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🌎  Svalbard And Jan Mayen Islands 🇸🇯

📍  Pyramiden 9170, Svalbard and Jan Mayen

✈️  Svalbard Airport, Longyear (LYR)

🚗  49 metres

⏱️  

Pyramiden, a fascinating abandoned Soviet mining settlement in Svalbard, offers a unique ghost town experience. Accessibility is remote, primarily by boat in summer (June-September) or snowmobile in winter (March-May) from Longyearbyen, making it largely inaccessible during shoulder seasons; the site is not wheelchair friendly due to its rugged and unmaintained nature. Guided visits are strongly recommended, and often mandatory for safety due to polar bear presence and to gain historical insights, as independent exploration is difficult and potentially dangerous. The cost is high, reflecting the specialized transport and remote location, with day tours typically ranging from $200-500+. A typical visit is a full-day excursion from Longyearbyen (8-12 hours including travel), allowing ample time to explore the main buildings and learn about its history. Visitors should dress extremely warmly regardless of season, be prepared for basic facilities, and always follow guide instructions for safety.