Best Tours & Attractions for Friends in December

December in Svalbard is a time when the Arctic winter is in full swing, and the Polar Night casts a permanent twilight over the landscape. This creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for exploring the island with friends. One of the most popular activities during this time is snowmobiling. The vast, snow-covered terrain is ideal for this exhilarating mode of transport, and guided tours take you through some of the most stunning scenery Svalbard has to offer. Whether you’re zooming across frozen fjords or climbing up glaciers, snowmobiling is a thrilling way to experience the Arctic wilderness. It’s also a fantastic way to bond with friends, as you navigate the challenging terrain together.

The Northern Lights are another major attraction in December. The long, dark nights provide the perfect backdrop for this natural phenomenon, and Svalbard is one of the best places in the world to see it. Guided Northern Lights tours take you to remote locations where the light pollution is minimal, offering the best chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. The experience of watching the sky come alive with dancing lights is unforgettable, and sharing it with friends makes it even more special. Some tours even offer the opportunity to combine Northern Lights watching with other activities, such as dog sledding or snowshoeing, for an even more immersive Arctic experience.

For those looking for a more laid-back adventure, a visit to Longyearbyen is a must. This small town, the administrative center of Svalbard, offers a unique insight into life in the Arctic. The Svalbard Museum is a highlight, providing fascinating exhibits on the island’s history, wildlife, and the challenges of living in such a remote location. The town itself is charming, with colorful houses standing out against the snowy backdrop. There are also several cozy cafes and restaurants where you can warm up and enjoy local delicacies. Exploring Longyearbyen with friends is a great way to learn more about the culture and history of Svalbard while taking a break from the more physically demanding activities.

Another popular activity in December is dog sledding. This traditional mode of transport is not only a fun and exciting way to explore the Arctic landscape, but it also offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture. Many tours allow you to drive the sled yourself, under the guidance of an experienced musher. The thrill of gliding through the snow, powered by a team of eager huskies, is something that will stay with you long after your trip is over. It’s also a great way to experience the silence and solitude of the Arctic wilderness, making it a perfect activity for friends who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Svalbard.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider staying at the Isfjord Radio Adventure Hotel. This remote outpost, once a radio station, has been transformed into a luxury hotel offering a blend of comfort and adventure. Getting there is part of the fun, as you’ll likely need to travel by snowmobile or boat, depending on the season. Once there, you’ll be treated to gourmet meals, cozy accommodations, and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The hotel also offers guided tours, including wildlife safaris and ice caving, allowing you to explore the area while enjoying the comfort of a warm and welcoming base.

Ice caving is another adventure not to be missed in December. The ice caves of Svalbard are hidden beneath the glaciers, and exploring them is like entering another world. The blue-tinted ice, sculpted by the movement of the glacier, creates a surreal environment that’s both beautiful and eerie. Guided tours take you deep into the heart of the glacier, where you’ll see stunning ice formations, frozen waterfalls, and tunnels that have been carved by the ice over centuries. It’s a fascinating experience that offers a unique perspective on the power and beauty of nature, and it’s something that’s best shared with friends.

Wildlife watching is another highlight of a December visit to Svalbard. While the Polar Bears are more elusive during the winter months, there’s still a good chance of spotting reindeer, Arctic foxes, and a variety of seabirds. Guided wildlife safaris take you to the best spots for seeing these animals in their natural habitat, often combining the safari with other activities such as snowshoeing or snowmobiling. The stark beauty of the Arctic landscape, combined with the thrill of spotting wildlife, makes these tours a must-do for any group of friends visiting Svalbard.

Finally, no trip to Svalbard in December would be complete without experiencing the Polar Night. This unique phenomenon, where the sun does not rise above the horizon for several weeks, creates a sense of timelessness and tranquility that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s a time to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the Arctic in its purest form, whether you’re taking a quiet walk through the snow or enjoying a meal with friends in one of Longyearbyen’s cozy restaurants. The Polar Night is a reminder of the harsh yet captivating environment of Svalbard, and it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left the island.