1986 gmc safari van

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1986 Gmc Safari Catalog and Classic Car Guide, Ratings and Features

Posted by Scott Thompson on 17th Jan 2024

Image of 1986 Gmc Safari, sourced from row52.com , Image Link.

Performance Metrics

Fundamental metrics, emotional appeal.

Note: Specifications for classic cars are given to the best of our ability, considering the limited and variant data available.

Unveiling the Unsung Hero of the '80s: The 1986 GMC Safari Van

When the open road beckons, few vehicles answer the call with as much versatility and understated charm as the 1986 GMC Safari Van. Born in an era of bold designs and automotive innovation, the Safari emerged from General Motors' commitment to providing a multi-purpose vehicle that blended functionality with comfort. Its historical context is rooted in the mid-1980s quest for a family-friendly vehicle that could double as a cargo carrier. A unique fact that might tickle the fancy of enthusiasts is that the Safari, alongside its twin, the Chevrolet Astro, was among the first mid-sized vans to offer all-wheel drive, a feature that now seems commonplace but was a pioneering step back then.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1986 GMC Safari Van was a departure from the boxy norms of its time, featuring a slightly more aerodynamic profile that hinted at efficiency and modernity. Inside, passengers were greeted with a no-nonsense cabin, where durability took precedence over luxury. The materials used were built to last, reflecting the van's utilitarian purpose. Technologically, it boasted features like electronic fuel injection and optional rear Dutch doors, which were quite advanced for its time. As for color options, choices ranged from the classic, subdued tones to more vibrant hues, with shades like "Midnight Black" and "Apple Red" often catching buyers' eyes. The most iconic body style was arguably the passenger version, which offered generous space and configurable seating arrangements.

Historical Significance

The Safari's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It demonstrated that a van could be both practical and somewhat stylish, influencing a generation of vehicles that sought to serve families and businesses alike. Its introduction of all-wheel drive in this segment set it apart from contemporaries and paved the way for future models to incorporate this once-exclusive feature.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1986 GMC Safari Van was no slouch. While it wasn't built for speed, it offered respectable performance metrics for its class, with enough horsepower to handle fully-laden road trips or cargo hauling duties. Handling was what you'd expect from a mid-sized van of the era—solid and reliable rather than sporty. Drivers could expect a smooth ride over bumps and a stable experience on windy roads. Behind the wheel, one would find satisfaction in the van's workhorse-like rumble and the straightforward interaction with its controls.

Ownership Experience

The Safari Van was a chameleon of sorts; it served as a daily driver for families, a dependable work vehicle for tradespeople, and occasionally even found itself decked out for show car status. Its maintenance and reliability were one of its strong suits, with many parts being easy to source and replace by the average owner. This accessibility contributed to its longevity on the road.

In the realm of trivia, the GMC Safari has had its share of spotlight moments—perhaps most notably in film and television where it often played the reliable, if not slightly unglamorous, backdrop character. While it may not have broken speed records, it certainly set benchmarks for endurance and versatility in its class. Criticisms over time have centered on its somewhat thirsty fuel consumption and a design that some felt was too conservative.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1986 GMC Safari Van holds a unique place in collector circles. While not as coveted as some classic cars, its durability and nostalgic appeal have begun to increase its value among enthusiasts. Production numbers were substantial, so rarity isn't a major factor; however, finding one in pristine condition can be challenging. As for value range, well-kept models can fetch anywhere from a few thousand dollars up to perhaps $10,000 or more for exceptionally maintained examples. The market trend seems to show a slow but steady appreciation as these vans become recognized for their historical place in automotive evolution.

The 1986 GMC Safari Van stands as a testament to an era when practicality reigned supreme. It may not have been the flashiest vehicle on the road, but its contribution to the multi-purpose vehicle segment is undeniable. For those who owned one, it likely holds a special place in their memories—as solid and reliable as the day they drove it off the lot. The Safari Van remains an endearing piece of automotive history that continues to charm collectors and enthusiasts alike.

1986 Gmc Safari Catalog of Parts

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• #1986 Gmc Safari
• #Classic Car Catalog

Research 1986 GMC Safari specs for the trims available. Choose the desired trim / style from the dropdown list to see the corresponding specs.

3dr SL Mini-Van

Drive train specs, vehicle weight, 3dr slx mini-van, 3dr sle mini-van, 3dr cargo mini-van.

Old-School Rear-Drive Minivans: 1986 GMC Safari vs 1993 Ford Aerostar

• By Mark Tucker
• November 27, 2023
• 55 Comments

Good morning, and welcome back! I hope you all had a good Thanksgiving holiday. Today, we’re getting right back to it with a couple of old rear-wheel-drive minivans. There’s a lot to be said for a good cheap box-on-wheels, and these are both definitely cheap. Are they any good, though? We’ll find out in a minute.

First, though, we have not one, but two sets of results to look at. On Thanksgiving Day , it was MG versus Fiat. Neither one was without its issues, but the Brava’s US-market-friendly automatic transmission turned a lot of you off, and the MGB GT won in a landslide. I can’t say I disagree – I own one, after all – but I certainly don’t need two of them, so my imaginary internet money is going to the Fiat.

On Black Friday , I gave you all a glimpse at the hobby that occupies most of my free time: old RC cars. Lots of you shared your own stories about the hobby, and they were wonderful to hear. I’d like to do more RC-related pieces here when I have time; it’s good to hear there’s some call for it. Our Showdown was between two old rivals: the Associated RC10 and the Kyosho Ultima. Neither is a bad choice, but the RC10 seemed to drag up more old fond memories and took the lion’s share of the votes.

All right; let’s check out some vans. Chrysler’s front-wheel-drive minivans caught GM and Ford flat-footed in 1984, leaving them scrambling to catch up. Both chose to enter the market with rear-wheel-drive vans, both borrowing heavily from their respective compact pickup trucks for drivetrain components. They weren’t as nimble or as car-like as the Caravan and Voyager, but they could tow and haul more, and seemed less alien to traditional buyers. Ford and GM both eventually went front-drive, but not before selling a ton of both of these vans. Most are gone now, but today we have one of each, and for bargain prices. Let’s see which one you prefer.

1986 GMC Safari – $1,850

Engine/drivetrain: 2.5 liter overhead valve inline 4, four-speed automatic, RWD

Location: Washougal, WA

Odometer reading: 97,000 miles

Runs/drives? Yep, but needs exhaust welded back on

GM’s entry into the minivan wars arrived in 1985, and it was a bit of a parts-bin special: it used suspension parts from full-size sedans and the drivetrain from the S-series pickups. Nearly every Chevy Astro and GMC Safari was powered by a 4.3 liter V6, but some early cargo models were equipped with a 2.5 liter “Iron Duke” four-cylinder. This is one of those.

This Safari has very low miles, only 97,000. It was owned by a school district, and probably spent its life puttering around various school grounds at 20 mph. The little four-banger is plenty of power for such use, I suppose. Astros and Safaris were technically available with manual transmissions, but I’ve only ever seen one of those in person. This one is, as you would expect for fleet use, equipped with a TH700R4 four-speed automatic.

The seller says it runs and drives fine, but some tweaker tried to steal the catalytic converter and failed, but managed to sever one exhaust pipe. It will need a little welding to put the exhaust gasses back where they belong. Apart from that, though, it sounds like it’ll go anywhere you want it to go – just not quickly.

Apart from a plywood divider behind the seats, this van is an empty vessel. Outfit it as a camper, or use it for work, or whatever. The Iron Duke may not have a lot of power, but it should return a lot better gas mileage than the notoriously thirsty 4.3 liter V6.

1993 Ford Aerostar – $1,500

Engine/drivetrain: 3.0 liter (probably) or 4.0 liter (maybe) overhead valve V6, four-speed automatic, RWD

Location: Clackamas, OR

Odometer reading: 150,000 miles

Runs/drives? Yep

And here we have the Aerostar van, introduced by crosstown rivals Ford in 1986. It was more of a clean-sheet design than the Astro/Safari was, but still used some off-the-shelf Ford parts. In 1993, two V6 engines were offered: the 3.0 liter “Vulcan” V6 from the Taurus, turned ninety degrees to power the rear wheels, or the 4.0 liter “Cologne” V6 used in the Ranger and Explorer. The seller doesn’t specify which engine is in this one; the 4.0 was standard with all-wheel-drive, but this one is 2WD, and only a low-level XL model, so I’m guessing it has the Vulcan. Ford offered a stick in the Aerostar all the way up until 1995, but this one is an automatic.

The seller says it runs and drives well, and has been kept up-to-date on maintenance. It has 150,000 miles on the clock, which is pretty low, but it’s also around the time that Ford 4R44E/4R55E transmissions decide they’ve had enough if they haven’t been maintained. Make sure that fluid is nice and pink.

Unlike the Safari, this Aerostar is a passenger model, seven passengers, to be exact. The interior looks all right, except for some wear on the driver’s seat. If you don’t need or want the extra seats, it’s easy enough to take them out, and then you can do whatever you want with it. It’s the extended model, with an extra foot or so behind the rear wheels, so there’s plenty of room to work.

The one thing that does bear mentioning is the difference in color on the driver’s side. Usually that’s the sign of repair from a wreck. It has a clean title, but we all know that doesn’t mean much; lots of shoddy repairs get done off the books. That color difference could just be a trick of the light in the photo, but a close inspection is warranted, I think.

Old vans get a bad rap; too many of them have creepy owners or end up getting lived in, or both. But I can’t think of a more useful vehicle than a small van. Use it as a truck, or a station wagon. Commute in it, and go play on the weekends. And these two are cheap enough to leave room in the budget for whatever modifications or additions you care to make. All that’s left for you to do is choose.

(Image credits: Craigslist sellers)

• Cars For Sale , Ford aerostar , gmc safari , Minivans , shitbox showdown

Mark Tucker

Beautiful red velvet seating for eight? Count me in on the AeroStar. Who cares if it runs? Does the cassette player work? Put a disco ball in that thing, and a pony keg in the back. $2 cover charge gets you a red solo cup, free refills, and maybe a even a ride around the parking lot. It will pay for itself!

The Iron Dookie would be a great engine….in a Chevette. (I did my drivers training in an automatic Chevette, and it was horrible if indestructible…) The 4.3 is a solid engine.

However, the Aerostar is pretty cool styling, and that red interior…

Hello Autopians. I had a 1989 XLT Aerostar, it was shockingly reliable. At 34 years and 212000+ miles, it was stolen. I’m sure someone just could not contain their jealousy, and said to themselves, “I and I alone must have this, the coolest of all minivans.” Or something like that.

At any rate, my point in posting: if any Aerostar owners are near or in the SF Bay Area, I still have the bench seats. And they can be had for the low, low price of FREE. Just come get them.

Fond memories of driving my Father-in-law’s Aerostar of this vintage the first time I visited him on Vancouver Island. Learned several things:

1) my wife drives vans like they are sports cars and it’s very scary, especially on the mountain twisties with no guardrails, took note for all future car purchases

2) the rear seats are great places to nap after eating too much greasy food from “The Clam Bucket”

3) the RWD version is horrible in snow. Good thing we had a brother-in-law along for that leg of the trip for added pushing power

I admit to hooning our Sienna…

Safari! Easy vote today…now going back to actually read article ha ha Never liked the look of the Aerostar plus it’s a Fix Or Repair Daily

That Ford triggered a godawful memory of their ad campaign jingle, which was set to a very Up With People-esque rendering of “Aquarius,” informing that this was, in fact, “the dawning of the age of the Aerostar.”

But I’d had that 3.0 Vulcan in a 90s Taurus and it ain’t bad, so that’s my pick.

I almost added a link to that commercial, but thought better of it…

I am a pretty big fan of the Astro/Safari family but, Iron Duke? Naw, thanks but no thanks – plus the short wheelbase and cargo configuration isn’t helpful. It pains me to say it but the Aerostar is the better choice here.

Aerostar, provided it is the 4.0L. I had a ’93 Ranger with the 3.0L and that engine just loved eating it’s valvetrain. The ’95 Explorer I replaced it with had the OHV 4.0L, and while not powerful, it was still charging hard(ish) at 230,000 miles when I sold it.

I enjoy an Astro, but as others have noted, not with the Iron Duke.

There is a shocking amount of Astro/Safari vans still on the road here in L.A., but almost no Aerostars. The GM twins seem quite durable, so normally that would be my pick — but with an Iron Duke instead of the Vortec V6?! NO thank you.

My buddy had a bog-standard 1986 Aerostar cargo van with the 4-cylinder and manual transmission, which he had purchased new as a gig vehicle for his musical equipment. In that form, it was not a pleasant vehicle. However, my other friend’s mom had a fully-loaded ’86 Aerostar passenger van that was much like the one shown here, and that was a surprisingly decent ride. In this specific showdown, I would take the Aerostar.

One thing about the Aerostar that always made me smirk was the floor shifters. The original Aerostar had a very low floor and no center console, so both the manual and automatic versions had floor shifters that were like two feet tall. It was like driving a UPS van. They could have at least put in a column shifter for the automatic, but nope, it was just an incredibly long stick with the PRNDL indicator way down on the floor. At some point they must have come to their senses, because the 1993 model shown here looks to have a console mounted on the transmission hump, resulting in a shorter shift lever.

This one has a column shifter. They changed it during a facelift, around 1990-91, I think.

Ah, even better. I couldn’t make it out based on the images in the article.

Know nothing about these, but the Aerostar is newer, doesn’t have a janky plywood divider in it, and has a V6 instead of the Iron Duke 4.

As an Astro aficionado (SEXY… I know…), and as someone who worked on plenty of Aerostars of this vintage, I’m going with Aerostar. The Astro has the 4 cylinder and it’s the shorter body size… so… would not be a great ride. You could engine swap the Astro and do some cool stuff with it though.

If we are comparing awd to awd of the same year, then I’d go Astro all day.

But, Aerostars held up very well (for the time), massively better reliability than the shitbox Windstars that came out to replace the Aerostar.

God damn do I hate Windstars…

My parents moved to Tennessee in an Aerostar and had nothing nice to say about it. Slow Astro it is.

The Iron Duke will be horrible in a vehicle as big and heavy as the Astro. So the Aerostar with the V6 is an easy pick.

I’m biased since I own a lifted AWD astro, but in this case I’m giving it to the aerostar, looks far nicer condition. And Astros are godawful slow with the 4.3, cannot imagine it with a 4 cyl.

All I can say is that I still see tons of Astro/Safari vans chugging around town, but I couldn’t tell you the last time I saw a running Aerostar. That alone made me vote for Team GM.

Hell, if I had the money, I’d buy that Aerostar. I grew up with them and ours were pretty solid. The first ones that came out were awful but our replacement from 89 was a tank. I would totally drive that thing!

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Used GMC Safari for Sale

30   gmc safari results.

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GMC Safari OWNER RATINGS & REVIEWS

1986 GMC C/K

Model years for gmc c/k.

Showing 24 of 86 related listings

1986 GMC C1500 Short Bed

Lot CHA85: 1986 GMC C1500 Short Bed

• 19,124 mi TMU
• Location: Concord, NC, USA
• Originality: Custom  Highly modified and/or Restored vehicles with uprated, non-period correct engine swaps, or engines from outside the original manufacturer, and/or vehicles with significant body customizations or conversions. Generally, Custom vehicles cannot be easily returned to their original factory specifications.
• Transmission: Automatic
• Driver side: LHD

1986 GMC K1500 Sierra

Lot kcm1000: 1986 gmc k1500 sierra.

• 34,205 mi TMU
• Location: Olathe, KS, USA
• Originality: Modified  Vehicles with a period-correct engine and body, with multiple removable modifications, or a few significant modifications such as increased displacement, added performance equipment (turbo, supercharger, headers), transmission swaps, bumpers, or body wraps. Modified vehicles can generally be returned to original factory specifications.

1986 GMC C1500 Custom Pick up

Lot p67091: 1986 gmc c1500 custom pick up.

• Location: Ventura, CA, USA

1986 GMC C1500 Custom Pickup

Lot 149: 1986 gmc c1500 custom pickup.

• 54,017 mi TMU
• Location: Palm Beach County, Florida, USA

1986 GMC K1500 4X4

Lot 8514-cha: 1986 gmc k1500 4x4.

• 53,517 mi TMU
• Location: Concord, North Carolina, USA

1986 GMC K1500 Sierra Classic 4-Speed

Lot 142075: 1986 gmc k1500 sierra classic 4-speed.

• 25,000 mi TMU
• Location: Valley Center, Kansas, USA
• Transmission: Manual

1986 GMC High Sierra 3/4 Ton Pickup

Lot 5509: 1986 gmc high sierra 3/4 ton pickup.

• 286,837 mi TMU
• Location: Morgantown, PA, USA

1986 GMC Sierra 1500 Classic

Lot 15678-pc: 1986 gmc sierra 1500 classic.

• 99,999 mi TMU
• Location: Ocala, Florida, USA

1986 GMC K1500

Lot btc0790c: 1986 gmc k1500.

• Location: Traverse City, MI, USA

1986 GMC Sierra K2500

Lot st0045: 1986 gmc sierra k2500.

• Location: Greensboro, North Carolina, USA

1986 GMC C1500 Sierra Classic

Lot th0173: 1986 gmc c1500 sierra classic.

• Originality: Original & Highly Original  Vehicles that are original or close to original factory specifications, irrespective of condition. May include vehicles that have minor, removable modifications such as aftermarket wheels, exhaust, or accessories such as cargo/roof rack, stereos, etc.

Lot 50062151: 1986 GMC C1500 Short Bed

1986 GMC Sierra Classic 2500

Lot mhm3944: 1986 gmc sierra classic 2500.

• 59,431 mi TMU
• Location: Denver, CO, USA

Lot 526: 1986 GMC C1500 Custom Pickup

• Location: Scottsdale, Arizona, USA

Lot 48663756: 1986 GMC K1500 4X4

• 39,950 mi TMU
• Location: Whitewood, SD, USA

1986 GMC C2500 Sierra Classic 7.4L

Lot 133968: 1986 gmc c2500 sierra classic 7.4l.

• 29,000 mi TMU
• Location: Coronado, CA, USA

1986 GMC Sierra Classic Pickup

Lot j63: 1986 gmc sierra classic pickup.

• 57,408 mi TMU
• Location: Kissimmee, Florida, USA

1986 GMC K2500

Lot p5533s: 1986 gmc k2500.

• 98,240 mi TMU
• Location: Grand Rapids, MI, USA

1986 GMC Sierra Pickup

Lot f110.1: 1986 gmc sierra pickup.

• 5,707 mi TMU
• Location: Kansas City, Missouri, USA

1986 GMC K1500 4X4 4-Speed

Lot 46677569: 1986 gmc k1500 4x4 4-speed.

• Location: Springfield, MO, USA

1986 GMC K3500 Sierra Classic 3+3 4×4 5-Speed

Lot 128793: 1986 gmc k3500 sierra classic 3+3 4×4 5-speed.

• Location: Municipality of Two Borders, Manitoba, CAN

1986 GMC 3500 Sierra Classic

Lot 13245-pc: 1986 gmc 3500 sierra classic.

• Location: Salem, Oregon, USA

1986 GMC C15 Sierra

Lot 1899: 1986 gmc c15 sierra.

• 1,101 mi TMU
• Location: Largo, FL, USA

Lot 44750701: 1986 GMC C1500 Short Bed

• 1986 GMC Safari

1986 GMC Safari Cargo Van Review

Vehicle overview.

1986 GMC Safari is manufactured in United States. It has a comfortable CARGO VAN body style. The engine is powerful and comprises 4.3L V6 OHV 12V. 1986 GMC Safari has had 2 recalls in the past 38 years.

• Model: Safari
• Trim: Cargo Van
• Made In: UNITED STATES
• Body & Doors: CARGO VAN
• Engine: 4.3L V6 OHV 12V
• Transmission: Not on File
• Driveline: RWD
• Seating: Not on File
• MSRP: $ Not on File
• MPG: Not on File
• Tires: Not on File
• Tank Size: Not on File

Popular VINs

• 1GTCM15EXGB533483
• 1GTCM15Z5GB517873
• 1GTCM15Z2GB501016
• 1GTCM15E0GB521231
• 1GTCM15Z1GB505395
• 1GTCM15E4GB519014
• 1GTCM15Z6GB509829

Vehicle Specifications

Photos & videos, safety & recalls, recall 59954 started on 05/19/2006 by mfr effecting 88,303 units..

Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.

Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).

Notes: THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO AFTERMARKET FRAM FUEL FILTERS AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON THE VEHICLES LISTED.CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

Recall 19146 started on 11/16/1993 by ODI effecting 604,207 units.

Summary: THE RECLINER MECHANISM AND THE SEAT FRAME MAY HAVE FOAM AND/OR VINYL BETWEEN THEM, CREATING A "SOFT" JOINT. THIS "SOFT" JOINT RESULTS IN LOWER THAN SPECIFIED BOLT TORQUE WHICH LEADS TO JOINT LOOSENESS, CAUSING BOLT FATIGUE AND EVENTUAL BOLT FAILURE.

Consequence: IF BOLT FAILURE OCCURS TO THE DRIVER'S SEAT, IT WOULDALLOW THE SEAT BACK TO SUDDENLY RECLINE, AND COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLECONTROL AND A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE FOAM AND/OR VINYL FROM BETWEEN THE RECLINER MECHANISM AND THE SEAT FRAME "SOFT" JOINT AND REPLACE THE RECLINER BOLTS.

Notes: SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; SEAT TRACKS, ANCHORS, AND SEATS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: VANS AND UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BUCKET SEATS WITHKNOB TYPE RECLINER MECHANISMS.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPONSERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AND FREEOF CHARGE OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASECONTACT THE GMC SERVICE CENTER AT 1-313-456-4547 OR THE CHEVROLET SERVICE CENTERAT 1-800-222-1020. ALSO, PLEASE CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETYADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.

Other Trims and Configurations for 1986 GMC Safari

1986 gmc safari sl.

• Drivetrain: RWD
• Body & Doors: SPORTS VAN

1986 GMC Safari Cargo

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Shooter Files by f.d. walker

Street Photography Tips, Interaction, Travel, Guides

Apr 24 2017

City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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Le Corbusier’s triumphant return to Moscow

The exhibition of French prominent architect Le Corbusier, held in The Pushkin Museum, brings together the different facets of his talent. Source: ITAR-TASS / Stanislav Krasilnikov

The largest Le Corbusier exhibition in a quarter of a century celebrates the modernist architect’s life and his connection with the city.

Given his affinity with Moscow, it is perhaps surprising that the city had never hosted a major examination of Le Corbusier’s work until now. However, the Pushkin Museum and the Le Corbusier Fund have redressed that discrepancy with the comprehensive exhibition “Secrets of Creation: Between Art and Architecture,” which runs until November 18.

Presenting over 400 exhibits, the exhibition charts Le Corbusier’s development from the young man eagerly sketching buildings on a trip around Europe, to his later years as a prolific and influential architect.

The exhibition brings together the different facets of his talent, showing his publications, artwork and furniture design alongside photographs, models and blueprints of his buildings.

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Irina Antonova, director of the Pushkin Museum, said, “It was important for us to also exhibit his art. People know Le Corbusier the architect, but what is less well know is that he was also an artist. Seeing his art and architecture together gives us an insight into his mind and his thought-processes.”

What becomes obvious to visitors of the exhibition is that Le Corbusier was a man driven by a single-minded vision of how form and lines should interact, a vision he was able to express across multiple genres.

The upper wings of the Pushkin Museum are separated by the central stairs and two long balconies. The organizers have exploited this space, allowing comparison of Le Corbusier’s different art forms. On one side there are large paintings in the Purist style he adapted from Cubism, while on the other wall there are panoramic photographs of his famous buildings.

Le Corbusier was a theorist, producing many pamphlets and manifestos which outlined his view that rigorous urban planning could make society more productive and raise the average standard of living.

It was his affinity with constructivism, and its accompanying vision of the way architecture could shape society, which drew him to visit the Soviet Union, where, as he saw it, there existed a “nation that is being organized in accordance with its new spirit.”

The exhibition’s curator Jean-Louis Cohen explains that Le Corbusier saw Moscow as “somewhere he could experiment.” Indeed, when the architect was commissioned to construct the famous Tsentrosoyuz Building, he responded by producing a plan for the entire city, based on his concept of geometric symmetry.

Falling foul of the political climate

He had misread the Soviet appetite for experimentation, and as Cohen relates in his book Le Corbusier, 1887-1965, drew stinging attacks from the likes of El Lissitsky, who called his design “a city on paper, extraneous to living nature, located in a desert through which not even a river must be allowed to pass (since a curve would contradict the style).”

Not to be deterred, Le Corbusier returned to Moscow in 1932 and entered the famous Palace of the Soviets competition, a skyscraper that was planned to be the tallest building in the world.

This time he fell foul of the changing political climate, as Stalin’s growing suspicion of the avant-garde led to the endorsement of neo-classical designs for the construction, which was ultimately never built due to the Second World War.

Situated opposite the proposed site for the Palace of the Soviets, the exhibition offers a tantalizing vision of what might have been, presenting scale models alongside Le Corbusier’s plans, and generating the feeling of an un-built masterpiece.

Despite Le Corbusier’s fluctuating fortunes in Soviet society, there was one architect who never wavered in his support . Constructivist luminary Alexander Vesnin declared that the Tsentrosoyuz building was the "the best building to arise in Moscow for over a century.”

The exhibition sheds light on their professional and personal relationship, showing sketches and letters they exchanged. In a radical break from the abstract nature of most of Le Corbusier’s art, this corner of the exhibition highlights the sometimes volatile architect’s softer side, as shown through nude sketches and classical still-life paintings he sent to Vesnin.

“He was a complex person” says Cohen. “It’s important to show his difficult elements; his connections with the USSR, with Mussolini. Now that relations between Russia and the West have improved, we can examine this. At the moment there is a new season in Le Corbusier interpretation.” To this end, the exhibition includes articles that have never previously been published in Russia, as well as Le Corbusier’s own literature.

Completing Le Corbusier’s triumphant return to Russia is a preview of a forthcoming statue, to be erected outside the Tsentrosoyuz building. Even if she couldn’t quite accept his vision of a planned city, Moscow is certainly welcoming him back.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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