Svalbard in September: Things to Do, Weather, & Autumn Tips

When I visited Svalbard in September, I was unsure of what to expect. I had been there during several other months, but September just seemed like an odd one, given that there were semi-normal daylight hours (something I had previously not experienced there!) and cruise ship tourism wasn’t as rampant as the summer months.

Turns out, my September trip was my favorite trip to Svalbard and easily one of the most underrated!

While the walrus colonies have broken up and the midnight sun is no longer showing its face, there is still so much to do that it rivals the most popular months.

In this guide, I will share what to expect during September in Svalbard. I will discuss the weather situation, daylight hours, what to pack, and my favorite things to do.

If you have any tips for a September trip to Svalbard, let me know in the comments!

September Weather in Svalbard

Compared to the archipelago’s winter (and spring) climate, the weather in September is fairly mild. Average temperatures range from -3C to 0C (26.6F to 32F), with daytime temperatures sometimes rising above 0C.

September sees the first snowfall after the summer season, with average monthly snowfall ranging from 1.3 cm to 11.2 cm (0.5 inches to 4.4 inches). You won’t encounter much snowfall at the start of the month, as the majority will fall towards the end of September.

Wind speeds stay relatively constant, and you can expect plenty of cloud cover. While this is all the averages, this is exactly what I experienced when there.

Daylight During September in Svalbard

September is one of my favorite months in Svalbard because of its daylight situation! It is one of the few times a year that it feels semi-normal compared to mainland Europe! 

What a drastic difference that is from the start of September until the end of September! You will have pitch black skies starting on September 24 (but it is still dark enough to see the aurora in the middle of the night before that).

Best Things to Do in Svalbard in September

1. Explore Longyearbyen.

Longyearbyen is the capital of Svalbard and is home to fewer than 2,500 people. Although not many people live here, it’s where the majority of travelers base themselves on a visit to Svalbard, as it’s the world’s northernmost settlement (and let’s be honest, you can’t go anywhere without polar bear protection).

As you’re wandering around the town, you might even spot reindeer!

2. Go on a wildlife photography tour from Longyearbyen. 

From May to September, Svalbard experiences its summer and early autumn, a fantastic time of year to spot the local wildlife.

Although sightings are best during the summer months (June, July, and August), you can still regularly spot walruses (but the colonies are breaking up at this point), Arctic foxes, and even polar bears at this time of year. And you will almost definitely see a Svalbard reindeer!

Migratory birds will start to make their way south in September, but you can still spot the Svalbard rock ptarmigan and ones that are late to the party down south. To make the most of these wildlife-watching opportunities, pack a pair of binoculars if you can.

I highly recommend taking a wildlife photography tour from Longyearbyen, however. This one from See & Explore is my favorite (and I’ve done it twice in different seasons). You can read my recap here.

3. Look out for the northern lights.

You can spot the northern lights in Svalbard from late September up until mid-March. Typically, the best time to see the Aurora Borealis is between 8pm and 2am, although the sky will need to be clear and dark. 

4. Enjoy the Longyearbyen Litteraturfestival.

If you’re visiting Svalbard in September, head to the world’s northernmost literature festival. Longyearbyen Litteraturfestival typically takes place at the start of the month and is an awesome event for book lovers. This year’s dates are September 8-12, 2025.

This literature festival allows you to discover local authors, with the line-up being different each year. You can check the website online to see who’s attending in advance.

In the festival program, there are both Norwegian and English events, including lectures, film screenings, and a concert, so there’s something for everyone. Who knows, you might even come across a new favorite author! 

5. Head out on a boat trip with Better Moments.

6. Catch a glimpse of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.

If you’re after a unique experience, then head out on a tour to catch a glimpse of the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. You can’t enter, but you will get to view the ‘Doomsday Vault’, which stores over 1 million seed samples from across the world. 

This vault is seen as a foundation for the future’s food supply, in case of any disastrous global event, such as climate change. Here, there are various seed samples stored, including those of beans, rice, and wheat.

As there won’t be much snow on the ground, you’ll likely need to go on a guided tour to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.

7. Go dog-carting in Svalbard. 

Dog-sledding is popular all year round in Svalbard, although there won’t be much snow on the ground in September. At this time of year, wheels are used so you can still enjoy this magical experience. 

Green Dog Svalbard is a popular option known for its variety of dog-sledding tours. Many of their tours run throughout the summer and still offer you the chance to explore Svalbard in a very unique way.

There’s also Arctic Husky Travellers, who offer both expeditions and day trips. Some of their summer day trips even include a tundra hike, as well as dog-sledding. 

8. Enjoy hiking in the mountains around Longyearbyen.

Bjørndalen is a great area for hiking too, as it’s known for its flora and fauna. Here, you can spot reindeer and arctic foxes among other species. You cannot go to this area without a guide, however.

Festivals and Events in September

What to Pack for Svalbard in September

Although Svalbard is much warmer at this time of year (compared to the winter months), temperatures still fall below freezing, so you’ll want to pack accordingly. 

First of all, you’ll want windproof outerwear, including a thick coat to protect you from the elements. To keep yourself warm, you’ll need to pack plenty of base layers, preferably clothing made of fleece or wool. 

Tips for Visiting Svalbard in September

• The sea ice is at a minimum during September, which is why boat trips and cruises are still so popular at this time of year, as you’ll get to see more of Svalbard.
• If you’re looking to spot wildlife, just be aware that the weather can become more unpredictable towards the end of September, so trip cancellations can occur. 
• It’s important to note that you can only leave Longyearbyen if you have a gun license or you’re with a licensed guide, due to the area’s polar bear population.
• I’d recommend staying in Svalbard for at least 4-5 days, as this will give you an increased chance of spotting wildlife and making the most of your trip even if the weather fails you for a day or two!

Svalbard in September FAQ

Can you see the northern lights in September in Svalbard?

The northern lights can be spotted from late September in Svalbard, as long as the skies are clear and dark. You can usually see the aurora from the valley area around Longyearbyen if it is out (the light pollution isn’t too bad).

Can you see polar bears in Svalbard in September?

When is the best season in Svalbard?

This all depends on what you’re after from your visit. If you’re looking to spot wildlife, then the summer season between May and September is the best time to go.

However, for those who want to spot the northern lights and try out some winter activities, you’ll want to visit between October and March. As mentioned before, I wouldn’t book Svalbard as a northern lights trip. If you get to see it there, great. But the archipelago remains too far north a lot of times.

Do you have any questions about visiting Svalbard in September? Let me know in the comments!

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