Ursus Maritimus – King of the Arctic
Travel from Longyearbyen through immense Arctic valleys and glacier systems to Mohnbukta on the wild east coast of Spitsbergen.
This approximately ten-hour snowmobile expedition enters one of Svalbard’s most remote winter landscapes. The route leads through two major valley systems towards Rabotbreen before climbing onto a broad glacier plateau.
In clear weather, the plateau may offer distant views towards Barentsøya and Edgeøya. From there, the journey continues through the glacier systems towards Mohnbukta, sea ice, monumental glacier fronts and icebergs frozen into the coastal ice.
The exact route depends on visibility, weather, snow, glacier and sea-ice conditions. Wildlife is free-ranging and sightings can never be guaranteed.
Across glaciers to the east coast
A winter journey through valleys, glacier plateaus, sea ice and one of Spitsbergen’s most impressive coastal landscapes.
What makes this expedition special
Rabotbreen
Follow extensive valley systems towards one of the major glaciers east of Longyearbyen.
Glacier plateau
Cross elevated glacier terrain with immense views when visibility and conditions permit.
Mohnbukta
Reach the remote east coast in front of a powerful glacier landscape.
Sea ice
Experience pressure ridges, frozen coastal waters and icebergs locked into the ice.
Small groups
A maximum of six guest snowmobiles supports a more controlled expedition.
Arctic wildlife
Foxes, reindeer, seals and occasionally polar bears may be observed from a safe distance.
Sea ice, glaciers and Arctic silence
Mohnbukta offers a landscape of frozen sea, immense glacier fronts and icebergs surrounded by the open wilderness of eastern Spitsbergen.
A full day in remote Arctic terrain
The tour is long but follows terrain that is generally manageable for participants with suitable physical condition. Previous snowmobile experience is advantageous because the expedition covers varied terrain and many hours of driving.
The guide continuously evaluates visibility, weather, snow stability, glacier conditions and sea ice. The route may therefore be adapted, shortened or changed whenever safety requires it.
This is not a polar bear safari. The expedition travels through polar bear habitat, but animals are never pursued or attracted. Any observation must take place responsibly and at the legally required distance.
How the expedition may unfold
The programme is indicative and is always adjusted to current Arctic conditions.
Hotel pickup
Meet the guide, receive your clothing and prepare for departure.
Safety briefing
Introduction to the snowmobile, route, driving technique and safety procedures.
Valley systems
Travel through two major valleys from Longyearbyen towards Rabotbreen.
Glacier plateau
Climb onto the glacier system and pause for views when conditions allow.
Mohnbukta
Descend towards the east coast, glacier front and sea ice.
Lunch and return
Enjoy lunch and coffee before returning to Longyearbyen.
Everything you need to prepare
Included in the tour
- Snowmobile clothing
- Mittens, winter boots and face mask
- Hotel pickup and return
- Lunch and coffee
- Professional Arctic guide
- Guide safety equipment
- Search and rescue insurance
Before departure
- Valid driving licence class B or S for drivers
- Bring the original driving licence
- No driving licence required for passengers
- Previous snowmobile experience is advantageous
- Minimum two participants
- Warm base and mid layers
- Follow all guide instructions
Safety determines the route
Drivers must present a valid driving licence in class B or S. A guide may refuse participation when the licence is missing or invalid.
Weather, visibility, avalanche exposure, glacier conditions and sea ice may require changes to the programme. Reaching Mohnbukta cannot be guaranteed under every condition.
Polar bears are protected wildlife. They must never be approached, disturbed or pursued. Wildlife sightings are incidental and cannot be guaranteed.
Planning your east coast expedition
How long is the tour?
The planned duration is approximately ten hours, including preparation, stops and the return to Longyearbyen.
Do I need a driving licence?
Drivers need a valid class B or S driving licence. Passengers do not need a driving licence.
Is snowmobile experience required?
It is not stated as mandatory, but previous experience is advantageous for this long day tour in varied terrain.
Will we definitely reach Mohnbukta?
No. The final route depends on weather, visibility, glacier, snow and sea-ice conditions.
Will we see a polar bear?
No wildlife sighting can be guaranteed. Polar bears are never pursued, attracted or approached.
What is included?
Snowmobile clothing, hotel transfers, lunch with coffee, a professional guide, safety equipment and search and rescue insurance are included.
Ready for the east coast?
Check current departures and reserve a driver or passenger place directly through the booking system.
