Into the Wild – Arctic Wildlife Photography Tour - Arctic Footsteps

About

Join us for a small-group photo tour into the landscapes around Longyearbyen, where Arctic wildlife and dramatic Svalbard scenery provide the subjects.

This experience is designed for guests who enjoy photography, wildlife and exploring the Arctic at a relaxed pace. Together with your certified local guide, you will travel through the areas around Longyearbyen by vehicle and, when conditions allow, continue with a short and easy walk in the surrounding landscape.

There is no fixed route, as the itinerary is adapted to the weather, terrain and current wildlife activity. Your guide will choose suitable locations based on the conditions of the day, always prioritising safety and respectful wildlife observation.

Along the way, there may be opportunities to photograph Arctic reindeer, Arctic foxes, birds, and other wildlife. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, as all animals are wild and free. The focus is on enjoying the landscape, learning how to observe the Arctic environment and taking photographs at a safe and respectful distance.

The tour may include short walks on easy terrain, with regular stops for photography, wildlife observation and stories about Svalbard’s nature, wildlife and history. Depending on the group and conditions, the walking section may be extended or adapted to create the best possible experience for everyone.

The focus on photography and wildlife observation will remain an important part of the tour, while the exact route and combination of activities may vary.

Itinerary
- Pick-up at your accommodation in Longyearbyen.
- Drive through the landscapes around Longyearbyen and along suitable wildlife areas.
- Make stops at scenic locations and areas with signs of wildlife.
- Take a short, easy walk when conditions allow.
- Enjoy time for photography, wildlife observation and interpretation from your guide.
- Depending on the day’s conditions and group composition, the tour may include sections of a nearby wilderness walk.
- Return to Longyearbyen with refreshments.

What is included
- Transport from and back to your accommodation in Longyearbyen.
- Short, easy walk when conditions allow.
- Refreshments and snacks.
- Local knowledge about Arctic wildlife, nature and the Svalbard environment.
- Time for photography and wildlife observation.

Important information
- Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours, depending on the day’s conditions and the final itinerary.
- Available year-round, subject to weather, snow and safety conditions.
- Small groups for a personal experience.
- The exact route may change according to weather, terrain, wildlife activity and group composition.
- Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
- Photography is a central part of the experience, but this is also an active outdoor tour that may include a short walk.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old.

What to bring
- Warm, layered clothing suitable for Arctic conditions.
- Windproof and waterproof outer clothing.
- Solid, comfortable and weather-appropriate footwear.
- Camera, spare batteries and binoculars if available.
- Water bottle and a small backpack.