Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago of unmatched Arctic beauty at the very top of the world.
Located in the Arctic Ocean about halfway between Norway and the North Pole, it is a rugged and harsh environment. Temperatures plunge as low as -51.3ºF / -46.2ºC, and there is no sunlight for 153 days out of the year. Almost 60% of the nine main islands are covered in glaciers and surrounded by frigid waters and ice walls. These unique surroundings offer an incredible variety of experiences that you truly will not find anywhere else on Earth.
Outdoor adventure is everywhere in Svalbard. Skiing, kayaking, snowmobiling and hiking opportunities abound. You can go on day cruises to see glaciers up close, or explore ancient ice caves. There is an old mining ghost town called Pyramiden, where you can tour long-deserted Soviet-era buildings that are still watched over by a statue of Lenin. You can even go on a walrus safari. Cameras only, of course! People are outnumbered by polar bears here, so whenever you leave a settlement, you need to take an experienced armed guide with you.
From October through January, Svalbard experiences polar night. Since it is dark 24/7, it’s possible to see the Northern Lights at any time of day! During this part of the year vacationers may choose to spend their time in Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost urban community. Despite having only 2,552 residents, you can still find hotels, restaurants, music festivals, and other entertainment year-round.
Although you will find that most residents in Svalbard speak English, here is some Norwegian vocabulary that might come in handy if you go:
polar bear: isbjørn
glacier: isbre
snowmobile: snøscooter
walrus: hvalross
cave: hule
polar night: polarnatt