Svalbard Discover the Mining Settlement of Pyramiden
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What makes this tour unique is that it's catered to photographers and adventurers in that your private guide is more than just a tour guide – they’re a certified photographer and able to, apart from just showing you the sights, help you compose the perfect photograph in terms of composition, aperture, what lense to use and so forth.
Add to that your certified photographer Photo Exploring guide will be together with you the whole day.
Available options
7 travellers
Additional 6 guests<br/>Pickup included
5 travellers
Additional 4 guests<br/>Pickup included
10 travellers
Additional 9 guests<br/>Pickup included
1 traveller
Pickup included
3 travellers
Additional 2 guests<br/>Pickup included
9 travellers
Additional 8 guests<br/>Pickup included
4 travellers
Additional 3 guests<br/>Pickup included
6 travellers
Additional 5 guests<br/>Pickup included
8 travellers
Additional 7 guests<br/>Pickup included
2 travellers
Additional 1 guest<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Private tour w. experienced local photographer
Detailed itinerary
1
Pickup at your hotel of choice and transfer to the ferry that will take you to Pyramiden. During the 2.5 hours aboard, you'll have ample time to capture the breathtaking fjords and ice floes that surround you.
2
Pyramiden was founded by Sweden in 1910 and sold to the Soviet Union in 1927. It lies at the foot of the Billefjorden on the island of Spitsbergen and is named after the pyramid-shaped mountain with the same name adjacent to the town.
In 1998, the settlement lost its last remaining inhabitant, thus rendering it a ghost town. This is a marvelous place to capture Soviet architecture and a Northern settlement fixed in time.
3
You'll be transported home by ferry to Longyearbyen and then transfer home to your hotel, brimming with new experiences and hopefully a full memory card or two of unforgettable images!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You will spend a totality of 3 hours at Pyramiden. The remaining hours will be spent by ferry to and from the destination, with ample photo opportunities of the breathtaking ice bergs, massive fjords and maybe even polar bears!
Due to local weather conditions, there may be excursions to Barentsburg and Pyramiden where our boat is unable to dock. In such cases, the tour will instead focus on wildlife and the stunning Arctic nature — for example, a visit to Nordenskjöld or the Esmark Glaciers.
During peak season, we reserve vessels based on availability and therefore cannot guarantee whether the boat will be open or closed.
About Longyearbyen
Longyearbyen is the world's northernmost settlement with a permanent population. Located on the island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, it offers a unique Arctic experience with stunning natural beauty, polar bears, and the Northern Lights. The town is also a hub for research and education, with the University Centre in Svalbard and the Global Seed Vault.
Top Attractions
Svalbard Museum
The Svalbard Museum offers a comprehensive overview of the natural history, wildlife, and human history of the Svalbard archipelago.
Museum
1-2 hours
NOK 120
Global Seed Vault
The Global Seed Vault is a secure seed bank that stores seeds from all over the world to ensure biodiversity in case of global catastrophes.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Nordenskiöld Land National Park
This national park offers stunning landscapes, glaciers, and wildlife viewing opportunities. It's a great place for hiking and outdoor activities.
Nature
Half-day to full-day trips
Varies depending on the tour
Must-Try Local Dishes
Reindeer Stew
A traditional Arctic dish made with reindeer meat, vegetables, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.
Main Course
Contains meat, gluten-free if prepared without flour
Fish Soup
A hearty soup made with fresh Arctic fish, vegetables, and spices, often served with bread.
Soup
Contains fish, gluten-free if bread is not included
Popular Activities
Snowmobiling
Dog Sledding
Hiking
Northern Lights Viewing
Spa and Wellness
Museum Visits
Guided Tours
Boat Tours
Best Time to Visit
April to September
This is the best time to visit Longyearbyen for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The days are longer, and the weather is relatively mild.
0°C to 10°C
32°F to 50°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Norwegian
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (GMT+2 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Longyearbyen is a safe town with a small population and low crime rates. However, the remote location and Arctic environment present unique challenges and safety concerns.
Important Precautions:
- • Always go with a guide when venturing outside the town due to polar bear safety.
- • Be aware of rapidly changing weather conditions.
- • Dress appropriately for the cold and carry essential supplies.
Getting there
By air
- Svalbard Airport, Longyear • 3 km from city center
By bus
Longyearbyen
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is reliable and covers most of the town and some nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Not commonly used
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Mine Area
Day trips
Pyramiden
50 km from Longyearbyen • Full day
Abandoned Russian mining town with well-preserved buildings and a unique history.
Barnes Flyover
20 km from Longyearbyen • Half day
A scenic area with stunning views of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife.
Festivals
Svalbard Adventure Film Festival • February
Svalbard Marathon • June
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack warm, waterproof clothing and appropriate footwear for the cold and snowy conditions.
- Always follow safety guidelines and go with a guide when venturing outside the town.
- Take advantage of the unique opportunity to view the Northern Lights and experience the Arctic environment.
- Respect the environment and wildlife, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
