Svalbard in January 2026
Bucket-list adventurers wanting the ultimate Arctic experience with maximum aurora intensity. Here's everything you need to plan your January visit.
🌡️ Weather in Svalbard in January
January in Svalbard sits at -15°C average, which is very cold — heavy layering required. Expect continuous polar darkness — the sun stays below the horizon all day. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.
🌌 Northern Lights in January
Svalbard has a base aurora score of 10/10. In January, conditions are optimal — long dark nights (24h), typically clear skies, and strong geomagnetic activity combine to make this one of the best aurora months here.
Tips for aurora chasing in January: Head away from town light pollution, check real-time Kp forecasts (apps like SpaceWeatherLive or My Aurora Forecast), and allow at least 3 nights to maximise your chances of a sighting.
Book a guided aurora tour with a local expert — they track forecasts obsessively and know the best viewpoints. Many operators offer "chase" trips that drive to clear sky patches.
🎯 What to Do in Svalbard in January
Activity availability depends on snow / ice conditions and local operator schedules. Always confirm in advance.
🎒 What to Pack for January in Svalbard
Merino wool base layers, fleece mid-layer, and a windproof insulated jacket
Waterproof insulated boots rated to -20°C minimum
Thermal hat, neck gaiter, and wind-resistant gloves
Hand warmers — invaluable for cold photography sessions
Camera with manual mode, wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), and sturdy tripod
Extra camera batteries — cold drains power fast; keep spares in an inner pocket
Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots
Ski goggles or polarised sports glasses for snow glare
Waterproof salopettes or snow trousers for multi-hour outdoor activities
Dry bag for electronics; most operators provide drysuits but check in advance
Sea sickness prevention if boat trips are planned
🏨 Accommodation in January
This is peak season — book accommodation 2–4 months in advance. Expect prices around $140+/night for mid-range options. Popular choices include Longyearbyen Hotels, Wilderness Lodges, Expedition Base Camps. Aurora lodges and glass cabins sell out fastest.
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🧭 Also Great in January
Other top polar destinations worth considering for a January trip
Antarctic Peninsula
Bucket-list adventurers seeking the world's most extraordinary wildlife experience in the last great wilderness
Ross Sea & McMurdo Sound
Elite polar explorers seeking the most remote, pristine, and historically significant destination on Earth
Abisko
Aurora purists who want scientifically the clearest skies on Earth for northern lights viewing
Plan Svalbard by Month
Highlighted in green = best months for Svalbard