Polar Bear Explorer
Join us in 2024 for polar bear cruises in Svalbard aboard the R/V Kinfish, where every moment is an opportunity for polar bear watching amid the stunning Arctic scenery.
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Travelling to Svalbard: How to Get There and What to Expect
Svalbard Planning
Svalbard islocated halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole and serves as one of the most popular destinations for NWS travellers seeking an adventure in the Arctic.
The main settlement, Longyearbyen, serves as the entry point for most visitors and offers a unique glimpse into life at the edge of the world. This guide provides everything you need to know about how to get to Svalbard and what you can expect upon arrival.
How to Get to Svalbard
Most travellers arrive in Svalbard via plane. There are regular flights to Svalbard Airport (LYR) from Oslo and Tromsø, both operated by Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Norwegian Air.
Oslo is the main hub for international travellers, and from there, it takes about three hours to fly to Longyearbyen. During the winter months, flight schedules may be reduced, so it’s essential to check availability in advance. Our team can assist with the flight booking process so keep that in mind if you’re looking for flights into Longyearbyen.
Once you land, you’ll be greeted by the stunning Arctic landscape, with snow-covered mountains and fjords stretching as far as the eye can see. The airport is small, and transport options to Longyearbyen town centre include buses, taxis, and pre-arranged transfers. The town is just a short drive away, and most hotels offer convenient shuttle services.
What to Expect in Svalbard
Longyearbyen, with just 2,000 people living in it, is known as the world’s northernmost town and acts as a central hub for tourism and research in the area. The town is comfortable to stay in because of modern amenities such as hotels, restaurants and shops but ensure you adjust your expectations accordingly as supplies can be limited.
It operates under Norwegian sovereignty but differs legally from elsewhere. As a duty-free zone certain goods and alcohol tend to be cheaper than on the mainland; however stringent environmental rules exist which are meant to safeguard the vulnerable Arctic ecosystem hence visitors must follow wilderness travel regulations.
Our Svalbard Safari Vacations
Land & Sea Adventure
Driving your own snowmobiles over the Arctic tundra and on-board the expedition ship, you will be on the lookout for wildlife, hoping to see polar bears, walrus, seals and reindeer alongside the epic Arctic landscape in some of the best light conditions. Svalbard is always an extraordinary adventure!
From 11000 per person
Telegraph Route To Isfjord Radio
Experience the Arctic like a true explorer via tented camp and husky sled, looking out for the Northern Lights and spotting wildlife in Svalbard's dramatic wilderness. Begin your adventure into the wilderness at Basecamp Hotel before spending two days camping under the stars, scouring for the magical Northern Lights and exploring the far reaches of the Arctic. Watch for wildlife and travel by husky sled before recuperating in luxury with a stay at Isfjord Radio, a converted radio station turned comfortable wilderness hotel.
From 6000 per personSvalbard: A Place Like No Other
A trip to Svalbard isn’t like any other trip – it’s an experience like no other! With its remote location coupled with extreme weather patterns plus abundant wildlife this destination offers everything one needs for an offbeat adventure.
But there are also strict conditions in Svalbard and fragile environments therefore responsible tourism within this unique arctic area is very important.
If you are planning on travelling to Svalbard, then please contact one of our Arctic experts who will assist you every step of the way in planning and booking your trip.
We have extensive partnerships and contacts within Svalbard and will take care of all your transfers from the airport to your hotel and from your hotel to your small ship expedition.
It’s important to note that Svalbard is a visa-free zone for tourists, but travellers should still carry valid identification. Schengen visa holders can travel freely to Svalbard, though a separate visa may be required for onward travel to mainland Norway, depending on your nationality.