The northernmost human settlements on earth are found here, specifically on the largest island of Spitsbergen, where the ‘cold edge’ of Svalbard (its literal meaning) is tempered by the moderating Gulf Stream, making it a more habitable environment. It is nonetheless estimated that here there are more polar bears than there are humans, making this prime territory for some enthralling polar bear quests and the starting point for your frozen adventure.

The Svalbard archipelago is Europe’s largest wilderness, a fascinating collection of islands within Norway that are closer to the North Pole than they are to the capital city of Oslo. 

• Arctic Fox. They are easily seen in Spitsbergen, especially near the scientific community of Ny Alesund.
• Polar Bear. The further north, the better for sightings of the King of the Arctic. Summer in the Svalbard archipelago is best when you can navigate further north to the Hinlopen Strait.
• Reindeer. Can be seen readily throughout, but best seen in Longyearbyen. 
• Walrus. These fanged mammals are best seen on Moffen Island where you can find huge haul outs.