Europe
Is Svalbard and Jan Mayen safe?
—No US advisory
Is Svalbard and Jan Mayen safe?
Longyearbyen itself is very safe. Outside the settlement, polar bears, avalanches, crevasses and extreme cold are real threats; go with licensed guides.
Key facts
- Emergency numbers: Police 112 · Ambulance 113 · Fire 110.
- Solo women: Very safe for solo women in town; outdoor trips should be guided regardless of gender.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Polar bears anywhere outside the settled area
- Avalanches on the slopes around Longyearbyen
- Extreme cold, wind and months of polar night
Laws visitors break by accident
- Leaving the settlement requires polar bear protection; disturbing or chasing bears is illegal.
- All traces of human activity from before 1946 are protected; don't touch or take anything.
- Alcohol is rationed: show your flight ticket to buy at Nordpolet.
Safety by place in Svalbard and Jan Mayen
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Longyearbyen | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
Quick answers
Is Svalbard and Jan Mayen safe for tourists?
Longyearbyen itself is very safe. Outside the settlement, polar bears, avalanches, crevasses and extreme cold are real threats; go with licensed guides.
Is Svalbard and Jan Mayen safe for solo female travelers?
Very safe for solo women in town; outdoor trips should be guided regardless of gender.
What is the emergency number in Svalbard and Jan Mayen?
Police 112 · Ambulance 113 · Fire 110.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- Governor of Svalbard: entry and residence
- Governor of Svalbard: visas and immigration
- Governor of Svalbard: application and registration for trips
- Governor of Svalbard: alcohol rules
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.