While Grense Jakobselv is the settlement farthest away from the capital Oslo, if international routes (through Sweden and Finland) are included, Gamvik is the place in Norway with longest road distance from Oslo: 2,040 kilometres (1,270 mi).

Slettnes nature reserve is also located north of the village and it is an important breeding ground for a large number of bird species, and it is home to the second largest colony of parasitic jaegers.

The remains of the old Gamvik Airport as well as some ruins of World War II fortifications are found to the north of the village.

In June 1972, construction started for a land-side terminal and running a SOSUS cable into the sea.

Gamvik experiences a long polar night window as well due to its latitude at above 71°N.