Marcel Schütz (Expeditionleader & Guide)
was born and raised in Switzerland, where an early fascination with remote landscapes and the natural world laid the foundation for his later work in the Arctic. From a young age, he developed a strong interest in exploration and visual storytelling, which gradually evolved into a deep passion for photography, particularly in extreme and remote environments.
His first encounter with the High Arctic came in 2008 during a private journey to the Svalbard.
Struck by the vastness, silence, and unique light conditions of the region, he returned several times in the following years, further deepening both his personal and professional connection to the Arctic. In 2010, he made the decision to relocate permanently to Longyearbyen to fully dedicate himself to life and work in this environment.
Over the past 17 years, Marcel has led numerous tours and expeditions across Svalbard, establishing himself as an experienced expedition leader and guide through his own tour operator company. His work combines logistical expertise with a strong visual perspective, allowing him to create immersive and well-structured experiences for photographers, researchers and Arctic travelers.
In 2021, together with the Swiss Ambassador to Norway and Iceland, Bernard Jaggy, he inaugurated the Swiss Consulate in Svalbard.
He currently serves as Honorary Consul of Switzerland.
Marcel Schütz speaks Swiss German, German, English, and Norwegian fluently and is an authorized Svalbard guide (SGO) for year-round operations and is recognized by Svalbard Reiselivsråd and Visit Svalbard.
Lisa Scherk (Svalbardguide)
grew up in Bavaria, Germany, where an early and lasting connection to the mountains shaped her appreciation for remote landscapes and the natural world. Surrounded by alpine environments from a young age, she developed a strong sense of curiosity and attentiveness to nature, which naturally evolved into a passion for photography.
She pursued a degree in Information Technology and spent several years working in a structured corporate environment. While this period provided valuable analytical and organizational skills, her growing desire for exploration and a more nature-oriented lifestyle ultimately led her to make a decisive transition. Drawn by the unique combination of isolation, wilderness, and dramatic light conditions, she relocated to Svalbard to fully immerse herself in the Arctic environment.
Today, Lisa combines her technical background with her creative vision to document the striking and often subtle beauty of the High Arctic.
Her photography focuses not only on iconic landscapes but also on the finer details that define Svalbard’s ecosystem-textures in the ice, shifting light, and fleeting wildlife encounters. As a guide, she is committed to delivering a well-rounded and informative experience, sharing both her visual perspective and in-depth knowledge of the region. She takes particular care in helping guests understand the Arctic environment, from its wildlife and geological features to its rapidly changing seasonal dynamics.
Lisa Scherk speaks both German and English fluently.
Dr. Léa Zinsli (Guide, Office and Scientific Advisor)
Born and raised in Zurich, she spent a lot of time in the Swiss mountains. These early experiences sparked a lasting curiosity and fascination for nature.
She studied biology at ETH Zurich, completing a PhD in microbiology. Her research later took her to Montréal, Canada, where she worked on marine microorganisms. Alongside her academic career, she developed a growing appreciation for experiencing nature beyond the laboratory through travel, photography, and time outdoors.
First visiting Svalbard ten years ago through a family connection, she has returned regularly ever since. Drawn to the Arctic’s raw landscapes, wildlife, and unique light, she also studied at UNIS, the northernmost university in the world, gaining hands on field experience in the region.
Now working as a guide in Svalbard, she combines her scientific background with a genuine enjoyment of being present in nature. She shares her knowledge of Arctic environments while encouraging quiet observation and a closer look at the details of the landscape. She enjoys inspiring curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the Arctic through shared experiences.
She speaks Swiss German, German, French, and English fluently.
