Snowmobile and ice cave exploration

This guided snowmobile tour starts in Longyearbyen and crosses the frozen fjord of Adventdalens to reach the Tellbreen ice cave. Along the route there are several stops for photos of the mountains and for looking out for reindeer. The group also passes the iron beds, where weather permitting there is a pause with a story. At the cave entrance the engines are switched off, headlamps go on, and everyone continues on foot to look at the ice formations and the paths cut by meltwater channels. A warm drink is served before the ride back.

The tour lasts seven hours, with pick up at 09:15 from the guest's hotel. The group has a maximum of six guests per guide. The season runs from 14 February to 30 April. Backyard Svalbard's page rates difficulty at 3/5, with average physical fitness needed. At the headquarters there is a welcome, a safety briefing and an introduction to driving a snowmobile.

Included are the snowmobile with fuel, a snowmobile suit, helmet, goggles, gloves and boots, plus a headlamp, crampons or snowshoes and a helmet for the cave. Snacks, coffee, tea, a field lunch, SAR insurance and a guide carrying polar bear protection are also included. Flights, hotels and travel insurance are not. Guests bring a 20 to 30 L backpack, a water bottle, waterproof hiking shoes, warm layers, a shell jacket, outdoor pants, a hat, buff, mittens and gloves.

Drivers need a valid physical driver's licence, as an online one is not accepted. Guests must communicate in English. Backyard Svalbard's page says the tour is not for people with claustrophobia, severe back or neck problems, or limited fitness.