Sør-Spitsbergen National Park

Sør-Spitsbergen National Park is a protected area in the southern part of Spitsbergen island that covers both land and sea. The park includes tundra, fjords, and marine zones that provide habitat for Arctic wildlife.

Norway established this protected area in 1973 to preserve the southern regions of Spitsbergen. The creation of the park came as part of growing efforts to safeguard the unique Arctic environment.

The park preserves traces of old whaling activities visible in abandoned stations scattered across the landscape. These remains show how early Arctic hunters lived and worked in this harsh environment.

Visiting requires permits and guided tours due to the remote Arctic location and environmental protection. Boats or aircraft are the only transportation options to reach the area.

Four bird sanctuaries within the park provide critical nesting grounds for eider ducks, barnacle geese, and seabirds. These islands are internationally important as breeding refuges during summer months.

Location: Svalbard

Inception: 1973

Website: http://dirnat.no/sspitsbergen

GPS coordinates: 77.15000,16.28333

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:27