Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A FORBIDDING FRONTIER
Don't even think about stepping across the Russian border for a photo. Nowadays, in ad-
dition to vestiges of old Cold War neuroses on both sides, Norway, as a Schengen Agree-
ment country, is vigilant about keeping illegal immigrants from entering. Both Norwegian
and Russian sentries are equipped with surveillance equipment and the fine for illegal
crossing, even momentarily, starts at a whopping Nkr5000. Using telephoto or zoom
lenses or even a tripod all qualify as violations. As the guidance document sternly warns:
'It is prohibited to intentionally make contact with, or act in an insulting manner towards
persons on the other side of the border and to throw items across the borderline. Any at-
tempts at violations will be punished as if they had been carried out'. You have been
warned!
Getting There & Away
and Norwegian) and Tromsø (Widerøe).
Kirkenes is the terminus of the Hurtigruten coastal ferry, which heads southwards again
at 12.45pm daily. A bus (Nkr100) meets the boat and runs into town and on to the airport.
(10¼ hours), Alta (10½ hours) and many points in between.
Independent travellers armed with a Russian visa (which you'll need to get in your home
way/return Nkr450/Nkr700, five hours).
Getting Around
The airport, 13km southwest of town, is served by the Flybuss (Nkr85, 20 minutes), which
connects the bus terminal and Rica Arctic Hotel with all arriving and departing flights.
78 99 13 97)
charges Nkr300/350 for a day/evening
run between town and the airport.
There are car rental agencies at the airport or ask at your hotel.
