10 Longest Fjords In The World

Scoresby Sund, Greenland

The Scoresby Sund fjord system in Greenland takes the top spot as the largest fjord in the world. Stretching over an impressive 350 kilometers (217.48 miles), it is a sprawling network of interconnected fjords resembling the branches of a tree. The main body of Scoresby Sund covers approximately 109 kilometers (67.73 miles), while its longest branch extends for 347 kilometers (215.59 miles). This extraordinary fjord system covers a vast area of about 14,700 square miles.

Scoresby Sund’s depth is equally remarkable, reaching up to 600 meters (1,968 feet) in some areas. The fjord’s immense size and depth create a dramatic landscape of steep basalt walls rising as high as 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level. This tectonically active region is home to an array of wildlife, including birds like little auks, Atlantic puffins, fulmars, and great black-backed gulls. The deep, cold waters of Scoresby Sund provide excellent conditions for fishing, attracting rare species such as the Greenland shark, narwhals, belugas, and the majestic Atlantic walrus.

Sognefjord, Norway

Norway, known for its stunning fjords, is home to the second-longest fjord in the world, the Sognefjord. This magnificent fjord stretches an impressive 205 kilometers (127.38 miles) inland from the coast, making it the largest fjord in Norway and the third deepest in the world, with a depth of 1,308 meters (4,290 feet). In western Norway, the Sognefjord, which is sometimes called the “King of the Fjords,” has stunning views of the mountains and scenery nearby.

Surrounded by the Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen National Parks, the Sognefjord boasts an abundance of natural beauty. With over 250 mountains reaching heights of nearly 2,000 meters (6,562 feet), the region offers exceptional hiking opportunities with panoramic views of the fjord below. There are also several branches that come off of the Sognefjord. One of these is the Naerøyfjord, which has beautiful natural beauty that has made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Geirangerfjord, Norway

Considered one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway, Geirangerfjord is a true gem nestled in the Sunnmøre region of More og Romsdal county. With its stunning waterfalls, steep cliffs, and towering mountain peaks, Geirangerfjord offers a truly mesmerizing experience. This fjord measures approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) in length and reaches a depth of 260 meters (853.02 feet).

What sets Geirangerfjord apart is its unique combination of natural wonders, including the famous Seven Sisters waterfall and the Bridal Veil waterfall. These cascades, along with the deserted fjord farms perched high on the cliffs, create a scene straight out of a fairytale. People who like being outside can do a lot in Geirangerfjord, from ziplining over the calm seas to climbing up mountains and hiking on steep trails. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Geirangerfjord continues to capture the hearts of all who visit.

Chilean Fjords, Patagonia, Chile

The Chilean fjords in Patagonia offer an enchanting and remote fjord experience. Spanning approximately 400 fjords and fjord-like channels, these pristine waterways stretch from Valparaiso to Cape Horn, the southernmost tip of Chile. The region boasts breathtaking fjords such as the Messier Channel, which holds the title for the deepest fjord in the world, with a staggering depth of 1,358 meters (4,455 feet).

Other notable fjords in the Chilean Patagonia include the Comau Fjord and the Aysén Fjord, both measuring around 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) in length, making them some of the longest in the area. The Ultima Esperanza Fjord is another hidden gem, renowned for its beauty and diverse species. Visitors to the Chilean fjords can witness thriving colonies of penguins and elephant seals, as well as enjoy whale sightings during the month of December. The Chilean fjords offer a truly unique and awe-inspiring adventure.

Milford Sound, New Zealand

Located on the southwest coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Milford Sound is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. Despite being called a sound, Milford Sound is, in fact, a fjord. It stretches for 16 kilometers (9.94 miles) from the head to the open ocean and reaches a depth of 265 meters (869.42 feet), with some areas reaching depths of 400 meters (1,312 feet).

Milford Sound’s remarkable beauty is enhanced by its annual rainfall of seven to nine meters (22.97 – 29.53 feet), which creates a spectacle of waterfalls cascading into the fjord. The sound’s surface is adorned with a layer of fresh water, filtered by tannins from the surrounding rainforest, allowing for the growth of unique Black Coral at depths of 10 meters (32.81 feet). Milford Sound is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seals, bottlenose dolphins, penguins, and various bird species. It is a place that wildlife lovers and people looking for adventure must see.

Hardangerfjord, Norway

Norway’s Hardangerfjord, located on the western edge of the country, is the third-longest fjord in the world, spanning a length of 111 miles. It winds its way through the stunning Hardanger region, passing by picturesque villages and offering breathtaking views of majestic waterfalls and snow-capped mountains. One of the notable features of Hardangerfjord is the presence of the Folgefonna glacier, one of Norway’s largest glaciers, which adds to the fjord’s natural beauty.

Hardangerfjord holds historical significance as it was once the site of several settlements and played a crucial role in the region’s economy. Today, it continues to be an important tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The fjord is also renowned for its fruit orchards, particularly cherry and apple trees, which bloom in spring, creating a vibrant and colorful spectacle.

Isfjord, Svalbard, Norway

Isfjord, located on the western side of Spitsbergen Island in the Arctic Ocean, is one of the longest and largest fjords in the Svalbard archipelago. Stretching over 107 kilometers (66.49 miles), Isfjord offers a spectacular landscape of deep fjords, sea cliffs, rainforests, old lava flows, and mineral springs. The fjord is surrounded by steep rocky walls that rise 3,000 feet from the ocean, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight.

Isfjord is home to several national parks, including Nordre Isfjorden Land National Park, which protects the region’s pristine environment and diverse wildlife. The area is dotted with settlements such as Barentsburg, Longyearbyen, and Pyramiden, each with its own unique history and cultural heritage. Isfjord is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, boating, and kayaking. Visitors can also explore the fjord’s glaciers and observe the region’s rich flora and fauna.

Tasermiut Fjord, Greenland

Tasermiut Fjord, located in southern Greenland, is a hidden gem that showcases the raw beauty of the Arctic landscape. Spanning 70 kilometers (43.5 miles), Tasermiut Fjord is renowned for its granite rock cliffs, which attract adrenaline-seeking climbers from around the world. The fjord is situated near the town of Nanortalik, close to the southernmost tip of Greenland.

Tasermiut Fjord marks the transition from the inhabited regions of Greenland to the massive Ice Sheet that covers the island. The fjord offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, lush valleys, and pristine Arctic waters. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in activities such as trekking, kayaking, and camping, immersing themselves in the rugged beauty of the region. Tasermiut Fjord is a true paradise for adventurers seeking an unforgettable Arctic experience.

Nærøyfjord, Norway

Nestled within the Sognefjord, Nærøyfjord is a branch that deserves special recognition for its exceptional beauty. UNESCO has named Naerøyfjord a World Heritage Site because of its beautiful scenery of narrow fjords surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls. With a length of approximately 17 kilometers (10.56 miles), this fjord is one of the most picturesque in Norway.

Nærøyfjord’s narrow width, at times just 250 meters (820 feet), creates an intimate and immersive experience for visitors. The fjord’s tranquil waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a mirror-like surface that adds to its ethereal charm. Cruising through Nærøyfjord offers an opportunity to witness the region’s rich biodiversity, including seals, eagles, and various bird species. Nærøyfjord is a true hidden gem that showcases the pristine beauty of Norway’s fjord landscapes.

Misty Fjords, Alaska, USA

Misty Fjords, located in the southeastern part of Alaska, is an enchanting wilderness that is often referred to as the “Yosemite of the North.” This vast fjord system covers an area of approximately 2.3 million acres and offers a diverse range of natural wonders. From deep fjords and sea cliffs to dense rainforests and cascading waterfalls, Misty Fjords is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

The fjord’s towering walls, which rise 3,000 feet from the ocean, create a sense of awe and wonder. Misty Fjords is home to a variety of wildlife, including mountain goats, bears, wolves, otters, sea lions, and seals. Bird enthusiasts will delight in the presence of herons, bald eagles, puffins, and murres. Visitors can explore the fjord’s beauty by hiking its numerous trails, boating through its tranquil waters, or kayaking along its picturesque shores. Misty Fjords is a true wilderness destination that showcases the untamed beauty of Alaska.

The world is home to countless awe-inspiring fjords, each with its own unique charm and beauty. From the vastness of Scoresby Sund in Greenland to the breathtaking landscapes of Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord in Norway, these natural wonders continue to captivate and inspire. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or simply a chance to connect with nature, exploring the 10 longest fjords in the world is an experience that will leave you in awe of the raw power and beauty of our planet. So, embark on your fjord journey and immerse yourself in the wonders of these magnificent geological formations.