We highly recommend reading the guide to safe hiking before hiking in the Faroe Islands.

SAFE TRAVEL LEAFLET

The ‘safe travel’ leaflet provides essential information about how to travel in the Faroe Islands. On the back page, you can fill out the information about where you plan to hike and when you expect to return. Leave the leaflet under your car's windshield or at your accommodation. That way, someone can notify relevant authorities should you not have returned by the time you have stated. The leaflet can be downloaded or picked up at regional information centres, car hires, on the Smyril Line ferry, and at Vágar Airport, among other places.

Please also read or download the hiking guide online here.

PATHS AND ROUTES

Most paths in the hiking guide are old village routes used for trade, visiting, or religious gatherings before modern roads were built. These paths are marked by ancient cairns, which serve as landmarks. Some routes follow ancient footpaths, particularly on mountains like Slættaratindur, Bøsdalafossur, and Klakkur, presented from north to south. While many cairns are well-maintained and visible, some areas lack clear paths or poles. In such cases, other landmarks like masts and land features are described to help guide you.

DURATION AND DIFFICULTY

RESPECT NATURE

When exploring nature, it’s important to tread lightly and respect the environment. The following guidelines help preserve the landscape, wildlife, and traditions for future generations. By following these simple rules, you ensure that nature remains as unspoiled and beautiful as it is today.

• Follow the cairns or other markers, and stay on the paths.
• Leaving any outfield gates as you found them, whether open or closed.
• Treat cairns, fences, and walls respectfully—and don't build new ones!
• Do not disturb the area's sheep, birds, or plants.
• Picking plants or taking stones, eggs, or chicks is prohibited.
• It is customary to collect loose wool that sheep have shed.
• Please do not leave any rubbish behind.
• Be cautious of marshland, as it can be pretty deep.
• Dogs are not allowed in the outfields.

CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT

Dress for the unpredictable weather in the Faroe Islands by wearing suitable clothes and bringing extra layers, even in summer. A cap and gloves are recommended. Choose walking shoes or boots with rough soles; avoid brand-new footwear for long hikes.

Opt for several thin layers, preferably wool and fleece, as they keep you warm even when wet. If possible, an outer layer should be windproof and waterproof. Avoid nylon clothing in steep areas, and remove any nylon jacket when passing these sections.

Carry a charged mobile phone and consider an extra power bank, as some areas lack reception. A headlamp, compass, and whistle are useful for emergencies. Always pack food, drink, and a map. Fill out our Safe Travel leaflet before you hike and leave it in your car or accommodation.

The Faroe Islands offer sustainable, locally-made wool garments, so you can shop for warm, colourful clothing during your visit.

If you see shepherds herding sheep into the fold, hide immediately so the sheep don’t notice you. If necessary, lie down and stay completely still. Otherwise, you risk disturbing the herding process.

OFF WE GO

• Notify your host about where you plan to hike. A helpful leaflet can be downloaded or picked up at regional information centres, car hire companies, the Smyril Line ferry, and Vágar Airport, among other places. Please let them know when you arrive at your destination.
• Always walk with others.
• Do not hesitate to ask locals or experienced people for directions, weather or other advice.
• In dry terrain, areas with loose stones and rocks are particularly slippery. Be careful when hiking in groups, as loose stones can harm hikers below you.
• Do not approach the cliffs too close, especially in wet areas with slippery ground. Also, be very careful with children.

WEATHER DEPENDENT

• Check the weather forecast to see if conditions are favourable for walking.
• Do not leave if there is fog or dark outside – Be prepared for the fact that meteorologists can be wrong or that the weather can suddenly change after you have left.
• If you are surprised by unexpected fog on a trip, it is vital to keep to the cairns. If the fog is so dense that you cannot see from one cairn to the next, it is best to wait by a cairn and otherwise try to keep warm.
• Turn back if there is something wrong. There is no shame in not finishing the hike.
• Be well dressed, preferably in several layers of clothing.

HIKING FEES

DIGITAL MAPS

Under each hike's description, you can find digital maps (GPX) of routes for iPhone and Android.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Dial 112 for any type of emergency assistance anywhere in the country.