Discover the Best Month to Spot Polar Bears in Svalbard – Your Ultimate Guide
What is the best month to see polar bears in Svalbard?
Are you one of those nature lovers who love to see majestic polar bears up close in their natural habitat? If yes, then you must plan a visit to Svalbard- a Norwegian archipelago located in the Arctic Ocean. Svalbard is around 1300 km from the North Pole and it is the perfect place to spot these majestic creatures.
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What is Svalbard?
Svalbard is a group of islands located between Norway and the North Pole. It covers an area of around 62,050 square km and has an estimated population of 3,000. Despite being located in the Arctic Ocean, Svalbard is a highly accessible destination and can be reached via regular scheduled flights from Norway.
Polar bear spotting in Svalbard
Svalbard is an ideal location to spot polar bears all year round. However, the best time to see them is between April and August. During these months, the sea ice melts, and it attracts polar bears, who come out to hunt for their prey.
April to May
The months of April and May are perfect to spot polar bears as the winter season draws to a close, and the ice starts to melt. During this time, you can witness a lot of polar bear activity, including hunting and mating.
June to July
If you want to see polar bears with their cubs, then the best time to visit Svalbard is between June and July. During these months, the ice generally breaks up completely, and the cubs come out to play. You can also catch a glimpse of other Arctic animals, such as walruses and seals, during these months.
August
August is also a great time to visit Svalbard if you want to spot polar bears. In the early part of August, the water temperature is still low, which makes it favorable for polar bears to hunt for seals. During this month, you can witness a lot of bears hunting and feasting on the seals.
Things to keep in mind
If you are planning a visit to Svalbard to spot polar bears, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. The first thing is to ensure that you go with a reputable tour operator who is experienced in polar bear spotting. Remember, these are wild animals, and it is important to maintain a safe distance from them to avoid any untoward incidents.
The second thing to keep in mind is to dress in warm clothing as Svalbard is a cold destination. Make sure you carry adequate woolens, thermal wear, and good quality shoes to avoid any frostbite or cold-related issues.
Conclusion
What is the best month to see polar bears in Svalbard? Like we mentioned earlier, the best time to see them is between April and August, although they can be spotted all year round. However, if you want to see the bears in action, hunt for seals or witness cubs at play, then the months between April and August are perfect. Plan your trip well, keep the above-mentioned points in mind, and you are sure to have a memorable trip of spotting these majestic creatures.
