Seiland National Park

Seiland Overview

Seiland National Park, known locally as Seiland nasjonalpark, is a remote and rugged protected area located in Norway’s northernmost county, Finnmark. Covering approximately 126 square miles (327 square kilometers), the park encompasses a significant portion of Seiland Island, the second-largest island in Finnmark.

Established in 2006, the park is characterized by its dramatic coastal landscapes, towering peaks, and the northernmost glaciers in mainland Norway. Seiland National Park is situated in the Arctic region, with the Barents Sea shaping its coastline, creating deep fjords and stunning, steep-walled inlets that contrast sharply with the island’s interior of glaciated summits and rolling tundra.

The terrain of Seiland National Park is a striking blend of rugged mountains, icy glaciers, and vast plateaus covered in Arctic vegetation. Two prominent glaciers, Seilandsjøkelen and Nordmannsjøkelen, dominate the higher elevations, with the former being the largest. The landscape is deeply incised by fjords, including Jøfjorden and Store Kufjorden, which cut into the island and create stunning contrasts between the icy interior and the coastal waters.

The vegetation consists mainly of low-lying shrubs, mosses, and lichens, which thrive in the park’s cold climate. Along the lower elevations, patches of birch forests appear, particularly in sheltered valleys where the conditions are less harsh. The coastal areas are dotted with small islands and rocky outcrops, providing a dramatic setting against the open sea.

Seiland National Park is home to a variety of Arctic and sub-Arctic wildlife, making it a key destination for nature enthusiasts. Among the notable mammals found within the park are reindeer, which roam the tundra in seasonal migrations, and Arctic foxes, although their population has declined due to competition with the red fox. The coastal waters surrounding the island support harbor seals and occasionally visiting whales.

Birdlife is abundant, with seabird colonies nesting along the cliffs and coastal rocks. Species such as white-tailed eagles, puffins, and black guillemots can often be spotted soaring above or diving into the frigid waters. The park’s remote location and minimal human disturbance provide an ideal environment for these species to thrive.

One of the most popular features of Seiland National Park is its glaciers, particularly Seilandsjøkelen, which is accessible to experienced hikers and adventurers. The park’s rugged fjords also draw visitors who explore the landscape by boat or kayak, allowing for an up-close experience with the dramatic cliffs and marine wildlife.

The Midnight Sun in summer and the Northern Lights in winter add an extra dimension to the park’s beauty, making it a year-round destination for those seeking solitude and natural wonder.

Visitors to the park can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, glacier trekking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The park has no marked trails, emphasizing its untouched and wild nature, making it ideal for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Fishing is also a common activity in the fjords, with Arctic char and cod among the sought-after species. In winter, ski touring provides a unique way to traverse the frozen landscapes.

Conservation efforts in Seiland National Park focus on protecting its fragile Arctic ecosystems while allowing for sustainable tourism. The park’s management has succeeded in maintaining a balance between conservation and public access, ensuring that the impact on wildlife and vegetation remains minimal.

Challenges include climate change, which affects the glaciers and permafrost, and the presence of invasive species such as the red fox, which threatens native Arctic fox populations. Despite these challenges, Seiland National Park remains a pristine and largely untouched natural area, offering a rare glimpse into Norway’s Arctic wilderness.

Park Map

Seiland National Park Highlights

WIldlife

Seiland National Park, located in Norway’s Arctic region, is a rugged landscape of dramatic fjords, glaciers, and coastal ecosystems. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, particularly adapted to its cold and harsh environment, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers.

Arctic Fox (Vulpes lagopus)
The Arctic fox is a master of survival in the frigid landscapes of Seiland. With its thick, insulated fur that changes color with the seasons—white in winter and brown in summer—this small yet agile predator hunts lemmings, birds, and carrion left by larger animals.

Eurasian Elk (Alces alces alces)
Also known as moose, these large herbivores roam the forests and wetlands of Seiland. They are well-adapted to the cold and can often be seen foraging on willows, birch, and aquatic plants along the park’s many lakes and rivers.

Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus)
Seiland’s rugged terrain provides an important grazing ground for reindeer, some of which are part of indigenous Sámi herding traditions. These animals are well-adapted to the Arctic climate, with thick fur and wide hooves that allow them to traverse snowy and rocky landscapes with ease.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
More common than its Arctic cousin, the red fox is a versatile predator in Seiland. It can be seen hunting small mammals, scavenging along the coast, or even foraging in human settlements.

European Otter (Lutra lutra)
Otters thrive in the coastal and freshwater ecosystems of the park, using their strong swimming abilities to hunt for fish and crustaceans. Their playful nature and elusive behavior make them a favorite among wildlife watchers.

Wolverine (Gulo gulo)
One of Seiland’s most elusive predators, the wolverine is a solitary scavenger and hunter. Known for its strength and endurance, it can travel vast distances in search of food, often feasting on carrion left behind by larger predators.

Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina)
Along the park’s coastal areas, harbor seals can be seen resting on rocky shores or swimming in the icy waters. These marine mammals rely on a diet of fish and squid, and their playful nature makes them a delightful sight.

Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua)
While not a land animal, the Atlantic cod is an important species in Seiland’s marine ecosystem. This fish thrives in the cold coastal waters, playing a crucial role in both the natural food web and local fisheries.

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
Though rare, brown bears occasionally roam the park’s forests and mountains. These powerful omnivores feed on berries, fish, and small mammals and are an iconic species of the Norwegian wilderness.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
A stealthy and elusive predator, the Eurasian lynx is one of the top carnivores in the region. It preys on reindeer, hares, and small mammals, using its keen eyesight and excellent camouflage to hunt in the dense forests of Seiland.

Birds

Seiland National Park is also a haven for birdlife, with its coastal cliffs, tundra, and forested areas providing habitat for a variety of species. Many migratory birds pass through the park, making it an exciting location for birdwatchers.

White-Tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
One of Europe’s largest birds of prey, the white-tailed eagle is often seen soaring over the fjords and rocky coastlines. With its impressive wingspan and sharp talons, it preys on fish, seabirds, and small mammals.

Puffin (Fratercula arctica)
These iconic seabirds nest along Seiland’s rocky cliffs, forming large colonies during the breeding season. Their striking black and white plumage, colorful beaks, and expert diving skills make them a favorite among visitors.

Common Eider (Somateria mollissima)
A large sea duck, the common eider is often seen along Seiland’s coastline. Known for its soft down feathers, which have been used for insulation by humans for centuries, these birds dive for mollusks and small crustaceans.

Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus)
The world’s largest falcon, the gyrfalcon is a formidable predator in the Arctic. It primarily hunts other birds, especially ptarmigans, and is an agile flyer despite its size.

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus)
This striking white owl is well adapted to the Arctic environment, hunting lemmings and other small mammals. Though elusive, lucky visitors may spot one perched on rocky outcrops or soaring across the tundra.

Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle)
A member of the auk family, the black guillemot is often seen diving into the cold waters in search of fish. Its distinctive black plumage with white wing patches makes it easy to identify.

Northern Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis)
A close relative of the albatross, the northern fulmar glides effortlessly over the open sea. These birds nest in cliffs and have a unique ability to produce a foul-smelling oil to defend themselves from predators.

Rock Ptarmigan (Lagopus muta)
A master of camouflage, the rock ptarmigan changes its plumage with the seasons—white in winter and brown in summer. It thrives in the mountainous and tundra regions of the park.

Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)
These large, dark-colored seabirds are expert divers, often seen perching on rocky outcrops with their wings spread to dry. They primarily feed on fish and are common along the fjords.

Long-Tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis)
Recognizable by its striking plumage and elongated tail feathers, the long-tailed duck is a true Arctic specialist. It winters in the coastal waters of Seiland, diving for small fish and crustaceans.

Seiland National Park is a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of species adapted to Norway’s Arctic conditions. Whether on land, in the water, or in the sky, the park’s fauna is a testament to the resilience of life in the north.