Hiking touring
Backyard Svalbard offers unique private hiking tours in our backyard. This way you can choose the pace and stops you need and want. Our professional guides and our travel designers will create your next Svalbard hiking tour no matter if you would like a trip with the family or an expedition under the arctic skies.
9 highlights for private hiking
- You do not have to wait or walk in line after other tourist
- Your guide is 100% dedicated to only you
- Stunning actic views with beautiful photo opportunities
- You decide the tempo
- You can go 1 person or more
- Possibilities for ALL ages
- The route can be adjusted to your wishes, weather and form
- Half day tour: 3-4 hours
- Full day tour: 6-8 hours
- Available period: Everyday all year around
- Pick up time: 09.00
- Difficulty level: Depends on the tour you choose
- Age limit: No
- Half day (1 to 4 persons): NOK 5400,- (1350,- per person )
- Full day (1 to 4 persons): NOK 7500,- (1875,- per person)
You book both half day and full day tour here
Discover Svalbard's best private hiking adventures
What you can look forward to...
Discover valleys and secret ridges only locals know. This will all be combined in a private hiking tour showing you the best of Svalbard with nature, history and the arctic adventure just designed for you.
The private hiking tours are designed for small groups of 1-4 persons
When you are in a smaller group you can do the tour in your pace and tempo and do not need to walk in line in a specific pace.
You can stop when you need a break or if you want to take a photo of the beautiful sorroundings. We offer our hiking tours as private tours as it is a more authentic and exclusive way to explore the Arctic wilderness.
Whether you’re seeking a half day short scenic walk or a full day mountain adventure, each route is carefully created to match your pace, interests and experience level. Therefore we can create a tour thats fits perfect for all ages.
Which hiking tour do you choose?
Minimum 4 person for a private tour:
Half day: NOK 1350,- per person (5400,-)
Full day: NOK 1875,- per person (7500,-)
When above 4 persons there is an added price:
Half-day trips: NOK 500,- per person
Full day trips: NOK 1000,- per person
Easy hikes: Nature and discovery
Easy hikes where you will explore Actic valleys, wildlife and silence at your own pace. Perfect for beginners, families and photographers.
Lindholmhøgda: The great view to the fjord
A half day and family friendly easy hike. Ideal for families of all ages and those who prefer shorter, gentler walk in the arctic landscape.
Lindholmhøgda is a beautiful and accessible hike, perfect for those looking for a lighter adventure while still taking in the magnificent Arctic landscapes. The hike offers impressive views over Longyearbyen, the surrounding valleys, and the glacier-covered mountains. You’ll explore historical remnants from the mining in Longyearbyen along the way. A great introduction to Svalbard’s wilderness.
- Tour price: NOK 5400
- Group price for 1 to 4 persons:
- NOK 5400
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Tour Duration: 4 hours
The Seed Vault and Blomsterdalshøgda
An easy hiking tour for beginners.
We will have a look outside the world-famous Seed Vault, where all the seed of the vault are stored inside the mountain. We will not enter but continue the hike up Blomsterdalshøgda which offers a relatively easy but visually stunning hike. The trail takes you through gentle slopes and rocky terrain, with spectacular views of the fjords and surrounding glaciers. This hike is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, scenic outing with minimal difficulty, perfect for families or beginner hikers.
- Tour price: NOK 5400
- Group price for 1 to 4 persons:
- NOK 5400
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Tour Duration: 4,5 hours
The “Non-Touristic” route: Walk outside Longyearbyen
Explore Longyearbyen like a local with this guided walk outside the town. This non-touristic route takes you beyond the usual sights, diving into the history, culture, and everyday life of the Arctic community. You’ll visit less-known places, learn about the fascinating history of mining and survival in such a harsh climate, and get a feel for the local vibe. This easy-paced walk is perfect for those wanting to explore the town in a more personal and intimate way.
- Tour price: NOK 5400
- Group price 1 to 4 persons:
- NOK 5400
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Tour Duration: 2.5 hours
Moderate hikes: Summit adventures
For those who wish to reach ridges and views that takes your breath away. For those who love a challenge
Sarkofagen: The scenic hike
A full day and moderate hiking tour through glacier moraine.
Sarkofagen, also known as the “Casket,” is a scenic hike that offers a perfect combination of challenge and beauty. The trail leads through glacial valleys and rocky paths, with views of majestic glaciers and Longyearbyen from above. The hike is moderate in difficulty, with some steeper sections that require a steady pace. It’s ideal for those looking to explore Svalbard’s wilderness without a long, strenuous day.
- Tour price: NOK 7500
- Group price for 1 to 4 persons:
- NOK 7500
- Difficulty level: Intermediate
- Tour Duration: 5 hours
Panorama view from Platåfjellet
A half day moderate hiking tour with sweeping views of the town, Adventfjorden and the surrounding peaks
This shorter, yet rewarding hike provides stunning panoramic views of Longyearbyen and the surrounding mountains. The path is well-defined, and the ascent is moderate, making it suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. From the summit, you’ll see sweeping views over the town and its fjord, as well as the chance to spot wildlife like reindeer or Arctic foxes in the area. After climbing up a rocky path you’ll find a cairn “Varden” and will have a great view already. This is a great option for a half-day hike that delivers incredible Arctic scenery.
- Tour price: NOK 5400
- Group price for 1 to 4 persons:
- NOK 5400
- Difficulty level: Intermediate
- Tour Duration: 3.5 hours
Challenging hikes: The wildest peaks
For the experienced hikers who are ready to explore the wildest corners of Svalbard with experienced guides. You need to be in good psycial shape.
Nordenskiöldfjellet: The highest peak near town
A full day tour and challening hike to the highest peak in the vicinity of Longyearbyen.
This demanding hike takes you to the summit of Nordenskiöldfjellet, one of the most impressive mountains in the region. The route is challenging, requiring physical endurance and technical skills, but the views from the top on 1051 meter above sea level are absolutely breathtaking. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding glaciers, fjords, and Longyearbyen. Perfect for experienced hikers looking for a true Arctic adventure.
- Tour price: NOK 7500
- Group price for 1 to 4 persons:
- NOK 7500
- Difficulty level: Advanced
- Tour Duration: 8 hours
The most iconic summit: Trollsteinen
A full day challenging hiking tour to one of the area’s most iconic summits.
The Trollsteinen hike is an incredible journey with breathtaking views and a sense of true wilderness. The trail ascends through rugged terrain, glacier, and offering amazing views of the mountains and valleys below. The peak is at 849 meter above sea level. As you climb, the landscape transitions dramatically, showcasing Svalbard’s unique Arctic beauty. This hike is suited for those with a moderate level of fitness and prior hiking experience. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a challenge without the extreme difficulty of higher peaks.
- Tour price: NOK 7500
- Group prise for 1 to 4 persons:
- NOK 7500
- Difficulty level: Advanced
- Tour Duration: 7 hours
Upgrade your hiking adventure
If you wish to create a special surprise or wish to add something special to your hiking experience please feel free to contact us. Here you can find possible upgrades for all hiking tours.
BBQ option for hikes
Add a unique twist to your hike with a barbeque at one of Svalbard’s beautiful outdoor spots. Enjoy a delicious meal cooked over an open fire, surrounded by the pristine nature of the Arctic. Whether it’s a rewarding end to one of our longer hikes or a standalone adventure, this BBQ experience adds a warm, cozy touch to your outdoor journey. Vegetarian option is available too.
- Tour price: NOK 290
- Price per person:
- NOK 290
What other people say about our hiking tours
5 reasons why you should choose a private tour
- Small private group (1-4 persons) will give you time to explore
- Private tour for all ages - you can set your own pace from easy to challenging
- You can go for a half day tour (3-4 hours) or a full day tour (6-8 hours)
- You always pay for at least 4 but you can also be less or more
- Pause for photos, breathe, silence or stories whenever you want
Find the best tour for you:
General questions for hiking tours...
Here you can find answers to some of your questions regarding hiking tours in Svalbard.
All ages can join a hiking tour and weather it will be a family adventure with kids ending up with a bonfire and food, or maybe you are a skilled hiker who wants to hike as much a possible to get the best views, we can arrange this. It’s a good way of experiencing Svalbard whether you want to slow down or speed up – your guide will design the best possible hike for you.
Difficulty level for the half day hiking tours:
Suitable for those with average physical fitness.
We’ll meet you at your hotel in the morning, where you’ll get to know the guide. Here we plan the day together and decide which hike may be best for you if we haven’t already done so together beforehand. You can choose from the possibilities above. Our guides know the areas well, and can also modify the plan along the way according to the weather conditions or your preferences.
Yes, but in this case you will have to pay for at least 4 persons. The price will as minimum always be for 4 persons and then you will have the guide to yourself. No rush and just your time to experience and enjoy.
Yes, you can rent hiking boots from us. We actually do recommend this so you will have the best equipment for hiking. The price is NOK 200,- per person for both a half day or full day tour. After the tour, the boots must be returned to the guide. We only have addult size and not for children. Just contact us when booking or add in the booking process.
Yes, it is possible to borrow a baby carrier (children up to age 3).
The tours difficulty level and program can vary depending on what you choose. We recommend that you choose beforehand for a half day or full day hike. You can choose from the examples of the different hiking tours below, but you can also have a talk with the guide before the tour to tailor your preferences more.
Half day hiking tour (approx 3-4 hours):
Perfect for those who want a taste of Svalbard’s backyard. Experience wilderness without spending the entire day outdoors. Several tours are suitable for all ages but you need a normal psyical fitness level.
Full day hiking tours (approx. 6-8 hours depending on chosen hike)
For those who wish to go deeper into the arctic wilderness and who have a good physical fitness level for a full day hiking tour in the mountains. Suitable for those with very good physical fitness. Demanding full-day hike in rocky and uneven terrain.
For safety reasons, all passengers must be able to understand and communicate in either Norwegian or English. If this is not possible, the passenger must be accompanied by someone who is fluent in one of these languages. We can deny participation on the tour if you are not properly dressed for hiking and/or requirements above have not been fulfilled. Safety is our top priority.
Practical information
Included in price:
- Transportation from/to your hotel
- Headlamps & crampons (to borrow in wintertime)
- Warm drinks and snacks
- Certified local guide with safety equipment
Gear you need to bring:
- Hiking boots (The most important and preferably with high ankel). You can rent from us
- Warm/down jacket or wool jumper
- Shell-jacket and shell pants (water and windproof)
- Gloves: warm for winter and thinner for summer
- Hiking underwear (Long-johns and t-shirt)
- Beanie and thin neck-gaiter
- Sunglases (not during winter)
- Medium backpack (25L to 40L) for personal belongings and camera, extra clothing and water
- Water bottle
Can't decide which Svalbard hiking tour fits you best?
We know every trail, glacier, and summit around Longyearbyen to create the most memorable experience for you. We’ll help you choose the right tour or create a tailor-made hiking experience for you to get the most intimate, adventurous experience possible in Svalbard.
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