Our Expert Insights for Your Arctic Circle Vacation
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With Expertise In Arctic Travel
Not Everything You Need to Know, But a Good Place to Start
The best time to visit the Arctic depends on what you want to experience. For most expedition cruises and prime wildlife viewing, the summer months from June to September are ideal when the sea ice breaks up. To see the Northern Lights, you must travel during the dark, cold months of winter, typically from late September to late March.
Read our season-by-season guide on choosing the right time to visit the Arctic.
Visa requirements for the Arctic depend on which country you are visiting. The Arctic region is comprised of parts of eight different countries: Canada, the United States (Alaska), Greenland (Denmark), Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. You must check the specific entry requirements for each country you plan to visit. For example, a trip to Svalbard, Norway, may require a double-entry Schengen visa if you are a citizen of a country that requires one to enter mainland Norway.
Expedition cruising is the most common way to explore the Arctic’s remote regions. These specialized vessels are built to navigate icy waters and provide comfortable accommodations while allowing you to reach areas that are otherwise inaccessible. Other options include scheduled flights between major towns, internal flights to more isolated settlements, and even driving in some of the more populated areas.
The cost of a trip to the Arctic varies widely based on the duration, destination, and type of travel. Expedition cruises are often all-inclusive and can range from a few thousand dollars for a short trip to well over $20,000 per person for an extended, luxury voyage. Land-based tours and stays can also be expensive due to the remoteness and specialized nature of the activities.
Layers are essential for Arctic travel. You will need a good quality, waterproof outer layer, a warm mid-layer (like fleece or down), and thermal base layers. You also need waterproof pants, insulated boots, and a warm hat, gloves, and scarf. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against sun glare off the snow and ice, even in winter.
When traveling with a reputable tour operator or on an organized cruise, the Arctic is a very safe destination. Tour companies prioritize safety and are well-versed in the unique challenges of the environment, including unpredictable weather and wildlife. It is important to always follow the guidance of your guides.
Travel insurance is highly recommended and often mandatory for Arctic expeditions. Your policy should include coverage for medical emergencies, as medical facilities are limited and far between, and emergency medical evacuation from remote locations. It’s also wise to have coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions.
Tipping is customary but not mandatory on most Arctic cruises and tours. Guidelines are usually provided by the tour operator. A common practice is to tip expedition staff and crew at the end of the voyage, with a recommended amount often being around $10-15 per person per day, which is then pooled and distributed among the staff.
It is highly unlikely to see both on the same trip. To see polar bears, you must travel during the summer months when the sea ice has broken up, allowing ships to navigate polar bear habitats. To see the Northern Lights, you need the darkness of the Arctic winter, which makes it difficult or impossible to reach many of the areas where polar bears are found.
Safety is the top priority. Tour operators and guides adhere to strict regulations and will maintain a safe distance from wildlife. You should never approach a polar bear or other animals on your own. Land excursions with polar bears in the area are always conducted with armed guides to ensure the safety of both the travelers and the animals.
The Arctic is a sea surrounded by continents, while Antarctica is a continent surrounded by an ocean. The Arctic is home to a number of indigenous human populations and is governed by the laws of the eight surrounding nations. Antarctica has no permanent human population and is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System.
In the summer months, the Arctic experiences 24 hours of daylight, a phenomenon known as the midnight sun. This allows for longer days for exploration and activities. It can also make sleeping challenging for some, so be sure to bring an eye mask.
While not every tour is geared towards it, many expedition cruises and land-based tours welcome solo travelers. Some may offer options to share a cabin with another solo traveler to avoid paying a single supplement. It can be a great way to meet like-minded people.
Reputable tour operators adhere to strict environmental guidelines to ensure a minimal impact on the fragile Arctic ecosystem. Visitors are typically briefed on the “leave no trace” principle and are asked not to disturb wildlife, remove any natural items, or leave any waste behind.
Each Arctic country offers a unique experience. Greenland provides dramatic fjords and icebergs. Iceland offers volcanoes, hot springs, and a vibrant culture. Svalbard is known for its high concentration of polar bears and is one of the easiest places to see them. Canada’s Arctic is vast and remote, offering a true wilderness experience. The choice depends on your specific interests.
A typical expedition cruise is not overly physically demanding. Excursions often involve walking on uneven terrain or short hikes. However, some trips offer more strenuous activities like kayaking or longer hikes. You should be in good general health and able to walk short to moderate distances.
Start by contacting any of the matching travel advisors listed above. These advisors have experience and expertise planning Arctic vacations.
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