Three ways to cross the arctic on skis
Svalbard ski crossing expeditions
Whether you want a shorter ski crossing or the full Arctic experience, there’s an expedition right for you. You’ll be skiing across glaciers and remote terrain and sleeping in expedition tents. All tours are led by our professional and experienced guides.
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GROUP SIZE:
Small groups
for bigger experiences
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WILDERNESS CAMP:
Sleep in tents
far from civilisation
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PULL YOUR PULK
Carry everything you
need in a sled
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AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE
Real moments, real stories,
the real Arctic
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EXPERT GUIDES
Led by certified
Svalbard ski experts
Three ways to cross the Arctic
A ski expedition in Svalbard is a multi-day Arctic cross-country skiing experience
where participants cross the archipelago on skis, often from East to West.
Ski from the East coast to Tempelfjorden
- Season: March/April
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Difficulty: 4/5
- Max: 8 personer
Ski across Oscar II Land to Ny-Ålesund
- Season: April/May
- Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
- Difficulty: 4/5
- Max: 8 personer
The greatest Arctic ski expedition
- Season: April/May
- Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
- Difficulty: 5/5
- Max: 8 personer
Practical information for ski crossings on Svalbard
Crossing the Arctic on skis in the untouched wilderness of Svalbard
Ski crossing expeditions in Svalbard represent the most authentic form of Arctic travel. These ski journeys are full-scale expeditions across vast, untouched polar snowcovered landscapes, where every kilometer is earned on skis.
Our ski crossings are built around small teams, experienced guides, and a deep respect for the Arctic nature.
You pull your own pulk (sled), navigating real terrain with expert ski guides, and experience the raw elements of Svalbard – unfiltered and uncompromised.
The Svalbard Experts: The Guides
FAQ about ski crossing
It is recommend that participants should have previous experience with cross-country skiing and be physically fit. The expeditions range in difficulty, but a basic level of skill is required to handle challenging Arctic conditions and have the right mindset for the ski crossing.
The ski expeditions are not suitable for complete beginners.
A Svalbard ski crossing requires good physical fitness and the ability to ski for several hours a day, often while pulling your own pulk. You don’t need to be an elite athlete, but you should be comfortable with sustained physical activity over serveral consecutive days.
The best preparation is to build endurance through activities such as skiing, hiking, cycling or running, combined with strength training for your legs and core.
Yes, we you need to book your ski crossing expedition in advance. Early booking guarantees your spot and allows us to tailor the experience to your needs. We recommend to book as the earliest time possible.
Yes. Solo travelers are welcome! Our ski expeditions are designed to cater to small groups, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded adventurers. We ensure a supportive and safe environment for all participants.
The weather can be unpredictable, with cold temperatures ranging from -5°C to -20°C in May. Wind and snowstorms are possible, so it’s important to be prepared for extreme weather and follow the guide’s instructions at all times.
The amount of skiing varies depending on the expedition, terrain, snow conditions and weather.
Expect to spend hours on skis each day. The pace is adapted to the group and the conditions rather than being about speed.
The weight of the pulk depends on the expedition, equipment and individual packing.
Your pulk carries much of the equipment needed to live in the Arctic wilderness, including camping equipment, food and personal gear.
Pulling a pulk is an important part of the Svalbard ski crossing experience, which is why we recommend including resistance and endurance training in your preparation.
Take the ski crossing test.
Can you ski across Svalbard?
Don’t just visit the Arctic—experience it in the most intimate, adventurous way possible. Do you feel ready to cross the Arctic wilderness with a heavy pulk/sled and in the company of a small group?
Discover the Arctic backyard CROSS COUNTRY
Svalbard ski crossing inspiration
Ready for an Arctic ski crossing?
Do you feel ready to cross the Arctic wilderness with a heavy pulk/sled and in the company of a small group? Which ski crossing expedition is right for you?
How to prepare for a Svalbard ski crossing
What do you need to prepare before arriving to Longyearbyen as well as after your arrival?
Ski expeditions led by certified guides
Meet our guides who have great experience in leading small groups around in the Arctic always with safety first.
