Spitsbergen: Must-Go Tours in December

In December, Spitsbergen is fully immersed in the polar night, offering unique opportunities for Arctic adventure. One of the most popular tours during this time is a Northern Lights safari. With complete darkness for 24 hours, December provides excellent conditions for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Snowmobile tours are a thrilling way to reach remote areas, far from any light pollution, where the Northern Lights can be seen in all their glory. Watching the green and purple lights dance across the Arctic sky is a breathtaking experience and one of the top reasons to visit Spitsbergen in December.

For adventure seekers, snowmobiling remains one of the must-go tours in December. The thick snow and frozen landscapes allow for long-distance travel across the tundra, glaciers, and fjords. The thrill of speeding through the Arctic wilderness, combined with the beauty of the snow-covered landscape, makes snowmobiling an unforgettable experience. Many tours include stops at remote cabins or other points of interest, where you can warm up with a hot drink and take in the stunning surroundings.

Dog sledding tours in December offer an authentic Arctic experience, with teams of huskies eagerly pulling sleds across the snow-covered terrain. The bond between the mushers and their dogs, combined with the thrill of riding through the wilderness, makes this a must-do activity. Whether it’s a short ride or a multi-day adventure, dog sledding allows you to experience the Arctic in a way that is both exhilarating and intimate. December’s cold temperatures and the polar night add to the sense of adventure, making it one of the most memorable tours available.

For those looking to experience Spitsbergen’s natural beauty at a more relaxed pace, fjord cruises remain a popular option in December. The frozen fjords, towering glaciers, and icebergs create a magical landscape, especially under the dim light of the polar night. These boat tours offer the chance to see wildlife, including seals and seabirds, while also providing stunning views of the Arctic scenery. The contrast between the dark sky and the glowing ice creates a surreal atmosphere that is unique to the Arctic winter.

Wildlife tours in December focus on the Arctic animals that thrive in the harsh winter conditions. Polar bears are often seen hunting on the pack ice, and boat tours along the coast offer the chance to see these magnificent predators in their natural environment. Additionally, walrus safaris remain a popular option, with many of these massive creatures still lounging on the shores. The opportunity to observe Arctic wildlife against the dramatic winter landscape makes these tours a highlight for nature enthusiasts visiting Spitsbergen in December.

A visit to Pyramiden, the abandoned Soviet mining town, is still possible in December and remains one of the most intriguing tours in Spitsbergen. The ghost town, covered in snow and shrouded in darkness, takes on an even more eerie atmosphere during the polar night. Guided tours of Pyramiden offer a fascinating look into the history of the settlement, with its Soviet-era buildings and industrial ruins providing a glimpse into the past. The journey to Pyramiden, often by boat or snowmobile, adds to the adventure, with stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains.

Photography tours in December are focused on capturing the unique beauty of the polar night. The long hours of darkness, combined with the snow-covered landscape, create perfect conditions for photographing the Northern Lights, as well as the stunning Arctic scenery. Professional guides take you to the best locations, ensuring that you get the most out of your photography experience. Whether you’re capturing the Aurora Borealis, wildlife, or the frozen landscapes, December offers a wealth of photo opportunities that are unlike anything else in the world.

Finally, cultural tours to Barentsburg continue to be a must-go in December. This Russian mining settlement, with its mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern industry, provides a fascinating glimpse into life in the Arctic. Guided tours of Barentsburg include visits to the local museum, the Russian Orthodox church, and the mining operations, offering insights into the challenges and history of living in such a remote and harsh environment. The long nights and cold temperatures only add to the atmosphere, making a visit to Barentsburg an unforgettable part of any trip to Spitsbergen in December.