Expeditions Unlimited blog
Do you dream of taking part in an adventure, or even a polar expedition? Don't overlook the essentials that will turn your project into an unforgettable experience. We have developed three levels of training courses in the Jura, ranging from introduction to full autonomy, to guide you through your polar adventure and provide you with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge. A true initiation journey, these courses have been designed drawing on our extensive experience in polar expeditions, ranging from sporting adventures to the most challenging and committing expeditions. To complement this hands-on approach, we also offer technical snowkite introduction and improvement courses in Norway. We will accompany you in your progression and help you discover this fascinating environment; all you will then need to do is browse through our offerings to select the expedition of your dreams... In this article, find our main polar training courses.
Why take a polar expedition preparation course?
While there is a strong attraction to polar environments and a certain aura surrounding the world of polar expeditions, the decision to take part in an adventure at these latitudes requires genuine preparation. Preparation first and foremost for one's own safety and that of fellow participants, but also learning the rules of expedition life, organisation, risks, movement in polar environments and camp life, becoming familiar with the appropriate gear and equipment, routines... Armed with all of this, we will be ready to set off, make the most of and truly enjoy our adventure. Our courses have been conceived and designed by specialists, polar guides, and drawing on our extensive experience of the most committing expeditions.
3 levels of preparation courses are available in our initiation journey, ranging from Level 1 "Introduction" and Level 2 "Autonomy" to Level 3 "Expedition Travel". After a discussion about your aspirations, physical and technical level, and your goals, we will be able to guide you towards the course level that suits you best. These 3 courses are not a mandatory progression path — we discuss this together beforehand based on each person's experience and objectives.
Written summaries are sent to each participant after their course, recapping all the topics covered, as well as personalised advice on physical and mental preparation, along with recommendations on gear and equipment specific to polar environments and tailored to each person's project.
Our polar initiation courses – Levels 1 & 2
The Level 1 course, lasting 3 days, is designed to provide the essential fundamental knowledge needed to take part in your first polar adventure. A carefully balanced mix of theory and practical work allows participants to explore polar conditions, the characteristics of an expedition, movement techniques, bivouac organisation and life under canvas.
The Level 2 course, also lasting 3 days, allows participants to build on the knowledge gained during the Level 1 course, with the pedagogical goal of being able to move independently by the end of the course: progression in expedition conditions, bivouacking, team spirit, navigation and organisation should all be mastered by its conclusion.
Both courses take place in the Jura in a wonderful setting where the often challenging weather conditions closely mirror the situations you may encounter in polar environments.
Discover our level 1 and 2 polar courses
Guaranteed departures on January 3 and January 7, groups forming for February 2026 | Price €980
Pulka skiing progression © Olivier Bourcet
Our Level 3 advanced course or short polar expeditions
We have put together two programmes allowing participants to develop their polar skills over 5 and 6 days, in France and in Finland. While these programmes were first and foremost designed to provide enjoyment and beauty, we have conceived them as genuine theoretical and practical introductions to autonomous polar expeditions.
These so-called Level 3 courses, lasting 4 to 5 days of autonomous expedition travel, are aimed at those who wish to verify their ability to reproduce over several days the routines and skills acquired during the Level 1 and Level 2 courses, and/or those who are looking for training — a kind of full dress rehearsal before setting off on their expedition.
Training in the Monts Jura
Guaranteed departure on January 12, 2026, groups forming for January and February 2026 | Price €1,350
Polar raid in the Jura © Olivier Bourcet
Pulka ski expedition on Lake Inari
Guaranteed departure on March 7, 2026 | Price €2,900
Pulka ski expedition on Lake Inari © Emmanuel Poudelet
Our snowkite introduction course in Norway
Led by Mika, one of the most renowned polar expedition snowkiters, we head to Finse in Norway for an intensive 8-day snowkite adventure, including 6 days of practice. Depending on the dates, this trip is suitable for either beginners or those with some experience.
In a magnificent location offering excellent wind conditions, we set out each day on star-shaped routes. All our energy is focused on kite practice, and we spend our days outdoors in sessions of several hours, one after another, every day. The "intensive" nature of such a stay guarantees a significant volume of practice and allows for rapid progression.
Discover our snowkite introduction course
Last spots available for February 6, 2026 (introduction) | Price €2,950
Initiation au snowkite © Michael Charavin