When is the Best Time to Visit Svalbard?

This is a question we often get from our future Svalbard travellers, and for us the answer is simple: no time is better than another, as each month offers magnificent nature experiences and your dream of the Arctic may differ from someone else. One of you might want to see sparkling polar landscapes, another wants to encounter pack ice, and a third is looking for the perfect photo light. We hope this general overview will help you figure out which trip is right for you! However, remember that no two seasons in the Arctic are the same and it is impossible to predict exactly what the different months will look like this or next year.

May – the magical spring

Spring in Svalbard offers a true polar feeling with snow-covered expanses, fjord ice and magnificent glaciers. In fact, the Arctic in its winter glory is so beautiful that sometimes you have to pinch yourself! The midnight sun is back and offers 24-hour sun therapy until the end of August. It is a dreamlike feeling to stand leaning against the railing in the bow in the middle of the night and enjoy the unique nature in brilliant daylight. Early in the season, the tundra is often covered in a deep layer of snow, which can limit hiking opportunities. In return, there is even more time for exciting Zodiac cruises.

• Fairytale winter landscapes.
• Pastel colours and snow-capped mountain peaks.
• Foxes and reindeer wear winter clothing.
• Best chance of seeing polar bears and seals on ice.
• For photographers, the light at this time of year can be magical.
• Rubber boat trips among sparkling fjord ice and information.

June & July – summer in the Arctic

Are you looking for the most unique summer holiday of your life? Then we can highly recommend an expedition cruise to Svalbard that offers many unforgettable nature experiences. The midnight sun is high in the sky, the bird mountains are teeming with life, the ice has begun to retreat and the tundra invites you to longer hikes. It is a little warmer than at the beginning of the season and the temperature can creep up to 5-10 degrees Celsius on some days.

• The snow has begun to melt, making longer hikes possible.
• The ice has begun to retreat and we can go further northeast.
• Good chance to reach the mighty pack ice
• Birdlife has returned – the perfect time for birdwatchers.
• The mountain flora is blooming and the tundra is adorned with beautiful colours.
• Chance to see meltwater cascading down from the Austfonna ice cap.

August & September – the dramatic late summer

The ice has moved further east, the snow is gone and it is now that Svalbard’s fantastic geology comes to the fore, creating a dramatic contrast to the glaciers. On land, we can go on hikes with breathtaking views. Whales are often seen in the water and if you want to meet some of the real giants such as the humpback whale and the impressive blue whale, you have a good chance now. At the end of August, the sun begins to approach the horizon, the archipelago slowly prepares for the polar night and calm begins to set in.

• We can get even further east in the archipelago.
• An excellent time for whale watching.
• Chance to see more walrus colonies.
• Chance to reach the mighty Bråsvellbreen – a 45 km long glacier front.
• From the end of August, we can experience magnificent sunsets.
• Late summer offers a warm and soft photo light.
• After mid-August we may see juvenile gulls, while other bird species start to leave.

Please note! Depending on the lens used for photography or video recording, an animal may appear closer than it is. We always follow current Arctic guidelines to ensure we do not disturb wildlife. All photos copyright PolarQuest.

Following are some incredible Svalbard expeditions on the best small ships exploring the High Arctic: