Russian Arctic National Park, National park at northern archipelagos, Russia
The Russian Arctic National Park covers the Franz Josef Land and Novaya Zemlya archipelagos in Arkhangelsk Oblast at Russia's far northern edge. The area consists of numerous Arctic islands, glaciers, rocky shorelines, and barren terrain spread across one of Earth's harshest regions.
The park was established in 2009 to protect these Arctic islands and their ecosystems, and later in 2016 the Franz Josef Land Nature Reserve was integrated into it. These steps marked Russia's commitment to safeguarding these remote and fragile territories in the far north.
The park holds remnants of old expedition camps and research stations that tell the story of Russian presence in the Arctic over centuries. Visitors can walk among these sites and understand how explorers and scientists survived in such a harsh environment.
The area is only accessible by ship during the summer months from July to September when ice conditions permit travel. Visitors must obtain special permits and join organized expeditions with experienced guides, as exploring here demands careful planning and preparation.
One of the park's most remarkable features is Tikhaya Bay, which hosts the world's northernmost post office. Visitors can mail letters from this remote location and receive a special stamp as proof of their visit to this extreme northern point.
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