Islands of the Arctic Ocean Travel Guide

Plan your trip to the Arctic with our comprehensive Islands of the Arctic Ocean travel guide. Discover cultural attractions, natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and more.


Islands of the Arctic Ocean Travel Guide

Are you looking for a travel destination that’s off the beaten path? Look no further than the Islands of the Arctic Ocean. This remote region is home to stunning landscapes, unique cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures that you won’t find anywhere else. Our Islands of the Arctic Ocean travel guide will help you plan your perfect trip to this incredible region.

Introduction to Islands of the Arctic Ocean

The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are a group of remote islands located in the Arctic Ocean. The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The region is home to a number of indigenous communities, each with their own unique traditions and customs.

List of Places to Visit in Islands of the Arctic Ocean

When planning your trip to the Islands of the Arctic Ocean, make sure to include these must-visit destinations on your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Arctic Indigenous Cultural Centre: This museum is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the region’s indigenous people. Here you’ll find exhibits on traditional hunting and fishing methods, as well as displays of traditional clothing and artwork.

  • The Arctic Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is located in the city of Tromso and is known for its unique modernist architecture. The cathedral is a popular spot for photography due to its unusual design and stunning location.

  • Svalbard Museum: Located on the island of Spitsbergen, this museum explores the history of Svalbard and its surrounding islands. Exhibits cover the region’s whaling and mining industries, as well as its natural history.

Natural Attractions of Islands of the Arctic Ocean: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Northern Lights: The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The best time to view the aurora borealis is from October to March, when the nights are longest and darkest.

  • Glacier Hiking: The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are home to several stunning glaciers, including the Austfonna Glacier on Nordaustlandet and the Arctic Glacier on Svalbard. Guided glacier hiking tours are available from several operators in the region.

  • Arctic Wildlife: The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are home to a variety of unique wildlife, including polar bears, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and beluga whales. A guided wildlife tour is a great way to experience these incredible creatures up close.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Islands of the Arctic Ocean

If you’re an avid hiker or biker, the Islands of the Arctic Ocean offer some stunning trails that will take you through breathtaking landscapes.

  • The Svalbard Trail: This 120-kilometer trail takes you through the heart of Spitsbergen and is one of the most popular hiking routes in the region. The trail takes about four to six days to complete and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

  • The Arctic Coast Way: This 800-kilometer route takes you along the coast of Iceland’s Arctic region and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The route is popular with bikers and takes about seven to ten days to complete.

Best Things to Do in Islands of the Arctic Ocean: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for adventure, the Islands of the Arctic Ocean offer plenty of exciting activities and tours.

  • Dog Sledding: This traditional Arctic activity is a unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Guided dog sledding tours are available throughout the region.

  • Boat Tours: The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are home to some of the world’s most stunning fjords, and a boat tour is a great way to explore these incredible natural wonders.

  • Sea Kayaking: Explore the region’s stunning coastline by sea kayak. Guided tours are available throughout the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Islands of the Arctic Ocean

If you have a week to spend in the Islands of the Arctic Ocean, here’s a suggested itinerary that will take you through some of the region’s most stunning destinations.

Day Destination
1 Tromso
2 Svalbard
3 Austfonna Glacier
4 Spitsbergen
5 Northern Lights Tour
6 Reykjavik
7 Blue Lagoon

Food and Drink Scene of Islands of the Arctic Ocean

The Islands of the Arctic Ocean offer a unique culinary scene that’s influenced by the region’s natural resources and traditional culture.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Reindeer stew: This hearty stew is a traditional dish in the region and is made with reindeer meat, potatoes, and carrots.

  • Fermented shark: This traditional Icelandic dish is definitely an acquired taste. The shark is fermented with urine for several months, which gives it a strong smell and flavor.

Local Beverages

  • Brennivin: This traditional Icelandic drink is made from potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds. It’s often referred to as “Black Death” due to its high alcohol content.

  • Aquavit: This traditional Scandinavian spirit is made from potatoes and flavored with herbs and spices.

Where to Stay in Islands of the Arctic Ocean: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodation options in the Islands of the Arctic Ocean range from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels.

  • Luxury Hotels: The region is home to several luxury hotels, including the Arcturus Hotel in Tromso and the Svalbard Hotel in Longyearbyen.

  • Budget Accommodation: If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of guesthouses and hostels throughout the region. One popular option is the Rabot Guesthouse in Tromso.

What to Buy in Islands of the Arctic Ocean: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting the Islands of the Arctic Ocean, make sure to bring home some unique souvenirs and local products.

  • Reindeer Skins: These soft and warm skins make for a unique and cozy souvenir.

  • Icelandic Wool Sweaters: These cozy sweaters are made from the wool of Icelandic sheep and are a popular souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Islands of the Arctic Ocean

The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are home to several traditional and indigenous cultures, each with their own unique customs and traditions. Visitors to the region are encouraged to respect the local culture and follow local customs.

Best Time to Visit Islands of the Arctic Ocean

The best time to visit the Islands of the Arctic Ocean depends on what you want to see and do. The summer months are the best time for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing, while the winter months offer the best chance to see the Northern Lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Islands of the Arctic Ocean

When visiting the Islands of the Arctic Ocean, there are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions: The region is home to several different cultures, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs.

  • Dress appropriately: The weather in the region can be unpredictable, so make sure to bring warm clothing and waterproof gear.

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife: The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are home to several unique and endangered species, and visitors are encouraged to respect their habitats and not disturb them.

  • Leave trash behind: The region’s pristine landscapes are a major draw for visitors, so make sure to leave them clean and litter-free.

Safety and Health

When visiting the Islands of the Arctic Ocean, it’s important to be aware of any potential safety hazards and to take the necessary precautions to stay healthy.

Safety in Islands of the Arctic Ocean

  • Wildlife: In the Islands of the Arctic Ocean, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers of the local wildlife, such as polar bears.

  • Weather: The weather in the region can be unpredictable, so make sure to check the forecast and dress appropriately.

Health in Islands of the Arctic Ocean

  • Altitude sickness: The high altitude of some of the region’s hiking trails can cause altitude sickness in some visitors.

  • Sunburn: Even in the winter months, the sun in the Arctic can be intense, so make sure to wear sunscreen and protect your skin.

Getting to Islands of the Arctic Ocean: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to the Islands of the Arctic Ocean can be a bit challenging, but there are several transportation options available.

Airports Near Islands of the Arctic Ocean

  • Tromso Airport: This airport is located in the city of Tromso and serves as a major gateway to the region.

  • Longyearbyen Airport: This airport is located on the island of Spitsbergen and offers regular flights to mainland Norway.

Other Options

  • Ferries: There are several ferry services that operate throughout the region, including services between Iceland and Svalbard.

  • Cruise Ships: The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are a popular destination for cruise ships, and several companies offer cruise tours of the region.

How to Get Around in Islands of the Arctic Ocean

Getting around in the Islands of the Arctic Ocean can be a bit challenging due to the region’s remote location and rugged terrain. However, there are several transportation options available.

  • Boat tours: A boat tour is a great way to explore the region’s stunning coastline and fjords.

  • Hiking: Hiking is a popular way to explore the region, and there are several stunning trails available for all skill levels.

Where to Go Next from Islands of the Arctic Ocean: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring the Islands of the Arctic Ocean, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out.

  • Greenland: The nearby island of Greenland offers stunning natural beauty and unique cultural attractions.

  • Iceland: Iceland is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is home to stunning landscapes and unique natural wonders.

Conclusion

The Islands of the Arctic Ocean are a unique and fascinating destination that offers stunning natural beauty, unique cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife viewing, or exploring the local culture, the Islands of the Arctic Ocean offer something for everyone. With our comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to this incredible region.

Blue glacier ice, Esmarkbreen, Svalbard Blue glacier ice, Esmarkbreen, Svalbard