4 Days Murmansk Tour: Northern Lights Hunting, Arctic Landscapes & Arctic Fun

Welcome to Murmansk, Russia! Today, you will arrive in Murmansk according to your flight schedule. Our local guide in Murmansk will be waiting for you at the airport exit and will assist you upon arrival. Please provide your arrival information in advance. Afterward, our driver will escort you to the downtown area of Murmansk.

Murmansk, the largest city above the Arctic Circle, is situated in the northwest of Russia on the Kola Peninsula. It is located approximately 1,490 km northeast of Moscow. Murmansk is an excellent destination to witness the Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon where colorful lights dance across the Arctic sky. The best time to see the aurora is from September to March. Visiting Murmansk also provides an opportunity to enjoy exhilarating winter activities in the Arctic wilderness and explore the culture of the indigenous Sami people, who have lived in the Arctic region for centuries.

Arrival Information for Murmansk, Russia:

Murmansk has one airport, Murmansk International Airport, located about 24 km south of the city center. There are regular flights connecting Murmansk with Moscow and St. Petersburg.

After breakfast, let’s head to Teriberka, about 130 km (approximately 2–3 hours’ drive) northeast of Murmansk. It is a small, remote village located on the Arctic Ocean coast. This small village, built in the 16th century, was once a trading hub for North European cod and shark markets. During the Great Patriotic War, it earned recognition as a heroic village. It is also the filming location of the Oscar-nominated Russian movie Leviathan (2014). Teriberka boasts the sea, snowy mountains, and old, rundown houses. Today, it draws crowds of visitors with its unique "Ship Cemetery", showcasing the haunting yet beautiful scenery of the village.

Your top activities in Teriberka:

• Visit the Ship Cemetery
• Explore Pebble Beach
• Marvel at the Arctic Cliff Waterfall
• See the Whale Skeleton Installation
• Take a Walk Through the Village

Teriberka is an excellent place to hunt for the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Its remote location, minimal light pollution, and vast Arctic skies make it one of the best spots in the region to witness this magical phenomenon.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Teriberka is between late September and March. Peak viewing months: November to February. During the polar night, when the sun doesn’t rise for weeks, the darkness provides perfect conditions for aurora sightings. The auroras are most active between 9:00 PM and 2:00 AM, but sightings can occur anytime during the night.

After dinner, you will begin your [Northern Lights Hunt] trip. If lucky, the auroras appear in shades of green, with occasional hints of purple, pink, or red. They may manifest as faint glowing bands or as vibrant, fast-moving "dances" across the sky.

Travel Tips:

• Dress warmly:The Arctic temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F)or lower during the aurora season. Wear thermal layers, insulated jackets, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat to stay warm.
• Bring a camera:To capture the auroras, bring a good DSLR or mirrorless camerawith manual settings. A tripod is essential for long-exposure shots.

Friendly Reminder:

Teriberka is heavily affected by weather conditions. In the event of road closures due to heavy snow, the following alternatives will be arranged (choose one of the two):

1. Imandra Park
2. Snowmobile + Dog Sledding Experience

The Northern Lights hunting activity lasts approximately 2–3 hours. Please note that the aurora is a natural phenomenon and is influenced by many factors. Its appearance cannot be guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding!

After breakfast, you will enjoy a drive to the Saami Village to discover Saami culture. On the way, take in the endless, stunning icy and snowy landscapes. Your exploration will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions and lifestyle of the Saami people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Arctic regions of Russia. Known for their deep connection to nature and reindeer herding, the Saami have preserved their rich cultural heritage for thousands of years despite the harsh Arctic environment.

Upon arrival at the village, the Saami people, dressed in traditional attire, will welcome guests from afar in the Saami language. Later, the Saami hosts will lead a tour of the tribal settlement, allowing visitors to have close contact with reindeer and experience feeding them firsthand.

Afterwards, try Santa's traditional mode of transportation: the reindeer sleigh ride. Following the activity, enjoy a unique lunch featuring local Saami specialties.

Next, visit the Husky Base, where you can interact closely with Arctic huskies, take memorable photos, and learn about their habits and lifestyle. These sled dogs often leave a profound impression on visitors from afar. Their excitement and energy represent the vitality of life in the Arctic Circle during winter.

After dinner, let’s embark on a Northern Lights Hunt, one of the most beautiful and mysterious natural phenomena in the world.

Friendly Reminder:

The Northern Lights hunting activity lasts approximately 2-3 hours. Since the aurora is a natural phenomenon influenced by many factors, it cannot be predicted in advance, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding!

After breakfast, you will have the chance to visit the iconic sites of Murmansk. Your first stop is the Lenin Nuclear Icebreaker, docked at the Murmansk Sea Port. This is the world’s first nuclear-powered surface vessel, launched on August 24, 1956, and commissioned in 1959. A groundbreaking ship, it played a vital role in the exploration and development of the Arctic, paving the way for safer and more efficient navigation through thick ice. During your visit, you’ll explore the Nuclear Reactor Room and learn about the ship's innovative nuclear-powered propulsion system. You will also have the opportunity to view photographs, documents, and artifacts that highlight its history and role in Arctic exploration.

Next, visit Murmansk's landmark, the Alyosha Monument (officially known as the Defenders of the Soviet Arctic during the Great Patriotic War Monument). Unveiled in 1974, it is one of Murmansk’s most famous landmarks and symbolizes the city’s resilience during World War II. Standing 35.5 meters (116 feet) tall, it is the second-tallest statue in Russia, after the Motherland Calls in Volgograd. The monument commemorates the heroic sacrifices of Soviet soldiers who defended the Arctic during the war.

From this vantage point, you will enjoy stunning panoramic views of Murmansk, the sparkling waters of Kola Bay, and the surrounding snow-covered landscapes, which are especially beautiful in winter.

After the tour, you will be escorted to Murmansk Airport, where your guide will assist with the check-in process. You will then board your flight home.

Friendly Reminder: Based on the itinerary end time, airport transfer will be arranged 3 hours in advance. We recommend booking a return flight departing after 7:00 PM. For specific flight details, please contact us.

Your 4-day Murmansk tour comes to an end. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your journey. We are committed to enhancing your travel experiences and look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure in Asia. Have a safe and pleasant journey home!