Longyearbyen Norway: Is it Safe to Explore Svalbard on Foot?
When people think of Svalbard, they often imagine a remote Arctic wilderness teeming with polar bears; and with good reason. With an estimated 3,000 to 4,000 polar bears across the archipelago, they actually outnumber the human population. So how does that affect your freedom to explore Longyearbyen in Norway? Can you walk around freely in Longyearbyen? We visited Svalbard in March 2025 and here’s what we discovered about walking in here.
Polar Bears on Svalbard: A Real Risk
The vast majority of Svalbard’s residents live in Longyearbyen, a small town of just a few thousand people. While polar bears are widespread across the region, your chances of seeing one are slim; unless you’re on a cruise along the coast, where they tend to hunt seals near the water.
Can You Go Walking in Svalbard?
Due to the presence of polar bears, walking freely in most parts of Svalbard is strictly forbidden. To explore the wilderness, you’ll need a licensed guide equipped with a rifle for safety. Independent trekking outside Longyearbyen is not allowed, and for good reason; encounters with polar bears, while rare, can be deadly.
The only exception is Longyearbyen itself. The town has a designated ‘safe zone’ where walking in Svalbard without a guide is permitted. During our visit, we found clear maps and signage indicating where this zone began and ended. However, boundaries can change, so be sure to check local updates when you arrive.
Is Walking Around Longyearbyen Safe?
While Longyearbyen is considered a safe zone, it’s important to understand that there are no fences keeping polar bears out. The town simply has signs marking the edge of the safe area, but wildlife doesn’t follow rules, or road signs. Although extremely rare, there have been isolated incidents involving polar bears entering the town in the past. Most locals will have a story or two to share.
So, is walking in Longyearbyen safe? Generally speaking, yes, but no one can offer a 100% guarantee. We personally walked every day between our accommodation at Gjestehuset 102 and the town center (roughly the longest walk you can take within the safe zone) and never felt unsafe, even in the dark. There were usually other people or cars around, adding to the sense of security.
Practical Tips for Walking Svalbard
Stay within the safe zone – always check the latest maps locally.
Don’t cross signposts marking the town limits without a guide.
Be alert – rare doesn’t mean impossible when it comes to wildlife.
Dress appropriately – Arctic weather can change rapidly, even in town.
Want to plan your route? Check out our Google Maps guide to Svalbard for helpful info and local highlights.
