4-day Wilderness Camp: Kayak, Glacier & Trekking
July - August
More time. More adventure!
Tucked between the open sea and the mighty Esmark Glacier, Ymerbukta lies just across Isfjorden from Longyearbyen. Here, we sleep in comfortable tents with front-row views of the glacier – and the midnight sun casting its light over the landscape.
This is more than just a trip. It’s four days of pure Arctic immersion: glacier walking, mountain hiking, sea kayaking – and quiet moments around campfires with the sound of the fjord. With an extra day compared to our 3-day program, we have more time to explore deeper, hike further, or simply breathe in the magic of this remote wilderness.
No previous experience? No problem. You'll learn everything you need along the way. What matters most is your willingness to take part – including the unique experience of keeping watch for polar bears at night. As the camp sleeps, you’ll sit in silence, wrapped in a sleeping bag, watching the light dance over the fjord. It’s a moment you’ll never forget.
Day 1 – First Kayak Adventure Ymerbukta
We pick you up from your accommodation at 07:30. After a gear check and a short briefing, we head to the harbor and board the boat that takes us across Isfjorden. After about two hours on the water, we land on a remote beach and set up camp together.
In the afternoon, we go for a short kayak trip and explore the nearby coastline. After dinner, we check the weather and talk through plans for the coming days. Hopefully, you’ll sleep well – full of new impressions and surrounded by the sounds of Arctic nature. You might hear Arctic terns overhead, the bark of a distant fox, or even the thunderous crack of calving ice from the glacier.
Day 2 – Glacier Adventure
You wake up in the wilderness. After a hearty breakfast and a hot cup of coffee or tea with a view, it’s time to explore deeper. We hike toward the majestic Esmark Glacier and, equipped with crampons and harnesses, head onto its crevassed surface. Along the way, we learn how glaciers move and how they shape the land beneath our feet. Lunch is served on the ice, with views of deep blue glacier walls and the whole bay stretching out below us. Back in camp, we share a warm meal and reflect on the day as the midnight sun glows above.
Day 3 – The Bonus Day
Together with your guide, you'll decide how to spend the day. One option could be a longer hike, for example up the Värmlandsryggen ridge. From the top, you'll be rewarded with stunning views over the bay and our camp — now just a small dot beneath the towering mountains and the mighty glacier.
Day 4 – Farewell to Ymerbukta
After a calm morning, we break camp and get ready for the boat ride back. The quiet of the wilderness still lingers in the air as we leave camp for the last time. We expect to be back in town around lunchtime.
Behind us, the mountains of Ymerbukta fade into the distance, their blue silhouettes marking the horizon. You look back on the past few days – the experiences, the landscape, and the connection with new hiking companions. It’s been a true adventure.
Who are we looking for?
You’re someone who’s okay with sleeping in a tent, doesn’t mind getting up for polar bear watch at 3 AM, and chooses campfire dinners and real adventure over hotel pillows and Wi-Fi.
Tour Details
- Dates: 22–25 July 2025
- Duration: 4 days
- Start time: 07:30
- Difficulty Level 3 / 5
- Age limit: 18 years*
- Group size: 4 - 10 participants
- Difficulty level: 4 out of 5
*Participants between 16–18 may join on request
Experience and Physical Requirements
- No previous experience with kayaking or glacier hiking is needed – the guide will provide individual training.
- The trip is moderately demanding. Hikes take place in rugged terrain with sand, rocks, and uneven surfaces.
- Participants must be comfortable with day hikes that include elevation and variable terrain.
- Sturdy hiking boots that go over the ankle are required.
- All participants take part in daily camp routines such as cooking, dishwashing, and polar bear watch.
Equipment Limits
- Maximum drysuit size: XXL
- Maximum height: 195 cm
- Maximum kayak cockpit circumference: 130 cm
Price Includes
- Round-trip boat transport
- All meals, snacks, and hot drinks
- Tent and camping beds
- Sleeping mat
- Personal kayak clothing (drysuit, life jacket, etc.)
- Glacier hiking equipment
- Guide with necessary safety equipment
Recommended to Bring
- Warm, waterproof hiking boots (over the ankle)
- Warm clothing suitable for layering
- Sleeping bag*
- Cold drink (water bottle or thermos)
- Backpack
- Camera in a waterproof bag
*Sleeping bags available for rent: NOK 600
A complete recommended packing list will be sent after booking confirmation.
Luggage:
Larger luggage can be stored in our warehouse or at your accommodation’s luggage room
Extra Clothing or Equipment
- Outdoor gear can be purchased locally at Arctica, Longyearbyen.
Disclaimer
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, ice conditions, wildlife presence, or the group’s capabilities. If polar bears are in the area, we may need to change plans or return to Longyearbyen and do day trips from there. Safety – for both people and wildlife – is our highest priority.
Svalbard Wildlife Expeditions strongly distances itself from the war in Ukraine. We do not visit Barentsburg or Pyramiden, as these settlements are owned and operated by the Russian state.
Photos: © Nanna Borgen, Torunn Bugjerde, Kaisa Rebane, Jarle Røssland, Christopher O’Neil
