Svalbard What You Should Do in March

March in Svalbard offers a unique blend of winter’s remnants and spring’s subtle arrival. The deep polar night is receding, allowing sunlight to gradually return, casting a magical glow over the Arctic landscape. It’s an ideal time for visitors who want to experience the raw beauty of the archipelago, yet still enjoy winter’s thrill. One of the most popular activities during this month is snowmobiling. The vast, snowy terrain seems tailor-made for such an adventure. With the ice still thick and the skies opening up, snowmobiles provide a sense of liberation as you race through the white wilderness. Guides will often lead groups to glaciers and frozen fjords, where you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped onto another planet.

For those looking to see wildlife, March is an excellent time to embark on a guided polar bear tour. Although polar bears are elusive and sightings aren’t guaranteed, this is one of the months where they are most active, especially around the pack ice. Guides with years of experience will navigate you through known bear territories, giving you the best chance to spot one of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. However, it’s not just polar bears that captivate visitors; the archipelago is home to an array of wildlife, from arctic foxes to reindeer, and seabirds starting to return.

As daylight begins to stretch, ski touring becomes another sought-after activity. The fresh, untouched snow and the serene silence make for an unforgettable adventure. Skiing across the Arctic wilderness in March is unlike skiing anywhere else in the world. You’ll glide past frozen waterfalls and towering glaciers, with the distant peaks of Svalbard’s mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop. Ski guides offer various tours suited for both beginners and seasoned skiers, ensuring that everyone can experience the sheer joy of moving through the pristine environment.

One of the best parts of March in Svalbard is the potential to witness the Northern Lights. As the long nights start to shorten, there are still plenty of opportunities to see this spectacular natural phenomenon. The auroras dance across the sky, painting it with shades of green, purple, and pink. Whether you're out on a snowmobile tour or simply stepping outside your accommodation, the Northern Lights can appear at any moment, turning the cold night into a breathtaking visual display.

For history enthusiasts, visiting Svalbard’s museums and historic sites is a great way to spend time during March. The Svalbard Museum offers a deep dive into the island’s whaling, mining, and polar exploration history. You can learn about the early pioneers who braved this harsh environment and the significant role Svalbard has played in Arctic research. Combining a museum visit with other outdoor activities adds a cultural layer to your trip.

Dog sledding is another classic March adventure. With the sun returning, you can enjoy longer sledding excursions, led by expert mushers who know the terrain inside and out. As you glide through the snow-covered landscape, the only sound you’ll hear is the soft panting of the dogs and the sled cutting through the snow. This experience allows you to feel the connection between human and nature, something that Svalbard offers like few other places in the world.

March is also a good month to explore Svalbard’s ice caves. These naturally occurring wonders are formed when meltwater carves tunnels through glaciers. Venturing into an ice cave is like stepping into a frozen cathedral, with walls of blue ice glistening all around. Guided tours will take you deep into these otherworldly spaces, where the sound of dripping water and the chill in the air remind you of the immense forces at work beneath the ice.

Svalbard in March is about contrast. The long polar night is ending, but winter still holds a firm grip on the land. It's a time where both adventure and reflection meet, allowing travelers to experience the best of the Arctic while witnessing the slow return of light to this icy realm. If you're seeking a place that combines awe-inspiring landscapes with thrilling activities, Svalbard in March delivers on every front.