Viking Explorations

The Vikings were bold explorers from Scandinavia, which includes Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. They sailed in long, fast ships called longships. Between the years 800 and 1100, Vikings traveled to many places around the world. They were some of the greatest sailors in history.

Where the Vikings Went

Vikings sailed to Iceland, Greenland, and even North America. A Viking named Leif Erikson reached North America about 500 years before Columbus. Vikings also traveled east through rivers in Russia. They went as far south as the Mediterranean Sea. Their longships could sail in both deep oceans and shallow rivers.

Viking Ships

Viking longships were amazing boats. They were long and narrow with a dragon head on the front. They had both sails and oars, so they could use wind or muscle power. The ships were light enough to be carried over land between rivers. This made the Vikings able to travel almost anywhere.

Fun Facts

• Leif Erikson reached North America around the year 1000, about 500 years before Columbus.
• Viking longships could travel up to 15 miles per hour with a good wind.
• Vikings navigated using the sun, stars, and even a special crystal called a sunstone.

Did You Know?

A real Viking settlement was found in Newfoundland, Canada, proving that Vikings reached North America long before other Europeans.