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Backyard Svalbard is a local tour operator that offers specially adapted tours for small groups. We are a team of passionate, certified guides who will show you the best of Svalbard. To get to know our team, go to ” Who are we ?”
Are you looking for the perfect Svalbard experience?
We can offer you a tailor-made plan for you and your group. There are so many options to choose from, but we want to find the best option together with you!
We know Svalbard best, and when you come with your wishes, we know exactly where to take you
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About Svalbard – The Arctic Wilderness
Svalbard, a remote archipelago located in the Arctic Ocean, is one of the most unique and pristine regions in the world. Part of Norway, it sits halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, offering travelers the opportunity to explore a land where glaciers, snow-covered peaks, polar wildlife, and vast tundra dominate the landscape.
Longyearbyen is the northernmost town with a permanent population in the world, making it the perfect base for exploring the stunning wilderness that surrounds it. The archipelago is a haven for those seeking a remote and authentic Arctic experience, with polar bears, reindeer, and seals calling this land their home.
Seasonal Changes in Svalbard
Svalbard’s seasons are distinct and dramatic, offering visitors different experiences depending on when they visit. The midnight sun and polar night create an Arctic rhythm that defines daily life and adventure. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year:
Winter
November to May
Polar Nights
From late October to mid-February, Svalbard experiences polar night, where the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon. While the landscape remains dark, the Northern Lights provide a magical spectacle in the night sky, making it an ideal time for those looking to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.
Snow & Ice
The landscape is covered in snow, with glaciers at their most impressive. Winter is the time for ski touring, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The conditions are perfect for snow-based activities, and the wilderness is quiet, offering a serene and isolated atmosphere.
Ski Touring & Ice Climbing
The colder months are also great for ski touring, especially in February to April, when there’s plenty of snow on the mountains and glaciers. For more adventurous travelers, ice climbing is available on frozen waterfalls.
Spring
May to June
Longer Days & Midnight Sun
From mid April to mid-August, the midnight sun takes over. This means the sun doesn’t set, offering 24 hours of daylight for almost four months. It’s the perfect time to explore the Arctic landscape, whether through glacier hikes or RIB boat tours.
Melting Snow & Wildlife
As the weather begins to warm, snow starts to melt in certain areas, revealing lush, green tundra that will attract migratory birds and Arctic foxes. Reindeer and polar bears are often spotted, making it a wonderful time for wildlife enthusiasts.
Ideal for Hiking & Boating
Spring is perfect for hiking and RIB boat tours as the ice recedes, allowing for easier access to more of Svalbard’s stunning terrain and coastlines.
Summer
July to August
Midnight Sun
From mid-April to late August, Svalbard is bathed in 24 hours of daylight. The midnight sun casts an ethereal glow across the landscape, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for all outdoor activities.
Best for Hiking & Exploration
With warmer temperatures (ranging from +3°C to +10°C), summer is the prime time for glacier hikes, hiking tours, and wildlife safaris. RIB boat tours are also highly popular during this time, offering the opportunity to visit Sveabreen Glacier and explore remote fjords and ice floes.
Wildlife Sightings
Seals, walruses, polar bears, and a variety of bird species can be seen throughout the archipelago. This is also the time for whale watching.
Autumn
September-October
Autumn in Svalbard
It’s brief, but it offers a beautiful transition to the long polar night. As the days grow shorter, temperatures start to drop again, and the region experiences a quiet, peaceful end to the summer. The snowline begins to move down the mountains, making it an ideal time for hiking before the winter weather sets in.
Northern Lights Return
By the end of September, the Northern Lights begin to make their appearance again as the days grow darker.
Unique Arctic Conditions
Svalbard is defined by extreme conditions that offer both challenges and incredible rewards. With its harsh climate, windy conditions, and limited daylight, the region requires preparation and respect for the environment. It’s an unforgiving but incredibly beautiful land where the raw force of nature is on full display, making it a dream destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Whether you’re planning to ski, hike, or simply take in the breathtaking views, it’s important to pack appropriately for the changing weather conditions. Always be prepared for cold temperatures, sudden shifts in weather, and limited access to facilities in remote areas
Plan Your Arctic Adventure with Backyard Svalbard
At Backyard Svalbard, we offer a wide range of tours to suit every level of adventure and curiosity. Whether you’re visiting during the midnight sun in summer or experiencing the tranquility of the polar night in winter, we ensure that your time in Svalbard will be safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. Our expert guides will provide you with all the support you need to explore the wonders of the Arctic and make lasting memories.
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