Train in the remote Pasvik Valley of Arctic Norway, 400 km above the Arctic Circle. Based at Namdalen Wilderness Lodge and led by expedition coach Jon Fearne (E3C), these Polar Training Camps are designed for curious explorers as well as those preparing for more advanced Arctic or Antarctic objectives. Whether you are completely new to polar travel or already working toward larger expedition goals, the program meets you where you are. You will learn step by step, build confidence, and develop the skills needed to move and operate safely in cold environments.
The program follows a clear progression. The first camp, Introduction to winter travel & camping, focuses on the fundamentals: ski travel with pulk, layering, camp routines, navigation basics, and understanding cold-weather conditions. The second camp, the Polar Explorer Week, builds on these foundations. You will spend longer days in the field, refine your systems, and take on more responsibility in navigation, decision-making, and expedition planning.
21 February - 05 March 2027
6 - 13 days
6-8 people
Pasvik Valley, Northern Norway
Beginner to Advanced
Remote cabin & snow camp
Whether you are curious to try winter travel for the first time or want to build on existing experience, there is a camp that fits you. You can join the Introduction to winter travel & camping, continue with the Polar Explorer Week, or take part in the full 13-day program. Each option is designed to meet you at your current level and help you progress step by step.
The camps take place in the Pasvik Valley near Kirkenes in Northern Norway, approximately 400 km above the Arctic Circle. The Pasvik Valley forms the northwestern edge of the Siberian taiga, the largest forest ecosystem on Earth, stretching from Finland through Norway and into Russia. This is not a resort setting or controlled training environment. It is a remote Arctic landscape with sustained cold, long winter days and limited infrastructure.
The balance is intentional: real environmental exposure combined with professional coaching. Skills are developed and tested in conditions that reflect actual Arctic travel, giving participants a realistic understanding of what polar movement and winter camping require.
Basecamp is Namdalen Wilderness Lodge, a true wilderness property about 40 minutes outside of Kirkenes. In winter, the lodge is only accessible by snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes. It offers a true Norwegian cabin experience. The lodge is rustic and simple, yet deeply connected to the nature around you. It consists of several traditional buildings and includes a wood-fired sauna. There is no running water on the property. Water is sourced from a well, and showering takes place in the sauna. This setup is part of the experience and reflects the realities of living and operating in remote Arctic environments.
The lodge serves as both a starting point and a place to reset. Depending on the program and weather, you will spend time here preparing equipment, learning systems, and recovering between field days. From the lodge, you move directly into the surrounding wilderness.
The camp is led by Jon Fearne, an experienced polar expedition and coach founder of E3C (Endurance, Exploration, Excellence Coaching). Jon has prepared multiple successful South Pole solo expeditions, including Monet Eliastam, Preet Chandi and the Antarctic Fire Angels, and has worked with explorers such as Eva Zu Beck. His coaching approach focuses on building reliable systems rather than relying on motivation or toughness. He emphasizes consistency, disciplined routines, and decision-making under fatigue — the same principles that support successful polar expeditions.
For beginners, this means learning the right habits from the start. For more experienced participants, it means refining systems and identifying weaknesses before they become problems on larger objectives.
You will be supported by a team of experienced guides who live and work in the Kirkenes area year-round. We know the terrain, the conditions, and how quickly things can change. Throughout the camp, we are there to guide, support, and create a safe environment where you can learn with confidence.
Dirk is one of the core guides behind the Polar Training Camps and brings a unique combination of expedition experience and calm, structured leadership. Having lived in Northern Norway for several years, he knows the Pasvik Valley and surrounding areas in depth. His background includes a wide range of Arctic experiences, including ski crossings of Iceland and Greenland. Dirk’s expedition journey continues to evolve. He is currently preparing for a solo, unsupported ski expedition to the South Pole, planned for November 2026. By the time the camps take place, he will be back in Northern Norway, bringing fresh experience directly from one of the most demanding environments on Earth into the training.
Henrik is an experienced outdoor guide with deep local knowledge of the Pasvik Valley and the wider Kirkenes region. Having spent years working in Arctic conditions, he is used to navigating changing weather, terrain, and group dynamics. He brings a hands-on and grounded approach to guiding. His focus is on practical skills, clear communication, and helping participants feel comfortable in unfamiliar conditions. Whether on the move or in camp, Henrik supports the group with a steady, yet humorous presence and a strong understanding of the environment.
Laura is an experienced guide and a key support on the ground throughout the polar camps. She helps participants prepare in advance and ensures everyone arrives with a clear understanding of what to expect. During the camp, she focuses on keeping things running smoothly in the background. She supports logistics at base camp, assists with daily routines, and helps participants find their rhythm in an unfamiliar environment. Whether it is organizing equipment, documenting the experience, or stepping in where support is needed, she contributes to a structured and supportive atmosphere.
“Polar success isn’t about toughness. It’s about systems, discipline, and decision-making under stress.”
No. The Introduction to winter travel & camping is designed for first-time polar participants. You do not need expedition experience. A basic level of fitness and motivation to learn are enough.
For the Polar Explorer Week, previous winter travel experience is required. This can be from the Intro Camp or equivalent experience in cold, multi-day environments.
You can join either camp individually or complete both for a full 14-day progression.
If you are new to polar travel, we recommend starting with the Intro Camp. If you already have solid winter experience and want to focus on expedition readiness, the Polar Explorer Week may be suitable.
Many international participants choose both weeks to complete the full training pathway in one Arctic block.
The Intro Camp is physically active but progressive. The focus is on learning systems and building confidence rather than pushing endurance limits.
The Polar Explorer Week is more demanding. Travel days are longer, loads are heavier, and participants take greater responsibility for navigation, camp routines, and decision-making under fatigue.
We provide skis, boots, pulks, tents, and shared expedition equipment. Accommodation at Namdalen Wilderness Lodge and all meals, snacks, coffee, and tea are included.
A detailed personal packing list is sent after booking so you know exactly what to bring.
Both camps take place in the Pasvik Valley in Arctic Norway, 400 km above the Arctic Circle. Training is based at Namdalen Wilderness Lodge, with multi-day travel and snow camping in real winter conditions.
Training continues in real Arctic conditions whenever it is safe to do so. Learning how to manage cold and changing weather is part of the experience. Safety decisions are always guided by the coach.
At the end of each week, you receive structured feedback on your performance and development areas.
After the Intro Camp, you may continue into the Progression Week or leave with the skills and confidence to travel independently in winter conditions.
After the Polar Explorer Week, you receive an expedition readiness assessment and guidance for your next step, whether that means Greenland, Arctic crossings, or further structured preparation.
“Polar success isn’t about toughness. It’s about systems, discipline, and decision-making under stress.”
Fill out the short form to get started. You don’t need to have prior polar experience. We welcome both beginners and those with more advanced goals. After you send your request, we will get in touch for a relaxed conversation. This is simply a chance to get to know you, understand your experience, and help you decide which camp is the best fit. There is no obligation at this stage. We will guide you through the next steps once you feel ready.
