About Varanger
Norway's northeasternmost corner
The Varanger Peninsula extends into the Barents Sea between the Varangerfjord and Tanafjord. Here, dramatic Arctic landscapes meet Sami culture and wildlife found in few other places on Earth.
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~24 000
residents in the region
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5 700 km²
peninsula area
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70°N
north of the Arctic Circle
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7
municipalities in the region
A landscape on the edge
Varanger is one of Norway's most distinctive destinations. The open plateau, barren mountains and ice-cold sea create an atmosphere you won't find many other places in the world.
Vadsø is the region's administrative centre, while Vardø is Norway's easternmost city — lying further east than both Istanbul and St. Petersburg. Both have strong ties to Norwegian, Sami and Kven culture.
Varangerhalvøya National Park covers much of the peninsula and is one of Europe's best places to experience Arctic nature up close — with Arctic fox, golden eagle, puffin and walrus.
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Arctic fox and golden eagle
The Varanger Peninsula is one of the few places in Europe with a viable Arctic fox population. In winter you can spot golden eagles and snowy owls.
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Whales and walrus
The Barents Sea off the coast is rich in marine life. Whale safaris from Vardø and Berlevåg are a truly extraordinary experience.
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Northern lights
From September to March the northern lights illuminate the fjords. The vast, dark sky makes Varanger one of Norway's best aurora destinations.
When should you visit?
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Winter
Dec – Feb
- Northern lights
- Snowmobile
- King crab safari
- Ice landscapes
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Spring
Mar – May
- Bird migration
- Ski on the plateau
- Midnight sun from May
- Ice fishing
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Summer
Jun – Aug
- Midnight sun
- Sea fishing
- Hiking
- Wildlife at peak
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Autumn
Sep – Nov
- Aurora season starts
- Fishing
- Quiet and peaceful
- Autumn colours
What's on the map?
Enjoy Varanger collects all experiences in the region under these categories:
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Experiences
Guided tours, nature experiences, fishing trips, dog sledding and everything that gives you unforgettable moments in Varanger.
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Dining
Restaurants, cafés and eateries — from fresh fish straight from the sea to local specialties and cozy coffee corners.
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Accommodation
Hotels, cabins, rorbu and unique places to stay. Find somewhere to rest between your adventures.
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Sea life
Sea activities, fishing harbours, boat trips and coastal spots where maritime life takes centre stage.
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Museum
Cultural history, Sami heritage, war history and local museums that tell the story of Varanger and Northern Norway.
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Winter
Northern lights experiences, snowmobile tours, ski trails and everything that makes the polar night in Varanger magical.
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Sauna
Saunas with fjord views, outdoor baths and relaxation in Arctic Norwegian nature — ideally followed by a dip in the sea.
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Summer
Midnight sun, mountain hiking, sea fishing and an active outdoor life in one of Norway's most dramatic natural regions.
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Autumn
Colourful tundra, cloudberry picking, elk hunting and quiet days along the fjord after the summer season.
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Spring
Ice breaking up on the fjord, spring hunting, birdwatching and the first light nights after a long winter.
Municipalities in the region
Nesseby
Elongated municipality along the northern shore of Varangerfjord with a strong Sami identity.
About the platform
What is Enjoy Varanger?
Enjoy Varanger is a local platform that brings together experiences, accommodation, restaurants and activities in the Varanger region in one place.
Are you a business in Varanger and want to be visible on the map?