This tour is an Arctic adventure with wildlife, a twist of expat Russian culture, and the beauty of Svalbard’s remote, pristine wilderness. You will get wind in the face, have a touch of the salty sea spray, experience polar days, get a lot of fresh air and the secret of modernity: silence.
In the Arctic Ocean, between northern Norway and the North Pole, lies the untouched and rugged archipelago of Svalbard, a fragile yet stunning landscape. The scenery feels almost otherworldly with its towering cliffs, snow-covered peaks, and diverse wildlife.
Isfjorden is the largest fjord system on the western coast of Spitsbergen, the main island of the Svalbard archipelago. It is characterized by dramatic landscapes, including broad valleys, glaciers, and rugged mountain peaks. The fjord serves as a central hub for wildlife, particularly seabirds and marine mammals, and is an important gateway to many Svalbard settlements and natural attractions. During the itinerary out of Lonyearbyen we will stay in Barentsburg, a Russian mining settlement located in Grønfjorden, a side fjord of Isfjorden. It’s a smaller community, home to about 400 residents, primarily Russians. The town retains a distinctly Soviet atmosphere with traditional Russian architecture and monuments.
Highlights:
♦ Sea Voyage Across the Greenland Sea - Sailing through the icy waters along the shore of Isfjord
♦ Cape Starostin - the place where the famous Pomor trapper, Ivan Starostin, is buried and spent 39 winters
♦ The Spitsbergen Archipelago - home to glaciers, colonies of seabirds, Arctic wildlife: reindeer, polar foxes, seals, whales, belugas, walruses, and perhaps even the mighty polar bear
Itinerary:
Day 1. Arrival Svalbard
Arrival to Longyearbyen by flight from Tromsø or Oslo, Norway, the world's northernmost city and administrative center. Own transfer to the accommodation. This night is not included (see extra services), but needed for the program out of Longyearbyen. (-/-/-)
Day 2. Boat trip from Longyearbyen to Barentsburg
Today we will start in the morning with a transfer to the Russian House Expedition Center for a briefing and gear setup. Then, take a 1.5-hour sea crossing on sturdy PolarCirkel boats to Barentsburg, passing historic sites like Grumant and Kolsbay. Along the way, watch for whales, belugas, and walruses. Then we will arrive in Barentsburg, check into the Barentsburg Hotel, and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we will take a sightseeing tour of the village and visit the husky center 78' NorDDogs. (-/L/D)
Day 3. Boat trip along the shores of Isfjord
Our day will begin at Cape Festningen, a striking rock fortress with a lighthouse. We will enjoy easy walks along the tundra, or climb higher for panoramic views. The destination is Russekeyla Bay and Starostin’s House, home of the legendary Pomor hunter, Ivan Starostin, who spent over 30 winters on Spitsbergen. We will enjoy our lunch by the seashore near Starostin’s camp, followed by a sea crossing to the stunning Esmark Glacier. Marvel at the massive ice formations before returning to Barentsburg, filled with unforgettable Arctic memories. (B/L/D)
Day 4. Barentsburg
This day is essential for our trip, offering a chance to relax and serving as a buffer against unpredictable Arctic weather. (B/L/D)
Optional excursions with additional charge:
1) Mine Tour: Take the unique opportunity to explore the operating Barentsburg coal mine. This exclusive tour, which took two years to coordinate with Russian and Norwegian authorities, allows you to walk through two adits and learn about the coal mining process from professional miners. You'll gain insight into terms like “mine surveyor”, “shale dust”, and “rock burst” during this informative two-hour excursion, departing early in the morning before breakfast.
2) Dog Trekking or Wheeled Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of dog trekking or wheeled dog sledding. In dog trekking, you'll be attached to a dog that will help you move forward, providing both excitement and efficiency. For wheeled dog sledding, you’ll ride on karts pulled by a team of dogs, replicating the adventure of polar explorers like Amundsen and Peary.
3) Art Arctic Gallery Museum and Exhibition Center: A cultural experience in the former cosulate of the USSR with local art and exhibitions
Day 5. Tour end and departure?
After breakfast we will go back to Longyearbyen by an open boat. Transfer to your pre-booked hotel or the airport for departure. (B/-/-)
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PRACTICAL INFORMATION:
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