Elveneset Snowmobile Safari

The Elveneset Snowmobile Safari is a guided snowmobile trip from Longyearbyen to Elveneset, a viewpoint on the shore of Tempelfjorden. The route runs through valleys with mountains on every side. The terrain is varied, with some rugged stretches, and the page rates the difficulty 3 out of 5. It suits people who have never driven a snowmobile.

At Elveneset the group looks out over the fjord and Tempelfjellet, a mountain 766 m high on the north bank of Sassen Fjord. Its name comes from patterns that spring meltwater has cut into the slope. Guests may see Svalbard reindeer and possibly a polar fox. At the turning point the group stops for warm drinks and biscuits, then rides back to town.

The tour lasts five hours and covers about 70 km. The guide collects guests at their hotel and drives them to the expedition centre. There the operator issues helmet, boots, mittens, balaclava and a scooter dress. The guide then demonstrates the controls and the driving technique. The tour runs from January to May.

Every driver must carry a physical licence for cars or motorcycles that is valid in Svalbard. Digital copies, photographs and photocopies are not accepted, and the guide checks every licence before departure. The age limit is 8 years. Participants must understand English or a Scandinavian language. The operator suggests wool underlayers, outer trousers and a heavy wool jumper beneath the suit, plus spare clothing such as a jacket, hat and mittens in a backpack.