The European Arctic spans several countries, including Russia, Denmark, Norway (featuring Spitsbergen), Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. This vast and remote region, situated north of the Arctic Circle at roughly 66 degrees north latitude, is home to around four million people, many living in small, isolated communities.
Exploring the Arctic offers a range of unique experiences. Expedition cruises to Russia, Spitsbergen, and Greenland, led by expert guides, provide unparalleled access to this pristine wilderness while supporting local communities and offering a glimpse into their unique way of life. For a land-based Arctic adventure, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway deliver unforgettable experiences, from stays in glass igloos beneath the Northern Lights to guided tours through snowy landscapes.
Whichever Arctic journey you choose, we’ll ensure it’s nothing short of extraordinary—a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
Finland: Finland is a land of the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights, and the Polar Night. During the extended summer days in the northernmost region of the country, the sun never sets, casting perpetual daylight. In the heart of winter, it doesn't rise, casting the dark night in the enchanting hues of the Aurora Borealis. Finnish Lapland, nestled in the far North, hosts one of the world's most mesmerizing light displays, with the Northern Lights gracing the skies on up to 150 nights each year.
North Pole: Achieve the remarkable feat of reaching 90 degrees north! This is a part of the world often associated with fairy tales and folklore, making it the ultimate aspiration for many travellers.
Russian Arctic: For intrepid adventurers and history enthusiasts, the Russian Arctic beckons with a journey to seldom-visited locations, retracing the paths of polar explorers from the past. Rediscover Franz Josef Land, an area teeming with some of the highest wildlife densities in the Arctic, featuring polar bears and walrus. Navigate through the Kara Sea, often referred to as the 'ice cellar' of the Arctic, where you'll encounter unforgettable ice caps, towering ice cliffs, and majestic mountains. Immerse yourself in polar history with visits to abandoned weather stations, former polar research outposts, and active research stations.
Spitsbergen: An excellent destination for those embarking on their first Arctic adventure! Spitsbergen offers an Arctic experience complete with the best chances of encountering polar bears, breathtaking polar landscapes, and glimpses into the history of early European Arctic settlements. Cruises typically commence and conclude in Longyearbyen, the northernmost town in the world with a captivating whaling heritage.
Finland & Norway: September through April is the prime time for hunting the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. During this period, travellers can enjoy various winter activities, including dog sledding, snowmobile tours, skiing, ice fishing, and even building igloos. Keep in mind that the further south you go, the shorter the Aurora season becomes. The best time to witness the Northern Lights in the more southern regions is between mid-October and March.
North Pole: Expeditions to the North Pole are typically conducted from mid-June to July. Earlier in the year, there is insufficient daylight, and the ice is too thick, making it challenging to reach this iconic destination.
Spitsbergen: For a rewarding exploration of Spitsbergen, plan your visit between May and October. However, we recommend traveling in the early summer, around June, for the best chances of encountering polar bears on the ice.
Russia: The optimal time to explore Russia's Arctic regions is from July to August, as this period offers milder temperatures and more accessible routes through the ice, making it easier to spot wildlife.
Currency
Norway: Norwegian krone (NOK)
Sweden: Swedish krona (SEK)
Finland: Euro (EUR)
Language
Norway: Norwegian, Sami, Kven, Tavringer, Romani
Sweden: Swedish
Finland: Finnish, Swedish, Sami
What makes it special: The European Arctic, spanning northern Scandinavia and Iceland, is a region of extraordinary experiences. From the magical landscapes of Finnish Lapland to Tromsø, Norway’s “Gateway to the Arctic,” and the breathtaking wilderness of Iceland, this area is rich with captivating sights. Visitors can marvel at the dazzling Northern Lights, encounter unique wildlife, and embrace the authentic charm of Nordic culture.
Weather: The European Arctic embraces Subarctic and Tundra climates. In Tromsø, Norway, you can anticipate average temperatures of -5ºC in winter and 12ºC in summer. Northern Sweden experiences averages of -14ºC in winter and 14ºC in summer, while Finnish Lapland sees averages of -15ºC in winter and 14ºC in summer. In Iceland, expect averages of -4ºC in winter and 14ºC in summer. These temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, and as you venture further into the Arctic Circle, you may encounter even more extreme variations.
Social customs: Nordic people are generally characterized by their egalitarian, practical, progressive, and modest nature. They place high value on personal space and tend to engage in direct conversations, often avoiding pleasantries and "small talk." When invited into someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift for the host. While English is widely spoken in Nordic countries, learning a basic greeting in the local language of the country you are visiting is always appreciated. It's best not to assume that everyone will immediately engage in English conversation.
