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Svalbard

Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago located north of mainland Scandinavia and to the east of Northeast Greenland. Positioned between 74 and 81°N, it is about as far north as any ship can reach without the power of an icebreaker. It is a protected area making it one of the best places in the Arctic to find wildlife including polar bears, walrus, arctic fox, reindeer, birds and whales.

Discover Svalbard’s Breathtaking Wilderness & Wildlife

A protected region, Svalbard is one of the best places in the Arctic to observe diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. Travelers have the opportunity to witness:

  • Polar bears prowling the sea ice
  • Walruses lounging on ice floes
  • Arctic foxes blending into the tundra
  • Svalbard reindeer grazing on the sparse vegetation
  • A variety of bird species soaring over dramatic fjords and nesting on the cliffs
  • Whales surfacing in the icy waters

Svalbard’s combination of incredible wildlife, accessibility, and striking scenery makes it an excellent introduction to the Arctic.

A zodiac on the water in front of huge glacier face.

Explore Expeditions to Svalbard

Svalbard FAQ’s

What is the difference between Svalbard and Spitsbergen?

Svalbard refers to the whole archipelago of islands where Spitsbergen is the largest island in the archipelago. 

Who owns Svalbard?

Norway has full sovereignty over Svalbard.

Is there a human population in Svalbard?

Yes, about 2,500 residents call Svalbard home. Most live in Longyearbyen.