Responsible travel: A guide for travelers in the Arctic

March 25, 2025Greenland, Iceland, Canada, Norway, Environment & Responsibility

Welcome back, polar pioneers,

The Arctic is a place like no other —an untouched wilderness of snow-covered landscapes, endless glaciers, and impressive wildlife. As a traveler to this special region , you have a unique opportunity to experience a true natural wonder and discover rare animals such as polar bears, walruses, and whales in their natural habitat.

But this privilege comes with a special responsibility: the Arctic is very fragile, and its ecosystems are under pressure from climate change. By traveling mindfully and respectfully, you can help preserve the delicate balance of this unique paradise.

Who ensures that tourism in the Arctic remains sustainable?

AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators) is an organization that promotes sustainable tourism in the Arctic. Its members—tour operators, ship operators, and other players in the polar travel industry—are committed to traveling in the Arctic in a respectful and environmentally conscious manner and to following the guidelines developed by AECO.

These guidelines ensure that the region's sensitive ecosystems and local communities are protected. They include measures for the respectful treatment of wildlife, waste reduction, and consideration of the needs of local communities.

Through regular checks and close cooperation with experts, AECO ensures that tourism in the Arctic remains not only unforgettable but also sustainable —preserving this special natural paradise for future generations.

What can you do?

Please take the time to inform yourself thoroughly, watch the AECO briefing video, and read the guidelines carefully.Your preparation will help preserve the fragile nature of the Arctic and minimize the impact of your visit on this unique region.

The AECO briefing video is available with German subtitles, while the other guidelines are only available in English. If you have any questions or need assistance, we are always here to help.

With just a little preparation, you can make a valuable contribution to protecting the Arctic!

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Guide for visitors to the Arctic

Discover the Arctic responsibly – this guide provides important tips on how to travel safely, respect the environment, and be mindful of local cultures.

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biosafety guidelines

Learn how you can help protect flora and fauna and ensure that no unwanted organisms are introduced into the Arctic by taking simple measures.

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Guidelines for Arctic Cultural Remains

When exploring Arctic cultural remains, it is important to treat the past with respect. These guidelines will show you how to preserve the traces of earlier cultures so that future generations can also learn from the stories of the Arctic.

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Guidelines for Arctic birds

Learn how to respect and experience Arctic birdlife during your trip without disturbing them by being mindful of nesting sites, keeping your distance, avoiding loud noises, and more.

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Guidelines for polar bears

Learn how to observe polar bears safely and respectfully without disturbing their natural behavior. These guidelines will prepare you for possible encounters and show you how to keep your distance, respond appropriately, and avoid potential dangers.

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Guidelines for seals

Here you will find important guidelines on how to observe seals undisturbed by respecting their peace and keeping the correct distance. These guidelines show you how to recognize the animals' reactions and act accordingly.

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Guidelines for Walruses

Here you will find valuable information on how to observe walruses undisturbed and respectfully. Learn how to interpret their behavior correctly and ensure that you maintain the necessary distance to avoid disturbing them.

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Briefing video: General visitor guidelines in the Arctic

This briefing video provides the most important guidelines for protecting flora and fauna, safety precautions, respectful interaction with local cultures, and combating prejudice.

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Guidelines for clean oceans

These guidelines show you how you can reduce your plastic footprint and help rid the polar regions of harmful waste.

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Guidelines on Arctic vegetation

Learn how to protect Arctic vegetation by not picking flowers, avoiding sensitive areas, staying on established trails, and more. These guidelines show how you can avoid damaging the flora and preserve the fragile ecosystem.

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Guidelines for the Arctic fox

Learn how to observe the Arctic fox respectfully while avoiding unnecessary disturbance. These guidelines will help you protect the animal's natural behavior.

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Guidelines for reindeer

Learn how to observe reindeer safely and without disturbing their natural behavior. These guidelines provide valuable tips on maintaining a respectful distance and avoiding unnecessary disturbance.

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Guidelines for whales

These guidelines explain how you can observe whales respectfully and safely without disturbing their natural behavior. You will receive important information on how to behave correctly, recognize potential disturbances, and treat the animals with the necessary consideration.

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Guidelines for Clean Up Svalbard

Learn more about the Clean Up Svalbard initiative, a long-standing effort to remove marine debris from the Svalbard archipelago. Travelers have the opportunity to actively participate during select trips to Svalbard. For more information on how you can get involved and help reduce marine pollution, visit our dedicated page here.