Svalbard Guide Training Course

SGO 2027:

A revision of the Svalbard Guide Training Programme (SGO) is currently underway, and at this time we are unable to provide information about upcoming courses in 2027. We hope to have more details available during the autumn of 2026. Would you like to stay informed about upcoming guide training courses? Join our contact list here: Sign up here

The Svalbard Guide Training Course (SGO) is an introduction to the guide profession in Svalbard. The lectures in the course is mainly held in English, though the formal documents of the course as well as some of the literature may be in Norwegian.

Svalbard guides play an important role in the management of natural and cultural heritage in Svalbard because they have knowledge about geology, nature, cultural heritage and regulations, and can lead tourists in organised groups in accordance with the guidelines for tourist travel. The Svalbard Guide Training Course (SGO) is a vital piece of the neverending path of improving sustainability in local tourism.

The training will comply with the different demands set by the Svalbard nature, the local tourism industry and the official regulations, regarding the guide’s level of knowledge about Svalbard and field safety qualifications.

The SGO is divided in modules from 1 to 3:

- Module 1: Basic course of 2 days
- Module 2: Safety course (Polar bear safety and first aid) of 2 days 
- Module 3: Field course of 4 days (separate courses summer and winter)       

You have to pass the previous modules in order to take the next step. The course is based on a compulsory self study, with an initial exam the first day of modul 1. To get the final authorisation candidates need sufficient field and guiding experience in Svalbard, according to the standards in the course description.

For further information contact Visit Svalbard on 0047 79 02 55 50 / info@visitsvalbard.com