Monaco Glacier
in Svalbard and Jan Mayen

Monaco Glacier

Monaco Glacier is located on the island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago of Norway, part of the Jan Mayen archipelago. It is the largest glacier in Svalbard, stretching for over 40 kilometers and covering an area of about 3,000 square kilometers. The Monaco Glacier is part of the larger Nordenskiöld Land, which is a protected nature reserve.

The glacier is made up of several large, interconnected ice masses, with the highest point reaching more than 1,500 meters above sea level. It is a popular destination for tourists and scientists alike, who come to explore its unique beauty and rich wildlife.

Monaco Glacier has a long history of exploration and discovery. In the late 19th century, the Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen and his crew were the first to reach the glacier. They made several attempts to climb the glacier, but were unsuccessful due to its steep terrain. In the early 20th century, the British explorer Ernest Shackleton also attempted to climb the glacier, but was also unsuccessful.

More recently, the glacier has been the site of a number of scientific studies, including research into climate change and its effects on the glacier. In 2011, a team of scientists from the University of Oslo conducted a study of the glacier’s retreat over the past century. They concluded that the glacier has retreated by an average of 1.3 meters per year since the start of the 20th century, due to a combination of climate change and natural processes.

Monaco Glacier is a unique and beautiful natural wonder, and its history of exploration and discovery is a testament to its importance in the world. Its retreat due to climate change is a reminder of the need to protect and preserve our environment.

Experience Monaco Glacier with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Monaco Glacier. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Monaco Glacier

The climate in Monaco Glacier in Svalbard and Jan Mayen is characterised by cold and dry winters and cool, wet summers. In winter, temperatures range from -14 to -20 degrees Celsius and in summer, temperatures range from 4 to 10 degrees Celsius. Snowfall is common throughout the year, and the area is known for its strong winds. Precipitation is low in winter and higher in summer, with an average of around 300mm per year. Overall, the climate in Monaco Glacier is cold and dry, with significant variations in temperature and precipitation over the four seasons.

Cruise weather for Monaco Glacier

Our weather forecast for Monaco Glacier helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Monaco Glacier

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