The Global Seed Vault
& Iconic places in Longyearbyen
Visit the Global Seed Vault which is located deep in the permafrost in the mountain side. The Global Seed Vault is a backup for the world’s food supply, safeguarding against World events. We will also be visiting some of the iconic places in Longyearbyen.
5 highlights for tour to the Global Seed Vault & Iconic places in Longyearbyen
- Get up close to the Global Seed Vault (not enter)
- Visit iconic places in Longyearbyen
- Marvel at the beautiful Arctic landscape
- Possibility for ALL ages
- Possibility of northern lights during the winter (nov-feb)
- Available period: Every day all year around*
- Pick up time: 10:00 (return 12:00) or 16:00 (return 18:00)
- Difficulty level: Easy and for most
- Age limit: No
- Minimum: 2 persons
- Maximum: 6 persons
- Price per person: NOK 1149,-
Visit one of Svalbard's mountain secrets
What you can look forward to...
The Global Seed Vault is one of the world’s most symbolic and mysterious places and it is placed outside of the town centre which means it is not allowed to go here without a guide with polar bear protection. You might be able to spot some reindeers in the area or even a polar fox if you are lucky.
During the wintertime (November to February) we will also keep an eye towards the skies as the northern lights might set the scenery for our visit.
This tour is designed for smaller groups of 2-6 persons
Who can participate?*
This is suitable for most people.
You will only need a basic physical condition. We will have some stops where you can get out of the car for photos and enjoying surroundings.
You will need to walk on the gravel road from the parking spot to the Global Seed Vault which is approx. 200 meters t/r.
Program
Visit iconic places in Longyearbyen
We pick you up at the hotel in a car and our journey begins. Sometimes we will explore the iconic places on our way to the Seed Vault but it may also be on our way back. Your guide will take you to some of the memorable landmarks that showcase the unique character of the town, from sticking Arctic architecture to historic points of interst. We will explore some of the iconic places around Longyearbyen like the Polar Bear sign. It's recommended to only walk past this sign if you have polar bear protection with you. The Global Seed Vault is past this sign so as a guest on Svalbard you will have to bring a guide with polar bear protection to visit the Global Seed vault. Each route is curated by the guide, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience.
The global Seed Vault
On this part of the exclusive tour you’ll stand before the iconic entrance to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault that safeguards the planet’s seeds for future generations. While access to the vault itself is restricted (and therefore not possible), your guide will share fascinating stories about how Svalbard became home to the world’s most important vault, global cooperation and life on the edge of the world as well as look closer to the main art installation "Perpetual Repercussion". During daylight, it reflects sunlight, and at night, it gives an effect of the northern lights. The view from here can be spectacular. There will be good possibilities to take photos from the outside of The Global Seed Vault as well as of the beautiful view surrounding the vault.
Return to your hotel
When the tour ends the guide will drive you back to your hotel and your camera will be filled with lots of memories from the tour.
The Guides
Included
• Transportation from/to hotel:
Please wait outside the main entrance of your hotel 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time
• Guided tour
• Local Svalbard guide with safety equipment
Not included
• Warm clothing
• Accommodation in Longyearbyen
• Travel & cancellation insurance
• Flights (you can book via SAS or Norwegian)
Practical information
• If you will be bringing kids who need a car seat we will need to know height and weight requirements in advance.
• You will not enter the Global Seed Vault but visit the exterior
• Information*: This trip runs all year around but for Norwegian public holidays (“red days”), a different minimum number of participants may apply. Please contact for information. These days include:
– January 1
– Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday
– Labour Day (May 1)
– May 17, Ascension day
– Whit sunday and Whit Monday
– Christmas day (December 25), Boxing Day (December 26)
• All tours are with english speaking guides. Please feel to make a request for language and we can have a look at the possibilities (no guarantees).
