Embark on an unforgettable 2-day Arctic adventure around Pyramiden with Grumant Arctic Travel, combining scenic boat rides, glacier views, and Cold War history in Norway’s Arctic wilderness.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate physical fitness recommended; be prepared for a mix of boat travel, short hikes, and kayaking.
Wildlife
History
Pyramiden was established in 1910 and abandoned in 1998, symbolizing Cold War era ambitions and Arctic resilience.
Conservation
Efforts focus on minimizing disturbance to wildlife and preserving the area's pristine Arctic environment.
Grumant Arctic Travel Company
Embark on an unforgettable 2-day Arctic adventure around Pyramiden with Grumant Arctic Travel, combining scenic boat rides, glacier views, and Cold War history in Norway’s Arctic wilderness.
Grumant Arctic Travel Company operates guided Arctic tours and seasonal hotel stays focused on Svalbard’s western coast, including Pyramiden, Barentsburg and the Nordenskiöld Glacier. The company offers a variety of boat-based excursions — open boats, covered boats (including excursions by MS Princess Lea) and RIBs — alongside overnight hotel options in Pyramiden and Barentsburg. Trip formats include full-day journeys, two-day expeditions, guided town tours, glacier viewing and optional activities such as kayaking or hiking. Several itineraries include lunch and on-land visits like husky farms and local guided town tours.
Accommodations comprise Hotel Pyramiden (seasonal, newly refurbished rooms) and Hotel Barentsburg, which features sea views, a bar, restaurant and sauna. Hotel Barentsburg also provides equipment storage for multi-season gear and a conference room that can be used for recreational purposes. Signature itineraries highlight Soviet-era history in Pyramiden, coal-mining heritage in Barentsburg, the Nordenskiöld and Esmark glaciers, and coastal bird cliffs. Wildlife sightings noted in trip summaries include reindeer and polar foxes.
Published trip offerings include specific products such as “2-Day Barentsburg Expedition by open boat,” “2-Day Back to USSR in Pyramiden by open boat,” full-day Pyramiden & Nordenskiöld Glacier trips by both covered and open boat, and combined glacier and town visits like Barentsburg & Esmark Glacier by covered boat. The company lists clear activity choices (kayaking or hiking) on select expeditions and provides transport formats and hotel stays as part of its seasonal program. Information presented here is based on the company’s provided trip summaries and accommodation descriptions.
Tours Offered
9 trips
From short to full-day adventures
Boat Types
Open & covered
Open boats, covered boats and RIBs
Seasonal Hotels
Hotel Pyramiden & Barentsburg
Soviet-era and local hotel stays
Highlights
Pyramiden • Barentsburg • Nordenskiöld
Ghost towns, glaciers and wildlife
Select a covered-boat or open-boat trip, or book a seasonal hotel stay in Pyramiden or Barentsburg. Check availability and booking options for specific departure dates.
Dress in layers
Temperatures can fluctuate rapidly, so pack moisture-wicking and insulating layers.
Stay vigilant for wildlife
Keep a safe distance from seals and seabirds; they often appear near boat routes.
Bring waterproof gear
Waterproof jackets and pants are crucial for outdoor activities and boat trips.
Prepare for cold winds
Wind chill can make temperatures feel colder, so bring a warm hat and gloves.
Insulated waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and water during boat trips and outdoor walks.
winter|spring|fall|summer
Thermal base layers
Keeps body warm during cold weather and outdoor activities.
winter|spring|fall|summer
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides support and grip for exploring deserted buildings and rugged terrain.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Binoculars
Great for spotting wildlife and distant glaciers from the boat or shore.