When should I go to Longyearbyen?

May – September. These summer months are the best time to go to Svalbard. This is the warmest time to visit, and most suited to some of the outdoor activities you can enjoy such as snowmobile tours, skiing, dog sledding, hiking, and boat tours.

Why is Longyearbyen so cold?

The archipelago is the meeting place for cold polar air from the north and mild, wet sea air from the south. This creates low pressure and changeable weather with high wind speeds, particularly in winter; in January, a strong breeze is registered 17% of the time at Isfjord Radio, but only 1% of the time in July.

Is Svalbard humid?

Svalbard and Jan Mayen has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is March (63.9% relative humidity), and the most humid month is July (80.6%). Wind in Svalbard and Jan Mayen is usually stronger than many places.

What is the coldest month in Svalbard?

February
February is the coldest month with almost -15°C temperature average (again, the reference period is 1960-1990).

Is Longyearbyen worth visiting?

But despite the significant costs involved and the time it takes to get there, Svalbard is 100% worth a visit. The scenery is spellbinding, and the islands offer you the chance to enjoy experiences that few other destinations can offer.

Is Longyearbyen safe?

The main settlement of Longyearbyen is comparatively safe to the rest of the archipelago but there are still significant dangers. Polar bears are unlikely to enter the settlement itself but it can and does happen. Be on your guard especially in the dark season.

Is Svalbard ice free?

Around Svalbard, the sea ice is present in the east and north over the winter and spring months. The west coast is ice-free throughout the entire study period (not accounting for ice in fjord areas) and the ice edge rarely reaches south of 76°N.

Can you see the northern lights in Svalbard in April?

Aurora Borealis in Svalbard The Northern Lights can be observed from September to March!

Is it safe to walk in Longyearbyen?

If you don’t have experience in such an environment, you should not go out of the settlements on your own. The main settlement of Longyearbyen is comparatively safe to the rest of the archipelago but there are still significant dangers. Polar bears are unlikely to enter the settlement itself but it can and does happen.

Do you have to carry a gun on Svalbard?

Carrying loaded firearms in the settlement area of Longyearbyen is forbidden. Firearms must be carried so that everyone can see that they are empty of ammunition. You are not allowed to bring firearms into shops or public buildings.

How do I move to Longyearbyen?

Moving to Svalbard People planning to live on Svalbard must register in the archipelago’s Population Register within 8 days of arrival. You should visit the tax office and report if: You are moving to Svalbard and will be there for at least 6 months.

Are there polar bears in Longyearbyen?

Polar bears can be encountered anywhere in Svalbard in the summer, along the beaches, in the valleys and up on the glaciers. In winter, of course, the sea ice is a favourite of the bears, especially areas with fast ice with good habitats for ringed seals.