Seed Vault Hike - From Seed to Summit
January - December
Join us on a varied hike that combines stunning views with a visit to the entrance of the Global Seed Vault — a unique and important site for the future of global food security.
The tour starts with a hike up the ridge above Blomsterdalen (the Flower Valley), gaining around 300 meters in elevation. The trail is a bit steep in places, but the hike is relatively short and manageable for most people in normal physical condition. Along the way, you'll enjoy beautiful views over Adventfjorden, and on clear days, you can even see the glaciers across Isfjorden. One short section of the trail follows a ridge that may feel a little exposed, but we take our time here.
After the hike, we drive to the entrance of the Seed Vault, located at the base of the same mountain. Although the vault is closed to the public, the entrance alone is worth the visit. In summer, it blends naturally into the landscape. In winter, it lights up in turquoise and green — a striking contrast against the snowy landscape.
The Seed Vault lies outside Longyearbyen’s safety zone, so the easiest and safest way to visit is with a guide. Along the way, you’ll hear stories and insights — both about the Seed Vault itself and the unique nature of Svalbard. This is a great half-day activity, perfect if you have a few hours to spare in the morning. Hot drinks and cookies are included.
Trip Overview
Difficulty level (3 out of 5)
Minimum 2, maksimum 8 participants in a group.
- All year
- 09:00am-13:00
- Approx. 4 hours
- Approx. 4-6 km i total
- Approx. 300 m elevation
- 12 years*
*Discount for children 12 - 14 years.
This is a medium demanding hike.
Price includes:
- Transport round trip
- Hot drink and biscuits
- Headlamp if necessary
- Guide with necessary safety equipment
- Snowshoes/hiking poles if needed
Recommend to bring:
- Good, warm and worn-in hiking boots*
- Warm and windproof clothes
- Cold drink (preferably in a thermos as liquid can freeze to ice)
- Camera
- Warm jumper for the journey home and breaks
- Backpack
*If you do not have warm hiking boots, these can be rented for NOK 100. Bring your own packed lunch if necessary.
Extra clothing and equipment: Arctica
© Esther Cowen, Martin Fiala, Ingjerd Strømholt, Rikke Hoddø Steinbakk, Jo Even Kolstad
