Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve

Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve covers islands and waters in southeastern Svalbard, with about 22,000 square kilometers of protected land and sea areas across Edgeøya and Barentsøya. The landscape includes coastal zones, tundra, and wetlands that support Arctic wildlife and plant species.

The reserve was a major site for European whaling and Russian hunting from the 1600s to the 1800s, particularly in the Tusenøyane area. These activities left lasting marks on the landscape and show how this remote Arctic region was used during the age of exploration.

Visitor can see old trapper buildings at Ekrollhamna that tell the story of polar bear and walrus hunting in this remote area. These structures show how people once lived and worked in one of the world's harshest environments.

Access to this reserve requires special permissions that must be obtained before visiting, as entry is tightly controlled. Some islands and sections are closed year-round, so check current restrictions before planning your visit.

The coastline displays exposed whale bones and marine remains on elevated ground that was once underwater, created by geological processes over time. These formations offer rare insights into the region's connection to past hunting and whaling activities.

Location: Svalbard

Inception: June 1, 1973

GPS coordinates: 78.00000,22.00000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:45