- 3 hours
Russian Border Hike
A 3-hour guided hike to the official markers on the Norwegian–Russian border – NATO's northernmost land frontier. The only tour of its kind in Norway.
- From 1,500 NOK
- 2.5 hours
Spy Games in the Arctic
Step into the shadowy world of Arctic espionage at the very edge of NATO. Discover how Kirkenese, a small border town, became a hotspot of spies, secrets, and Cold War intrigue.
- From 1,500 NOK
- 7 hours
Russian Border Hike to Boris Gleb church
Hike along the Norwegian–Russian border to the historic Boris Gleb Church, one of the key landmarks that shaped the border between the two countries.
- From 4,500 NOK
The story behind the Norwegian–Russian border near Kirkenes
The border between Norway and Russia near Kirkenes was formally established in 1826. It’s one of the few places in Europe where you can stand at the edge of NATO territory and look directly across into Russia. During the Cold War, this was one of only two land borders between NATO and the Soviet Union – the other was in Turkey. That made Kirkenes one of the most strategically sensitive towns in all of Europe: watched, monitored, and shaped by decades of tension that you can still feel in the landscape today.
The history here goes back further than the Cold War. During World War II, Kirkenes was one of the most heavily bombed places in Europe, suffering at least 320 Soviet air raids. On 25 October 1944, it became the first town in Norway to be liberated – by the Red Army. The soldiers were welcomed as heroes.
In 1993, the Kirkenes Declaration was signed, establishing cross-border cooperation between Norway, Finland, Sweden and Northwest Russia under the Barents Euro-Arctic Region. For a period in the 1990s, this was the only land border between Russia and NATO anywhere in the world.
Our tours take you to this border – with the context to understand what you’re actually looking at.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Russian Border
How close to we actually get to the border?
On the Russian Border Hike, you walk right up to the official border markers along the Pasvik River – the actual dividing line between Norway and Russia. On the Spy Games minivan tour, we drive to two key border sites: Skafferhullet, a former unofficial crossing point used during the Cold War, and Storskog, the only official road border crossing between Norway and Russia. You won’t cross into Russian territory on any of our tours, but you’ll get close enough to understand exactly where one country ends and the other begins.
What's the best time of year for a border tour?
The border tours run year-round. Summer brings long daylight and green tundra. Autumn adds dramatic colours and the first chance of Northern Lights on the way back. In winter, the same route becomes a snowshoe hike through a snow-covered landscape with a completely different atmosphere. No matter when you visit Kirkenes, a border tour is one of those experiences you really shouldn’t miss. This is the only place in Norway where you can actually walk along the Norwegian–Russian border – that alone makes it a year-round bucket list experience.
Do I need to be fit or have hiking experience?
It depends on which tour you choose. The short Russian Border Hike (3 hours) and the Spy Games minivan tour are suitable for most people, including those without hiking experience. The full-day hike to Boris Gleb Church (7 hours) requires a reasonable level of fitness. If you’re unsure, just ask us and we’ll help you find the right option.
Can I combine a border tour with my Hurtigruten or Havila stop in Kirkenes?
Absolutely. Kirkenes is the northernmost port of call for both the Hurtigruten and Havila coastal ferries. We’re used to planning tours around ship arrival and departure times, and offer pickup and drop-off from the Kirkenes harbour at no additional cost for of our tours. The short border hike and the Spy Games tour both fit comfortably within a typical stopover. Just let us know your ship schedule when you enquire.
Do I need cash in Kirkenes?
You generally do not need cash in Kirkenes. In Norway, it is very common to pay by card almost everywhere, including restaurants, cafés, and shops. However, if you plan to visit the Norwegian–Russian border crossing at Storskog, there is a small gift shop where the owner only accepts cash (NOK, EUR, or USD).
Do you offer pickup from the Snow Resort?
Yes, we can arrange pickup from the Snow Resort for our tours. Pickup and drop-off typically cost 500 NOK for two people (subject to change). For some tours, this service is already included. Feel free to contact us to discuss your itinerary and options.
Can I book a private tour?
Book your border tour in Kirkenes
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