Which is the best month to visit Svalbard?

Which is the best month to visit Svalbard? This is the most frequently asked question when planning an expedition to the Norwegian Arctic. 

The answer lies in what you want to experience, as each month offers different things to do or see. While some dream of gazing on Arctic winter landscapes, others prefer the colourful Arctic summer or the magical autumn sunsets. Here are some highlights in May and July.

May in Svalbard – the magical springtime 

Early May to late September are great months to enjoy the Svalbard spring. It is an experience to witness the archipelago come to life. 

Animals in winter coats: The Arctic foxes and the Svalbard reindeers are still wearing their winter coats and walruses can be found resting at the feet of  glaciers. 

Magical midnight sun: The month of May often offers high pressure, resulting in clear blue skies and the greatest chance of seeing the midnight sun in all its glory and not hidden behind clouds. 

The fairytale winter landscape is dominated by sparkling ice formations, snow covered mountains, fjord ice and pastel coloured skies

The birdlife: The little auks and the Brünnich’s guillemots have returned to their summer nests and the cliffs are teeming with life. This is also a great time to spot the king eider and rock ptarmigan. You don’t have to be an ornithologist to be enchanted by Svalbard’s bird life!

July – Summer in the High Arctic

During July – summer in the High Arctic – there is a chance to reach the eastern parts: The ice thaws around the islands making it possible to explore these seldom visited parts of the archipelago.

The impressive Bråsvellbreen: Weather permitting, there is an opportunity to visit the 200 km glacier – an unforgettable experience.

 

Snow-free areas become accessible for refreshing hikes on the tundra, a show of glorious  flowers making the best of the short  summer.

Humpbacks & blue whales: this is the time, if we are lucky,  to encounter  the giants of the sea. 

Magical midnight sun: 24 hours of daylight can often tempt you to remain on deck rather than your bed!