Things To Do
in Matochkin Shar
Matochkin Shar is a remote Arctic outpost on the Novaya Zemlya archipelago, perched on a narrow spit that guards the entrance to the Matochkin Strait. The landscape is a stark blend of tundra, windswept cliffs, and the open Barents Sea, offering dramatic seascapes at every turn. Historically part of restricted military zones, access is now possible only with proper permits and careful planning, attracting intrepid travelers who seek solitude and stark beauty.
Visitors should come prepared for extreme weather, limited services, and the vast silence of the Arctic frontier.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You touch down on a frozen landing strip as dawn paints the ice in soft rose hues. Guides greet you in insulated parkas and lead you to your expedition base camp. A steaming cup of tea warms your hands as you survey this stark, inhospitable landscape.
After unpacking, you embark on a gentle acclimatization hike along the strait’s edge. A glacial breeze carries the distant call of seabirds as you stroll across ancient moraines. Your guide points out the subtle geological scars left by past ice flows.
Twilight descends early in this high-latitude hour, turning the sky into a canvas of deep purples. You share a hearty meal of reindeer stew cooked over an open flame. The hush of Arctic night invites whispered conversations under a blanket of stars.
You lace up your crampons and set off across packed snow toward the narrow channel. Each step crunches crisp ice fragments underfoot while frosty breath misting before you. The stillness is profound, broken only by the distant rumble of shifting floes.
Crossing the strait by snowmobile, you trace ancient trade routes once used by Pomors centuries ago. You pause at a windswept vantage point to photograph the wild, serrated coastline. A quick lunch of smoked fish and black bread refuels your energy.
Arriving at an ice cave carved by tidal currents, you set up camp within its crystalline walls. A soft orange glow from lanterns flickers across towering ice pillars. You cuddle into your sleeping bag as the arctic winds howl outside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚎Local transportation within town | $2-5 per ride |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-80 |
| ☕Coffee shop latte | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Arctic landscapes and solitude
- Rich wildlife and dramatic light
- Opportunity to learn about Arctic life and history
- Remote location with limited services
- Permits and logistics can be challenging
- Severe weather and long travel times
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
- "Пожалуйста" - Please
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Вы говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
- "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Мне нужна помощь" - I need help
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Matochkin Shar
Visit one of these nice places.
A long sandy spit with sweeping views of the Barents Sea and tundra, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography.
Dramatic coastlines and sea stacks with spray and dramatic lighting on windy days.
Where the strait appears between the islands, offering a powerful sea-and-sky composition.
Rusting concrete relics along the coast for stark, documentary shots (approach with caution).
In the darker months, the Arctic sky lights up with the aurora borealis over the sea.
Food in Matochkin Shar
Matochkin Shar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A clear, hearty fish broth made with local cod or other white fish, often enriched with onions and herbs.
Must-Try!
Thin slices of frozen reindeer or other game served with onions and herbs.
Slow-cooked meat with root vegetables; a staple in remote Arctic communities.
Simple baked or grilled fish seasoned with salt and dill.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small grocers and seasonal supply points for fresh fish, bread, canned goods, and basics.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Zdravstvuyte' (Hello); be polite and use 'Vy' with strangers.
Ask before taking photos of people; respect private property and restricted zones.
Carry out what you carry in; stay on paths; respect wildlife and fragile ecosystems.
Heed warning signs; do not enter closed facilities or bases.
Safety
Tipping in Matochkin Shar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up the bill or leave 5–10% where service is provided.
Cash in rubles is the most reliable in remote settlements; card acceptance is limited; plan ahead with cash and pre-arranged payments when possible.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Midnight sun allows round-the-clock daylight. Be prepared for mosquitos and strong coastal winds; trails are accessible for extended hikes.
Cooler, windier conditions with storm potential; migratory birds and dramatic lighting create photographic opportunities.
Polar night with very short or no daylight; extreme cold and wind; access can be heavily restricted; proper gear is essential.
Gradual daylight return and thawing landscapes; wildlife becomes more active and terrain can be slippery.
Matochkin Shar at Night
Hiking in Matochkin Shar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes with sea views; weather can shift quickly; good for photography.
Rugged coastline near sea stacks; require sturdy footwear and caution in windy conditions.
Airports
How to reach Matochkin Shar by plane.
Nearest air link to the archipelago; flights are seasonal or charter-based, typically routed through Arkhangelsk or Murmansk.
Major northern hub with regular flights to Moscow and other cities; serves as a gateway to the archipelago.
Northern gateway with more frequent connections to Russia's major cities; commonly used to connect to Arkhangelsk or other hubs before traveling to Novaya Zemlya.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents in this region.
A small indigenous presence with cultural tradition in the broader Arctic area.
Occasional personnel related to research, defense facilities, or logistics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in northern towns; often played in community rinks.
Winter sports across tundra and coastal plains.
A practical and exciting way to cover distance in snow.
Seasonal fishing on frozen bays.
Traditional Arctic transport and a memorable ride.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matochkin Shar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options are limited in remote Arctic settlements; plan to bring staple foods and request vegetable sides; rely on grains, potatoes, cabbage, and canned vegetables whenever possible.