Bjørndalen Wilderness Walk: Arctic Wildlife Realm - Arctic Footsteps

About

Step into the Arctic wilderness
Leave the roads behind and step into Svalbard’s quiet side.

This experience is all about slowing down and tuning into the Arctic landscape, far from the busy routes and into a valley where nature sets the pace. After picking you up in Longyearbyen, we head out along the coast, where the mountains meet the sea and the wind shapes everything in sight. Our destination is Bjørndalen, a wide, open valley that feels untouched and almost otherworldly.

Once there, we continue on foot, moving gently through the terrain.

This is a prime area for reindeers. These small, curious animals often roam across the tundra, and sightings are common, but never staged.
Keep watching the ground and the ridgelines too, as Arctic foxes sometimes pass quietly through the landscape, and seabirds circle above in the endless Arctic daylight.

But this isn’t just about what you see, it’s about how it feels to be here.

We keep a relaxed rhythm, stopping often to take in the silence, snap photos, and hear the stories behind this remote place.
Your guide will share how life survives up here, through extreme seasons, fragile ecosystems, and a history shaped by isolation.

Midway, we pause for a warm drink and a light snack, surrounded by nothing but open space.

On the drive back, we stay alert along the shoreline.
The cold Arctic waters sometimes reveal beluga whales moving in small groups, and if we’re lucky, a walrus hauled out along the coast.

No rush. No crowds. Just a simple, authentic Arctic experience.

Distance: 3–5 km
Duration: around 4 hours
Difficulty: easy, suitable for most fitness levels

Svalbard weather can change quickly, so dressing properly is key to enjoying the experience.

We recommend wearing sturdy, waterproof hiking boots (preferably above the ankle), along with comfortable outdoor clothing layered for warmth. A good setup includes thermal base layers (ideally wool), a warm mid-layer, and a windproof and waterproof outer jacket. Hiking pants, warm socks, gloves or mittens, and a hat are essential to stay comfortable throughout the hike.

Don’t forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated!