4-day Wilderness Camp: Kayak, Glacier & Trekking

4-day Ymerbukta - More time. More adventure. More Arctic.

Spend four unforgettable days in wild Ymerbukta – where glaciers meet the sea, and time slows down. Paddle through icy waters, hike along rugged coastlines, and walk on ancient glacier ice. No experience needed – just a sense of curiosity and a love for being outdoors.

Ymerbukta lies across the fjord from Longyearbyen, nestled between the open sea and the towering Esmark Glacier. We sleep in comfortable tents with glacier views at breakfast and the midnight sun overhead. Days are filled with real Arctic adventure – hiking, kayaking, exploring – and quiet moments in between, to let it all sink in.

This journey builds on our 3-day trip, but with an extra day to explore more. With more time, we can take a longer hike, explore another part of the glaicer, or simply enjoy the rhythm of camp life.

You’ll learn the skills you need along the way. What matters most is your willingness to share life outdoors – including polar bear watch at night, where you’ll sit quietly and look out over the fjord while the camp sleeps.

Day 1 – Hello, Ymerbukta

We pick you up from your accommodation at 07:30. After a gear check and a short briefing, we head to the harbor and board the boat that takes us across Isfjorden. After about two hours on the water, we land on a remote beach and set up camp together.

In the afternoon, we go for a short kayak trip and explore the nearby coastline. After dinner, we check the weather and talk through plans for the coming days. Hopefully, you’ll sleep well – full of new impressions and surrounded by the sounds of Arctic nature. You might hear Arctic terns overhead, the bark of a distant fox, or even the thunderous crack of calving ice from the glacier.

Day 2 – Glacier Adventure

You wake up in the wilderness. After a hearty breakfast and a hot cup of coffee or tea with a view, it’s time to explore deeper. We hike toward the majestic Esmark Glacier and, equipped with crampons and harnesses, head onto its crevassed surface. Along the way, we learn how glaciers move and how they shape the land beneath our feet. Lunch is served on the ice, with views of deep blue glacier walls and the whole bay stretching out below us. Back in camp, we share a warm meal and reflect on the day as the midnight sun glows above.

Day 3 – The Bonus Day

No need to pack up – today, we have the freedom to go further. Together with your guide, you’ll decide where the day takes you. We might go on a longer hike, explore hidden valleys, or even try some ice climbing if conditions allow. This extra day gives space for more adventure – or simply more time to let the Arctic sink in.

Day 4 – Farewell to the Fjord

After a slow morning and a final short hike, we break down camp and prepare for departure. Around midday, the boat arrives, and we cross Isfjorden one last time – keep your eyes open for whales, who migrate to these waters during summer to feed.

We return to Longyearbyen, where our journey began, with new stories, fresh perspective, and the mountain ranges of Ymerbukta still visible on the horizon.

Who are we looking for?

You’re someone who’s okay with sleeping in a tent, doesn’t mind getting up for polar bear watch at 3 AM, and chooses campfire dinners and real adventure over hotel pillows and Wi-Fi.

• Dates: 22–25 July 2025
• Duration: 4 days
• Start time: 07:30
• Difficulty Level 3 / 5
• Age limit: 18 years*
• Group size: 4 - 10 participants
• Difficulty level: 4 out of 5

*Participants between 16–18 may join on request

Experience and Physical Requirements

• No previous experience with kayaking or glacier hiking is needed – the guide will provide individual      training.
• The trip is moderately demanding. Hikes take place in rugged terrain with sand, rocks, and uneven      surfaces.
• Participants must be comfortable with day hikes that include elevation and variable terrain.
• Sturdy hiking boots that go over the ankle are required.
• All participants take part in daily camp routines such as cooking, dishwashing, and polar bear watch.

Equipment Limits

• Maximum drysuit size: XXL
• Maximum height: 195 cm
• Maximum kayak cockpit circumference: 130 cm

Price Includes

• Round-trip boat transport
• All meals, snacks, and hot drinks
• Tent and camping beds
• Sleeping mat
• Personal kayak clothing (drysuit, life jacket, etc.)
• Glacier hiking equipment
• Guide with necessary safety equipment

Recommended to Bring

• Warm, waterproof hiking boots (over the ankle)
• Warm clothing suitable for layering
• Sleeping bag*
• Cold drink (water bottle or thermos)
• Backpack
• Camera in a waterproof bag

*Sleeping bags available for rent: NOK 600

A complete recommended packing list will be sent after booking confirmation.

Luggage:

Larger luggage can be stored in our warehouse or at your accommodation’s luggage room

Extra Clothing or Equipment

• Outdoor gear can be purchased locally at Arctica, Longyearbyen.

Disclaimer

The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, ice conditions, wildlife presence, or the group’s capabilities. If polar bears are in the area, we may need to change plans or return to Longyearbyen and do day trips from there. Safety – for both people and wildlife – is our highest priority.

Svalbard Wildlife Expeditions strongly distances itself from the war in Ukraine. We do not visit Barentsburg or Pyramiden, as these settlements are owned and operated by the Russian state.

Photos: © Nanna Borgen, Torunn Bugjerde, Kaisa Rebane, Jarle Røssland, Christopher O’Neil