Vammfjord

Vammfjord is a small settlement in the municipality of Alta, Finnmark county, Norway. It lies on the northern shore of the Altafjorden, about 12 km south of the town of Alta, at an elevation of roughly 8 m above sea level. The name Vammfjord derives from the Old Norse word “vammr” meaning “wave” combined with the noun “fjord.”

Historically the area developed as a modest fishing community in the 17th century. Its main economic activity has been small‑scale salmon and trout fishing, supplemented by hunting and, more recently, marine tourism such as kayaking and whale watching. A notable landmark is the Vammfjord Church (Vammfjord kirke), a wooden structure built in 1927 that serves as the local place of worship for surrounding communities. The village is connected to the national road network via County Road 957, which links it to the coastal route between Alta and Hammerfest.

Vammfjord lies within the Arctic tundra climate zone, with cool summers and long, cold winters. The area benefits from extended daylight during July and August, and the aurora borealis can often be observed in winter months. The community is small, with an estimated population of fewer than 200 residents. The region is protected by the Vammfjord Nature Reserve, which preserves important bird nesting sites, including those of white‑tailed eagles and sea ducks.