Private Russia Tour (RUS007): Northern Lights Hunting in Murmansk, Northern Russia

Day 1 Murmansk

We will welcome you at Murmansk Airport (MMK), then take you on a tour of Murmansk, the world's largest city located within the Arctic Circle. You will learn about the city's historical role in World War I and World War II. Visit the Alyosha Monument, dedicated to the Defenders of the Soviet Arctic during the war, symbolizing great patriotism. As Russia is predominantly Orthodox Christian, during our city tour we will visit two main churches: Murmansk Church: Savior on Waters and the beautiful St. Theodoret of Kola Church.

Visit the Lenin icebreaker, the world's first nuclear-powered icebreaker. It operated for 30 years and had its nuclear reactor replaced in 1970. Later, larger icebreakers were developed: six Arktika-class vessels with a displacement of 23,500 dwt were built in 1975, each powered by two 56 MW nuclear reactors for deep-water Arctic operations. The Arktika was the first surface ship to reach the North Pole in 1977. In the evening, enjoy a Northern Lights hunting activity.

hotel Overnight Murmansk

Today, we will take you on a scenic 131-kilometer journey to Teriberka, a charming fishing village situated along the coast of the Arctic Ocean. Admire the historic village boats and beautiful mountains. On the beach, you will find naturally rounded stones known as "dinosaur eggs," and visit a scenic waterfall. This location is quite far from the village, so travel by vehicle is required; however, if you visit during winter, you can enjoy an exciting new experience riding a snowmobile (this activity may be canceled if weather conditions are unfavorable for safety reasons). In the evening, enjoy dinner with expansive ocean views and savor delicious giant King Crab. After dinner, you can hunt for the Northern Lights here in Teriberka or along the way back to Murmansk. If weather conditions in both locations are not favorable, we will take you to other spots where the Northern Lights can be seen.

hotel Overnight Murmansk

Today, we take you on a 160-kilometer journey deep into the forest to Arctic Land. Enjoy breathtaking snow-covered views along the way to Arctic Land, located near the village of Lovozero. Then, listen to an introduction from the Sámi people, the indigenous inhabitants of this region. Traditionally, the Sámi were hunters, fishermen, and reindeer herders who followed shamanism, praying to elements of nature (rivers, lakes, forests, and rocks). We take you to learn about Sámi culture, traditions, and way of life, feed the reindeer, and even enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride. Afterwards, visit a husky farm to meet these dogs renowned as the most playful and adorable in the world, and experience a husky sled ride. Finally, tonight we head out to chase the Northern Lights if the weather was unfavorable on previous days.

hotel Overnight Murmansk