About
Discover Longyearbyen through local stories, beautiful town scenery, Arctic nature, sled dogs, common eiders, and a peaceful picnic beside one of the area’s most special summer bird colonies.
We meet outside Visit Svalbard, where your guide welcomes the group, checks everyone’s comfort, and gives a short introduction to the walk. From there, we begin a relaxed stroll through some of the beautiful parts of Longyearbyen and continue toward the historic dog yard.
At the dog yard, you will meet the dogs and learn about one of Longyearbyen’s traditional dog yards, connected to Berit and Karl Våtvik.
The guide will share stories about the importance of sled dogs in Svalbard’s polar history, everyday life, and local identity.
This area is also known for one of the largest common eider nesting colonies around Longyearbyen.
One reason the birds choose to nest here in summer is the presence of dogs, which helps scare Arctic foxes away.
The guide will explain how the dog yard and its surroundings have been developed over time to create safer, more sheltered nesting conditions for the eiders and to help protect the local population.
Close to the dog yard, we find a calm picnic spot with a table and benches.
Here, we enjoy warm drinks and snacks while watching the birds right from our table.
In season, common eiders may call and move nearby, creating a surprisingly soothing Arctic soundscape.
During the picnic, the guide will also introduce you to the unique qualities of eiderdown.
You will see what this soft, light natural material looks like and learn how it is carefully collected, dried, cleaned, washed, and checked by hand through a time-consuming traditional process. The guide will also share the story of Svalbard Fangst and Tommy Sandal, who helps keep local trapping traditions and eiderdown craftsmanship alive on Svalbard.
Together with his partner Lisa, he cares for a large eider colony during the nesting season, with a strong focus on animal welfare, sustainability, and respect for Arctic nature.
Eiderdown is considered one of the warmest and most exclusive natural materials in the world and is used in locally handmade products from Svalbard.
This story shows the close relationship between people and eider ducks: the birds receive protection during the breeding season, and only after they have left the nest is the remaining down collected and given new life as a unique Arctic craft product.
After the picnic, birdwatching, and relaxed conversation, your guide walks you safely back toward town.
What You Will Experience
- Guided sightseeing walk from Visit Svalbard through beautiful parts of Longyearbyen
- Visit to the historic dog yard connected to Berit and Karl Våtvik
- Meeting friendly huskies from the Svalbard Villmarkssenter family
- Stories about sled dogs, polar history, and local life in Svalbard
- Birdwatching beside one of the largest common eider colonies around Longyearbyen
- Explanation of why eiders nest close to the dog yard and how dogs help deter foxes
- Picnic at a calm table-and-bench spot near the nesting area
- Introduction to eiderdown: how it looks, how it is collected, and what is made from it
- Local stories about the only trapper left Tommy Sandal the trapper and handmade eiderdown products
- Beautiful photo opportunities along the route
The Tour Includes
-A guided sightseeing walk through Longyearbyen with a local guide who is passionate about the town’s history, culture, and everyday life in the High Arctic.
- Birdwatching and local storytelling near one of the largest eider duck colonies in the area, where you may also see other Arctic birds nesting and moving through the landscape.
- A live presentation of eiderdown collected by a local trapper, including a close look at this exceptionally warm natural material and handmade local down products connected to traditional Arctic craftsmanship.
- Certified guiding by an experienced polar bear ranger, with a strong focus on safety, local knowledge, and respectful travel in Svalbard’s unique environment.
- Several beautiful photos from the experience, shared with you afterwards as a memory from your visit.
- A peaceful picnic next to the bird colony, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nesting birds, with traditional hot drinks and snacks included.
Practical Information
The route, duration, and difficulty can be adjusted according to weather conditions, group size, physical condition, bird activity, and comfort level.
This is a relaxed Arctic nature and sightseeing walk suitable for most guests.
The terrain may vary depending on weather and seasonal conditions, so comfortable outdoor clothing and good walking shoes are recommended.
Birdlife varies throughout the season. We keep a respectful distance from nesting birds and always follow the guide’s instructions.
Start time: 11:00 or upon request
Meeting point: Outside Visit Svalbard / Tourist Information Center
Requires a minimum of 2 participants
Cancellation Policy
If cancelled 22 days or more before departure: 100% refund.
If cancelled 22-7 days before departure: 50% refund.
Cancellation less than 7 days before departure is considered a “no show” and does not qualify for a refund. You may apply to your insurance company for a refund if you provide a medical certificate.
If Svalbard Villmarkssenter decides to cancel the trip due to weather conditions or any other reason, you will receive a full refund.
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