women’s expedition through northern Norway. Running March 25–April 1, 2026, the inaugural trip welcomes eight women on a journey designed and hosted by two pioneering Norwegians: Randi Skaug, the first Norwegian woman to summit Everest, and Hege Enge Dekkerhus, founder of Norwegian Wild.

Learning to thrive in the Arctic

The itinerary blends hands-on Arctic survival skills with mindful connection to nature. Participants will learn fire-making, foraging, ice fishing, winter paddling, and outdoor cooking – all led by experts and rooted in sustainability. It begins in Bodø, then continues by express boat to Naustholmen, Skaug’s tiny island base in the Steigen archipelago, before sailing north on Hurtigruten’s MS Vesterålen, a classic coastal vessel with cozy Nordic charm.

The Senja finale

The journey culminates on Senja, Norway’s second-largest island, where Ånderdalen National Park sets the stage for snowshoeing, ice fishing, kayaking, and husky adventures. Evenings invite relaxation with sauna, jacuzzi sessions, and stargazing in simple, warm Nordic cabins – or, for the adventurous, an optional night in a tent.

A journey with purpose

More than a group tour, Arctic Women Blazing Trails is a conversation between women who live the Arctic life. Skaug’s spirit of exploration meets Dekkerhus’s focus on resilience and wellbeing – a mix of adventure, reflection, and empowerment. After its premiere, the trip will be available year-round as a private, customizable journey, designed for small groups of friends.

More on Up Norway.

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