How To Enjoy The Arctic Summer In Longyearbyen, Svalbard

17.01.2024 - 21:49 / forbes.com

Have you ever experienced a day that never ends? In Longyearbyen, Svalbard, the Arctic summer offers exactly that.

From early May to late August, the midnight sun bathes Longyearbyen in daylight. During June and most of July, you won't see any difference whatsoever between day and night here in the world’s northernmost permanently inhabited town.

Although home to just 2,000 residents, Longyearbyen has a cinema, library, swimming hall, museum, shopping mall, school, and plenty of other facilities usually found in far bigger towns. Yet despite these indoor attractions, outdoor activities dominate during the endless days of the Arctic summer.

From birdwatching on a boat trip to the nearby glaciers through to exploring the rugged landscapes that surround the settlement on an ATV, Longyearbyen offers so much for the adventurous traveler. Many of the activities below can be booked in advance through Visit Svalbard.

Admire the abandoned mining town Pyramiden, and keep an eye out for polar bears, whales, walrus, and birdlife including puffins, as you sail towards the remarkable glaciers of Svalbard.

Many sightseeing vessels have indoor and outdoor spaces, essential due to the region's variable weather conditions. Sunglasses and a windproof jacket are must-take items. The sun can dazzle off the glacial ice, while the winds are often strong.

Because of the environmental concerns of cruising, many electric- and hybrid-powered vessels are now in use for sightseeing tours. The silence of these vessels adds to the joy of the experience.

A more active option for exploring the water is by kayak. While the glaciers are too far, kayak tours still bring you close to the nature and birdlife of the Adventfjord.

Tours typically last for around four hours and are available in the morning and evening. Double kayaks are often used, making this tour ideal for couples.

Longyearbyen is surrounded by mountains, ideal to explore on foot. With no permanent hiking trails and the ever-present risk of polar bears, it's crucial not to wander outside the town without a firearm. In fact, it’s a local law on Svalbard.

Take away the stress by joining a guided tour with an armed guide. These tours often begin with transport to an interesting location.

As long as you’re well dressed for the conditions, you’ll be able to enjoy the spectacular Arctic scenery no matter the time of day. Guided hikes range from an hour or two, through to all-day hikes, and even multi-day expeditions.

If hiking is too slow for you, how about experiencing the landscapes of Longyearbyen on two wheels? Group tours of Longyearbyen, and the old roads, beaches, and riverbeds outside the settlement are available throughout the season.

The thick tires on a ‘fatbike’