Planning a summer visit to Svalbard? Offering everything from adrenaline rushes on speedboat tours, spotting wildlife, and tours for photography, this Arctic archipelago has activities that can make your visit truly unforgettable. Our guide outlines the best activities in Svalbard in Summer you wouldn’t want to miss.
Planning a summer trip to Svalbard?
This remote archipelago situated between the mainland of Norway and the North Pole becomes a lively haven for adventure seekers during summertime. It provides endless opportunities for exploration with the continuous daylight provided by the midnight sun. So here are some of the top summer activities you should consider for this unforgettable Arctic adventure.
Speedboat Tour to Walrus Colonies
Where Arctic wildlife adventures are unique, not many can rival the walrus speedboat tour in offering a view of these creatures in their natural habitat. These tours offer a great, adrenaline-inducing way to explore the waters off Svalbard and get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures.
What to Expect:
- Thrill of Speed: Travel across the icy waters in a high-speed RIB, feeling the wind whipping through your face and showering your skin with spray.
- Wildlife Sightings: Walruses are highly social creatures, lying on ice floes or rocky beaches. Watching them socialize in their favorite habitat has proven to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Breathtaking Scenery: The journey itself serves up full eyes on wonders with stunning vistas of glaciers, fjords, and the rough Arctic coastline.
Nature and Wildlife by Boat
The nature and wildlife boat tour will be ideal for those who want a more sedate exploration to see the biodiversity of Svalbard. Ideal for both bird fanciers and wildlife enthusiasts, as well as for everybody seeking to join in and have a closer look at the Arctic natural beauty.
Highlights:
- Diverse Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for polar bears, seals, reindeer, and numerous seabirds. Svalbard’s wide range of unique ecosystems are inhabited by a broad variety of species not found anywhere else in the world.
- Expert Guides: Experienced guides provide information about the local flora and fauna that aid in appreciation and understanding of the Arctic environment.
- Scenic Beauty: Sail past towering glaciers, dramatic fjords, and pristine landscapes seemingly untouched by time.
Photography Tours
Opportunities for photographers are splendid in Svalbard, starting from the cityscape and vicinity of Longyearbyen up to the remarkable Arctic tundra landscape. Whether you are an amateur, professional, or even just in between, come and visit the best places with guided tours to capture the spirit of this land of the midnight sun together with its abundant unique wildlife.
Key Features:
- Golden Light: The midnight sun creates through long hours of soft golden light a mystical and magical enchanting light which is perfect for creating photographs.
- Iconic subjects: From majestic polar bears and playful Arctic foxes to sweeping ice fields and colorful tundra, there’s no shortage of compelling subjects to photograph.
- Professional guidance: Tips from seasoned photographers on composition, lighting, and techniques will help you in getting the most from your shoots.
Tips for Memorable Exploring Svalbard in Summer
Welcome the following tips for a more enjoyable time:
- Dress in layers: the Arctic is still cold during summer, so dress accordingly to adjust temperature changes.
- Respect Wildlife: Always keep distance from the animals and always follow guides’ advice in case of close encounter with polar bears.
- Book in Advance: Since summer is the time of year Svalbard is filled with visitors, advance bookings ensure a place on the tour and in the accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time of summer should one visit Svalbard?
A: June to August has almost twenty-four hours of daylight due to the midnight sun. The weather is also relatively pleasant during these months.
Q: Are the tours safe for children?
A: Most of the tours are suitable for families with children, but inform the tour operator in advance about age limitations and safety measures.
Q: What should I pack for Svalbard this summer?
A: Pack warm, layered clothing, sturdy footwear, a good camera, and any personal items you might need for outdoor activities.
A visit to Svalbard in summer is a lifetime experience, with the most fantastic opportunities to discover beautiful landscapes and varied wildlife in the Arctic. Whether speeding across the water to see walruses, taking a leisurely cruise to get closer to nature, or simply seeking out that perfect picture while on a photography tour, Svalbard promises to leave you with memories that last forever. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an Arctic adventure like no other!
Svalbard Attractions
Explore the ethereal beauty of Svalbard with its stunning glaciers, majestic fjords, and the chance to witness the mesmerizing northern lights.
