Inside a Svalbard Snowmobile Expedition

Snowmobiling is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore Svalbard’s icy wilderness, and for many visitors, it’s the highlight of their Arctic journey. Whether you're speeding across frozen fjords or weaving between sculpted glaciers, a snowmobile expedition takes you deep into landscapes that few ever see. But what exactly does a snowmobile tour involve? Here’s everything you need to know—concise, essential, and straight from local expertise.

When and Where You Can Snowmobile

Snowmobile season in Svalbard typically runs from early February to mid-May, when the snowpack is stable and the days are longer. Popular routes include journeys to Tempelfjorden, Barentsburg, or even the east coast, where polar bears roam. Most trips begin in Longyearbyen, and all tours are guided—independent snowmobiling is not permitted for tourists due to safety and environmental regulations.

Licensing and Safety

To join a snowmobile tour, you must hold a valid driver’s license. Helmets, snowmobile suits, boots, gloves, and goggles are provided. Before departure, you’ll receive a detailed safety briefing that covers everything from vehicle handling to emergency procedures. Guides carry firearms for polar bear protection, GPS devices, satellite phones, and first aid kits. Safety is paramount—tours are planned with weather and avalanche forecasts in mind.

What It Feels Like

The ride itself is a mix of adrenaline and awe. You’ll feel the rumble of the engine beneath you, the cold air against your visor, and the surreal silence of the Arctic stretching in all directions. It’s not just about speed—it's about the journey through untouched snowscapes, across sea ice, through valleys, and past reindeer tracks, with the occasional stop to take it all in. In some areas, you'll even get the chance to switch drivers.

What You Might See

Wildlife encounters are always a possibility. Reindeer, Arctic foxes, and ptarmigan are common, while polar bear sightings are rare but not impossible, especially on longer expeditions toward the east coast. You'll also pass frozen waterfalls, icy canyons, and maybe even visit remote cabins or scientific outposts. Some tours include stops for hot drinks, lunch in the snow, or a visit to a glacier ice cave.

What to Wear and Bring

While gear is provided, it’s smart to wear a base layer of wool or thermal material underneath. Avoid cotton. A neck gaiter, hand warmers, and a headlamp (if traveling in darker months) are also useful. Bring your camera—but ensure it’s protected from cold, and keep batteries warm to prevent power loss.

Physical Requirements and Comfort

You don’t need to be an athlete, but a basic level of fitness helps. Riding can be bumpy, and controlling the snowmobile over uneven terrain requires some effort. Many tours are designed for beginners, with frequent breaks and clear guidance. If you're concerned about comfort, ask about shorter routes or trips with a passenger option.

Why It’s Worth It

There’s a unique sense of freedom in snowmobiling across a glacier under the Arctic sun or under the shimmer of the Northern Lights. These expeditions allow you to cover vast distances that would otherwise be unreachable—and they give you a genuine sense of the Arctic’s vastness and power. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s adventure travel, redefined.



Book early, especially during peak season. Tour availability depends on snow conditions, daylight, and weather forecasts. Reputable local operators will prioritize safety and environmental responsibility, and many tours are customizable based on your interests. Whether you’re after a half-day taste or a full-day journey into the wild, snowmobiling in Svalbard is an experience you’ll never forget.