Svalbard Spring Awakening
Svalbard Spring Awakening Photo Expeditions in mid-May and June offers wildlife photographers excellent opportunities to capture the Arctic’s raw beauty. As the late winter snow melts, the landscape transforms into a stunning backdrop of scenic fjords, dramatic glaciers, and snow-covered peaks - the perfect framing for photographing iconic wildlife.
In spring, the Arctic awakens with the vibrancy and abundance of new life. The migratory birds return to their nesting areas, while by mid-June, the first Arctic flowers begin to bloom. With the advantage of 24-hour daylight, you will have plenty of time to photograph walruses, seals, polar bears, and thriving seabird colonies in their natural habitat. The pristine environment, combined with the endless light of the Arctic spring, creates perfect conditions for capturing your dream shots.
Svalbard in spring is a photographer’s dream - don’t miss the chance to elevate your portfolio in this stunning Arctic landscape!
Springtime withArctic Birds in Breeding Mode
• Most Arctic birds return to Svalbard in May
• Interesting bird behavior and pair building
• Most active time for the Arctic birds
The birds are fully engaged in courtship, mating, and egg laying. Soon their eggs will hatch, and the busy period of feeding and protecting their young will begin.
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PhotographingPolar Bears on Fjord Ice
• Polar bears with stunning background
• Fjord ice and glaciers
• Peaceful reflections
As the sea ice retreats, polar bears enter the final stage of their seal hunting on fjord ice. Some bears may still be found in sheltered fjords, often near glacier fronts.
Click on the image below to read the trip report from the WildPhoto Spring Awakening expedition to Svalbard 10-18 June 2022. See where we have been, what we have photographed, and some behind-the-scenes images.
Enjoying CuriousArctic Foxes near Bird Cliffs
• Photographing young arctic foxes
• 24 hours light for photographing wildlife
The Arctic fox becomes very active when the birds are breeding. Stealing eggs and chicks is essential for the foxes to store food for the upcoming winter season.
Available spots on Svalbard Spring Awakening
Below is a list of available cabins for our Svalbard Spring Awakening expeditions onboard our expedition ship MS Virgo (maximum of 12 guests). The price displayed for each cabin is per person (in USD), not for the entire cabin. To inquire or book a spot, simply click the button under your preferred cabin, and you’ll be directed to an email to booking@wildphoto.com where you can provide more details about what you are interested in or request further information. If your desired cabin or availability isn't listed, please let us know. We can add you to the waiting list and notify you if spots become available later.
Itinerary Svalbard Spring Awakening
DAY 1 Departure from Longyearbyen through Isfjorden.
DAY 2-3 Heading toward the ice, searching for Polar bears, Walrus and seals. Depending on the ice conditions this will be north of Spitsbergen or in the Hinlopen Strait.
DAY 4-5 Sailing south in Hinlopen, with bird cliffs and the possibility of viewing Polar bears and Walrus on the drifting ice.
DAY 6 Northwestern corner of Spitsbergen, with beautiful mountains and glaciers, and possibly some wildlife on the ice.
DAY 7 Kongsfjorden with striking landscapes, birds and seals.
DAY 8 Returning to Isfjorden arriving in Longyearbyen port late in the evening.
DAY 9 Disembarking the ship after breakfast and prepare for the travel home.
The map below illustrates a possible itinerary for a Svalbard Spring Awakening photo expedition.
FAQ - Good to know about Spring in Svalbard
Click on the frequently asked questions below to learn more about our Svalbard Winter Glow photo expeditions.
Other Svalbard seasons for photographers
Not interested in a photo expedition in late May or June? No problem! We offer four other exciting seasonal options for travelling to Svalbard. Click on any of the images below to explore more about our other seasons with photography expeditions to Svalbard.
Please click on one of the buttons below to request more information about Svalbard Spring Awakening expeditions or if you want to reserve a spot.
WildPhoto Travel is a leading photo expedition company - specialized in polar regions. Since 2006, we have offered great photo opportunities for our guests and partners.
