Arctic wildlife photo safari

This is a low-intensity tour suitable for those with a basic physical condition. We use a van to get move between the best spots around the valley, and coastline, meaning there is only minimal, easy walking involved. 

On this 3-hour tour around Longyearbyen and outside we actively scout for local Arctic wildlife. Depending on the tour, you have a high chance of spotting the Svalbard Reindeer, The Arctic fox, and various species of Arctic birds such as nesting seabirds. Please be aware that the wildlife is wild which means we do not have any guarantee of spotting specific wildlife. 

Some of the wildlife we have spotted previousely:

Arctic birds and ducks

In early May the ducks and snow bunting will return to Svalbard. This means that the ducks normally will arrange a big colony outside town at the dogyard. Here they will be nesting and you can sometimes also find the common eider here. Bird watchers will be in their element, with thousands of seabirds nesting along the cliffs. The rich birdlife in the valley will start to bloom from May and we will be aware not to disturb especially the agressive Arctic terns.

Polar fox

However we hope to spot the polar fox and if we are in any luck maybe a polar fox cub will be ready to get out of the den in the end of May or June. The young are three or four weeks old when they emerge from the den.

Ptarmigan

Sometimes you can also spot the Svalbard rock ptarmigan in the wilderness. The hen is in camouflage as it changes into the summer plumage in April/May wheras the male rock ptarmigan retains the white plumage until July and will therefore be easier to spot in the rocky terrain. 

Walrus

In addition some years we have had the fantastic visit from a walrus colony outside town. Previously they have arrived for their visit around the middle of June. Off course this cannot be guaranteed. 

Svalbard reindeer

On of our most famous wild animals are the Svalbard reindeer. You can spot them walking around in town but often they are grazing on the tundra all year around and the open vallys around will provide a fantastic Arctic landscape photography. Let’s see how many we can spot.

We will never be able to gurantee what kind of wildlife we will spot but whenever the sceneray calls for a photograph we will stop. 

You do not need professional camera equipment. Whether you do photography with a camera or your smartphone it is up to you. 

Svalbard is normally between +1 to +10 degrees during the summertime so you need to dress in warm layers, preferably windproof and waterproof outer clothing. Fleece and wool as middle layer is always recommended. Otherwise a hat, gloves, boots, sunglasses, a small backpack for personal items. 

Yes, pick up and drop-off in Longyearbyen or at the cruise port is included in the price.

Our guide will pick you up directly at your chosen pick up point.

Please be ready outside the hotel entrance 5 minutes before the scheduled tour start. Please have patience as we might need to pick up from several locations. 

If you have pick up at the cruise port please be ready at the fence entrance to the cruise area. 

Safety is our absolute priority. The certified guide will carry firearms. We do not intend to spot polar bears or be anywhere near on this tours. 

Yes, but we have an age limit of 8 years old. 

If your child is younger than this then you are welcome to book a private tour. Then you can do the tour in your tempo and pace. You will need to bring your own carseat.

It is possible to use a baby carrier outside of the van and it is not allowed to use a pram, stroller or similar.

The most important thing is that your child wants to join.

We have several departure times so you can choose which one will be best for you. We will pick you up directly at the cruise port by the fence entrance to the cruise area and service building. Please wait here for pick up. We will also get you back to the cruise ship at the end of the tour. If you do have any questions or requests please feel free to reach out on booking@backyardsvalbard.com

For safety reasons, all passengers must be able to understand and communicate in English. If this is not possible, the passenger must be accompanied by someone who is fluent in this language.

Please contact us directly if you wish for a german/austrian or guide speaking a specific language and we’ll check the possibilities. 

Wildlife is not something you simply tick off a list. This is an exclusive small group experience to maximize your adventure.

You came to feel what it is like to look for wildlife and not just go on a sightseeing trip. It is about giving you the time, space and expert eyes to experience Svalbard as a place where wildlife still lives on its own terms.