Svalbard Crossing – 8 Day Ski Expedition from East to West - Svalbard Wildlife Expeditions

About

Join us on a true Arctic expedition as we ski across Spitsbergen from east to west over eight unforgettable days.
Travelling through remote valleys, frozen rivers, glacier passes, and vast wilderness, you'll experience some of Svalbard’s most spectacular landscapes far from roads and settlements.

Pulling your own pulka (sled), you'll camp under the midnight sun, cook meals together in a snow kitchen, and take turns on polar bear watch. The route has been designed to maximize time on skis and offers a deeper wilderness experience than the classic Svalbard crossing.

This expedition is physically demanding and best suited for participants with good fitness and some cross-country skiing experience. In return, you'll gain a unique sense of accomplishment, see breathtaking Arctic scenery, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Expedition Highlights
- Ski across Spitsbergen from east to wes
- Travel through remote valleys, glacier passes, and frozen river systems
- Camp in the Arctic wilderness under the midnight sun
- Pull your own expedition sled (pulka)
- Learn expedition routines and polar bear safety procedures
- Experience a self-supported Arctic adventure with an experienced guide

Itinerary
Day 1 – Expedition Preparations
Meet your guide and fellow participants in Longyearbyen. We review equipment, expedition routines, safety procedures, and the route ahead.

Day 2 – Into the Wilderness
After our transport to Agardhbukta, we begin our crossing. The first day on skis allows us to settle into the rhythm of travelling on skis with pulkas before establishing our first camp.

Days 3–5 – Remote Valleys and Glacier Pass
We travel through the untouched landscapes of this island, crossing vast valleys, frozen rivers, and a snow-covered glacier. Along the way, we keep a watchful eye for wildlife, such as Svalbard reindeer, Arctic foxes, and ptarmigan. Polar bears are a rare sight and, if encountered, we hope to observe them from a safe distance. While encounters are uncommon on this expedition, we remain vigilant.

Days 6–8 – Towards the West Coast
As we continue westward, the landscape slowly begins to change. Vast valleys open up, coastal views appear, and there is a growing sense of returning towards civilisation. We turn inland once more for the final stretch of our journey back to Longyearbyen.

Day 9 – Return to Longyearbyen
After more than a week in the wilderness, we complete the final stage of the crossing and return to Longyearbyen. Perhaps it is time for a shower and a celebratory dinner in town.

Why Choose This Expedition?
Unlike shorter crossings, this route allows for a more immersive wilderness experience. With minimal motorized transport and eight full days on skis, you'll have time to explore areas that shorter itineraries would leave out. Skiing all the way back to Longyearbyen creates a rewarding sense of accomplishment from start to finish and is also a more sustainable option. 

Trip Information
Participants: 4–10
Dates: 19–27 April 2027
Duration: 1 preparation day + 8 expedition days
Minimum Age: 18 years (16–17 years on request)

Who Is This Trip For?
This expedition is suitable for physically fit participants with previous cross country skiing experience. You should be comfortable pulling a sled weighing approximately 30–40 kg over daily distances of 15–20 km and be willing to camp in winter conditions for several consecutive nights.

No glacier travel experience is required, but a positive attitude, resilience, and willingness to contribute to the group are essential.

What's Included?
- Transport between Longyearbyen and the expedition start point in Agardhbukta (by snowmobile or beltwagon)
- Sled (pulka), harness, and pulling system
- All meals, snacks, and drinks during the expedition
- Sleeping mat, stoves, and cooking equipment
- Professional guide and safety equipment
- Search-and-rescue insurance

What to Bring
Participants must bring their own:
- Nordic skis, skins, poles, and ski boots
- Warm clothing suitable for Arctic conditions
- Sleeping bag (rental available)
- Personal equipment

A detailed packing list will be provided after booking confirmation.
For more information about the tour, please visit: www.wildlife.no
Are you considering to join? Then we would love to hear from you! Send us an email to info@wildlife.no

Disclaimer
This tour has a minimum participant requirement. If this minimum number is not reached, the tour may be cancelled.
In that case, you will receive a full refund or be offered the option to rebook on another departure.

The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, snow and ice conditions, or other circumstances beyond our control, such as polar bear sightings in the area. We always do our best to provide you with the best possible experience while safety remains our highest priority at all times.