Sør-Varanger is Norway’s borderland municipality — stretching from the Barents Sea to the Russian frontier. Centered on Kirkenes, it’s a hub of Arctic industry, culture, and adventure. Known for its mining heritage, WWII history, and king crab safaris, Sør-Varanger is a place where East meets West, and where the wilderness of Pasvik Valley hosts brown bears and endless forests.
Top Attractions
- Kirkenes Snowhotel – ice suites, husky tours, and northern lights experiences
- Pasvik Valley – wilderness area with brown bears, rivers, and pine forests
- Grenselandmuseet – museum of WWII history and border culture
- King Crab Safari – catch and feast on giant crabs from the Barents Sea
- Kirkenes Harbor – Hurtigruten port and gateway to Arctic expeditions
Unique Experiences
- Borderland Culture – explore Norwegian, Russian, and Sámi influences
- Brown Bear Tracking – guided tours in Pasvik Valley
- Snowhotel Stay – sleep in ice rooms under aurora skies
- King Crab Feast – Arctic seafood dining with local guides
- Polar Night & Midnight Sun – extreme seasonal contrasts
Places to Stay
Search hotels, cabins & guesthouses in Sør-Varanger
Where to Eat
Explore top-rated restaurants in Sør-Varanger
Getting There
Sør-Varanger is centered on Kirkenes, accessible by plane from Oslo and Tromsø, or by Hurtigruten coastal express. Roads connect it to Finland and Russia, making it a true borderland hub.
