All You Wanted to Know Before Visiting Svalbard

What is your idea of a dream vacation? While many travelers picture white-sand beaches and tropical weather on an island somewhere, visiting Svalbard will show you a bucket-list-worthy winter wonderland. It’s an Arctic region featuring frozen tundra and glaciers, Arctic wildlife like polar bears and reindeer, and unique experiences that’ll last a lifetime. Discover the fascinating lifestyles, geography, and attractions that make Svalbard an unforgettable destination.

Exploring Svalbard’s Unique Arctic Appeal

Where is Svalbard? 

When most people think about the North Pole, they envision icebergs, snow-covered landscapes, and bone-chilling temperatures. While there’s some truth to these perceptions, there’s more to it than that. A Norwegian archipelago between the North Pole and Norway’s mainland, Svalbard is one of the northernmost inhabited regions. The area is known for terrain that’s as challenging as captivatingly beautiful.

Svalbard Islands

Svalbard is made up of several islands. The Svalbard island of Spitsbergen is the biggest and only permanently populated island in the region’s archipelago, with Longyearbyen as its primary settlement. It’s a winter wonderland you have to visit to truly appreciate. A postcard won’t cut it.

In addition to Spitsbergen, Nordaustlandet is popular because of its ice caps. Prins Karls Forland and Barentsøya are known for their unique ecological features. Edgeøya is sparsely populated, and there are other smaller islands.

Climate and Seasons in Svalbard

Svalbard Climate

The Svalbard climate includes frigid temperatures, long winters, and short summers that are cooler than you might think. It’s what you’d expect from an area in the North Pole. While the climate in Svalbard is bone-chillingly cold, the North Atlantic Current moderates it to some extent. This means the area is more temperate than other regions at comparable latitudes.  

Seasons in Svalbard

When visiting Svalbard, forget about the four seasons. Four seasons are common only in the mid-latitudes, but they become less common the further north you go. Seasons in Svalbard include winter and summer. During the wintertime, from November to March, average temperatures are -20°C to -10°C. It can drop south of -30°C, and during the summer, from June to August, the average temperature is in the range of 0°C and 7°C. Weather conditions include heavy wind and sea ice during the winter and precipitation that manifests as snow and rain during the summer.

Svalbard Time

Svalbard time is based on Central European Time (CET), and the region also follows daylight saving time under the Central European Summer Time (CEST) system. In Svalbard, the winter Polar Night means total darkness for weeks, while the summer Midnight Sun brings endless daylight. It can make for a unique experience for visitors. With such extreme shifts, locals and visitors rely on clocks to keep their days on track.

The Capital City of Svalbard: Longyearbyen

Longyearbyen: the Origin of Its Name

The largest settlement in the Svalbard archipelago and Svalbard’s capital, Longyearbyen, has a rich history that has shaped the region through coal mining, tourism, and research. When you visit Svalbard, Longyearbyen is one town you’ll see up close and personal. The town was named in honor of John Munro Longyear. He was an American businessman who founded Arctic Coal Company in 1906. People from Sweden, Norway, and other nations came to the town and braved the extreme Arctic weather to mine coal.  

Historical Highlights

• Coal Mining History: Coal mining started in 1906 and continued until the 1940s. While mining operations were kicked off by Arctic Coal Company, Store Norske Spitsbergen Kulkompan, a Norwegian entity, took over operations in 1916. This marked the beginning of significant Norwegian involvement in Svalbard’s industrial activities, laying the groundwork for Longyearbyen’s development.
• Evacuation and Destruction in 1943: Longyearbyen was evacuated and mostly demolished in 1943 by German forces to prevent the Allies from using the town. This destruction was part of the broader strategic actions in the Arctic during World War II, highlighting the region’s strategic importance.
• Post-War Reconstruction and Modernization: Post-war, Longyearbyen started rebuilding efforts and focused on infrastructure and housing. In the 1950s, facilities like hospitals, educational structures, and better housing were built. This modernization effort moved Longyearbyen from a solely industrial area to a liveable community, enabling it to support a growing and diverse population.
• Svalbard Treaty of 1920: Another development was the Svalbard Treaty of 1920. It solidified Norway’s ownership of Svalbard and led to more investments in Longyearbyen. The treaty also ensured equal access for other nations to engage in commercial activities, boosting the region’s economic significance. Development has been ongoing since then, with Longyearbyen continuing to evolve into a hub of Arctic research, tourism, and sustainable living.

Longyearbyen: The Polar Bear Capital

While wildlife sightings are common in Svalbard, the polar bear is one animal to be especially mindful of. Polar bears inhabit Longyearbyen in significant numbers, so residents and visitors must carry firearms when outdoors. This underscores the Arctic’s wild nature, where human safety depends on preparation. Emergency cabins are also available in remote areas as refuges in case of a polar bear encounter.

How to Get to Svalbard: Travel Routes and Visa Requirements

Svalbard Flights: Available Options

The primary way to get to Svalbard is by air, though traveling by cruise ship is another option. Most flights to the area are from:

• Tromsø Airport in Norway (1.5-2 hours)
• Oslo Gardermoen Airport in Norway (3 hours)

Meanwhile, the airlines offering regular flights from these Norwegian airports include the following:

• Norwegian Air Shuttle 
• Scandinavian Airlines.

Alternative Travel Option

For those looking for a more scenic and adventurous route, traveling by sea is another way to reach Svalbard. Cruise ships regularly depart from Tromsø and other Arctic ports, with summer Svalbard cruises offering stops in various islands across the archipelago. 

Do you Need a Visa for Svalbard?

While there’s no visa requirement to visit Svalbard, you might need a Schengen visa when traveling through mainland Norway. You can get help with limited transportation options when visiting Svalbard.

Do People Live on Svalbard? 

Population and Settlements

Ever wondered if people live in Svalbard? With a population estimated at between 2,500 and 3,000, Svalbard has several settlements. Most of the small, diverse, and transient population live in Longyearbyen, the archipelago’s administrative hub. People also reside in smaller settlements like the Barentsburg Russian mining town and the Ny-Ålesund research center.

Transient Population

Because of the living conditions in the Arctic region, Svalbard residents are transient, with many people residing there for only a handful of years at a time. It’s worth noting that there are zero permanent residents by birth.

Unique Regulations on Birth and Burial

Due to the permafrost, there are regulations against giving birth or burying the dead on the islands. These rules maintain the environmental stability of the permafrost and are a practical response to its challenges.

Healthcare Access

In Svalbard, people requiring basic medical attention can go to the Longyearbyen Hospital. Those with more serious issues are airlifted to mainland Norway for medical attention. Due to the remote region, residents focus on preventative care and emergency preparation.

The Unique Living Conditions on Svalbard 

Housing Adapted for Arctic Conditions

Longyearbyen’s buildings are designed to withstand extreme Arctic conditions, including permafrost, sub-zero temperatures, heavy snow, and strong winds. Most structures are elevated on stilts or pilings to prevent heat transfer that could destabilize the permafrost. Lightweight materials, waterproofing, sloped roofs for snow management, and insulation further ensure the durability of the buildings.

Engineers regularly monitor ground temperatures and adjust designs to mitigate thawing caused by climate change, highlighting the community’s adaptability.

Most residents live in modular apartments or small, brightly painted wooden homes, while dormitories serve students and seasonal workers with shared facilities.

Facilities Supporting Arctic Living

Despite its remote location, Longyearbyen has well-developed infrastructure and amenities for residents and visitors alike.

• Healthcare Access: Longyearbyen Hospital offers various medical services and preventive care options.
• Tax-Free Shopping and Grocery Stores: People can also buy food at grocery stores, and tax-free shopping, given Svalbard’s unique tax status, allows for purchasing many goods without paying tax.
• Education Options: Longyearbyen also has a school with a Norwegian curriculum and English support for students who don’t speak Norwegian.
• Dining and Social Spaces: The town features various restaurants and eateries catering to diverse tastes.
• Cultural and Recreational Facilities: The town has a library, museums, cinema, and arts options for those interested in social and cultural hubs.

Coping with Polar Night and Midnight Sun

When you visit the area, you’ll see up close and personal how the Svalbard lifestyle includes adapting to the Polar Night and the Midnight Sun. Remember that the region is shrouded in darkness during the winter and covered in light during the summer. To deal with these polar extremes, residents engage in seasonal gatherings, use blackout curtains to get sleep when the sun’s out 24/7, and get light therapy.

Eco-Conscious Living in the Arctic

Environmental stewardship is vital in Svalbard, given that around 86% of the region’s territorial waters and around 65% of its landmass are safeguarded as nature reserves, national parks, and bird sanctuaries. The Svalbard Environmental Protection Act (2001) oversees mining, tourism, construction, hunting, and fishing.

A Close-Knit Arctic Community

Amid these many challenges of living in this Arctic region, Longyearbyen encourages a resilient, hospitable community where inhabitants connect over shared experiences. The close-knit culture you’ll experience when you visit Svalbard ensures newcomers and tourists feel at home in the world’s northernmost inhabited area.

What Do People Do for a Living in Svalbard? 

Economic Highlights of Svalbard

Employment options in the region are primarily shaped by the geography, climate, and weather systems. The Arctic archipelago may seem remote, but it boasts a surprisingly dynamic economy supported by several key sectors.

• Tourism is a major contributor to Svalbard’s economy, attracting visitors interested in seeing and experiencing the Arctic in an entirely new way. People come to see and experience the Northern Lights, glaciers and fjords, historic sites, dog sledding, snowmobiling, wildlife sightings, and more.
• Svalbard is also a major Arctic research hub due to its location, scant light pollution, and clean air. Key research institutions include the Norwegian Polar Institute, the Svalbard Science Center, and the University Centre in Svalbard. Atmospheric science, climate change, and glaciology are popular research areas.
• When looking at the region’s economic backbone historically, it’s hard to list anything before coal mining. While coal mining in Svalbard no longer plays the significant role it did in the past, it factored into the development of early mining towns and Norwegian sovereignty. The decline of coal mining means more focus is placed on sustainable sectors such as tourism and research.

Other employment options include retail, logistics, public services and administration, construction, environmental management, aviation and transport, and fisheries.

Svalbard’s Tax-Free Status

Svalbard’s tax-free status is a noteworthy benefit that helps counterbalance the heightened cost of living in this remote Arctic region. By cutting the cost of goods like alcohol and fuel, residents are better able to make the most of their money despite the substantial reliance on imports. This policy also lures tourists and businesses to benefit the local economy. Even so, some challenges exist, such as limited local revenue for public services and dependency on financial backing from Norway. While the tax-free system offers advantages, it also underscores the need for sustainable growth in such a remote environment.

The True Cost of Life in Svalbard

Svalbard’s cost of living is relatively high because most goods are imported to this Arctic region. Food, transportation, outdoor gear, and other essentials can be expensive, so meticulous budgeting is vital. On the upside, Svalbard’s tax-free status helps counteract some expenses. That’s especially true when considering things like fuel and alcohol.

Where to Stay in Svalbard: Tourist Accommodations 

Where to stay in Svalbard depends on your travel style, with options ranging from modern hotels to adventurous wilderness lodges.

• Hotels: Longyearbyen, the main settlement in Svalbard, has modern hotels with the desired amenities. Examples include Radisson Blu Polar and Svalbard Hotell, which cater to travelers who value the finer things in life and love to be pampered and catered to.
• Guesthouses: Guesthouse accommodations in Svalbard include Gjestehuset 102 and Coal Miners’ Cabins. They offer comfortable shared quarters and are good options for social travelers and budget seekers.
• Cabins and Lodges: When figuring out where to stay in Svalbard, don’t forget cabins and lodges. If you like staying in remote areas, you’ll want to consider Isfjord Radio Adventure Hotel. The establishment offers a unique off-grid experience if rustic traveling, rather than glamping, is your thing.
• Expedition Ships: Depending on the tour, your accommodations may be aboard small cruise ships. Going this route can provide a unique opportunity to explore Svalbard’s fjords and wildlife up close and personal.

Whether you prefer modern comforts or Arctic adventures, accommodations in Svalbard cater to every traveler.

Mobile and Internet in Svalbard: Embrace the Detox

Internet

Staying connected in Svalbard depends on where you are. It’s something to consider before heading to the region. High-speed Internet access is available in Longyearbyen. Whether in a restaurant, hotel, or public space, you will likely have access to Wi-Fi. Outside Longyearbyen, however, Internet access is spotty at best. This makes remote excursions a true escape from connectivity.

Mobile Network

Norwegian carriers offer mobile phone service in Longyearbyen. If visiting Svalbard, however, you should be mindful of possible roaming fees that could give you a surprise when you return home from your trip. Since the Svalbard mobile network may not extend to wilderness regions, consider satellite phones for safety and navigation.

Enjoy a Digital Detox

If you need a break from the Internet, social media, and texting, Svalbard offers the perfect digital detox. Visiting Svalbard and soaking in the Arctic’s natural landscape will safeguard your well-being.

Attractions and Things to Do in Svalbard

You might be wondering about things to do in Svalbard. The good news is that there are many Svalbard attractions to keep you busy in this wintery Arctic paradise with unmatched beauty.

Explore Svalbard’s Top Attractions

The Svalbard Museum in Longyearbyen is one exciting tourist attraction. It’s a museum showcasing the region’s natural and cultural history. Meanwhile, the Global Seed Vault, close to Longyearbyen, is a globally significant institution that houses seed collections from around the globe as a backup. Isfjord Radio is a boutique hotel and restaurant that used to be a radio station. It offers excellent views of the Arctic wilderness. 

Embrace Adventure and Nature

Svalbard is a winter paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. If you need speed, Nordenskiöldbreen Glacier, a massive glacier, is accessible by snowmobile or boat tours. Ice caving is also a unique experience in Svalbard, offering the chance to explore stunning blue ice formations in remote glaciers, a rare adventure in the Arctic.

Another fun activity that you can enjoy in relatively few regions of the world is dog sledding. During the winter, you can enjoy dog sledding on snow-covered landscapes. During the summer, when some snow has melted, you can enjoy dog sledding on sleds equipped with wheels.  

Witness the Majestic Northern Lights

Svalbard is also a great place to visit if you want to experience the Northern Lights in person. The Polar Night period from November to January offers the best chance to witness the Northern Lights, otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis. You can take guided tours to maximize your odds of experiencing this awesome natural phenomenon that must be seen up close and personal to be fully appreciated.

Celebrate Svalbard’s Culture and Festivals

When visiting any area, you should experience cultural events that help you appreciate the vacation destination even more. Svalbard doesn’t disappoint with options like the Polarjazz Festival, the Svalbard Skimaraton cross-country skiing race, the Solfestuka (Sun Festival Week), the Arctic Chamber Music Festival, and more. Svalbard offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness for an unforgettable Arctic experience.

Practical Tips for Visiting Svalbard 

Planning a trip to Svalbard? Here are some essential travel tips to make your Arctic adventure seamless:

• Dress for the Arctic: Dressing in multiple layers will keep you warm and comfortable despite the extremely cold weather.
• Book Accommodations Early: As for logistics, book early because flights are limited. You’ll likely have to fly from Oslo or Tromsø to Longyearbyen when visiting Svalbard.
• Respect the Environment: A pristine Arctic archipelago, Svalbard is home to unique wildlife and vulnerable ecosystems. The Svalbard Environmental Protection Act (2001) factors into wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, climate change research, and waste and pollution management.
• Be Polar Bear Aware: Before getting on a plane, familiarize yourself with polar bear awareness. While polar bears are majestic creatures of the Arctic, they can also be dangerous to residents and tourists alike. Living or visiting polar bear territory means following strict safety protocols. People are required by law to take firearms when traveling outdoors, but it’s only legal to harm polar bears in self-defense.
• Plan for Limited Connectivity: Svalbard’s remote Arctic location presents unique connectivity challenges. While there are connectivity options, they are limited compared to what you’ll get in mainland locations. Bandwidth constraints exist because of the limited infrastructure.
• Join Guided Tours: Given the area’s harsh Arctic conditions and challenges, your best bet is to take advantage of guided tours in Svalbard. Going this route to explore beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and interesting historical sites is the safest and best way for a more meaningful experience.

By keeping these Svalbard travel tips in mind, you can enjoy an unforgettable and safe Arctic adventure!

 Key Takeaways for Svalbard Travelers

While it’s easy to get hung up on Svalbard’s harsh arctic climate, the region has developed over the years to provide a modern living experience. Residents living in Svalbard have adapted to make the most of this wintery wonderland of majestic glaciers, frozen tundra, diverse landscapes, Arctic wildlife, and fun outdoor experiences. In Longyearbyen and other settlements, you’ll meet the fascinating people of Svalbard and see their unique and intriguing lifestyle up close and personal. Guided tours are a must for first-time visitors, ensuring safety while immersing you in this unforgettable Arctic paradise.

Ready to experience the magic of Svalbard? Contact us at Svalbard Experts for tailored advice and planning for your visit to Svalbard.