Spitsbergen: Must-Go Tours in March

March marks the transition from the polar night to the return of the sun in Spitsbergen, making it an exciting time to visit. The longer days bring a stunning interplay of light and shadow across the snowy landscape, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. From thrilling snowmobile tours to serene ice cave explorations, March offers a wide range of must-go tours for those looking to experience the Arctic’s wild beauty.

A snowmobile safari is a must-do tour in March, as the longer daylight hours provide more time to explore Spitsbergen’s vast wilderness. These guided tours take you deep into the heart of the island, where you’ll encounter breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and frozen fjords. The thrill of speeding across the snow on a snowmobile, combined with the stunning Arctic scenery, makes this a top choice for adventurous travelers. Snowmobile safaris often include stops at remote cabins or viewpoints, where you can take in the beauty of the Arctic landscape.

Another must-go tour in March is a Northern Lights chase. Although the sun is starting to return, March still offers excellent opportunities to witness the aurora borealis, especially in the early part of the month. Guided tours take you to the best viewing spots, away from the lights of Longyearbyen, where you can watch as the sky comes alive with vibrant colors. The combination of the Northern Lights and the snow-covered landscape creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

For a more hands-on adventure, dog sledding is a must in March. As the days grow longer, dog sledding tours become even more enjoyable, with the soft Arctic light casting a beautiful glow over the snow. Riding through the wilderness with a team of huskies is a quintessential Arctic experience, offering a unique way to explore Spitsbergen’s rugged terrain. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musher, dog sledding tours provide a thrilling and unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Arctic.

Exploring Spitsbergen’s ice caves is another top tour in March. The island’s glaciers form intricate networks of ice caves, and guided tours take you inside these frozen wonders. The caves are carved by meltwater streams and are constantly changing, making each visit unique. Walking through the shimmering blue tunnels of ice, surrounded by the stillness of the glacier, is an otherworldly experience that you won’t want to miss. Expert guides ensure that you explore safely while sharing fascinating insights into the glacier’s formation and history.

A visit to Pyramiden, an abandoned Soviet mining town, is a must for history lovers. March’s cold and snow add to the eerie atmosphere of this ghost town, where the remnants of Soviet-era buildings stand frozen in time. Guided tours take you through the town’s empty streets and buildings, offering a glimpse into what life was like in one of the northernmost settlements in the world. The frozen relics of Pyramiden provide a haunting yet captivating look at Spitsbergen’s past.

For wildlife enthusiasts, a snowmobile or snowcat wildlife safari is a must-go tour in March. The snow-covered landscape makes it easier to spot Arctic wildlife, such as reindeer, Arctic foxes, and potentially even polar bears. Guided tours take you to some of the best wildlife-watching areas, where you can enjoy the beauty and solitude of the Arctic while keeping an eye out for these fascinating creatures. The longer daylight hours of March make wildlife watching even more rewarding, as you’ll have more time to explore Spitsbergen’s wilderness.

For those interested in Arctic science, a tour of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault is a fascinating addition to your March itinerary. While visitors cannot enter the vault itself, guided tours provide a wealth of information about the vault’s mission to preserve global plant diversity. The Seed Vault is a symbol of Spitsbergen’s role as a hub for scientific research, and visiting the facility offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the efforts to safeguard the world’s agricultural future.

Lastly, a photography tour is highly recommended in March, as the changing light creates stunning opportunities to capture Spitsbergen’s landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a beginner, guided tours offer expert advice on capturing the beauty of the Arctic. With the return of the sun, March offers a unique blend of light and shadow that makes for dramatic and memorable photos. From icy fjords to the rugged mountains, the opportunities for stunning shots are endless.