All in One: Scenic Drive & History Walk with Huskies – Svalbard Villmarkssenter

About

Join us for a relaxed winter walk together with our friendly huskies in and around Longyearbyen.
Afterwards we will continue driving in a car.

We begin by picking you up at your accommodation and heading to the husky yard, picking a dog and starting our light hike to the chosen walking area for the day.
The exact route and location depend on weather conditions, snow cover, and guest preferences, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Walking with a husky adds a warm and personal element to the Arctic winter, as these dogs are well adapted to the climate and love spending time outdoors with people.

This tour is not only about nature and dogs – it is also a guided history walk. We will stop by the Polar Bear Sign and take pictures there.
As we move through the winter landscape, our local guide will share stories and insights about Svalbard’s natural environment, history, society, and economy. You’ll learn how life has developed in this remote Arctic archipelago, from early exploration and hunting to mining, research, tourism, and modern-day life in Longyearbyen.

Together we explore snow-covered tundra and valleys, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as Svalbard reindeer, and, if we are lucky, the Arctic fox and winter birds. The walk is unhurried and social, giving you time to enjoy the surroundings, connect with the dogs, and share the experience with the group.

This tour is suitable for most fitness levels and focuses on nature, local knowledge, huskies, and good company – an authentic and memorable way to experience the Arctic winter.

If you would like and we still have time, we will drive to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault and Svalbard Church.

Included during the tour
- Warm drinks to keep you comfortable in the cold
- Snacks to enjoy during the walk

Requirements & recommended clothing
To enjoy the walk safely and comfortably in Arctic winter conditions, proper clothing and footwear are essential. We strongly recommend the following:
- Anti-slip shoe spikes / ice grips (mandatory in icy conditions)
- Warm winter boots suitable for snow and cold
- Wool base layer (underwear) – top and bottom
- Insulating wool or fleece mid-layers
- Windproof and weather-resistant jacket
- Warm hat covering ears
- Neck warmer / buff / gaiter
- Glove liners
- Warm mittens (highly recommended for extra warmth)

If you do not have some of the required wear, let us know before the tour and we will find a solution.

Why is this experience unique?
- Husky companionship on foot – Walk side by side with friendly loving huskies, creating a personal connection with them.
- History walking tour – Learn about Svalbard’s natural, historical, societal, and economic development while exploring the landscape.
- Fika & Kos – a break for warm drinks and sweets at a beautiful spot during the trip.  “Fika” is swedish and means coffee/tea break with something sweet, whilst “kos” is norwegian and is a term for coziness.
- Flexible locations – The route is adapted to weather conditions and possibly guest preferences, allowing for the best possible experience in each tour. It is possible to walk huskies for half of the trip and then drive to well-known landmarks.
- Local storytelling – The guide shares firsthand knowledge, stories, and perspectives on life in Longyearbyen and the High Arctic.
- Wildlife awareness – Opportunities to spot Svalbard reindeer, Arctic birds, and occasionally Arctic foxes, while learning how wildlife adapts to winter.
- Relaxed and social atmosphere – An easy-paced walk focused on enjoyment, conversation, and shared experiences rather than physical performance.
- Small-group experience – A more intimate setting that allows for questions, dialogue, and personal interaction with both guide and dogs.
- Authentic Arctic winter setting – Experience the silence, light change, and vast snowy landscapes that define winter in and around Longyearbyen.