4-day Wilderness Camp: Kayak, Glacier & Trekking

This is a four-day camp at Ymerbukta, a bay between the open sea and the Esmark Glacier, across Isfjorden from Longyearbyen. Guests sleep in tents facing the glacier. The programme mixes sea kayaking, a glacier walk, a longer mountain hike and night watches for polar bears.

On day one guests are collected at 08:30, check gear, get a short briefing and cross Isfjorden by boat in about two hours. They set up camp on a remote beach and paddle a short trip along the coast. On day two they hike to the Esmark Glacier, wear crampons and harnesses, and walk on its crevassed surface. Day three is open: guide and guests choose together, for instance a longer hike up the Värmlandsryggen ridge. On day four they break camp and return by boat, expecting to reach town around lunchtime. The plan can change with weather, ice, wildlife or the group's abilities.

Groups have four to 10 participants. Included are the return boat trip, meals, snacks, hot drinks, tent, camping beds, sleeping mat, kayak clothing, glacier equipment and a guide with safety equipment. Guests bring waterproof ankle-high hiking boots, warm layers, a sleeping bag (rental is offered), a water bottle, a backpack and a camera in a waterproof bag.

The minimum age is 18, and 16 to 17 year olds join by agreement. Difficulty is 4 out of 5. No kayaking or glacier experience is needed, but guests must manage day hikes over rough, uneven ground. Everyone shares cooking, dishwashing and polar bear watch. Limits are drysuit size XXL, height 195 cm and kayak cockpit circumference 130 cm.