Private Arctic Tours

The best time to visit the Arctic is from May to September, when wildlife is most active, glaciers are accessible, and the midnight sun lights the way for exploration. For Northern Lights and snowy adventures, winter months are ideal. Whatever you choose, our best Arctic tours are aligned with your interests and the region’s dramatic seasonal shifts.

The best way to experience the Arctic is through guided Arctic boat tours, particularly expedition cruises. These ships allow you to explore ice-locked fjords, spot wildlife like polar bears and whales, and offer warmth and comfort onboard. If you want to get closer to the action, get on Zodiacs (inflatable boats) or trek on ice.

Most cruises also feature helipads, with helicopters at the ready to showcase parts of the Arctic aerially during your guided North Pole tours.

Top highlights during a guided Arctic cruise experience include the majestic fjords of Uummannaq and the iceberg-dotted coast of Northeast Greenland. Trek Svalbard’s tundra for polar bears or admire volcanic Jan Mayen. 

For longer expeditions, you can combine your group Arctic wildlife tours with stops in other parts of the Arctic Circle. This includes Greenland, Iceland, Finland, and Canada.

Svalbard and the broader Arctic host a variety of immersive festivals perfect for enriching your guided adventure. Some of the best Arctic trips align with these notable events:

• Quviasukvik (Inuit New Year), Nunavut – January 1st
• Nuuk Snow Festival, Greenland – mid-February
• Ice Music Festival, Geilo – mid‑February
• Reykjavik Arts Festival, Reykjavik – late May to early June

Fill out our inquiry form and get ready to experience some of the most unique festivals around the world.

For your journey to the Arctic, pack thermal base layers, waterproof outerwear, insulated gloves, and UV-protective sunglasses. Expect to receive warm parkas and rubber boots ahead of guided Arctic wildlife cruises, but be sure to ask your trip coordinator for certainty.

On group North Pole trips, it’s also wise to bring a dry bag, extra batteries, and layered clothing for your camera and to handle both icy winds and the changing temperatures.

Our Arctic destination experts have lots of insider intel to share about the remote location. Find all that information in our blog to help you plan unforgettable, guided Arctic Circle trips.