3-day East Coast Adventure: Snowmobile and Cabin Escape

From March to April, the returning sun and snowy landscape create the perfect setting for long snowmobile expeditions on Svalbard.

While Longyearbyen is located on the west coast of the archipelago, this expedition takes us to the remote East Coast of Svalbard. Around 100 kilometres from town, we reach a landscape that feels very different. Colder climate and heavier snowfall have shaped vast glacier systems, frozen coastlines, and a place where glaciers meet the ocean. In some years, the sea does freeze along the East Coast, creating a vast expanse of sea ice. Icebergs from summer glacier calvings are then frozen into the ice.

When we stay out longer, we can experience this landscape in a different way. When the day visitors leave and the landscape becomes quiet again, we can keep on exploring. The weather in Svalbard changes quickly, and an overnight stay gives us more flexibility to adapt and make the most out of our time.  Because we have to be honest — out in the Arctic wilderness, conditions can change quickly. It is not always sunshine and clear skies, we may experience heavy snowfall, strong winds, or even whiteout conditions where visibility is reduced to only the snowmobile ahead of you. One thing we can promise: whatever the weather brings, this will be an adventure you will remember.

More time outside also increases your chances of spotting wildlife. We often see reindeer on our way, and many guests dream of seeing the king of the Arctic – the polar bear. During winter, polar bears spend much of their time along the East Coast, hunting seals on the sea ice. However, they move across an enormous landscape, and sightings are never guaranteed. If we are fortunate enough to spot a polar bear, we observe it from a safe distance and never approach. This is their home, and, as with all wildlife, it is our responsibility to respect their space and avoid disturbing them.

Day 1 – Through the Valleys to the Wilderness Hut

We pick you up early, at 08:30 from your hotel in Longyearbyen and begin the adventure by heading to our equipment storage. Here, we prepare the snowmobiles, go through a safety briefing, and make sure everyone is well prepared before departure. You will be provided with warm snowmobile clothing and all necessary equipment. Your guide will also introduce you to driving the snowmobile. No previous experience is needed, and many guests are surprised by how quickly they get comfortable.

As we leave Longyearbyen behind, the route takes us through snowy valleys and across the wide Arctic landscape. When the last houses disappear, the feeling of being truly remote begins. After approximately 2–3 hours of driving, we arrive at Fulmarhytta, our remote winter cabin deep inside the Fulmar Valley.

This is an extended version of our popular 1-night safari, giving you even more time to explore the Arctic winter landscape. Depending on the weather, snow, and our progress, we may explore one of the many side valleys, visit a spectacular viewpoint, or enjoy a short evening snowmobile ride after reaching the cabin. On this tour, you're part of the expedition. Our itinerary is flexible and adapted to the weather, so we're looking for guests who are adventurous and ready to embrace the unexpected. In the evening, we'll light the paraffin stove, prepare a delicious dinner, and enjoy the peace and quiet far away from civilization.

At night, you sleep in a warm sleeping bag with sheep skins underneath for extra comfort. Before heading to bed, take a moment to step outside and look up. Earlier in the season, when the nights are still dark, you may be lucky to see the Northern Lights dance above the cabin. Later in spring, the darkness gradually gives way to Svalbard’s endless daylight. An unforgettable experience, whichever season you choose.

Day 2 – Exploring the East Coast

Mornings at the cabin always begin slowly. After a hearty breakfast, a warm cup of coffee, and a first look out the window, we get ready to head outside. Today, we have the entire day to explore, and we’ll finally make our way all the way to the coast. The exact route depends on weather and snow conditions. Our guides know the area well and adapt the plan to give you the best possible experience.

One possible destination is Mohnbukta, where a dramatic glacier front reaches all the way down to the sea. The trip itself is an adventure as we travel across vast glacier systems and through a landscape shaped by snow and ice. 

From the top of the glacier, we can already see the frozen bay below. We make our way down through the moraine to the coastline from where we scan the ice. If conditions allow, we will enjoy our lunch with spectacular views of the glacier front before we head back to the hut. There are different ways to get to the East Coast, and if conditions are right, we can choose a different glacier on our way back.

Day 3 Return to Longyearbyen

Another morning at the cabin. After a good night’s sleep, we get ready for today’s leg of the journey. Everything needs to be packed up and secured back onto the sleds before we set off. The route we take home depends entirely on today’s weather conditions. By now, you’re used to this, and it’s all part of the Svalbard experience. Either way, it will be another great day out, embracing the elements and experiencing the Arctic environment up close. We will arrive back in Longyearbyen at around 18:00.

The Wilderness Hut 

Deep inside Fulmardalen lies “Fulmarhytta”, our trapper’s style wilderness hut and the base for our expeditions to the East Coast. The cabin can only be reached by snowmobile and offers a warm shelter after a day spent exploring the Arctic wilderness. Here, life is simple and authentic – much like it has been for Arctic trappers throughout history. 

The hut itself is small, but this is part of the experience. It accommodates up to six guests, creating a cosy and social atmosphere where everyone quickly becomes part of the same adventure. The seating area transforms into a sleeping space at night, and sleeping areas are arranged across two levels. After a day outside, you can warm up by the stove, share stories over dinner, and enjoy the feeling of being far away from everyday life. The toilet is located outside in a separate toilet tent.

The Snowmobile Experience

You will drive your own snowmobile, dressed up in warm snowmobile clothing that you get to borrow from us. We recommend driving your own snowmobile, as it is warmer, more engaging, and gives you the best experience of travelling through this incredible landscape.

Along the way, we take breaks to enjoy hot drinks, take photos, look for wildlife, and simply appreciate the silence. The exact route we take depends on weather and snow conditions that day. Being flexible is part of the adventure.

On departures in late February and early March, parts of the journey take place in darkness, allowing you to experience the Arctic in a different way.

Practical Details

• Difficulty: 4/5
• Age limit: 18 years (16 by agreement)
• Group size: Minimum 2, maximum 5 participants (6 for private trips)

Important Note

• License: Valid car, motorcycle, or snowmobile license must be brought (digital foreign licenses not accepted)
• Insurance: Snowmobiles are insured with a deductible of NOK 10,000
• Language: All participants must speak and understand English
• Private departures are also possible. Please contact us by email for inquiries

Included

• Transport between your hotel and our storage facility
• Snowmobile with fuel
• Snowmobile clothing: suit, boots, mittens, helmet, goggles, balaclava
• All food throughout the expedition
• Experienced guide with safety equipment
• Search- and rescue insurance

Recommended to Bring

• Warm clothes (preferably wool) to wear underneath the snowmobile suit and inside the cabin
• Detailed packing list is provided upon booking
• Sleeping bag rental is available (NOK 600)

Disclaimer

The itinerary is subject to change due to weather and snow conditions. Routes may be adjusted, and we cannot guarantee that we will reach the East Coast. Throughout the trip, your guide will continuously assess conditions and make any necessary changes to ensure your safety while providing the best possible experience.