Arctic Challenge – Hike and Kayak
with Svalbard Wildlife Expeditions
About the tour
This is the perfect trip for those who want to push their limits in Svalbard’s wild landscapes! The adventure combines kayaking across Adventfjorden with a demanding mountain hike to the summit of Hiortfjellet – rewarding you with one of the most spectacular views on the archipelago.
We start the day with hotel pickup, followed by getting fitted with dry suits and a thorough briefing on paddling techniques. As we set out from Longyearbyen in double kayaks, our goal is already in sight: the majestic Hiortfjellet, towering on the other side of the fjord. The 3 km paddle across offers a fantastic start to the adventure – some days, we glide over a mirror-like sea; other days, we navigate the ocean spray.
Upon arrival, we change into hiking gear and begin our ascent. The terrain is steep and challenging, but we gain altitude quickly. At the summit, we are rewarded with what might be Svalbard’s most stunning panorama – overlooking the fjord, Longyearbyen, and the endless surrounding mountains. Here, we take a well-deserved break, enjoying the silence and taking in the breathtaking scenery before starting our descent.
Read the full description
The day isn’t over yet – we get back into the kayaks and paddle our way back to Longyearbyen. This is the ultimate trip for those who want to stay active and take on a true Arctic challenge!
Physical Requirements
Suitable for individuals in very good physical condition. This is a demanding full-day trip through rocky and uneven terrain, with up to 950 meters of total elevation gain in addition to approximately 6 km of kayaking. You must be able to swim, but no prior kayaking experience is required.
Practical information
Included in the trip
Dress in layers – it’s the best way to stay warm. Remember: it is better to be too warm than to be too cold. And also – there is no bad weather, just bad clothing!
- Pickup from accommodation at 08:30 | return at 19:00
- Guide with safety equipment
- Hot lunch, coffee, tea, and biscuits
- Personal kayak gear (dry suit, neoprene shoes, life vest, paddle mitts)
- Double kayak and paddle
- Limitations:
- Maximum dry suit size: XXL
- Maximum height: 195 cm
- Maximum circumference (kayak cockpit): 130 cm
Recommended to bring
- Wool base layers, windproof jacket, and hiking pants
- Extra layers (warm sweater / down jacket)
- Hiking boots (above the ankle)
- Hat, neck warmer (buff), and windproof mittens / gloves
- Water bottle
- Daypack (20–35 L)
- Waterproof bag for phone/camera
Important Information
- You must be able to communicate in English to participate in the tour.
- Disclaimer: The itinerary may change due to weather or safety concerns beyond our control. The safety of our guests is always our highest priority.
- Difficulty level: 5
- Group size: 2–6
- Time in kayak: 2 hours
- Total duration: 11 hours
- Distance: Approx. 6 km kayaking + 950 meters elevation gain
- Age limit: 16 years
Cancellation Policy
22 days prior to arrival give a full refund
8-21 days prior to arrival gives a 50% refund
0-7 days prior to departure gives no refund
Svalbard is beautiful, but also unpredictable. For your safety, our guides may need to move activities to another day or replace them with a different trip if conditions do not allow the original plan.
In rare cases, if the weather makes it impossible to run an activity at all, it may be cancelled. Should this happen, you will of course receive a full refund for the affected trip.
Your safety and comfort always come first, and we’ll do our best to make sure you still have a memorable experience.
