The safe-zone in Longyearbyen

In Longyearbyen there is a safe-zone within which you do not have to carry any equipment for polar bear protection. The safe-zone is marked with red on the map below. You can get a free copy of this map in the tourism information office in Longyearbyen.

How to stay safe on Svalbard

The number one rule on Svalbard: The only person responsible for your safety is you. If you don’t have experience in such an environment, you should not go out of the settlements on your own.

The main settlement of Longyearbyen is comparatively safe to the rest of the archipelago but there are still significant dangers. Polar bears are unlikely to enter the settlement itself but it can and does happen. Be on your guard especially in the dark season.

Leaving the settlements

First and foremost, it is not recommended to leave the settlement for long periods of time on your own or in a small group without a qualified and experienced guide. Still, many people choose to do so, so here are some important guidelines.

You must familiarise yourself with the laws of the land, for they are different from mainland Norway. All visitors venturing outside Management Area 10 (check local maps) are required to notify the Governor of their plans and take out search and rescue insurance.

The law was passed by the Parliament of Norway on 17 July 1925, establishes Norwegian sovereignty of the island, and states that Norwegian criminal law, civil law and procedure law are enforced on the island. Otherwise, other provisions and laws only apply when specified.