Nordenskiöld Circuit - 5 Day Ski Tour through Svalbard's Wilderness

Discover Svalbard on skis – a mindful yet adventurous journey

Svalbard offers endless opportunities for unforgettable ski adventures, with landscapes shifting from wide-open valleys to rugged peaks, sweeping coastlines, and vast glaciers. From Longyearbyen, we set out into Nordenskiöld Land National Park, exploring some of the finest terrain for multi-day ski expeditions. Here, snowmobiles are prohibited, allowing you to fully embrace the solitude and silence of the Arctic wilderness.

Travelling on mountain skis with a pulka is a slower, more mindful way to experience Svalbard. You notice the small things – fresh tracks from reindeer or Arctic foxes, the changing texture of snow beneath your skis, and the way the Arctic light constantly transforms the landscape, revealing new colours and shapes around every turn.

Moving under your own power lets you sink into the natural rhythm of the journey, far from Wi-Fi and modern distractions. Days are spent skiing through untouched wilderness; evenings bring the warmth of shared meals, life in camp, and the quiet moments of polar bear watch. Out here, life is simple, and the smallest comforts feel like luxuries.

Day 1 – Expedition Start
This morning you finally meet your guide and the rest of the team. From 09:00, when you’re picked up for the expedition briefing at our base, you’ll be in full expedition mode. There’s plenty to prepare: together we review the route, adapt our plan to the latest weather and snow conditions, check equipment, and pack our pulkas – each item placed with care, knowing it will be your lifeline in the days ahead.

After lunch, we drive into Adventdalen, from where the expedition will start. With skis on, we now glide into the wilderness and excitement is building as we leave civilisation behind. A few kilometres in Bolterdalen, we find a nice camp spot. Here we take our time settling in and learning the routines that will make expedition life enjoyable and deeply rewarding. No need to worry about experience – your guide will be there to assist, and you’ll quickly pick up the skills you need.

Day 2 – Into the Wild
As we pull our pulkas through the narrow pass of Bolterskaret, the mountains close in and we get the real sense of being underway into the wild. From here, we descend into Tverrdalen, where untouched snow stretches out before us, framed by ridgelines and distant glaciers. Out here, far from any settlements, the only company we’re likely to meet are the reindeer and Arctic foxes that call this wilderness home.

By evening, we reach the edge of Reindalen, one of Svalbard’s largest valleys. Here, in the open expanse, we pitch our tents with sweeping views in every direction. Once again, the stillness of the Arctic settles over camp, and you feel both small and completely part of the landscape.

Day 3 – Alpine Heights

Yet another morning begins with the comforting smell of coffee, as you wake up in your sleeping bag, now already far into the wilderness. Today, we ski further into Reindalen, each pull of the pulka bringing us closer to the Kok Glacier on the north side of the valley. Here, the landscape transforms once more – mountains rise from the glaciers like towering nunataks, their peaks sharper and more defined. We pitch our camp in this spectacular setting, taking the time to truly absorb the raw beauty of this place.

Day 4 – Exploring The Glacier

The Møysalen glacier region is a true highlight of the expedition, and this day is dedicated entirely to exploring it. We ascend onto the glacier, gaining 500 - 700 m of elevation, surrounded by some of the area’s highest peaks. Depending on weather and snow conditions, we may aim for a summit or simply traverse across the wide, open glacier.

Day 5 – Returning to Longyearbyen
Our last morning in the highlands is filled with mixed emotions – proud of the journey behind us, yet wishing it wasn’t ending. From here, we descend into Jansondalen and Adventdalen, the pulkas now light, the skiing smooth and unhurried. As the valleys open wide, we trace our way back to Bolterdalen, where it all began. Transport is waiting for us to bring us back to Longyearbyen, but the Arctic has a way of holding onto you, and a part of you wishes you could keep going just a little longer.

• Difficulty level: 4 out of 5
• Participants: 4–12
• Dates 2026: 
• Duration: 5 days
• Age limit: 18 years (Participants aged 16–17 may join by special agreement)

Who is this trip for?

This expedition is for those in good physical condition with some experience from Nordic skiing (day trips are sufficient – no prior camping experience is needed). You should be prepared to pull your own pulk (30–40 kg) and ski 15–20 km per day, be comfortable living in a tent under cold conditions, and ready to contribute to the group. A positive attitude and team spirit are essential. No previous experience on glaciers required.

What to expect

A true Arctic expedition — self-supported, remote, and unforgettable. You’ll ski with a pulk (sled), sleep in tents (two people per tent), cook meals together in the snow kitchen, and share the rhythm of life in the wild. Expect raw Arctic nature, physical challenge, and a deep sense of achievement.

Included in the Price

• All transport
• Sled, harness, and pulling system
• All meals, snacks, and hot drinks during the expedition
• Tent, sleeping mat, stove, and cooking equipment
• Experienced guide with necessary safety equipment
• Search and rescue insurance

Recommended Equipment (bring your own)

• Warm, well-broken-in ski boots
• Nordic skis, poles, and skins*
• Warm clothing suitable for Arctic winter
• Camera (optional)
• Sleeping bag**

* You must bring your own ski equipment. If buying new gear, test it well in advance to avoid blisters.
** Sleeping bags can be rented for NOK 600.

A detailed packing list will be provided upon confirmed booking.
Larger luggage can be stored at our warehouse.
Outdoor equipment can be purchased at Arctica in Longyearbyen.

Disclaimer

The itinerary may change due to weather, wildlife, or the group’s abilities. If polar bears are observed in the area, we may need to adjust the route or return to Longyearbyen and conduct day trips from there. Safety – for both people and wildlife – is always our top priority.

© Photos: August T. Gautun