Svalweek winter - 7 days (Winter)
ABOUT THE TRIP
A 7-Day Arctic Odyssey Through Snowy Svalbard!
Get ready for a week of pure Arctic magic! Svalweek Winter offers a complete, seven-day immersion in Svalbard’s awe-inspiring winter wonderland. Amid snowy fjords and icy landscapes, this adventure promises unforgettable experiences for those drawn to the thrill of the polar north.
What’s Included in This Arctic Journey:
- Epic Snowmobile Expeditions: Venture into the unknown as we zoom across snow-covered terrains on thrilling snowmobile rides. Travel through stunning valleys, across frozen fjords, and discover hidden spots that only the boldest adventurers reach.
- Explore Magical Ice Caves: Journey into Svalbard’s mystical ice caves, where frozen walls and icy blue tunnels feel like something from another world. With expert guides, navigate through these natural wonders and marvel at the intricate details sculpted by winter itself.
- Chase the Northern Lights: Each evening offers a chance to see the northern lights dancing across the sky. From green and purple swirls to deep reds, the auroras will light up the Arctic night and leave you speechless—this is a bucket-list moment like no other.
- Discover Arctic Wildlife: Despite the extreme winter climate, Svalbard’s wildlife thrives. Keep an eye out for reindeer wandering the snowfields, Arctic foxes darting around, and the resilient birdlife that makes Svalbard its home, even in the heart of winter.
Why Svalweek Winter?
This 7-day adventure is ideal for those who crave the full Arctic experience, packed with heart-racing activities, awe-inspiring landscapes, and serene moments with nature. It’s a rare chance to see Svalbard’s untouched beauty at its wildest and coldest, with a blend of thrilling journeys and peaceful encounters. Svalweek Winter is more than a trip; it’s a full exploration of the Arctic’s most spectacular offerings.
Are you ready for a week of Arctic wonder? Let’s make this winter one to remember with Svalweek Winter!
Start Your Journey Here!
Reserve online
Schedule
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DAY 1 - Arriving in SvalbardList Item 1
You arrive in Svalbard! Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience?
After landing, you can take your time exploring the special town of Longyearbyen, taste the delicious food the town's restaurants offer, don't miss it!
After a good meal, take a stroll down the snowy lanes and enjoy Longyearbyen's fascinating mountains and the beautiful ocean near town.
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DAY 2 - Snowmobile Safari to Tempelfjorden (7 Hours)List Item 2
Snowmobile Safari to Tempelfjorden (Driver's License Required)
Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel and outfitting at our expedition center, where you'll be provided with all the necessary gear, including a scooter dress, boots, balaclava, helmet, and mittens. After a comprehensive tutorial on operating the snowmobiles, it's time to venture into the untamed wilderness.
Our destination is the picturesque Sassen Fjord and Villa Fredheim, once the hunting base of the legendary trapper Hilmar Nøis, known as the 'King of Sassen.' Despite the harsh conditions, Nøis and his family spent 38 winters in this remote outpost. Villa Fredheim, with its two-story structure, flagpole, potted plants, and curtains, stood as a luxurious oasis amidst the rugged landscape, reflecting the resilience and determination of its inhabitants.
During the tour, we'll indulge in an expedition lunch amidst the wild surroundings. If weather conditions permit, we may ascend to the summit of Fjordnibba, a spectacular viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the fjord, Tempelfjellet mountain, and the Von Post Glacier. Throughout the journey, your guide will provide fascinating insights into the area's environment and history, and with luck, we may encounter some local wildlife along the way
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DAY 3 - Dog Sledding and Ice Cave Experience (7 Hours)List Item 3
Dogsledding to Scott Turner Ice Cave
After getting fitted with an exposure suit, boots, and mittens, you'll lend a hand in harnessing and preparing the dogs for the journey. The initial barking and excitement turn to quiet focus once the sled is in motion, with the dogs fully immersed in the rhythm of running as you glide through a breathtaking Arctic landscape. Our destination is an ice cave inside Scott Turnerbreen, also known as the "Scott Turner Glacier."
Your guide will lead the first sled with two seated guests, while other sleds are driven by pairs of guests who can switch between mushing and relaxing. The route winds through Bolterdalen, a valley framed by towering mountains. As we get closer to the glacier, we’ll navigate a thrilling stretch over moraine formations before arriving at the ice cave, where the huskies rest while we delve into the hidden ice world.
Entering the ice cave, you’ll step into a frozen wonderland. Ancient plant fragments preserved in the ice, stunning ice formations, narrow corridors, and expansive chambers make this a truly awe-inspiring experience. After exploring and enjoying a cozy lunch, we’ll make our way back to the kennel. Watching the dogs effortlessly run downhill, you’ll have time to savor the memories from an extraordinary day.
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DAY 4 - Seed Vault Hike and a Northern Lights Evening
Global Seed Vault Hike in Blomsterdalen
Our adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation, setting the stage for an immersive experience ahead. As we set out on foot, our path leads us towards the summit of Blomsterdalshøgda, offering panoramic views of Adventfjorden and the surrounding landscape. Along the way, we encounter remnants of Svalbard's mining legacy, including the iconic cable car trestles and the historic Mine 3.
At the pinnacle of our journey stands the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, nestled deep within the mountain. While we won't venture inside on this tour, our guide will illuminate the significance of this extraordinary facility, which serves as a vital safeguard for the world's agricultural biodiversity.
Northern Lights Evening
A bus will collect you from your hotel. As we leave the town and drive through the expansive Adventdalen (the ‘Advent Valley’), anticipation builds. The towering mountains on either side of the valley are like looming giants, barely visible in the polar night. What awaits us at the end of the road?
After a 10-15 minute drive, we arrive at Camp Barentz, a small collection of cabins, including a replica of the cabin where Willem Barentz, the discoverer of Svalbard, spent the winter of 1596 on Novaya Zemlya. Our knowledgeable host for the evening, equipped with polar bear protection due to the cabin's location outside town, warmly greets us. Inside, around a large campfire, we are served drinks, a delicious homemade reindeer bidos, coffee, and dessert. Following the meal, our host will share information and photographs about the northern lights, explaining this amazing phenomenon as we sit around the fire.
At Camp Barentz, far from the artificial lights of town, conditions are ideal for viewing the northern lights. With some luck, we may conclude the evening by witnessing this spectacle firsthand in the sky outside. Then, the bus will pick us up for our return to Longyearbyen.
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DAY 5 - Snowcat Panorama and Northern Lights Trips
Longyearbyen Panorama Snowcat Trip
As the unmistakable snowcat arrives to collect you, the transition from town to wilderness is immediate. With the vast expanse of nature stretching out before you, the snowcat offers a sense of adventure and exploration that captivates both young and old.
Our first stop is at the iconic polar bear sign, marking the boundary between civilization and the untamed wilderness. Here, amidst the town's limits, we pause to capture photos and acknowledge our presence in the realm of the Arctic's apex predator.
Traversing Adventdalen, we make our way towards Hiorthhamn, a historic mining town steeped in the lore of Svalbard's past. Navigating the snowcat through remnants of this bygone era, we embark on our ascent northward, guided by the expertise of our tour leader.
Arriving at the picturesque viewpoint of "Linken," nestled on the mountainside of Hiorthfjellet, we're treated to breathtaking vistas overlooking Longyearbyen. Here, amidst the natural splendor, our guide shares captivating tales, offering insights into the surrounding landscape as hot drinks warm our spirits
Snowcat Northern Lights Chasing
As our distinctive snowcat arrives to collect you, its imposing presence contrasts with the vastness of the surrounding wilderness, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey. Led by our experienced guide, you'll depart Longyearbyen and leave behind the artificial lights, immersing yourselves in the mysterious darkness of the wild.
Traversing the frozen expanse of Adventdalen, our snowcat will make several stops along the way, providing ample opportunities to gaze at the night sky in search of the elusive northern lights. While seated in the snowcat's cozy interior, equipped with heated seats for added comfort, you'll have the chance to step outside during stops and marvel at the Arctic landscape.
While sightings of the northern lights cannot be guaranteed, the experience of venturing into the silent majesty of the valley and feeling the power of nature in Svalbard is a journey in itself. Bundle up warmly and join us for a magical evening as we seek out the celestial dance of the aurora borealis amidst the enchanting Arctic wilderness.
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DAY 6 - Wildlife Photography Safari
Wildlife Photography Safari
We begin by picking you up at your accommodation and heading to handpicked spots known for wildlife sightings. The tour’s length varies based on weather and wildlife activity, and it's perfect for all ages, including families. Traveling mostly by car, we take short, easy walks between 500 meters and a few kilometers to get the best vantage points.
From May through September, the focus is on Svalbard’s abundant birdlife, with stops at select locations for prime photo opportunities. In the colder months, October through April, we focus more on the region’s dramatic landscapes, though sightings of reindeer, ptarmigan, and Arctic foxes are common. Winter weather may impact our schedule, but the adventure remains unforgettable.
During the Northern Lights season, clear nights offer the chance to capture the aurora, starry skies, and nightscapes. Our guides are equipped to help you set up for night photography and will drive to locations optimal for capturing the Northern Lights.
This tour is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating wilderness of Svalbard and take home stunning photos of Longyearbyen’s remarkable landscapes and wildlife.
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DAY 7 - Departure from SvalbardList Item 4
You leave Svalbard after an unforgettable trip :)
After seeing the beautiful scenery of Svalbard, the unique wildlife and animals home to the archipelago (and hopefully a polar bear), you had back to the airport, with a smile full of experiences and a satisfied mind.
What's Included?
Included
- Transfer from/to accommodation in Longyearbyen
- A simple expedition lunch
- Hot drinks and biscuits
- Guide with all necessary safety equipment
- Search and rescue insurance
- Loan of flotation suit, life jacket and goggles (if needed)
Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Travel Insurance
- Luggage handling