Home News "The Arctic is near": Irina Gekht spoke about the tourism potential of the Nenets Autonomous Area

"The Arctic is near": Irina Gekht spoke about the tourism potential of the Nenets Autonomous Area

Photo: Press Office of the National Centre RUSSIA

10.15

The Nenets Autonomous Area is preparing for a new stage in tourism development. The region offers unique opportunities for travellers wishing to experience the real Arctic. Governor of the Nenets Autonomous Area Irina Gekht shared this view during the Cycle of Meetings with Heads of Russian Regions "Platform of the Future: Region-2030. 100 Steps" held at the National Centre RUSSIA.

"The Nenets Autonomous Area is a wonderful place for Arctic weekends. It is the closest and most accessible real Arctic for residents of Central Russia. Here you can see the northern lights, the tundra, endless snowy expanses and reindeer," said Irina Gekht.

According to her, the Area has already begun a "reboot" of its tourism development strategy, which will focus on short-term trips, including those for schoolchildren.

"We are also developing VIP tourism, but due to the vast territory, the use of helicopters or boats makes such routes more expensive. Therefore, the Area offers various formats — from affordable weekend tours to exclusive routes that allow you to admire nature from above. Fishing and hunting are also popular here — those who are passionate about these activities have long known our region," she added.

Irina Gekht emphasised that the Nenets Autonomous Area is still little-known to travellers, yet it is already accessible for those who dream of seeing the Arctic. According to her, the region is in no hurry to promote tourism actively, as it still needs to develop infrastructure — including hotels, glamping sites and other facilities. Once all this is established, it will become "a true paradise for tourists" with unique cuisine and stunning nature, she noted.

"Most of my friends used to have no idea where the Nenets Autonomous Area is. Many thought it was far away and in a different time zone. And when they learn that it’s only a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Moscow and in the same time zone, they’re always surprised," added the Governor.