Forlandet National Park
National Park Svalbard park protecting Arctic islands and polar wildlife.
Forlandet National Park on Prins Karls Forland, Svalbard, protects arctic tundra, walrus haul-outs and polar-bear habitat; expedition boats and guided landings bring wildlife watchers and polar researchers.
Forlandet National Park protects the island of Prins Karls Forland off the west coast of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, Norway. It was established in 1973 to conserve local marine and terrestrial wildlife and habitats.
The island and surrounding waters are important for walrus haul-outs, breeding seabirds and populations of Svalbard reindeer and arctic fox. The coastline includes cliffs and beaches used by wildlife, and the area is a frequent destination for wildlife cruises during the summer season.
Visitor access is normally by boat from Spitsbergen; landings and close approaches are regulated to protect breeding and resting animals. The park is remote and primarily visited for wildlife observation and natural scenery.
Forlandet lies off the west coast of central Spitsbergen within the Arctic, and its shorelines and offshore waters form the protected park area.
- Protection status: The park was established in 1973 to protect walrus haul-outs, seabird colonies and other Arctic wildlife on Prins Karls Forland.
- Access note: Access is typically by boat from Spitsbergen and landings are strictly regulated to minimise disturbance to wildlife.
What to See #
- Poolepynten: Poolepynten - a well-known walrus haul-out site on the eastern shore that is frequently visited by wildlife cruises.
- Wildlife habitats: Seabird cliffs and tundra habitats around the island that support breeding seabirds and Svalbard reindeer populations.
How to Get to Forlandet National Park #
Forlandet (Prins Karls Forlandet) is a protected area off the west coast of Spitsbergen (Svalbard) and is accessible only by sea. Visitors reach the island on boat trips or expedition cruises from Longyearbyen; there are no roads connecting the island to the main settlements. Arrange a guided boat or cruise from Longyearbyen’s harbor - crossing duration varies with vessel and sea conditions.
Tips for Visiting Forlandet National Park #
- Forlandet National Park (Prins Karls Forland) is only accessible by boat from Svalbard and is best visited on organized wildlife cruises or shore excursions out of Longyearbyen during the summer season when landing and wildlife viewing are possible.
- Use licensed local operators who follow the Governor of Svalbard's rules: maintain large distances from walrus haul‑outs and nesting seabirds, and never attempt independent landings in protected areas.
- Bring binoculars and plan trips for early morning or late evening light in summer for the best chances of seeing walruses, seabird cliffs and seals from the boat without disturbing wildlife.
Best Time to Visit Forlandet National Park #
Visit Forlandet National Park in summer (June-August) when boats can access the islands and wildlife is most visible.
Weather & Climate near Forlandet National Park #
Forlandet National Park's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -17°C to 6°C. Moderate rainfall (530 mm/year).
January
January is freezing with highs of -10°C and lows of -16°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -10°C and lows of -17°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -9°C and lows of -16°C. The wettest month with 60 mm of rain, mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is freezing with highs of -7°C and lows of -14°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -7°C. Light rainfall and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of 0°C. The driest month with just 22 mm and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (31 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -15°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and breezy conditions.
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