Arctic Expeditions: The Ultimate Bucket List Experience

The northernmost region of the Earth is one of the least explored areas of the world, known as the Arctic, and comprises northern Norway, Greenland, Iceland, and the Canadian Arctic. However, in recent times, adventure lovers have added the Arctic to their bucket list destinations. Whether tourists seek one-of-a-kind experiences in terms of thrill or panorama, the Arctic has become the number one choice for travelers. It is not just the coldest region of the world, but it has also been transforming into an attractive region of the planet with its unique and varied landscapes, iconic and endemic wildlife, and fascinating and explorable history. If you want to know what all the fuss is about the Arctic, you can delve into the following article, where you can find the ultimate bucket list experience for your trip to the Arctic.

Top Bucket List Experience For Arctic Expeditions

You can find hundreds of thousands of fascinating activities to experience in the Arctic while you are on your vacation. However, we assume that with your limited days in the Arctic, you may not be able to explore each one. Thus, here you can find the top bucket list expeditions activities that you can't miss when you are in the Arctic, which can be seen as follows:

Exploring the Northern lights: Aurora Borealis

Northern lights, or the aurora borealis, are one of the most fascinating and spectacular natural phenomena that you should at least witness once in your lifetime. And if you are visiting the Arctic, it should be at the top of your list of things to do. Though there is no guarantee of seeing the northern lights, you can always look up different areas in search of the lights. However, once you saw it, you saw it. You would be stunned by the incredible feeling at just a glance of the light.

• When to explore - The ideal time to explore the Northern Lights is in the winter sky, from September to March.
  • Moreover, according to the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), it would be easiest for you to explore the spectacular lights between 10:00 PM and 02:00 AM. 
• Things to consider- Be aware of the timing when you plan to witness the event.
  • You may not be able to witness the lights from every location. Thus, you have to consider which is the best location to see the northern lights.
  • You must be patient to witness the spectacular event, as it can occur at any time.
  • Enjoy your moment to experience the Northern Lights and their amazing effect on you. 

Track a Polar Bear

You will experience a tingling and exciting feeling while tracking a polar bear in the Arctic wilderness. Though the number of polar bears has decreased due to the melting of the ice, there is a chance that you can catch a glimpse of this exotic animal. Currently, the Norwegian archipelago is one of the ideal locations for tracking polar bears.

• When to explore - Generally, the spring months, from March to May, are the best time to explore the polar bears, as this is when they emerge from their dens.
  • The best time to locate polar bears is during the summer months, from June to August, as this is when the bears are most active on the coastline and sea ice. 
• Things to consider- Go with a guide on the exploration of polar bears.
  • Always stay in a group.
  • Don't disturb or touch polar bears.
  • Always make your position downwind, as it prevents the polar bears from smelling and thus tracking you.
  • Prepare and learn to use the bear spray and/or firearms in case of need.

Go For a Heli-Hike in Greenland

There are various inaccessible places for a human to cover with their bare feet. Thus, heli-hike facilities have been provided to you, where you can visit glacial lakes high in the mountains, hike in different regions of Greenland, and set foot on the vast Greenland Ice Sheet. With the help of this expedition, you would be able to explore some breathtaking views of the island. 

• When to explore- The best time to go for a heli-hike ride in Greenland is between July and September because:
  • Winds are calm, and the temperature is warmer
  • Extended duration of the day
  • Ideal time to explore different wildlife, including muskox and reindeer
• Things to consider- Wear waterproof hiking boots
  • Always have a two-way communication with a personal locator beacon for your safety.
  • Consider your winter clothing
  • Consider your budget, as a heli-hike in Greenland can be a bit expensive

Set your Camp in the Arctic

You can sense the remoteness and the tranquility of nature in the untouched landscape of the Arctic. While in the destination, you can find an out-of-the-box experience due to the vast differences in the atmosphere and the living from your usual life. In this living, you are required to set up a camp for your stay in the Arctic to protect you from the cold and the wildlife.

• When to set a camp- The best time to set a camp in the Arctic is from Late June to September because:
  • The weather conditions are less harsh
  • There is 24-hour daylight around the North Pole
  • Ice breaks up, allowing you access to more remote areas.
• Things to consider- Be aware of weak ice when choosing your camp location.
  • Choose a site that is not too dry.
  • Do not cut branches for making beds 
  • Set up your tent quickly
  • For the warmth, you can stoke a light, especially during the dark.
  • Position your tent so that it blocks the wind.
  • Bring an extra layer of clothing.

Conclusion

With the help of the above article, you can make your Arctic trip more exciting. Here, you are provided with everything that you must know regarding the destination that you want to visit. Based on your preferred activities in the Arctic, you can plan your trip, consider key factors, and create a breathtaking and safe experience for you and your loved ones. At last, don't forget to create a lot of unforgettable memories with your beloved by clicking hundreds of photos.