Things To Do
in Zemlya Bunge
Zemlya Bunge is a remote Arctic archipelago off Russia’s northeastern coast, reachable by icebreaker or charter helicopter during a narrow seasonal window. Its coastline is jagged with ice-choked fjords, where tundra and sparse vegetation meet the cold Barents Sea. Access is seasonal and limited, making it a destination for adventure travelers, scientists, and travelers seeking pristine polar landscapes.
The island protects fragile wildlife habitats and offers rugged solitude and stark, unforgettable scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zemlya Bunge and settle into your accommodation, absorbing the pristine natural beauty around you. Take some time to acclimate to the unique Arctic air and scenery while enjoying a cozy breakfast featuring local delicacies. As you step outside, listen to the rustling of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife, setting the tone for an immersive adventure ahead.
Spend the afternoon exploring the rugged coastline, walking along the remote beaches dotted with smooth stones and driftwood. Perhaps join a guided tour to learn about the local ecosystem and the variety of birds that inhabit the area, keeping an eye out for seals basking on the rocks. You may also have the chance to engage with local communities and hear stories of their connection to the land.
As the sun begins to set, gather around a fire with other travelers to share stories and experiences of the day. Enjoy a traditional dinner featuring local fish and meats, cooked over an open flame. The clear Arctic sky will provide a spectacular view of the stars, offering a perfect ending to your first day in this remote paradise.
After breakfast, embark on a wildlife watching expedition, heading out by boat to spot the unique birds and marine life found around Zemlya Bunge. Polar bears may be spotted in the distance, showcasing the raw beauty of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Capture stunning photographs and take notes on the diverse wildlife you encounter.
Return to shore for a picnic lunch and to discuss the morning's adventures with your group. Following the meal, partake in a guided hike through one of the region's conservation areas, where you can appreciate the pristine wilderness. This is a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level while witnessing the impactful efforts to protect this delicate ecosystem.
As twilight descends, attend an outdoor workshop on Arctic wildlife conservation led by local experts. Engage in discussions about climate change’s impact on the region and explore ways to contribute to ongoing preservation efforts. Conclude the day with a relaxed gathering around another campfire, reflecting on the day's insights and enjoying the tranquility of the wild.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🏨Hotel (1 night, mid-range) | $80-150 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride/local transit | $5-20 |
| 🧭Guided day tour | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Arctic landscapes and wildlife
- Solitude and low crowds
- Fresh air and unique cultural learning
- Excellent opportunities for photography and scientific observation
- Extreme cold and harsh weather
- Very limited services and remote access
- Expensive to reach and operate in remote conditions
- Potential wildlife hazards and isolation from mainland amenities
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello
- "Пожалуйста" - Please
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Где ближайшая аптека?" - Where is the nearest pharmacy?
- "Сколько это стоит?" - How much is this?
- "Можно меню без рыбы/мяса?" - Is there a vegetarian menu?
- "Где можно найти туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Помогите!" - Help!
- "Говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
- "До свидания" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Zemlya Bunge
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic overlook where towering ice floes meet the open sea, ideal for wide-angle seascape shots.
An expansive blue-glacier backdrop reflecting golden light during the late afternoon.
Rookeries and steep cliffs hosting kittiwakes and guillemots, great for close-up wildlife photography.
Dark skies illuminate with the aurora borealis, framed by wind-carved tundra and distant ice fields.
Food in Zemlya Bunge
Zemlya Bunge Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew featuring cod or other white fish with potatoes and root vegetables, commonly prepared in camp kitchens.
Must-Try!
Braised reindeer meat encased in pastry with seasonal vegetables, a comforting camp favorite.
Smoked cod served with a tart cloudberry sauce or preserve, a nod to local berries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets and street food are scarce in this remote environment; meals are typically provided by expedition teams or base cooks. Plan ahead and rely on pre-arranged provisions.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite Russian greetings such as 'Zdravstvuyte' (Hello) and 'Pozhaluysta' (Please) are appreciated.
Keep a safe distance from animals, avoid feeding wildlife, and adhere to group sizes and guide instructions.
Ask for permission before photographing locals or indigenous people; respect privacy.
Move slowly, minimize noise, and pack out all trash; remove hats indoors if guests invite you.
Safety
Tipping in Zemlya Bunge
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in larger facilities and expedition crews; 10-15% at restaurants and for guided services is typical. In remote camps, tipping may be privately arranged with team leads.
Cash rubles are widely accepted in population centers; many expedition outfits also accept card payments where connectivity allows. In very remote camps, payments may be handled via pre-paid arrangements or internal accounts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with near-24-hour daylight; sea ice recedes, making coastal exploration easier. Mosquitoes can be abundant near coastal marshes; carry repellent and wear long sleeves.
Cooler temperatures and brisk winds; migratory birds pass through; seas can be choppy, requiring flexible itineraries.
Polar night with limited daylight and very cold conditions; access is highly weather-dependent; Aurora viewing is common if skies are clear.
Thawing conditions reopen routes and animal activity returns; stay alert for unstable ice and rising water levels.
Zemlya Bunge at Night
Hiking in Zemlya Bunge
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike along the ice edge with sea views and occasional floe movements.
Rugged walk through alpine-tundra terrain with viewpoints over the archipelago.
Low-difficulty trail along the headland offering dramatic views of the coastline.
Airports
How to reach Zemlya Bunge by plane.
A remote Arctic gateway in Chukotka; used by expedition vessels and occasional charter flights to and from the mainland.
Regional hub with broader flight connections to Moscow and other cities; serves as a common transfer point for Arctic itineraries.
Larger airport in northeast Russia with more frequent connections to major cities; reachable for longer itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Chukotkan communities with deep ties to Arctic ecology and traditional subsistence practices.
Researchers and field crews conducting environmental and wildlife studies.
Adventure travelers and tour groups visiting Zemlya Bunge under guided itineraries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular recreational activity in colder months when facilities are available.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing across tundra trails.
Guided snowmobile tours over prepared routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zemlya Bunge.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In a remote Arctic setting, vegetarian options rely on root vegetables, legumes, and berries; inform the crew in advance and ask for plant-based soups or salads.