10 Reasons to visit Svalbard during Polar Summer
Svalbard is a unique and breathtaking destination to visit during the summer months. With continuous daylight from the midnight sun, it offers Arctic wildlife, stunning landscapes, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
1. Midnight sun
During the summer, Svalbard experiences continuous 24-hour daylight, with the sun never setting below the horizon. This means you can explore the stunning landscape at any time of day or night, allowing for unique and memorable experiences.
2. Wildlife
Svalbard boasts an abundance of Arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, Arctic foxes, reindeer, whales, and walruses. Summer offers an excellent opportunity to observe many of these animals in their natural habitats when the sea ice recedes, and wildlife migrates back to shore.
We highly recommend a boat tour across Isfjorden, which provides the best opportunity to witness this unique wildlife up close. Whilst back on land, take a walk down to the dog kennel and Polar Bear Sign, where, at the start of the season, the kingfisher congregates. Here, they nest closely together, incubating their eggs in a protective environment safe from the Arctic fox, which tends to avoid the area due to the howling dogs.
5. Bird Watching
Svalbard is a paradise for birdwatchers, with diverse species to spot during the summer.
The mountainsides are home to several seabird colonies, including the common eider, Arctic tern, and puffin. The best way to spot these colonies is by taking a boat trip across Isfjorden, where our guides will tell you more about how these birds flourish in the High Arctic.
Closer to home, Geese and ptarmigan are not uncommon to be spotted in town, and motorists must be extra cautious, as these birds tend to cross the roads in large flocks. Unsure what we mean? Check out a video from a colony of geese right in the center of town here
4. Hiking
Svalbard offers a range of hiking opportunities, from gentle strolls to challenging mountain climbs, all surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The summer months are the perfect time to explore the rugged landscapes and witness the unique flora and fauna of the region. You can read more about our different hiking tours here
5. Boat Tours
Take a 3 or 4-day boat trip with the Svalbard Adventure Mini-Cruise and get close to glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife. If you want to stay in Longyearbyen and explore the sea for just one day, we recommend a day trip with MS Bard, Kvitbjørn or a Polar Circle boat. You can read more about our different boat tours here
A boat trip is always associated with a lot of excitement and the unknown. Being away from Longyearbyen, it provides the best opportunity to spot whales and other marine life, seabirds or, if extremely lucky, a Polar Bear.
6. Cultural Experiences
Discover the unique history and culture of Svalbard. Svalbard and Longyearbyen have a rich cultural heritage with mining at its core. Discover more about this on day tours to Mine #3 or Taubanesentralen (Cableway), or go even further in Svalbard's history and spend half a day exploring the award-winning Svalbard Museum.
Longyearbyen also boasts a number of interesting traditions that are fun to experience. It's a common custom to remove one's shoes before entering a building, and to purchase alcohol at "Nordpolet" (Svalbard's version of the state-run liquor stores), locals must present their personal alcohol card. This card comes with a monthly quota. As a visitor, you can also buy alcohol, but you must present your boarding pass.
7. Local Cuisine
Svalbard is a great destination for foodies, offering a range of culinary experiences to suit all. Sample local flavours and ingredients from wild mushrooms and seaweed to reindeer, grouse, or even seal.
For those wanting a fine dining experience at the top of the world, a visit to Huset Restaurant is a must. Using Nordic techniques and flavour combinations, the dishes here reflect the landscape, with ingredients primarily sourced from Svalbard and the wider Arctic Region.
You will not be short of places to eat, with Longyearbyen offering many restaurants, bars and pubs. eateries and bars. Barentz Gastropub is the World's Northernmost Pub, serving classic pub food and pizzas, whilst Funktionærmessen Restaurant and Restaurant Nansen offer exquisite international and Nordic cuisine served against the backdrop of Longyearbyen and Hiorthfjellet. In short, in Longyearbyen, there's something for every taste.
8. Photography
With its wild landscape, unique wildlife and colourful skies, Svalbard is the ideal place for photography enthusiasts. The summer months offer continuous daylight, and with that, a plethora of photo opportunities.
Within the borders of Longyearbyen, several photo-friendly spots are easily accessible, providing an ideal vantage point for capturing the beauty of Svalbard. If you want to explore areas outside the city, such as Adventdalen or perhaps the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, we recommend a sightseeing tour or a taxi ride.
9. Dog sledging and puppies
Though often associated with winter, dog sledding is also an exciting summer activity. Dog sledding on wheels provides a thrilling and unique way to explore the landscape.
At the dog yard Green Dog, they often have puppies and cuddles are included for everyone who goes on a tour. Cuddling with husky puppies is an unforgettable experience. The furry little bundles of joy are sure to bring smiles and laughter to all who visit.
10. Arctic Flora
On Svalbard, we have tundra and permafrost. Due to the permafrost, not much grows, and there are no trees. In the summer, the top layer of permafrost melts, providing nutrients for flowers and an opportunity for them to grow. Therefore, summer is the perfect time to witness the explosion of colourful Arctic flowers that cover the archipelago's tundra. The unique flora of Svalbard is a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Svalbard is a destination unlike any other, offering visitors a chance to witness the beauty of the Arctic and its unique wildlife. With endless outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and a rich cultural heritage, Svalbard is the perfect destination for those looking for a unique and unforgettable summer adventure.
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