Longyearbyen
A true nature hike through the stunning valley of Bjørndalen, an area which is full of flora and fauna and where we might be able to observe wildlife
Join us for a truly special Arctic hiking adventure to the summit of Fuglefjella (Bird Mountain), where we explore the beautiful Bjørndalen Valley and experience the incredible nature that makes Svalbard so unique.
This is a hike for those who want to go beyond the usual viewpoints and experience the Arctic up close.
Throughout the day, we’ll walk through a landscape of wide valleys, dramatic mountains, rivers, and untouched wilderness while keeping an eye out for some of Svalbard’s amazing wildlife. The area is home to Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeers, little auks, and many other bird species that spent the summer up in the high Arctic.
Your adventure begins with pickup from your accommodation. We’ll drive along the coastline towards Bjørndalen, enjoying the beautiful views as we leave Longyearbyen behind and enter the peaceful Arctic landscape. Once we arrive in the valley, we leave the road behind and begin our full-day wilderness hike.
Our route takes us through the impressive Bjørndalen Valley, surrounded by steep mountain walls and the sounds of Arctic nature. As we make our way towards Fuglefjella, take a moment to look back across the valley and listen to the lively little auk colony on Platåberget.
Continuing our journey, we descend into the valley towards the river delta. Depending on the season and conditions, we may simply walk across the shallow water, or we may use waterproof gaiters, which we provide, to comfortably make our way across. This small crossing is part of what makes the adventure feel like a real Arctic expedition.
After the river crossing, we continue through the wilderness before reaching the final climb towards the top of Fuglefjella. This is the most challenging part of the hike, with a steep ascent of 300 meters over a short distance—but the reward at the top makes every step worthwhile. Standing on the summit, surrounded by open Arctic landscapes and looking out over Isfjorden, you’ll understand why this place is so special.
During the day, we’ll take our time to enjoy the journey. There will be plenty of stops for photos, moments to simply take in the silence of the Arctic, and a well-deserved break with warm expedition food and hot drinks while enjoying the incredible surroundings.
With approximately 12–14 km of hiking, 400 meters of elevation gain, and a duration of around 8 hours, this is a challenging but rewarding adventure for those who want to experience the true wilderness of Svalbard.
Come hike with us into the Arctic landscape, discover hidden corners of Svalbard, and create memories from a day you’ll never forget!
Included:
Our professional and dedicated guide, warm expedition food, hot drinks and sweets, Search & Rescue insurance, emergency and safety equipment, transfer to and from your accommodation.
What we recommend you to bring:
Please make sure to dress properly for Arctic weather conditions.
Our recommendations for this hike would be to wear: Sturdy waterproof hiking boots/shoes (above the ankle), (soft shell) hiking pants, shell jacket (wind and waterproof), base layers, warm hiking socks, insulating mid-layer, warm hat (like a beanie), warm mittens/ gloves and a filled water bottle. If you can, choose woolen materials closest to your body.
We want you to bring a backpack as you need to take some gear with you, which you will get from us.
We will provide you with microspikes (depending on the conditions) and we will divide the food and drinks among the participants.
Important to know:
If, for safety reasons, we need to adjust the planned route, we reserve the right to do so.
Your safety is our highest priority. In such cases, no refunds will be given.
In the unlikely event that we are unable to carry out the trip, either by adjusting the route or by starting the booked tour, you will receive a full refund.
We reserve the right to refuse you to join our activity, without any refund, if you do not arrive on time, are not properly prepared in terms of clothing or in any way not capable of joining our trip. Your safety is our main concern.
Make sure you are in normal physical shape, as this hike can be experienced as moderate demanding (all depending on conditions and weather). We need to walk upwards for a part.
Although our activity is focussed on wildlife, their presence can never be guaranteed.
Warning: During some periods of the year, we need to cross a river in the valley. Our guide will make sure we only do so when this is safe enough. We will provide you with waterproof gaiters, but there is a possibility you will get wet feet.
We recommend that you wear high boots.
Pickup: at your accommodation around the time stated on your confirmation. Please just wait if we are not there on time.
We pick up everyone at the same time, so we could be some minutes later.
Cancellations:
If you need to cancel, please notify us in writing.
Cancellation reimbursement:
- 22 days or more prior to departure: 95%
- 21-8 days prior to departure: 50%
- 7 or less days prior to departure: 0%.
Refunds:
We are not able to offer a refund due to route changes, sickness, cancelled or delayed flights or any other circumstance outside our control.
Age limits:
This experience is not suitable for children under the age of 14 years.
All under 18 years old need to be accompanied by an adult.
Source: Svalbard Reiseliv AS