The Ultimate Arctic Travel Guide: How to Explore, Survive, and Avoid Becoming a Polar Bear’s Lunch
“The cold never bothered me anyway” (except in Svalbard)
If you’ve been reading us for a while, you know we’re in love with Arctic regions. And a lot of people turn to us for advice, and even want us to go with them on an Arctic trip!
First, congrats for even considering to go up North. Most people have no interest whatsoever. Yes, it comes with its set of challenges, but trust us: if you’re well prepared, you won’t regret it.
We’ve been there. We’ve hiked across frozen tundras, stood under the shimmering Northern Lights in absolute silence, and yes, once questioned our life choices while knee-deep in snow, miles from civilization.
The Arctic isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling, a test of resilience, and a reward for those who seek the extraordinary. So, this guide is for you, adventurous penguins, and all of our friends and relatives who keep asking us stuff (we love you) - yes, that’s you Bibi!
Best destinations in the Arctic
The Arctic isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on whether you’re chasing epic hikes, indigenous culture, wildlife encounters or the raw, untouched winter wonderland — without the comfort — here’s where to go.
Svalbard, Norway – The ultimate arctic adventure
10 hours on a snowmobile to reach the East Coast of Svalbard!
Who is it for? Fit adventurers who want to experience true Arctic wilderness and really don’t mind the cold (or the occasional polar bear warning). We don’t recommend this destination for first-time Arctic travelers.
Why go? Because nowhere else will you find more polar bears than people (don’t worry, the locals know how to handle them), and because this is without a doubt the wildest place we’ve ever traveled to.
Best time to visit: May–September for summer adventures; November–March for the Northern Lights and polar night. We went in February and the blue light was unreal.
Things to do in Svalbard: Snowmobiling to the East Coast and Russian settlements, ice cave tours, snowshoeing to the See Vault and watching wild reindeer walking around like they own the place.
Did you know?
Svalbard is full of hazards, but dying isn’t one of them—at least not officially. Since the 1950s, burials have been banned because the permafrost keeps bodies from decomposing. If you’re on your last breath, you’ll likely be flown to the mainland. So while polar bears might be a concern, graveyards? Not so much. That being said, you might want to book a good travel insurance…
Swedish Lapland – The off-the-beaten path Lapland
Mushing in Swedish Lapland, our comfort zone!
Who is it for? Travelers who dream to visit Lapland without the crowds and at affordable prices. Great for first-time Arctic travelers.
Why go? If you love the Arctic but don’t want to feel like an extreme survivalist, this is your spot.
Best time to visit: December–March for peak winter wonderland vibes; June–August for Midnight Sun adventures.
Things to do in Swedish Lapland: Stay at the Icehotel, sip cloudberry liqueur by a roaring fire, go mushing (dog sledding), watch the northern lights and learn the Sami way of life.
Finnish Lapland – Santa’s official residence (at least, that’s what the Finns say)
In Lapland, drive slow: not much car traffic, but reindeer jams are common!
Who is it for? Those who want an Arctic adventure in a cozy environment and without renouncing to their comfort —great for families, Northern Lights chasers, and Santa fans.
Why go? Santa’s official hometown, northern lights and winter wonderland vibe without extreme isolation.
Best time to visit: December–March for winter experiences; September–April for northern lights.
Things to do in Finnish Lapland: Stay in a glass igloo, go on a reindeer safari, learn more about the Sami culture and warm up in a traditional Finnish sauna.
Greenland – The arctic without the crowds
The massive icebergs of Disko Bay, Greenland
Who is it for? True explorers looking for untouched landscapes, cultural experiences, and a sense of complete isolation.
Why go? Because standing in complete silence, surrounded by icebergs the size of buildings, is life-changing. And because this tranquility won’t last: while it’s very unlikely that the US purchase Greenland, they’re opening direct flights between Nuuk and NYC!
Best time to visit: June–September for hiking; March–April for frozen fjords and dog sled expeditions.
Things to do in Greenland: Trek the Arctic Circle Trail, sail among icebergs, and visit remote Inuit villages where time moves at its own pace.
Lofoten Islands, Norway – Arctic beauty without the brutal cold
Eli on top of the world (well, on top of Mt. Ryten, Lofoten islands)
Who is it for? Photographers, nature lovers, and hikers who want breathtaking Arctic scenery without extreme winter temperatures. And the ocean is not even that cold considering the latitude! Now, if you’re dreaming about winter wonderland, this is not your spot.
Why go? Dramatic peaks, red fishing huts, and dreamy white sandy beaches.
Best time to visit: Summer and fall for hikers, but September–April if you want a front-row seat to the aurora borealis. And against this backdrop, omg.
Things to do in Lofoten: Hike legendary trails like Reinebringen, sea kayak, and try Arctic surfing (yes, it’s a thing).
Finnmark, Norway – Norway’s Arctic beyond Tromsø
View from our accommodation in Alta, Norway
Who is it for? Travelers seeking remote landscapes, Sami culture, and raw Arctic beauty without the extreme isolation of Svalbard.
Why go? This is where Norway’s Arctic soul lives — rugged coastlines, endless tundra, and the chance to witness the northern lights dancing over snow-covered fjords.
Best time to visit: September–April for northern lights; June–August for the midnight sun, hiking and endless summer adventures.
Things to do in Finnmark: Learn about Sami traditions, ride with reindeer herders, explore Alta’s famous ice hotel, go snow crab fishing, and chase the auroras in Hammerfest, one of the world’s northernmost towns.
Canadian Arctic – A true polar expedition
Got so lucky to see a polar bear mom and her cub in Churchill, Canada!
Who is it for? Wildlife enthusiasts, expedition lovers, and those looking for the ultimate Arctic survival challenge.
Why go? If you want narwhals, Arctic foxes, polar bears, and some of the most rugged landscapes on Earth.
Best time to visit: July–August for Arctic cruises; February–April for serious winter survival experiences.
Things to do around Churchill, Manitoba: Watch polar bears roam free in Churchill, dog sled under the stars, discover native cultures, and cruise the Northwest Passage like an explorer.
Alaska, USA – The wild frontier of the Arctic
9 hours hike on Root Glacier, Wrangell - St Elias NP. Now, that’s off the beaten path!
Who is it for? Adventurers who want rugged mountains, vast tundra, and Arctic wildlife without leaving the U.S. People who dreamt watching Nat Geo’s documentaries about grizzly eating salmon as children.
Why go? Home to some of the most accessible Arctic landscapes, with glaciers, grizzlies, and breathtaking national parks.
Best time to visit: June–August for summer hiking and wildlife; December–March for dog sledding and aurora hunting.
Things to do in Alaska: Explore Denali National Park, hike on a glacier in Wrangell - St Elias National Park, share a local berry beer with the locals in Anchorage, watch the northern lights in Fairbanks, and observe grizzlies feast on salmon at Brooks Falls.
Best arctic experiences (tried and tested)
✅ See the northern lights – The kind of magic that makes you forget the cold. Check our guide for the best spots and tips to watch the northern lights.
✅ Midnight sun madness – Experience 24-hour daylight in the Arctic summer (spoiler: sleep schedules get weird).
✅ Mushing (dog sledding)– There’s nothing like racing across snow-covered landscapes, powered by a team of eager huskies.
✅ Wildlife watching – Spot reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, and (ideally from a safe distance) polar bears.
✅ Iceberg cruising – Seeing a 10,000-year-old glacier collapse into the ocean? A little humbling.
✅ Immerse yourself in arctic cultures – Experience the traditions of the Sami people in Lapland, learn from Inuit communities in Greenland, and connect with First Nations communities in the Canadian Arctic.
✅ Enjoy Arctic food – We've had some of the best food up North, and it’s no surprise — Nordic cuisine stays true to nature, relying on local resources and deep-rooted traditions, unlike much of the processed fare elsewhere.
✅ Stay in an ice hotel – Sleeping in a frozen room? It’s soooo pretty.
Did you know?
You don’t have to spend the night at the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi (Sweden) to experience its magic, as visits are open during the day. Every winter, it's rebuilt with ice from the Torne River, showcasing breathtaking ice sculptures, themed suites, and a bar where drinks come in frozen glasses an ever-changing work of art!
Packing & survival guide: lessons we’ve learned the hard way
The Arctic is breathtaking but unforgiving. Whether you're hiking, dog sledding, or just stepping outside your cabin, being unprepared is not an option. If something happens, rescue will take time, and frostbite happens really fast. Here's how to stay warm, fed, and, yes, even handle bathroom breaks in subzero temperatures. The Arctic doesn’t care if you “run warm”. Ask Jake.
How to dress in the Arctic
Layering is everything: Base layer (moisture-wicking), mid-layer (insulation), outer layer (windproof & waterproof).
Avoid cotton: It soaks up moisture and makes you colder than an ice cube in January. Synthetic material is also a bad idea. It might warm you up initially, but if you start sweating — you can sweat at -30º when you’re dog sledding or hiking — you’ll end up freezing. Chose wool instead. Merino wool is our favorite, super practical to pack (it’s thin and light) but soooo warm.
Thermal socks & insulated boots: Cold feet = trip ruined, and possibly worse (Eli’s first mushing guide mentioned having to cut some feet). Even if you have high snow boots, be careful in the tundra as global warming is melting permafrost. It’s a good idea to wear two pairs of socks to avoid blisters, for example a thin pair of merino and a thicker pair on top.
Hat, scarf and gloves: A thermal or wool hat prevents heat loss, gloves or mittens keep hands from freezing (wear thin gloves and waterproof, thick gloves on top — practical to take pictures), and a neck warmer or scarf stops cold air from creeping in.
Hand warmers: Small, cheap, and a total lifesaver. Most guides have them in very cold areas.
Sunglasses & sunscreen: Snow glare is real, and yes, you can get sunburned in the Arctic.
Did you know?
Alternating between extreme cold and heat isn’t just an Arctic survival trick — it’s a health booster. Cold exposure improves circulation, boosts immunity, and sharpens mental resilience, while warming up in a sauna or by a fire aids muscle recovery, improves blood flow, and enhances relaxation. If you’re in good health, try it, it’s addictive!
Pic: Jake enjoying a cold plunge in the Lofoten islands
Drinks and snacks
Eat high-energy foods: Think nuts, dried meat, cheese, and chocolate— your body burns A LOT more calories in extreme cold. At night, eat comfort food like pasta. There’s no guilt or diet up North!
Stay hydrated: You won’t feel thirsty and it can be dangerous, because dehydration hits fast in dry Arctic air.
Thermos & snacks: Hydration bladders freeze faster than you can say “rookie mistake.” Same for some snacks, for example chocolate bars. We find Wasa snacks to hold well in freezing temperatures — you can still eat them without breaking a tooth!
Hot meals and drinks matter: Freeze-dried food, soups, and stews are lifesavers. A lightweight stove is worth carrying if you're trekking, and you can use it to boil water for tea. Ok, it’s not easy to eat with two pairs of gloves and a neck warmer, but it’s soooo comforting.
Staying safe in the Arctic (From experience, not ChatGPT)
Check the weather daily, and even hourly if you hike – Arctic storms don’t play around. For example, in Norway we use yr.no
Respect wildlife – Polar bears (and any bears, actually) are not cute and cuddly. Give them plenty space of learn how to act in case of an encounter. In Svalbard, don’t leave Longyearbyen without an armed guide.
Pack smart – There’s no “popping into a store” if you forget something. If there is, it will be expensive.
Go with a guide – Even if you think you're Bear Grylls, the Arctic can humble you fast.
Be aware of the hours of daylight – When hiking, check sunrise and sunset times — it changes drastically from one day to the other — and turnaround if needed. You don’t want to be lost in the Arctic at night.
Penguin Trampoline tip:
What about peeing in the Arctic? Oh, we can see you laughing, but it will take all the energy and warmth you have left to take off your snow overall and all your layers, and omg it hurts! Have someone else carry your clothes and hand them back to you in a strategic order. And don’t hold off on drinking, dehydration happens fast and you’ll get cold faster.
Bring navigation tools: GPS, map, and compass: Because phones don’t work when it’s -30°C and you’re off-grid.
Get a good travel insurance: A rescue mission in the Arctic, even for a broken leg, can be veeery costly. Our partner HeyMondo offers packages that cover extreme activities like snowmobile, and you can get 5% off if you book through us.
Ask the locals: Probably the most important piece of advice here. Locals know, they live there! Ask them about safety, the ice thickness, clothing advice and everything in between. And listen! A nice Swede told us to get vodka instead of water, it freezes slower and comes in handy in case of a shock (like getting hit by a racing skier, true story). We won’t tell you if that was good advice or not though…
Best time to visit the Arctic (choose wisely)
The Arctic isn’t just winter and summer — each season brings something entirely different, and there are actually a lot more seasons that you might think. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, the midnight sun, or that deep blue polar winter, here’s what to expect:
Polar Night (November–January) – The deep Arctic winter
24-hour darkness creates the best chance to see the northern lights.
Ice hotels, frozen fjords, and a truly magical, eerie atmosphere.
The coldest time of year, with temperatures plummeting to -40°C (-40°F) in some places.
Jake, noon in Svalbard!
Blue Winter (February–March) – The stunning Arctic twilight and one of our favorite seasons
Sunlight slowly returns, creating an unreal blue light — with super long sunrises and sunsets — and pastel-colored snow. Perfect for winter sports: dog sledding, skiing, and snowshoeing.
Northern lights still visible, but days are getting longer.
Still very cold, but slightly more bearable than polar night.
Kiruna church, Swedish Lapland, in a surreal, permanent sunset
Spring Melt (April–May) – The Arctic awakens
The return of wildlife, as bears, reindeer, and birds become more active.
Dog sledding and hiking might not be possible depending on the snow conditions.
The landscape is in transition: half ice, half flowing water.
Unpredictable conditions: some areas still frozen, others thawing rapidly.
Eli mushing in Abisko National Park, Swedish Lapland
Midnight Sun (June–August) – 24 hours of daylight
Non-stop daylight — ideal for hiking, kayaking, and Arctic cruises.
Wildlife spotting is at its peak: polar bears, whales, puffins, and reindeer.
Warmer temperatures, averaging 10-15°C (50-60°F) in many regions.
No northern lights until late August, but the landscapes are unbelievably vibrant.
The perfect midnight dip — Eli in Kemijärvi, Finnish Lapland
Golden Autumn (September–October) – The hidden gem season
Stunning fall colors across the Arctic tundra.
First chances to see the northern lights, while enjoying mild temperatures that allow to stay outside longer.
Fewer tourists, making it a great time for quiet, peaceful hikes.
Unpredictable weather: could be snowy, rainy, or perfectly crisp. That being said, it’s the Arctic, and it can happen in summer too!
The perfect “ruska” colors near Nuorgam, Finnish Lapland
FAQs: Arctic Edition
❄️ Are there penguins in the Arctic? Nope, just Penguin Trampoline! Penguins live in the Antarctic, while the Arctic is home to polar bears, reindeer, and Arctic foxes.
❄️ How cold does it get in the Arctic? In winter, temperatures can drop to -40°C (-40°F) or lower, but summer can be surprisingly mild, around 10-15°C (50-60°F).
❄️ Can you see the Northern Lights all year? No, they are only visible from September to April, when the skies are dark enough. The earliest aurora Eli saw seen was late August (in Fairbanks, Alaska), but she had to wait until 1am.
Before you head north, make sure you’re prepared—our ultimate guide, Northern Lights for Dummies, has everything you need to chase the auroras like a pro.
Pic: Haukland beach, Lofoten islands
❄️ Is it safe to visit the Arctic? Yes, as long as you’re prepared! Extreme weather and wildlife require respect, but with the right gear and knowledge, it’s an unforgettable adventure.
❄️ Do I need a guide? If you’re heading into very remote areas (like Svalbard or Greenland), yes. You’ll someone with a weapon anyway. If you’re sticking to accessible spots like Tromsø, Rovaniemi or Abisko, you can explore independently.
Here is our favorite playlist for our Arctic trips:
The Arctic isn’t just a trip — it’s a transformation. And for us, love at first sight. It’s the kind of place that etches itself into your memory (and your heart), where the silence is so profound it feels like you’ve stepped outside of time. Many people think the Arctic is dark and colorless. Let us tell you, it’s quite the opposite.
If you go, you won’t come back the same. You'll carry the Arctic with you the crisp air in your lungs, the crunch of snow beneath your boots, the quiet wisdom of a land and cultures that have endured for millennia. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re drawn to the edge of the world, the Arctic is waiting.
