New Siberian Islands, Russia’s Ultimate Permafrost, Mammoths & Arctic Solitude (2026)
What if you could walk on land that holds the perfectly preserved secrets of the last Ice Age? The New Siberian Islands, an archipelago of three main groups covering over 29,000 square kilometers in the Arctic Ocean, prove that the most remote places guard the most profound stories. Here, the permafrost acts as a natural deep-freeze, slowly surrendering woolly mammoth tusks, steppe bison carcasses, and other Pleistocene-era relics to the few who venture this far north. This isn’t a typical vacation; it’s a journey to the edge of the world, where the silence is absolute and the landscape tells a 10,000-year-old tale.
Why New Siberian Islands, Russia Stands Out
Scenic aerial shot of Shaman Rock on Lake Baikal in Russia during daytime., New Siberian Islands, Russia
- Historic Architecture: The Soviet-era polar research station on Kotelny Island, established in the 1930s, stands as a testament to human endurance in one of the planet’s most extreme environments.
- Cultural Scene: The culture here is the profound, ancient culture of the Arctic itself, best experienced through the lens of scientific discovery and the stark, timeless rhythms of the polar day and night.
- Local Specialties: On expedition vessels, you’ll be served hearty, warming Russian staples like borscht and pelmeni, but the true local “specialty” is the experience of sharing a hot drink on deck while scanning for polar bears.
Pro Tip: Your only viable window is the brief Arctic summer, from late July to mid-August. This is when the pack ice recedes enough for icebreaker-supported expedition ships to navigate the Laptev Sea. Even then, weather is the ultimate dictator of the itinerary.
Map of New Siberian Islands, Russia
Use these interactive maps to explore New Siberian Islands, Russia and plan your route:
đź“Ť View New Siberian Islands, Russia on OpenStreetMap
🗺️ Open New Siberian Islands, Russia in Google Maps
Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: There are no commercial airports. Access is exclusively via specialized expedition cruise ships that depart from Murmansk or, more rarely, via charter flights to temporary ice-runways supporting scientific stations. Book flights to your Russian embarkation point at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: To reach northern Russian ports, you may take the Russian Railways to cities like Murmansk or Arkhangelsk. The journey from Moscow to Murmansk takes about 30 hours. Reserve tickets at Trainline or the national railway website.
- By Car: Driving is not a feasible option for reaching or navigating the islands. All local transport is by Zodiac inflatable boats from your expedition vessel to landing sites. Compare car rentals for Russian city exploration at RentalCars.com.
- Local Transport: Your ship’s Zodiacs are your transport. Landings are “wet,” meaning you’ll wade ashore in provided waterproof boots. Mobility on the islands is entirely on foot over tundra and gravel beaches.
Best Time to Visit
Timing is not about preference, but pure accessibility. The archipelago is locked in ice for 9-10 months of the year. The fleeting summer thaw provides the only passage.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Late Jul–Mid Aug) | -5°C to +5°C (23°F to 41°F). Constant daylight, fog, wind, and possible snow flurries. | Maximum ice melt allows ship access; 24-hour daylight for exploration; peak wildlife activity on shores. |
| Winter (Oct–May) | -30°C to -40°C (-22°F to -40°F). Permanent darkness (Polar Night) from Nov-Jan. | Inaccessible to tourism. Only manned by a handful of personnel at remote weather/research stations. |
| Shoulder (Jun / Late Aug–Sep) | Unpredictable, rapidly freezing. Sea ice forms quickly. | Extremely high risk of ships becoming icebound. Not recommended for travel. |
Budgeting for New Siberian Islands, Russia
Serene view of Siberian beach with pine forest, New Siberian Islands, Russia
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | N/A (Expedition cruise only) | N/A (Expedition cruise only) | N/A (Expedition cruise only) |
| Meals | All included on ship | All included on ship | All included on ship |
| Transport | All included on ship | All included on ship | All included on ship |
| Activities | Zodiac landings & lectures included | All included, plus optional gear rental | All included, most exclusive cabin |
| Daily Total | N/A (Trip is all-inclusive) | N/A (Trip is all-inclusive) | N/A (Trip is all-inclusive) |
Overall Trip Cost: This is a major expedition. Fares for a 10-14 day cruise start around $12,000 per person for a basic cabin and can exceed $25,000 for a suite. This includes the voyage, meals, guided excursions, and lectures. International flights to Russia, visas, travel insurance (mandatory), and gratuities are extra.
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| The “Mammoth Graveyard” Cliffs | Eroding permafrost coasts on Bolshoy Lyakhovsky Island revealing bones and tusks, offering a direct window into the Pleistocene. | Landings dependent on weather & ice (typically 3-6 hrs) | Included in expedition cost |
| Stolbovoy Island & Cape Svyatoy Nos | Dramatic sea cliffs and stone pillars teeming with nesting seabirds like guillemots and kittiwakes in summer. | Landings dependent on weather & ice | Included in expedition cost |
| Kotelny Island Polar Station | A visit (if permitted) to one of Russia’s northernmost and most isolated year-round research outposts, a monument to polar science. | Subject to permission from station chief | Included in expedition cost |
| The Laptev Sea Pack Ice | Not a fixed site, but the ever-shifting landscape of sea ice, home to ringed seals and the iconic polar bear. | 24-hour viewing from ship | Included in expedition cost |
3-Day Itinerary: New Siberian Islands, Russia’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Note: This is a sample based on a typical expedition day. The actual schedule is dictated by ice, weather, and wildlife.
Day 1: First Landfall & Pleistocene Secrets
- Morning (7-9 AM): After a briefing, your first Zodiac landing on Bolshoy Lyakhovsky Island. Walk carefully along the “Yedoma” permafrost cliffs with your geologist guide, who will explain the constant erosion that uncovers mammoth remains. Never remove any fossils; they are protected.
- Afternoon (12-3 PM): More in-depth exploration of the tundra inland, looking for Arctic fox tracks and flowering saxifrage. Lunch is back on the ship—a warm, hearty buffet. Savvy travelers always grab a seat by the window for wildlife spotting.
- Evening (6-8 PM): Recap lecture on “The Mammoth Steppe Ecosystem.” Dinner is followed by an optional deck walk under the midnight sun, a surreal experience of bright light in the dead of “night.”
Day 2: Birds, Bears & Arctic Stations
- Morning (Early activity): Zodiac cruise along the basaltic cliffs of Stolbovoy Island—a cacophony of bird calls and the sight of thousands of nesting birds. Bundle up; the wind chill on the water is significant.
- Afternoon: If conditions and permissions align, a visit to the Kotelny Island research station. This is a privilege, not a guarantee. Respect the scientists’ work. The ship’s library is a cozy alternative for learning about Arctic exploration history.
- Evening: Captain’s dinner in the main dining room. After, the expedition leader may announce a late-night “polar bear alert” if one is spotted on the sea ice—everyone rushes to the decks with cameras.
Day 3: Ice Navigation & Polar Silence
- Morning: The ship navigates through the dense pack ice of the Laptev Sea. This is an all-day event. Find a spot on the bridge (if open) or forward lounge to watch the powerful icebreaker hull crunch through the frozen sea. Your best bet for seeing ringed seals is here.
- Afternoon: A lecture on “Climate Change in the High Arctic.” Lunch is often a casual affair as everyone is captivated by the passing ice-scape. This is a day for reflection, photography, and feeling the immense power of the Arctic environment.
- Evening: Final recap and farewell toast with the expedition team. Seasoned travelers spend their last evening on deck, absorbing the profound silence and vast, empty beauty that defines the New Siberian Islands.
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: The expedition staff will be multilingual. Learning a few Russian phrases like “Spasibo” (Thank you) and “Zdravstvuyte” (Hello) is appreciated. Onboard, English is typically the primary language for lectures and announcements.
- Customs: Respect for the extreme environment is paramount. Follow all biosecurity protocols (cleaning boots) to prevent invasive species. On any station visit, you are a guest; be quiet, respectful, and ask permission before photographing personnel.
- Tipping: It is customary to tip the expedition crew and staff at the end of the voyage. The cruise line will provide guidelines, but budget an additional $150-$250 per person.
- Dress Code: Practical, warm, layered clothing only. Onboard, it’s casual. For dinners, “clean expedition wear” is fine—no need for formal attire. Essential items include a high-quality waterproof jacket, insulated layers, waterproof pants, and sturdy, warm boots (often provided).
- Business Hours: There are no businesses. The ship’s services (bar, lounge, dining) run on a posted schedule. The “sun” is up 24 hours a day in summer.
Where to Eat: New Siberian Islands, Russia’s Best Bites
All dining happens aboard your expedition vessel. The focus is on hearty, energy-rich meals to fuel your Arctic explorations. Chefs expertly prepare a mix of international and Russian cuisine using high-quality, fresh provisions loaded at the start of the journey.
Must-Try Local Specialties (Onboard Interpretations)
- Borscht: The classic beet soup is a staple at lunch, perfect for warming up after a chilly Zodiac ride. The ship’s version is often rich and served with a dollop of smetana (sour cream).
- Pelmeni: These Russian dumplings, typically filled with meat, are a comforting dinner option. They speak to the hearty, practical food culture of the north.
- Blini with Red Caviar: A luxurious treat you might find at a special breakfast or brunch. The small, delicate pancakes topped with salty, vibrant red salmon or trout caviar are a true taste of Russian indulgence.
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | The Ship’s Main Dining Room (Buffet) | Extensive daily buffets for breakfast and lunch with hot and cold options. | Included |
| Mid-range | The Ship’s Dining Room (Table Service) | Plated multi-course dinners with choices of entrĂ©e, often featuring local fish or classic meats. | Included |
| Fine dining | Captain’s Table / Special Galley Event | An invitation-only dinner or a specially themed seafood gala night. | Included (by invitation or event) |
Where to Stay
Your “hotel” is your expedition ship for the entire journey. Accommodation ranges from functional cabins to spacious suites. All provide a warm, secure haven from the Arctic elements. Compare prices and book expeditions through specialized polar travel operators. You can find pre- and post-cruise hotels in Murmansk at Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation (On the Ship)
- Midship, Lower Decks: Offers the most stable ride in rough seas, with minimal motion. Best for those prone to seasickness, though cabins may have portholes instead of large windows.
- Upper Deck with Balcony/Window: Provides spectacular, private views of the passing ice and wildlife. You’ll pay a premium for these cabins, and they can feel the ship’s movement more.
- Forward-Facing Suites: The most exclusive option, often with large windows or private viewing areas. The ultimate choice for immersive, panoramic Arctic vistas right from your room.
A breathtaking aerial view of Solovetsky Monastery surrounded by serene lak…, New Siberian Islands, Russia
FAQs: Your New Siberian Islands, Russia Questions Answered
1. Is New Siberian Islands, Russia safe at night?
Safety concerns here are environmental, not criminal. On the ship, you are completely safe. On land, the primary risks are polar bears and the harsh climate. All landings are conducted with armed bear guards who scout the area first. You must always stay with your guided group. The “night” in summer is 24-hour daylight, but you are not permitted to wander alone.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
The Russian Ruble (RUB) is the currency. However, on the ship, all incidental expenses (bar, shop) are billed to your cabin and settled at the end with a major credit card (Visa/Mastercard). You will only need cash for souvenirs in Russian port cities or for tipping the crew (USD or EUR are often accepted for tips).
3. How do I get from the airport to the city center (embarkation port)?
Most expedition companies include a transfer from a designated airport or hotel in the embarkation city (like Murmansk) to the ship. If not, you’ll need to arrange a taxi. From Murmansk Airport (MMK) to the port, a taxi costs about 1000-1500 RUB ($15-$20) and takes 30 minutes. Book airport transfers at GetYourGuide for convenience if arranging independently.
4. Do I need to speak the local language?
No. Expedition cruises
