Kingdom of Polar Bears

Summer Expedition in Svalbard

The Norwegian island of Spitsbergen in the archipelago of Svalbard is the last inhabited place before the North Pole. Here you'll find polar bears roaming on the glaciers along with other flora and fauna unique to the islands. After the long winter and dark polar nights, the Midnight Sun gradually returns bringing light back to the islands between April and August - longer than any other place in the Arctic Circle. The nature in Svalbard comes alive once again during this period and many locations become accessible after being covered by snow and ice. This expedition offers you the chance to explore the road less travelled with specialist local guides and stay at the Nordenskiöld cabin next to a glacier and mountain peaks.

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

DAY 1:

Arrival in Longyearbyen and transfer to Basecamp Trappers Hotel in the centre of the town. Enjoy the Midnight Sun and explore the town of Longyearbyen with our recommendations for places to visit as you acclimatise to the Arctic summer. In the early evening, your guide will provide a briefing on your forthcoming adventure.

Staying at: Basecamp Hotel

DAY 2:

This morning you will meet your guides at your hotel and you'll head out to the harbour together to begin your journey to Billefjord and Adolfbukta by open boat. At this time of year you may view wildlife such as arctic birds, walruses, beluga whales or even the polar bear. Once at Nordenskiöld cabin you will enjoy an outdoor lunch before exploring the surrounding landscapes. In the early evening you'll return to the cabin, prepare a delicious dinner and relax in the sauna. Accommodation is in double rooms.

Staying at: Nordenskiöld Lodge



DAY 3:

After breakfast you'll learn how to paddle a kayak before heading out on the fjord. Your kayaks will be steady and safe double kayaks. You'll paddle along the shore towards Brucebyen, a 100-year-old settlement built by a Scottish geologist. Your guide will recount local stories of people who used to live in the area. You'll have excellent chances of seeing some wildlife - perhaps even the polar bears on the shore. After a day with the kayaks, you will return to your wilderness cabin and enjoy a tasty dinner before heading to bed for a goodnight's sleep.

DAY 4:

The Nordenskiöld Glacier stands just 300 metres from your lodge and today you'll explore its many cracks and crevices. Your day begins with a thorough safety briefing and guidance on how to use the equipment before you head out onto the sparkling ice. You'll enjoy an expedition lunch before returning to the lodge in the afternoon. In the evening, stories will be shared around the open fire with views of the fjord.

DAY 5:

Today you will climb one of the nearby mountain peaks to enjoy magnificent views of Spitsbergen's wild landscapes. You'll discover glacier moraines (debris-like formations) and flora that grow and survive in these high latitudes. In the evening relax in the sauna to soothe your muscles before dinner and the final night at Nordenskoild Lodge.

DAY 6:

This morning, there'll be time for a final photo walk to the glacier front or moraine before lunch and returning to civilization by boat. En route you'll stop at one of Svalbard's famous 'lost towns' - Pyramiden. This former Russian settlement was closed in 1998 and provides a haunting site to visit before your return to Longyearbyen.

Staying at: Basecamp Hotel

DAY 7:

Today it's time to bid farewell to Svalbard and transfer to the airport for your return flights. Your trip can be extended with additional nights and activities. Get in touch with our team of travel experts to find out more.

BUDGET

From £1895 per person (excluding flights).

This roughly converts to: 2,179 EUR | 2,482 USD

Remember that each trip we craft is unique, and you'll receive a personalised trip proposal based on your travel dates and preferences, and in the currency of your choice (GBP, USD, or EUR).

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Additional Info

This trip has weekly set arrival and departure days on: Sun

Many of trips can be tailored to your requirements and departure dates. Please get in touch with us for a tailored quotation and details of availability for your preferred travel dates. All trips and departures are subject to availability.

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IDEAL TRIP LENGTH:

6 nights

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