Twelve Reasons to Visit Svalbard in December

1. Winter Wonderland Landscapes:

December brings the arrival of winter in Svalbard, with the landscape adorned in a blanket of pure white snow. The rugged mountains, fjords, and glaciers take on an ethereal beauty, creating a picture-perfect winter wonderland that's perfect for outdoor exploration and photography.

2. Polar Night Atmosphere: 

December marks the heart of the polar night in Svalbard, with the sun remaining below the horizon for the entire month. Despite the darkness, the Arctic landscape is bathed in a soft, mystical light, with the stars and moon illuminating the snow-covered terrain. Visitors have the rare opportunity to experience the surreal beauty of the polar night, with its long nights and magical atmosphere.

3. Northern Lights Displays:

December offers excellent opportunities to witness the Northern Lights in Svalbard, as the long nights and clear skies provide optimal conditions for aurora viewing. The aurora borealis dances across the Arctic sky in a mesmerizing display of color and motion, with shimmering curtains of green, purple, and red illuminating the darkness.

4. Dog Sledding Adventures:

December is the perfect time to experience the thrill of dog sledding in Svalbard. Visitors can embark on guided tours with experienced mushers and teams of huskies, traversing the snowy landscapes and frozen fjords of the Arctic wilderness. Dog sledding offers a unique opportunity to explore the winter wilderness, with the sound of sled runners gliding over the snow and the sight of huskies pulling eagerly ahead.

5. Snowmobiling Expeditions:

December provides ideal conditions for snowmobiling adventures in Svalbard, with pristine snow covering the rugged terrain and frozen fjords. Travelers can rent snowmobiles or join guided tours to explore remote areas inaccessible by other means, discovering hidden valleys, ice caves, and glaciers along the way.

6. Ice Cave Exploration:

December offers the opportunity to explore the magical world of ice caves in Svalbard. As temperatures drop and the winter freeze takes hold, ice caves form in glaciers and icebergs, creating otherworldly formations of crystal-clear ice. Visitors can join guided tours to venture inside these natural wonders, marveling at the intricate ice sculptures and shimmering blue hues of the frozen landscape.

7. Wildlife Encounters:

Despite the darkness of the polar night, December still offers opportunities for wildlife encounters in Svalbard. Visitors may spot polar bears, Arctic foxes, reindeer, and seabirds along the coastlines and ice floes, as these hardy creatures adapt to the winter conditions.

8. Cultural Immersion:

December offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions of Svalbard's communities. Visitors can attend cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions, learning about the history, heritage, and way of life in the Arctic.

9. Cozy Arctic Accommodations:

December offers the chance to experience cozy Arctic accommodations in Svalbard, from traditional cabins and lodges to luxury hotels and wilderness camps. Travelers can enjoy the warmth and comfort of a roaring fire, with stunning views of the winter landscape outside their window.

10. Astronomy and Stargazing:

December provides excellent conditions for astronomy and stargazing in Svalbard, with the long nights and clear skies offering optimal visibility of the stars and constellations.

11. Winter Sports and Activities:

December is the perfect time to experience a variety of winter sports and activities in Svalbard. From cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to ice fishing and ice climbing, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the winter wilderness.

12. Aurora Photography Workshops:

December is an ideal time for aurora photography workshops in Svalbard, with the long nights and clear skies providing optimal conditions for capturing the Northern Lights. Professional photographers lead guided tours and workshops, offering tips and techniques for photographing the aurora borealis and the Arctic landscape.



In conclusion, December offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences and adventures in Svalbard, from witnessing the beauty of the polar night and Northern Lights to exploring the winter wilderness and embracing the local culture. Whether you're drawn to outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, or cultural immersion, December promises a journey of discovery and exploration like no other in the captivating wilderness of Svalbard.