Saariselkä: King Crab Safari to Kirkenes with lunch

Discover the Unique Arctic Adventure of the King Crab Safari to Kirkenes

The King Crab Safari to Kirkenes from Saariselkä offers an extraordinary experience in the Arctic. For 11 hours, this tour takes you across frozen fjords in a comfortable 4×4 van, into the heart of Norway’s Barents Sea, where you witness the impressive emergence of colossal King Crabs and enjoy a freshly prepared crab meal in a cozy Sami-style tent. With a 4.5 rating, this tour highlights the thrill of catching these “red giants” and learning about their role in local ecosystems.

This adventure is perfect for those interested in Arctic wildlife, cultural insights, and stunning landscapes. The journey begins in Saariselkä, crossing into Norway and arriving at the seaside camp near Kirkenes, just 15 km from the Russian border. The tour’s small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more intimate and engaging experience, guided by knowledgeable experts who explain the history, ecosystem, and sustainable harvest practices of the King Crab.

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Key Points

• 11-hour tour from Saariselkä to Kirkenes, Norway, with pickup included
• Experience crab fishing and see colossal King Crabs emerge from the icy depths
• Enjoy a freshly cooked King Crab meal served in a Sami-style tent
• Guided by expert local fishermen with insights into crab history and ecosystem
• Small group size of up to 8 participants for a more personalized experience
• Travel across frozen fjords and through the Arctic landscape in a specialized 4×4 van

From Saariselkä to Kirkenes: Scenic Arctic Journey

This tour departs from Saariselkä, with a pickup from your hotel, and quickly transitions into a scenic drive along the E45 highway. The landscape outside the vehicle changes from snow-dusted pine forests of Finnish Lapland to the vast Arctic tundra and snow plains, providing stunning views throughout the journey. As the vehicle crosses the border into Norway, the crisp Barents Sea air greets travelers, signaling the proximity to the coast and the start of the maritime adventure.

The scenic route offers a glimpse of the Arctic wilderness, setting an adventurous tone for the day. The journey to Kirkenes is part of the experience, with the opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty of the last great wilderness of Europe. Once in Kirkenes, the setting shifts to the seaside camp on a frozen fjord, where the real crab-catching begins.

Exploring Kirkenes: The Gateway to the Barents Sea

Kirkenes, positioned just 15 kilometers from Russia, acts as the perfect backdrop for this Arctic adventure. Known for its geopolitical significance and harbor location, the town’s environment is dominated by the Barents Sea’s icy expanse. Upon arrival, the frozen fjord provides an exhilarating scene of white ice, snow, and sea, inviting explorers into the polar environment.

The camp’s setting gives visitors a true sense of the remote and pristine Arctic coastline. Here, you will meet local fishermen, who are your guides for the crab-hunting experience. Their expertise makes the process both educational and exciting, as they haul crab pots from the icy depths of the Barents Sea.

Witnessing the King Crab Catch: Nature’s Colossal Marvels

The core of this experience revolves around seeing the King Crabs emerge from the cold waters. These “red giants” are notable for their large size and spiky carapace. The guides carefully haul up crab pots, allowing visitors to witness Colossal King Crabs in their natural habitat.

Guests are encouraged to get up close with these impressive creatures, touching their spiky shells while being supervised by the guides. This not only provides a hands-on experience but also offers a unique photo opportunity. The guides share fascinating stories about the crab’s history in the region and explains sustainable harvesting practices to protect the population.

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Savouring Fresh King Crab in a Sami-style Tent

After the excitement of catching the crabs, the tour moves to a cozy Sami-style tent or wooden cabin. Inside, a crackling fireplace and hot drinks create a warm atmosphere against the Arctic chill. The highlight here is tasting your freshly caught bounty.

The master chef prepares the crab simply by steaming or boiling, maximizing the delicate, sweet flavor of the meat. This culinary experience emphasizes freshness, delivering a true taste of the Arctic Sea’s bounty. The ambiance in the tent offers a relaxing break with spectacular views of the icy landscape outside.

Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Gear

The entire journey is facilitated by a specialized 4×4 van, ensuring comfortable travel across the snow and ice. The tour is limited to 8 participants, making it ideal for those seeking a more personalized experience. Pick-up details, including departure times and vehicle info, are sent via email the day before.

Travelers should dress warmly, as outdoor activities happen in Arctic conditions. It is advised to bring a camera to capture the spectacular scenery and impressive crabs. Weather-appropriate clothing is essential, and no alcohol consumption is allowed during the activity, for safety reasons.

The Return Journey and Reflection Time

After a full day of crab catching, tasting, and Arctic scenery, the group reboards the van for the return trip to Saariselkä. The serene twilight of Lapland landscapes offers a peaceful backdrop for reflection on the day’s highlights. Upon arriving at your hotel, it’s recommended to relax and relive the memorable moments through photos and stories.

This tour’s long, immersive experience combines adventure, education, and cuisine, making it a comprehensive Arctic expedition. The small group setting enhances the chance to engage deeply with the guides and other participants.

The Value of the King Crab Safari Experience

At 11 hours, this tour offers a full-day adventure that balances outdoor excitement with culinary delight. The small group size and expert guides ensure a personalized experience, especially for those interested in wildlife and Arctic landscapes.

While the tour involves outdoor activities in cold weather, the warm Sami-style tent provides comfort during breaks. The crab-catching experience and fresh meal stand out as unique highlights that distinguish this tour from typical Arctic excursions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and foodies who want a hands-on encounter with Arctic wildlife. It’s ideal for those comfortable with outdoor winter conditions and interested in learning about sustainable fishing practices.

Given the small group structure, it suits travelers seeking a more intimate, engaging experience. The tour’s educational element and spectacular scenery make it a memorable choice for anyone looking to explore the Barents Sea’s majestic crabs and Arctic environment.

Final Thoughts on the King Crab Safari to Kirkenes

This 11-hour tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, scenery, and cuisine in the Arctic. The chance to see massive King Crabs, touch these “red giants”, and enjoy a freshly prepared seafood meal makes it a truly memorable activity.

The comfortable transportation, small-group setting, and expert guides enhance the overall experience. While it demands warm clothing and comfort with cold outdoor conditions, the spectacular views and interactive elements justify the effort.

This safari is especially suited for curious travelers eager to gain a deeper understanding of Arctic marine life and enjoy hands-on experiences that highlight the bounty of the Barents Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the King Crab Safari from Saariselkä?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including transportation, crab catching, and tasting.

What should I bring for the outdoor activities?
Warm clothing and a camera are essential, along with weather-appropriate gear suited for Arctic conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 6 years or for people with mobility impairments due to outdoor activities and cold weather.

What is included during the meal?
A freshly cooked King Crab prepared in a Sami-style tent is part of the experience, showcasing the sweet, delicate meat of the crab.

How many participants are in each group?
The tour is limited to a small group of 8 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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