Snowshoeing Spitsbergen
This snowshoeing
adventure is elegant in its simplicity. Discover what it was like to be an arctic explorer enjoying winter walks in one of the most remarkable and
unspoilt areas in the world, lands where few people venture. Here we will find a surpising variety of
flora and fauna including Polar Bears, arctic foxes and seals plus glaciers, ice floes and stunning views. From
basecamps at Fredheim and Von Post Glacier, this snowshoeing trip is a
chance to fully immerse yourself in a silent, magical, winter wonderland and to
discover the thrills of winter in the far north.
Itinerary
-
Day 1 Evening flight to Longyearbyen
Welcome to Longyearbyen, we will greet you at the airport and escort you to your accommodation in the city.
Transport: Private vehicle and aeroplane
Accommodation: Guesthouse -
Day 2 The adventure begins
Your guide will join you at your accommodation this morning for an official briefing - this morning is a chance to meet the group, prepare for our adventure and deal with logistics like equipment, the weather forecast and safety procedures. We should also have time to explore Longyearbyen before our afternoon departure by tank to the spectacular area of Tempelfjorden. Tonight we will set up our first basecamp in this second to none location near Fredheims trapper cabin.
Activities: Explore Longyearbyen & trip prep
Transport: Transfer by army tank
Accommodation: Camping, Fredheim basecamp -
Day 3 Exploring Fredheim
Today we strap on our snowshoes and venture out onto the frozen sea in search of ringed seals basking in the sun. We can cross the bay to the enormous cliffs where Arctic birds nest and perhaps we will even see artic foxes.
Activities: Snowshoeing
Accommodation: Camping, Fredheim basecamp -
Day 4 To Von Post Glacier
Today we take all of our equipment with and journey along the huge cliff of Fjordnibbe with our pulks to Von Post Glacier front. Here we will set up a new camp, where a huge wall of bluish ice, over 100 feet high (+30m) meets the ice aburptly - a most striking sight!
Activities: Snowshoeing to Von Post Glacier
Accommodation: Camping, Von Post Basecamp -
Day 5 Exploring Von Post
Today we can explore the other side of the fjord. Here, with a little luck, we will be able to find fresh traces of bears on the ice. On this shore, there is an old oil rig lost in the middle of the ice and we can explore old trapper huts at the foot of the cliffs, an impressive, cathedral-like sight.
Activities: Snowshoeing/winter walking
Accommodation: Camping, Von Post Basecamp -
Day 6 Von Post to Fredheim
Today we strap on our pulks and head back towards our first camp and Fredheim hut. Todays route features imposing cliffs, Tempelfjord Bay and an incredible view of the white and sparkling ice floes we previously crossed.
Activities: Snowshoeing/winter walking
Accommodation: Camping, Fredheim basecamp -
Day 7 Fjornibbe - Longyearbyen
This afternoon we head back to Longyearbyen but not before a final adventure in this frozen wonderland. Perhaps this morning we will summit Fjornibbe (450m) for a final, beautiful panorama of the Arctic wilderness that has become our home.
Activities: Snowshoeing/winter walking
Transport: Back to Longyearbyen in army tanks
Accommodation: Guesthouse -
Day 8 Longyearbyen
A day to relax and explore Longyearbyen with its edge-of-the-world atmosphere. We recommend visiting Svalbard museum and you can choose from a variety of optional activities like snowmobiling or dog-sledding... Please note that today also acts of a 'safety day' in case of delays in our itinerary.
Activities: Various optional activities
Accommodation: Guesthouse -
Day 9 Return Flights
Farewell Spitsbergen, transfer to the airport for your flights home
Transport: Private vehicle and aeroplane
Please note that this
itinerary, including walking distances and times, is indicative. Our guides aim
to provide the adventure that is best suited to the weather, your interests and
the demands of the group. Please be aware that in order to achieve this, changes
to the programme may be made.
Dates & prices
International departures:
No departure for now
Trip code: ENSPH1A
Included
- Airport transfers
- Two nights guesthouse accommodation in Longyearbyen
- Full supervision by an experienced professional guideFull board except for a last evening meal in Longyearbyen
- All technical equipment - please see 'trip details' for more information about the high quality equipment we provide on this trip ('practical info' / 'equipment')
Not included
- Flights
- Evening meal on day 8 in Longyearbyen (kitchen facilities/restaurant options available)
Additional Activities
Please let us know if you would like to reserve any of the following optional activities:
- Meal in a local restaurant: from €30
- Svalbard museum: from €9
- Half day dog-sledding excursion: from €130
- A snowmobiling adventure: from €200 (for 3 hours)
- Exploring the ice caves: from €90 (for 3 hours)
Notes
Comfort 1/5: Camping
This trip involves winter camping and includes three nights in warm guesthouse accommodation at the beginning and end of the trip. Normally we provide a 3 man dome tent per 2 people for maximum space and
comfort. For our basecamps we usually set up a fully equipped mess tent for
meal times, including a table and stools. We are proud of our high quality
camping equipment and take care to monitor and store everything correctly.
Level 2/5: Moderate
In general no previous experience in
the specific activity is required but you should be in good physical shape and
prepared to participate in 4-6 hours of activity per day. You should have a sense of adventure and a positive
attitude. Please note that our difficulty levels may vary depending on the weather and ice conditions.
Terms and conditions
Booking conditions
Booking a trip with Altai Svalbard implies acceptance of the terms and conditions of sale. Each customer is required to complete a registration form and, subject to availability at the time of registration, travellers are expected to pay a deposit of 30% of the total price to complete their booking. Payments can be made online or by bank transfer. You will receive an e-mail with your booking confirmation.
Invoice procedure
Once your booking is confirmed you will receive an invoice by e-mail. The full balance of the trip must be received at least 30 days before your departure date. We reserve the right to cancel your booking, free of charge, if this deadline is not respected.
Cancellation policy
If for any reason you have to cancel your trip, Altai Svalbard requires written confirmation of your decision. The money you have paid will then be refunded according to the following deductions:
- Cancellation received more than 30 days prior to the departure date: a sum of €50 per person will be retained
- Cancellation received 30 to 21 days before the departure date: your deposit, 30% of the total trip price will be retained
- Cancellation received 20 to 14 days before the departure date: 50% of the total trip price will be retained
- Cancellation received 13 to 7 days before the departure date: 75% of the total trip price will be retained
- Cancellation received less than 7 days before the departure date: 100% of the total trip price will be retained
Special cases:
Please note that, regardless of the date of cancellation or modification if you have agreed to pay for services such as hotel reservations, flights or additional activities, these services are usually non-refundable so additional fees may apply.
Fixed airfares: if your airline ticket was issued in advance, often done to avoid significant surcharges, you will be charged 100% of any non-refundable fees if you wish to change or cancel your flight plan.
Fixed in-country costs: early charges for firm bookings will be charged if you cancel or modify your trip.Insurance costs: if you have taken out comprehensive or cancellation insurance, the cost of insurance is due and cannot be refunded.
Please note that fees apply according to the date we receive your cancellation or modification request in writing.
If we have to cancel a departure due to an insufficient number of participants, you will be informed no later than 21 days before departure and a full refund will be issued, you will not be entitled to further compensation. We reserve the rights to cancel departures due to exceptional circumstances which may impact the safety of participants. Such circumstances include those amounting to 'force majeure' in which case participants will receive a full refund but they will not be entitled to any compensation.
Changes to travel contract
If you wish to make a change to your booking please contact Altai Svalbard in writing; you will be expected to pay any fee which might arise from this change. In the event of unforeseen external events, Altaï Svalbard may change some aspects of the travel contract. If any changes are necessary you will be informed as quickly as possible.
Pricing
The prices on our website are updated regularly and all of the prices we advertise are accurate when published. We reserve the rights to make changes to any of these prices. Before you make a booking we will give you the up-to-date price of your chosen holiday including any supplements, upgrades or additional activities you may have requested. If the number of travellers is fewer than the indicated number of participants on the website, a small group surcharge may be applied. For all of our trips we include details of services, prices and what is/is not included but please be aware that changes to the prices may be necessary in accordance with exchange rates or price changes of various components of the journey.
Contract transfer
If you are unable to travel for any reason, you can transfer your booking to another person in which case our modification conditions apply. Both the transferor and transferee will be jointly and severally liable for payment of the total holiday price and other associated expenses. Some airline carriers treat name changes as cancellations and you may be required to pay for the cost of a new ticket.
Practical info
Staff
You will be welcomed at the airport by a representative from our friendly team and accompanied for the duration of your holiday. Armed with an abundance of experience and a wealth of knowledge our professional Svalbard team are experts in polar environments. All activities are lead by our qualified guides who are all English speaking outdoor practitioners with a passion for everything arctic. Please note that this adventure takes place in an isolated, polar environment where around 2500 Polar Bears live - your guide will explain safety rules which must be followed.
Food
Besides one evening meal in Longyearbyen this trip includes full board. For your evening meal on the final day there are shops and kitchen
facilities available or local restaurants for you to sample - we have lots of
recommendations!
During our expedition, each person is responsible for their
own equipment, including food, and will carry everything on pulks therefore
light and easy to cook meals are favoured. In spite of this, plus the lack of fresh fruits and vegetables in the artic regions, we
are proud of the varied, and frankly delicious food we provide even when
camping. You will
have the opportunity to try local products and several local delicacies. Each day will start
with a hearty breakfast accompanied by plenty of tea and coffee or hot
chocolate. You will carry a picnic lunch and plenty of snacks for the day and
evening meals will include three courses, soup, a hot main dish and a dessert.
Please let us know about any dietary requirements when you book the trip and we will work with you to cater for your needs. Please be aware that this is a participatory trip, your help cooking and setting up camp is expected. We want you to be a member of our team; not a sheep!
Accommodation
Longyearbyen: warm guesthouse accommodation, double rooms or dormitories of 2,3 or 4 beds, hot showers and heating plus shared kitchen and bathroom facilities.
Camping
adventure: normally we provide a 3 man dome tent per 2 people, for our expeditions we use light equipment which is suitable appropriate for Svalbards winter conditions. We will also provide a
spacious mess tent for meal times, fully equipped with kitchen equipment including a table and
stools. Please be aware that we expect all clients participate when setting up and packing down our camps.
Transportation
This trip involves transfer by Swedish Army tanks
Budget & exchange
The currency in Svalbard (and Oslo) is the Norweigian Krone, NOK
Please budget for:
- Any additional activities
- Drinks and personal expenses
- One evening meal in Longyearbyen, kitchen facilities, shops and restaurants available*
- Food and perhaps accommodation during your transfer in Oslo
*We recommend a budget starting from €30 / 290NOK for a traditional meal in a local restaurant
Supplied equipment
We will provide you with all of the technical equipment you will need for this adventure. We are proud of the range of high quality equipment we are able to supply which is suitable for Spitsbergens unpredictable winter climate.
Group Equipment
We will provide the group with...
- A 'Tepee' style mess tent with table, stools and cooking equipment
- 'Ortlieb' water belts
- A Sarsat beason
- A VHF radio
- A heavy caliber rifle
- An alarm gun
- Mini-flares and penjectors for each group member
- A copy of Spitsbergens animal records
- A first aid kit
- Books about local flora and fauna
Individual Equipment
We will supply you with...
- A large warm down jacket for when you are not participating in activities
- A suitable tent per two people (a 3 man dome tent for maximum space and comfort)
- A self-inflating sleeping mat
- A suitable synthetic sleeping bag ( -25°C)
- Cooking stove
- A thermos flask
Snowshoeing Equipment
- Snowshoes
- Suitable walking poles
- Warm snow boots for walking around camp (Sorel)
- Pulks (mini sledges for carrying your gear)
Vital equipment
Please remember that your clothes will be redistributed into waterproof bags with limited capacity and carried on your pulks - try not to over-pack!
- Waterproof jacket (with a hood)
- Waterproof trousers/salopettes
- At least two pairs of good gloves
- Sunglasses (UV 400)
- A ski mask
- A balaclava (fleece)
- Appropriate warm neck wear
- A warm hat (wool)
- A warm jacket (synthetic down)
- Several sets of warm thermal underwear (long johns & long sleeved tops)
- Thin socks and 3 or 4 pairs of thick socks
- Sun cream and protective lipsal (not water-based - water freezes)
- Any personal medication
- Mini toiletary kit and toilet roll
- A thermos flask
- Head torch & spare batteries
Material
We prefer that you do not wear cotton clothing, including underwear, when participating in activities. When cotton gets wet from water or sweat it ceases to insulate and it does not dry fast. The best materials for outdoor activities are fast drying materials like polyester or materials which are warm when wet like wool.
The most powerful materials against the wind and rain are 'breathable' materials like Gore-Tex or Nikwax.
Our advice for keeping warm
It can be humid and cold in Spitsbergen, please think carefully about what clothes you pack especially for our winter trips. We will provide warm outer layers but the layers you wear next to your skin can make the biggest difference. We recommend:
- No cotton
- Bring dry spares of everything, including underwear and gloves
- Wear multiple layers including:
- A warm breathable base layer
- A second thermal layer
- Wind and waterproof protective out layers
Helpful equipment
You may also consider packing
- Your camera (with suitable protective case)
- Binoculars
- A comfortable evening outfit for Longyearbyen
- A small inflatable pillow
- Insect repellant
- A knife
- A notepad and pencil
- Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothing
Luggage
You may bring a hold bag (up to 20kg) as well as a cabin bag.
For you hold luggage please bring a soft bag like a ruckack rather than a hard cased suitcase because it is more practical when loading local buses and trailers. We also recommend that you pack your clothes in plastic bags inside your rucksack so that they stay dry in the event of bad weather.
Don't forget to bring a small rucksack to use as a day bag. You can bring this as hand luggage on the plane. You will carry your lunch, water, spare layers and any personal medication with you each day in this bag.
Medicine
Your guide is a trained first-aider and will carry a full first aid kit at all times during the trip. Please bring with you any personal medication that you may need such as inhalers, plasters and painkillers.
Healthcare in Norway can be extremely expensive, we strongly advice all of our clients to invest in insurance before travelling.
Passport
You will need a passport that is valid for at least three months after your return date.
Visa
The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard is a visa-free zone
Mandatory vaccines
There are no specific health risks
Health information & recommendations
Please be aware that your guide will be carrying a gun along with other safety equipment to alarm/repel any Polar Bears.
Healthcare in Norway can be extremely expensive, we strongly advice all of our clients to invest in insurance before travelling.
Weather
- The weather in the Svalbard archipelago is very changeable.
- The average annual rainfall in Longyearbyen is only 200mm (7.87 inches), in London, England, the annual average is 594mm (23.4 inches) - Spitsbergen is a cold desert!
- Average temperatures in Longyearbyen range from -16°C to -9°C (3.2°F - 15.8°F) in April and -3°C to -7°C (26.6°F - 19.4°F) in May.
- Strong katabatic winds can occur here, particularly near to high glaciers but winds can generally be described as moderate and localised.
- Dark polar nights occur from 14th November to 29th January, the full moon shines across the snow creating a beautiful gliterring winter landscape. Then, from 19th April to 23rd August, the sun shines constantly, uninterrupted, high in the sky.
Electricity
In Spitsbergen the standard Europlug socket with two round prongs is used, 230V with a frequency of 50hz
Local time
Svalbard uses Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) +1 hour and Daylight Saving Time (DST) is observed here.
Topography
- The Norweigian Svalbard archipelago is the closest territory to the North Pole; Spitsbergen is the name of the largest island.
- Svalbard covers an area of around 39146 square miles (63000km2) and two thirds of this polar world are constantly covered by ice.
- The archipelago was deserted by human civilisation for a very long time but today has over 2600 inhabitants.
- The archipelago has 3 National Parks, 3 Nature Reserves, 15 Ornithological Reserves (bird reserves) and 3 Botanical Reserves.
Sustainable tourism
As adventure and wilderness travel experts who run trips to some of the most remote parts of the world, we take responsible tourism very seriously. We respect the ‘Leave No Trace’ outdoor ethical code and try to explore this beautiful location whilst causing minimal environmental damage.
In the Polar
Regions the ecological balance is delicate so we ask that you are particularly careful regarding the conservation of the
sites we explore. We aim to leave our camping spots even cleaner than when we
arrived and, as a company, we participate in the Clean Up Svalbard programme. We support the
laws, advice and recommendations which aid the conservation and protection of
this unique arctic paradise. This is reflected in our trips, for example, we do not visit Ornithological
Reserves during nesting season and never remove historical remains or whales
bones from the beaches. We hope that all of our clients will respect our philosophies and embrace these attitudes.
The Leave No Trace policy can be summarized in 7 simple steps which we hope you will follow during ourtrip...
1. Be prepared
2. Stick to trails and camp overnight right
3. Stash your trash and pick up waste
4. Leave it as you find it
5. Be careful with fire
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors
Over the years we have built up good relations with our local suppliers and we are keen to support local businesses as much as possible. We are a small company and we pay our local partners and suppliers directly insuring fair rates.
Our small group sizes not only provide a more intimate adventure but also cause less impact on the environment and local communities.
We expect all who travel with us to support and uphold our Sustainable Tourism philosophies.
My local agent
Nicolas
- A guide in the Far North
- A beautiful bearded man with the blue eyes
- Keeps parks and guides kayaking in Quebec
- Region
- Spitsbergen
- Activity
- Snowshoeing Svalbard in the Winter
- Duration
- 9 days
- Group
- 6 to 8 people
- Code
- ENSPH1A
- Price
- From €2,345
- Level
- 2/5
- Comfort
- 1/5
- Language(s)
- English
Strengths
- Explore Longyearbyen, Tempelfjorden and Von Post Glacier
- Enjoy warm guesthouse accommodation and two basecamps in the heart of the Arctic wilderness
- Discover frozen fjords, glaciers and ice floes; Arctic birds, foxes and seals
- Our experienced professional guides and state of the art equipment will keep you safe and warm
- Sled dogs will accompany us to protect us from polar bears and help carry our equipment