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• Kamchatka   Russia For Expats

Highlights of Kamchatka: At The World's Edge

Welcome to Kamchatka, the end of the world, where hundreds of thousands of square kilometers of untouched nature are, there stormy geysers throw out the unsettled energy of the Earth, there lava pours out fire-breathing volcanoes, the mighty Pacific Ocean noises and hundreds of bears walk freely. Trek, jeep ride, bath in hot springs, hike, cruise and fly around magnificent Kamchatka. Both heli tours by famous MI-8 are already included.

Fly heli to see bears of the Kurile Lake, safe and secure by famous MI-8

Fly heli to stunning Valley of Geysers

Trek and jeep up to Mutnovsky volcano

Meet a shaman, visit indigenous people

Take a boat tour to see amazing marine wildlife

Bath in hot springs at volcanoes and national parks

Take a jeep tour up to the Vachkazhets

Fish with guaranteed success

Stay at secluded premium resort

Crab & caviar degustation

Day 1, Meet the Locals

Day 2, Heli trip to Kurile Lake

Day 3, Boat Cruise

Day 4, Heli Trip to the Valley of Geysers

Day 5, Mountain Jeeping, crab & caviar

Day 6, Mutnovsky Volcano Trek

Day 7, Weather dependant

Day 8, Fish market & farewell

Dates & rates

Accommodation.

• July-August tours: 7 nights Paratunka valley. There is a bathroom with shower, TV, safe, hairdryer, personal hygiene products, tea and coffee sets in the rooms. The hotel offers 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, a big swimming pool with thermal water.
• Accommodation: Sputnik 4* hotel// Mysteri Kamchatka 5* lodge. Both have hot springs
• September tour: 6 nights Paratunka valley. There is a bathroom with shower, TV, safe, hairdryer, personal hygiene products, tea and coffee sets in the rooms. The hotel offers 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, a big swimming pool with thermal water.
• Septermber tour: 1 night in one of the best hotels of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, "Nachalnik Kamchatki"
• Full breakfast daily (except Day 1)
• Traditional Itelmen dinner on Day 1
• 2 take away lunches, 2 lunches on heli tours, 1 lunch on a sea boat tour
• Caviar degustation & cooking master-class
• Kurile Lake Helicopter tour
• Helicopter tour to the valley of Geysers
• Boat trip to Avacha Bay, Starichkov Island Russian Bay and fishing
• Kurile Lake boat tour
• Jeep tour to Vachkazhets volcano
• Nalychevsky hot spring bathing & national park visit
• Khodutkinsky Volcano hot springs bathing
• Local fish market
• Mutnovsky Volcano jeep & trek tour (or Gorely Volcano)
• Travel to the local settlement of Itelmen people // Walk to the ancient Valley of Spirits

Transportation

• Land transfers as per program by comfortable coach
• Return airport transfers
• Meet & greet service at the airport
• A visit to aboriginal village and tour
• English-speaking tour guide throughout the tour

We value your comfort

• 24/7 support before and during your trip with us
• All relevant park fees
• Local taxes & tips to guides

CHECK OUT WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT TRAVELLING WITH US

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There are few places in the world that can enthral quite like Kamchatka, easily Russia's most scenically dramatic region. A vast volcanic peninsula that is almost entirely wilderness, Kamchatka is a place of extraordinary primal beauty, rushing rivers, hot springs and snow-capped peaks. Getting here takes time and effort, and exploring the region even more so, but few visitors leave anything other than awestruck.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kamchatka Regional Museum

Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Housed in an attractive half-timbered building overlooking the bay, this museum features an imaginative mix of relics and murals that outline Kamchatka’s…

Vulkanarium

This new museum was just about to open during our last visit to Kamchatka, and a quick peek inside as they were putting up the display revealed an…

Trinity Cathedral

Petropavlovsk's largest and most impressive church is this golden-domed stunner, which sits on an outcrop from where it is visible from all over the city…

Pioneer Hill

The giant hillside towering over Esso makes for a rather tough and sometimes inelegant scramble through the trees, but the views from the top over the…

A pleasant and easy hike along the Bystraya River and through some thick woods (where you may encounter bears: be sure to bring flares to keep safe) will…

Alexander Nevsky Chapel

Originally built in 1857 to commemorate the victory over the British and the French in the Battle of Petropavlovsk, this wooden chapel was destroyed in…

Ethnographic Museum

You can find out much about the history of the area’s peoples in this well-kept museum in a charming Cossack-style izba (wooden house) set beside the…

Yes, there are beaches in Kamchatka too, and this one has gorgeous views of the bay and the distant snow-covered mountains, though it's unlikely you'll…

Latest stories from Kamchatka

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Wildlife & Nature

Aug 10, 2018 • 6 min read

The Russian Far East has a mystique that’s been luring travellers for generations. With the volcanoes and geysers of Kamchatka, ancient stone pillars on…

Jun 19, 2018 • 4 min read

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Kamchatka and beyond

TOURS AROUND KAMCHATKA

Kamchatka is unique!

This is one of the most beautiful places on the planet: an amazingly beautiful peninsula in the Far East of Russia. Here, in a familiar environment, various species of animals and birds live, hot springs, active volcanoes, snow caps and glaciers that do not melt even in the hottest summer - Kamchatka really makes land and flame.

The Kamchatka Peninsula is a land of contrasts, where snow-white caps of volcanoes stand out against the background of flowering meadows, icy rivers meet hot springs, and the endless blue sea washes the black strip of sandy coast. Having been here before, you will remember these feelings for a lifetime!

HIKING TOURS

Dachniye hot springs are located at the foot of the Mutnovsky volcano on the southeast foot of the Skalistaya Mountain, in the ravine with steep walls. The beauty and a variety of thermal activities are fascinating. You will have a walk to the fumarole field “Dachniye Thermal Springs”.

The "Camel" extrusion (or two-humped mountain) is located 25 kilometers from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky between the Avacha and Koryakskiy volcanoes. It is a small mountain range (altitude 500 m.) with two sharp peaks resembling the humps on a camel's back. During this walk, you will be able to admire the alpine flora, enjoy the panorama of "home" volcanoes and observe the life of the inhabitants of these places – Bering gophers – ground squirrels.

The ancient Vachkazhets Volcano was a single volcano, but after a powerful eruption, three separated volcanic parts appeared – Letnyaya Poperechnaya Mountain (1 417m), Vachkazhtsy Mountain (1 500 meters), and Vachkazhets itself. In the area of Letnyaya Poperechnaya Mountain, there are two big volcanic cirques that can be the remains of the big volcanic crater.

The top of Vilyuchinskiy Volcano is covered with snow and glaciers almost all the summer; that is why some people poetically call it "The white pearl of Kamchatka".

On the Pass, you will notice a great number of flowers – some kinds of the alpine flora, blossoming period of one flower changing on others that is why it seems to be spring all the time on the pass.

ONE DAY TOUR TO THE GANALSKY VOSTRYAKY OF KAMCHATKA

A summer version of the tour to one of the most beautiful mountain ranges of our peninsula - Ganalskiy Vostryaki (the maximum height of the ridge is 2277 m).

The Ganalskie Vostryakh region is located in the southern part of Kamchatka, 100+ kilometers from the city of Elizovo. Of particular interest are the Ganalskiye Vostryaki wall, the Yurchik mountain facing it, as well as the mountains in the area of ​​the Vaktan Malkinsky river.

CLIMBING VOLCANOES

Avachinskiy (or Avacha) Volcano , also known as Avachinskaya Sopka or "Avacha" among Kamchatka residents, is an active volcano. It has a complex, cone-in-cone structure of the Somma-Vesuvius type. It is 2741 meters above the sea and belongs to the group of so-called "domestic" volcanoes because of its close location to the city. Avachinskiy Volcano is a spectacular landmark that can be clearly seen from Petropavlovsk on a clear sunny day.

Mutnovskiy Volcano  is one of the most active volcanoes of Kamchatka. Due to its unusual shape any person can climb up to the crater and observe all the action: fumaroles, steam emissions, mud pots, etc. The magnificent volcanic landscape leaves a long-lasting impression on every participant of the tour.

Gorelyi volcano is a ridgy array rising from the bottom of the elliptical caldera and is about 1829 meters high. It used to be a shield volcano with a base diameter of about 30 km. With time, the central part sank resulting in the formation of the enormous caldera containing several craters. Nowadays the caldera is surrounded by the remains of the old volcano.

MUTNOVSKY AND GORELY VOLCANOES

(2 DAYS / 1 NIGHTS)

The Mutnovskiy volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Kamchatka. As the shape of it is unusual, everyone can make an ascent to the crater of the volcano and see all volcanic activity with their own eyes. Fumaroles, steam, mud kettles. The fantastic volcanic landscape will impress everyone who makes an ascent to it.

The Goreliy volcano  is difficult to distinguish from the mountain massif at first sight, but the so-called "collection" of its various craters is considered to be unique. Each crater on the volcano top has its own characteristic and together they create a unique range. The Goreliy volcano caldera is a natural geological monument. At the end of the ascent, you will be impressed by the largest and most beautiful crater of the volcano, filled with an unusually beautiful acid lake of turquoise color.

AREA OF TOLBACHIK VOLCANO ERUPTION

(4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS)

The  Ploskiy (Flat)   Tolbachik  Volcano (3085 m, active) and  Ostry (Sharp) Tolbachik  (3682 m, extinct) are located in the central part of the peninsula on the south from the Klyuchevskaya sopka volcano(4750 m active) – the highest volcano in Eurasia. Ploskiy Tolbachik and Ostry Tolbachik are so close to each other, and from the side, it seems like a single volcano with sharp and flat parts.

AROUND THE AREA OF TOLBACHIK VOLCANO ERUPTION

(5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS)

What our customers say

I’m so grateful to have such a great experience with “Red Rivers”. Our guides were the best, so supportive, so fun to be around!

The food was also really good, we had wonderful cooks, so we didn’t even have to think about cooking and cleaning after a hard day of hiking... learn more

• Xiaohei Jiang This is my best tour experience in Russia for sure and lots of things worth to be remembered for a long time. Went to the 5D4N Tolbachik volcano trip with redriver, the whole team is awesome. Our tour leader Alexander is very responsible and a very nice person ... learn more

The most amazing traveling of my life

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• K2 Base Camp Trek
• Snow Lake Hispar La Trek
• Spantik Expedition

Discover the Hunza Valley

• Hunza Valley Express
• Hunza Valley Yoga and Hiking
• Island Peak Climbing Expedition
• Horse Trekking in Mongolia Expedition
• Trekking in the Fann Mountains
• Discover the Celestial Mountains
• Svaneti Trekking in Georgia

Volcanoes of Kamchatka

• Lost World of Europe
• Madeira Day Hikes
• Featured trip!

• New 2024 Expedition in Mongolia
• Trip Calendar
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• K2 Gondogoro La Trek: What you need to know
• 10 Reasons Why the K2 Base Camp Trek Should Be On Your Bucket List
• Everest Base Camp vs K2 Base Camp: Which is better?
• How to Prepare for the K2 Base Camp Trek
• K2 Base Camp Trek Packing List
• K2 Base Camp Height: How to Manage the Altitude
• The Glaciers of Pakistan – An Overview
• Hunza Valley Culture: People Born in the Mountains
• All About Food in Pakistan
• A Poetic Narrative of our Journey Along the Snow Lake Trek in Pakistan
• How to Start Mountaineering: A Beginner’s Guide
• Hiking in Asian Patagonia: Kyrgyzstan’s Paradise Lost
• 10 Fascinating Kyrgyzstan Facts: Lenin Peak to Alcoholic Horse Milk
• Can Americans Visit Iran? A Complete Guide
• Fann Mountains Trekking in Tajikistan: 6 Things You Did Not Know
• Madeira Island: Epic’s First European Expedition!
• Travel to Iran: Photo Diaries of our Epic Journey
• Kyrgyzstan: The Celestial Mountains in Photos
• Snow Lake Trek 2022: Across the World’s Longest Glaciers

Join us for the K2 Base Camp Trek this summer! Only a few spots left…

Tours  |  Highlights  |   Things to Know   |  Testimonials

Where Volcanoes Meet the Sea: The Kamchatka Peninsula

When most people think of Siberia, they conjure images of vast ice fields, desolation, and the former destination for many unlucky prisoners being sent to Stalin’s infamous Siberian gulags. 

The vast expanse of land known as Siberia is a Russian province encompassing most of Northern Asia, with terrain spanning tundra, coniferous forest and multiple mountain ranges including the Ural, Altai, and Verkhoyansk. 

The very eastern edge of Siberia touches a place called the Kamchatka Peninsula; a land of myth and legend, volcanoes, and ocean. 

Geographically, Kamchatka is closer to Alaska than it is to Moscow. 

The Kamchatka Peninsula is a world-class trekking and climbing destination free from the crowds of people you find in Europe and Nepal. 

This is a true wilderness area where you can witness surreal volcanic landscapes at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage national park, wild camp under the stars, and observe unique wildlife on the self-supported trek of a lifetime. 

This is the side of Russia we want to show you. 

Our Current Tours

Our favorite kamchatka trekking images, things to know.

June-September

Siberia is subject to hot, humid summers and frigid winters. July is the  peak of the trekking season and also the peak of the mosquitoes! We prefer going during the shoulder months of August or September when there are even less trekking groups and a milder ( though colder) climate. 

Health & Safety

In general, the Kamchatka is a place relatively free of crime found in the big cities. There are brown bears (not grizzlies) out in the national park, though they are typically shy and avoid humans.

Entry & Exit

Getting a Russian Visa is straightforward. You will need a letter of invitation to Russia from our partner in Russia, a copy of your passport, a filled-in visa form, a passport copy, etc. A full list and instructions will be provided when the time comes to apply. It really is not difficult and typically visa approval occurs within 10 days or less. 

While in cities, we feast on a variety of tasty local  Siberian and typical Russian food. For our trek, we pack, healthy, filling dehydrated meals prepared in advance by your guides. Typical dishes include local meat, fish, noodles, pierogis, soups, and… even bear paws – which we still don’t know how we feel about. 

What People Have to Say

Privacy Overview

Clark Tyler 🇨🇦

Adventure Guide

Hailing from the Toronto region of Eastern Canada, with a background as a former standout athlete (hockey of course) and a  love of mountain adventure, Clark is a welcomed addition to the Epic team.

In addition to being a keen photographer and adventurer, Clark brings his brilliant sense of humor, leadership skills, and positive attitude to everything he puts his mind to.  When he is not leading trips, he is working on taking over the hard apple cider game in Canada as a skilled craft brewer. 

Meet him during : K2 Base Camp Trek

Noemi Liebi 🇨🇭

Noemi grew up in the mountains of German-Speaking Switzerland where she naturally developed a deep love and respect for mountain environments.

She is a talented photographer, aspiring climber, and speaks at least 5 languages fluently including Arabic (and probably a few more that we don’t know about), which she taught herself in a matter of months by watching YouTube videos. 

Noemi has spent the last several years traveling, hiking, and photographing her way around many different countries in the Middle East, South and Central Asia, and Europe, and we could not be more stoked to welcome her to the Epic team! 

Meet her during : Discover the Celestial Mountains | Island Peak Climbing Expedition

Syerik Manap 🇲🇳

As our man on the ground in Mongolia, there is not much this legend can’t do. As a native the Bayan-Ölgii province of the Western Mongolia Altai, Syerik has been working as a guide and tourism entrepreneur…

for the past several years and is one of the rising stars in Mongolia adventure travel industry. 

He is currently building a beautiful Ger (Yurt) camp near his hometown where he will host Epic Mongolia team members on our trip as well as other travelers from around the world! 

He is the perfect guide for your trip to Mongolia. Serik did an amazing job giving us a well rounded experience in the Altai NP region and down in the Gobi… The food was fantastic and Serik gave us many opportunities to learn about the Kazakh culture in that region including traditional meals. (I can’t recommend enjoying the milk tea enough!)

– Coastal

Head of canine operations

Choriza started off life as a care-free vagabond on the streets of Madeira Island without any place to call home. From the moment we met her, we knew this dog was just different, and it was pretty much love at first sight. 

She gave up the dog street life in favor of joining her new dad Chris to become a full-time member of the Epic family towards the end of 2022.

These days she can be found listening in on the fringes of important Epic business meetings while half-asleep on the couch. She is a keen hiker, lover of mud, rare steak, and might just be the sweetest little dog we have ever seen. 

Andrew Golovachevn 🇷🇺

An experienced trek leader and IFMGA aspirant ski guide, avid alpine climber, devoted adventure photographer.

Organized and guided trekking expeditions, climbs and ski tours in Tajikistan’s Pamirs, Patagonia, Peru, Morocco, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Georgian and Russian Caucasus and Kamchatka. A full member and meets the organiser of the British Alpine Club. Visited over 40 countries, lived in the UK for four years. Certified first-aider.

We joined Andrew on a fantastic trip to the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan, pure nature and magnificent scenery! Andrey was super prepared and led us safely up and down numerous passes and through some rough and icy cold rivers. Thank you for a very memorable trip, your planning and prep was excellent!

– Monika Steinlechner

Meet him during : Trekking in the Fann Mountains

Sandip Dhungana 🇳🇵

Our man in Nepal, Sandip is what we like to call a “Swiss Army Knife”. There is not much Sandip can’t do when it comes to helping Epic to run our expeditions smoothly in Nepal.

His tireless work ethic, passion for all things trekking in the Himalayas, and smart decision-making mean that Sandip is a truly invaluable member of our team.

Sandip is passionate about showing visitors to his country an amazing time, and he goes above and beyond to make sure that happens. 

His company Himalayan Masters is Epic’s trusted partner in Nepal and one of the country’s top new tour agencies.

We really enjoyed the entire journey, and I would like to say that Sandip is truly professional. He guided us and he is a hardworking person, providing us with the best service and taking care of each one of us. Plus, he is super funny! The kind of professionnal you always want to find on your path for your explorations! 

– Alexandra Ruth

Fairy Meadows

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Our Favorite Experiences

#1 sunrise from reflection lake.

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#2 Hiking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp

#3 playing cricket with the locals, trips where we visit fairy meadows.

Our flagship Pakistani adventure tour.  Road trip with some  hiking and cultural immersion.

Intermediate

Trekking Among Giants

A trekking-style tour that features some very remote locations, inlcuding a K2 viewpoint.

João Frietas 🇵🇹

João has born in the mountains of Madeira Islands in Portugal. Nature lover, writer, musician, guide, for him, a day without contact with outdoor vibes is a nightmare. 

With a degree in Cultural Studies in Portugal and a Master of Arts in Global Cultures and Creativity in the U.K.

João found out what really matters in life can be found on the trails, and in the contact with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Guiding, crazy trekking missions, and sharing observations about the natural world, – these are some of João’s passions. 

After trekking to K2 Base Camp and exploring all over Northern Pakistan, he fell in love with the country and the local people. His experiences resulted in his desire to share these feelings with the world.

João is one of the most experienced guides at Epic and his skillset and positive mindset in the mountains is second to none

When not in Pakistan, João is  guiding and exploring in the Madeira Islands trails –  discovering some of the hidden treasures on his Portuguese Island.

João I can not thank you enough for the off the beaten paths and views you keep giving. Definitely one of the most challenging and amazing hikes we did 1200m meters all the way up to Fanal forest and circling back to the hidden village. Wow!

– Jeffery 

Meet him during : Lost World of Europe | Discover the Hunza Valley   | K2 Base Camp Trek

Sohail Sakhi 🇵🇰

Sohail is the newest addition to the Epic team and we are beyond stoked to have him on board. As a veteran of the Karakoram and a native of Karimabad in Hunza, there is not much Sohail can’t do in the mountains. 

Besides having the ability to speak more languages than we can count, Sohail has explored every corner of Gilgit Baltistan and logs more trekking miles 

in a year than most people will do in a lifetime. As of the summer of 2022, Sohail has summited Gasherbrum 1, Gasherbrum 2, and K2 – three of Pakistan’s five 8000-meter peaks. Sohail guides several trips including our annual bespoke expeditions but specializes in Hunza Valley tours.

Chris and Sohail, and the team at Epic are FANTASTIC! Highly recommend anyone to do a tour with ‘Epic’. They have the perfect balance of fun, excitement and wild adventures, tied in with being super professional and ensuring your safety/health in a foreign environment. Don’t waste a moment and book a tour with these guys as the value for money is UNREAL!

– Borgan

Meet him during : Discover the Hunza Valley

Pedro Ricardo Dias 🇵🇹

Pedro’s been traveling all around the globe since 2009. His keen interests in documentary photography, rural life, and local people from different ethnic groups have been the focus of many of his professional projects. Since 2012, he has developed his passion for travel and awesome shared experiences into a full-time adventure photography tour leader position.

Pedro has found himself continuously going back to the Middle East, with his likely favorite destination being Iran. Pedro lead his 11th tour in Iran with Epic in spring 2020

When Pedro’s not traveling the world with Epic Expeditions, you’ll find him based in the western south of Portugal planning he’s next adventure missions, logistics and working out his photos in local exhibitions.

 I loved the combination of hiking, camping around breathtaking scenery mixed with the cultural aspects. The guide (Pedro) is knowledgeable and work very hard to make the trip as memorable as possible. All in all an epic adventure with some extremely epic individuals! Go for it, you won’t regret it!

Diane Bouvet 🇫🇷

Adventure Admin / Marketing

After fleeing from the corporate fashion world in Paris towards the start of 2020, Diane has been working as a web developer and graphic designer remotely from various bases across the globe

She brings all of her incredible design and organizational power to Epic Expeditions and is responsible for many of the beautiful behind-the-scenes design elements. 

Diane has been to Iran and to Pakistan twice including all over Gilgit Baltistan and KPK.

Ralph Cope 🇺🇸

Head of Operations | Guide

A veteran of Pakistan travel, Ralph is an experienced guide, photographer and writer who specializes in documenting remote locations. 

Not one to simply go where everyone else does, he insists on exploring new and lesser-known areas.

Together with Epic Expeditions, he shows people parts of Pakistan that most other operators don’t even know about. He is particularly fond of the village of Barah, which he believes will become just as famous as Hunza one day.

Just got back from EBT’s Trekking Amongst Giants 15 day tour. The experience was first class. Ralph, our head guide, ensured that the entire trip ran smoothly and relatively on time (a bonus for anyone travelling in Pakistan). We had so many unforgettable days on the tour and the trekking was well-planned, safe but also a rewarding challenge. 

– Calvin

Traveling to a non-tourist destination can be a little intimidating but EBT takes all of the worry and trepidation away. From the pre-trip call to meeting the wonderful staff in person you can tell that you are dealing with a company that has a passion for what they do each and every day. Ralph, Zahid, and Khan were supportive, kind, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that everyone on the trip was getting what they wanted out of the experience.

– Katrina 

Meet him during : Trekking Amongst Giants | Discover the Celestial Mountains | K2 Base Camp Trek

Chris Lininger 🇺🇸

Founder | Adventure Guide | Director

Since he started exploring the world, Chris has been seeking out every shade of adventure in various parts of the globe and had visited more than 70 countries along the way. 

Over the last 10 years, Chris has logged more than 7000 trail miles across five continents and climbed multiple 6000 + 7000 meter peaks in Pakistan and Nepal.

A few years back, a distant dream and a deep passion for the mountains and the people of Pakistan led Chris to co-found Epic Expeditions at a time when foreign adventure tourism in Pakistan was almost nonexistent. Since then, Chris has guided more than 20 expeditions to various parts of Northern Pakistan.

Chris believes in using photography and powerful adventure experiences to dismantle negative stereotypes regarding what mainstream media considers “dangerous” countries while facilitating unique and meaningful memories in the mountains for countless people from around the globe. 

For him, an ideal start to the day begins with a steaming cup of good coffee, the beam of a headlamp, alpine boots, and a camera in hand.

He lives in Madeira Island when not leading expeditions in far-flung lands. 

Chris also works as a writer and photographer on his blog Off the Atlas  –  an adventure travel blog all about Pakistan.   

Read this interview our staff did with Chris to learn more about him!

Chris believes in Pakistan and its people, and he believes in the value of journeys shared with others and family cultivated on the road. Honesty and integrity are at the heart of what he does, and this really shines through in his work as a guide. He also makes great coffee – whether at 5am in an empty guesthouse or half way up a Himalayan peak.”

– Will De Villers

Pakistan is a magical country!  Had 3 of the best weeks of my life thanks to Epic Backpacking Tours with owner, and one of our awesome guides, Chris. From detailed itinerary, preparation with an equipment list, and visa assistance. To amazing food, great porters, helpful guides, and great accommodations. Epic really hit home run after home run. […]

Their desire for adventure and amazing trip is just as high as yours. Bring a good pound of coffee for the trip. French press coffee every morning and no average tin coffee, plus you’ll be in your guides good books.

– Clark Tyler

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THE 10 BEST Kamchatka Krai Tours & Excursions

Kamchatka krai tours.

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• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Kamchatka Grand Tour

2. IST Travel

3. Kamchatka Outdoors

4. Red Rivers Tour Company

5. Enjoy Kamchatka

6. Travel Kamchatka

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Welcome to Kamchatka Pure

Your web destination when planning a unique trip to Kamchatka. It is our goal to make your holiday in Kamchatka the time of your life, and make sure you get to see the most interesting & exciting of the Kamchatka peninsula in the best appropriate way for you. We are dedicated to provide an exquisite quality and organize outstanding unique tours. We strive to explore new and unknown to the broader market of tours in Kamchatka in order to deliver outstanding adventures into the wildereness of the Russian Far East.

Why Travel to Kamchatka?

Why kamchatka pure .

It is our major priority to deliver high - end quality service, so you can focus on nothing but your unique experiences while exploring Kamchatka.

We strongly believe that people is what makes our product stand out in the mass. Therefore, we are dedicated to hiring and engaging during tours organized by Kamchatka Jurta Llc. only local specialists, as we rely fully on their experiences and expertise.

As a major focus we set our priority on designing unique programs and tours you might find nowhere else but here. Each tour is designed for you to gain the most unique and outstanding experiences in Kamchatka.

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Tours to Kamchatka in summer: friendly bliss!

We all know that the summer - it's hot, the sun, beach, sand, sunglasses and jandals. That's the question - "How to change your summer vacation beyond recognition?". Everything is very simple! Go to the Kamchatka peninsula. They can help you change the world "upside down." In the warm season is just great, and tours to Kamchatka in the summer of steady demand.

Summer foreword

At this season of the year here everything blooms and becomes friendly and affectionate. The air is filled with wonderful smells and local sights are open and accessible to the full. You can easily go to multy-day walking tour, without fear for the health. That is why at this time is the biggest influx of tourists.

Of course, each of them has its purpose. Someone wants to  take unique photos, someone wants excellent fishing, someone wants to see a brown bears, well, someone wants to bring in his summer a bit of winter freshness and goes to the tops of mountains and volcanoes, to ride a snowboard. Each guest choosing his tours in the summer, can get not only a full-fledged vacation, but amazing adventure full of different emotions, happiness and fun.

Summer! Kamchatka! Beauty!

The climate of Kamchatka is very unstable, which leads to the fact that the tourists find themselves in a quandary. That is why you should remember: gumboots, and rainwear - these are the main attributes that you need to have visiting the peninsula.

Frequent fogs enveloping almost the entire Kamchatka, which creates excellent conditions for the photo shoot. Temperature conditions of the area is quite amazing. In the center of the peninsula, air may warm up to 37 C, and at the coast you will find only 10°C.

The warmest months - August and July. If you like to bask in the sun without harm to the skin, then travel to the Kamchatka Peninsula will help you with this. Terms and conditions for tourism here is very, very favorable at this time of year.

One of the important negative factors in the summer in Kamchatka are insects that are activated in the rainy season. In no case do not forget about insect protection. However, such details are not doing tours to Kamchatka in the summer less appealing.

"Hot" Summer Kamchatka tours

So the decision was made. You are going for the trip! We propose to consider a list of the best tours to the island in summer:

Fishing - one of the most popular entertainment in the summer on the peninsula. During this period, a lot of local fish simply "crazy." They go by the huge shoals along the rivers or nar the coast of lakes, enticing fishermen from around the world.

Every year it attracts crowds of tourists, and not only from Russia, to enjoy real fishing. There is even a special 4-day fishing tours. The award - trout, rainbow trout and salmon.

Skiing and snowboarding from slopes of a mountain - it's a real tradition. Who said that this winter fun? Rafting down the river by canoe or raft.

Visiting active volcanoes, in order to understand all of their power, to see with your own eyes the greatness.

Diving will reveal the sacrament of the depths.

Rock climbing for those who are used to fight his fear.

Multi-day tours in the surrounding area of the Kronotsky Nature Reserve.

Bathing in thermal and mineral springs - is not only exciting, but also beneficial to health.

Visiting the rookery and places where marine animals lie - this journey would be for you a source of inspiration for a long time.

Valley of Geysers. You can even go to the cafe, which is located on the territory of the valley, which is very cool and unusual.

Photo tours to bear meadow. The main character and star of the TV show called "Kamchatka" is the brown bear. Every day is made here about 1 000 photos. Bears, despite the crowds, feel relaxed, fun, easy, in general, as the host. That is why you can get a photo masterpiece with them participation.

Helicopter tour.

Dinner around the campfire - a good old fun of travel and tours to Kamchatka in the summer are very good for it.

Outing on a boat deep into the Pacific Ocean - another great solution. Visiting the beach with black volcanic sand - it's a hit.

Shopping in the souvenir shops, and a visit to the bazaar with exotic dishes and products to help you solve the problem with presents for relatives and friends.

The descent into the cave.

Journey to the "dead wood".

Visiting local villages. Familiarity with their originality and interesting rituals. You can buy wonderful things, or tools.

Kamchatka summer symphony of entertainment

If your vacation came in the summer, and you are tired of beaches and resorts, and you want to see wildlife in all its glory, then tours to Kamchatka in the summer - is the best that you can get a gift.

You can enjoy the extreme outdoor activities, or quiet fishing alone, and even climb to the top of an active volcano and see in the eyes of element. Summer Kamchatka - this amazing nature, combined with interesting and exciting activities. Give yourself an unforgettable holiday!

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Dear Friend!

Kamchatka is not just a peninsula of erupting volcanoes and geysers, a land of brown bears and Steller's sea eagles, and the site of the largest wild salmon spawning ground and crab habitat. Kamchatka is a «planet» of its own with its customs, peaceful way of life and, of course, extraordinary energy. For good reason, travelers who have visited Kamchatka say that it is the best, most memorable place they have been, and because of such memories it will remain the «Great Adventure» of their lives.

When you purchase a tour to Kamchatka, you don’t just stuff your suitcases, you immerse yourself in a ritual of preparation for the wilderness. Selecting equipment, getting yourself in shape for climbing – this partial list of pleasant activities creates around you a sacrosanct, special atmosphere, attracting the interest of your friends and family. They will be waiting for your return with incredible experiences and stories about traveling to Kamchatka.

Our company not only will organize your vacation in Kamchatka, we will help you fall in love with our peninsula. It is the Great Adventure team's love of Kamchatka, its nature and diversity that makes our tours unforgettable. And when your trip is over and you are about to fly away, as you say goodbye to the team and leave them your e-mail address, as you hug them goodbye and feel you are leaving your best friends behind, thanking them for the experience of a lifetime, only then will we know: the expedition has been a success. And this is the best evaluation of our work.

Best Regards,

The Founder of the company – Sergey Konkin

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Giants of Kamchatka – Trekking Active Volcanoes

Duration 7 days

Price from USD $3,450 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip Style Trekking, Camping

Time of year June - Sep

Home / Kamchatka Tours / Giants of Kamchatka – Trekking Active Volcanoes

Dates & Prices

This 7-day private tour in Kamchatka in the Russian Far East is geared towards the active and adventurous traveller. Your group will climb several volcanoes during the trip, although all are easy to moderately strenuous hikes, with no special climbing gear involved. You will need just a day-backpack for treks, as all the main items will be transferred by a truck or left at the hotels/camps.

This private, guided Kamchatka volcano trekking tour involves a mix of 4 guesthouse nights and 2 nights in tents, some off-road driving and trekking, with an average height of 1,200m above sea level. At the end of the tour, an optional Mi-8 helicopter group flight to the Valley of Geysers is offered to see the biggest geyser field in Eurasia and the second-largest concentration of geysers in the world.

Kamchatka trekking tour highlights:

• Embark on a full-day trek from base camp to the summit of Mutnovsky (2,322m), one of the world’s most scenically breathtaking volcanic hikes. Feel as if you’re witnessing the earth’s creation as you gaze down from the rim of the crater upon glaciers, mineral lakes and the torches of sulphur spewing fumaroles
• Trek to the top of Mount Gorely (1,829m), one of the most active volcanoes in Russia. Enjoy a picnic lunch on a rock ledge just below the crater, with magnificent views of the volcanic lake and steaming fumaroles below
• Ascend Avachisnky Volcano (2,751m), located in the neighbourhood of other family volcanoes Koryaksky and Kozelsky, and be amazed by views from the summit

Millions of years of volcanic activity have carved Kamchatka into a place of strangely prehistoric, undulating landscapes. Seen from the air, gaping craters and mountainous tundra contrast with lush forests and shimmering lakes and rivers, and the endless blue depths of the Pacific Ocean.

Located at the northernmost edge of the “Pacific Ring of Fire”, the Kamchatka Peninsula juts out dramatically from the northeastern tip of Russia. Thirty active volcanoes in total are scattered across the peninsula.

For hiking enthusiasts, volcanology nuts and those seeking a physical, challenging expedition in one of the world's most remote and pristine natural regions, our Giants of Kamchatka private tour represents an unparalleled Russian adventure travel experience.

Accomodation

Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Guest house, tents

Trekking, Camping

Action rating ?

Type of tour

7 days / 6 nights

min 4 people

Private tour

Day 1 Arrival to Petropavlovsk

Welcome to Kamchatka! You will be met at the airport before transferring to the hotel in Paratunka resort area. Here you’ll have free time to rest and are encouraged to relax after your long flight in the hotel’s spring water pool.

Depending on arrival time a city tour of Petropavlovsk can be arranged on this day.

Day 2 Mutnovsky ice caves

Today, we travel to the first volcano in our adventure - Mutnovsky (2,939m). We drive for 180km with a stop at the Vilyuchinsky Waterfall. Once we reach our destination we set up a base camp and enjoy a short excursion in the vicinity of the camp. If we are lucky enough, depending on the snow coverage, we will be able to visit an ice cave.

Day 3 Mutnovsky volcano

Near Mutnovsky’s summit is a nest of merged craters, among the most beautiful volcanic phenomenon in Kamchatka. We hike to the rim of the craters via a crack in the volcano’s side. With a bit of courage, you can climb to the crest of the craters.

Standing at the top, at the edge of a deep cavity, gazing down upon glittering glaciers, the torches of sulphur spewing fumaroles far below and the columns of vapour rising from the active funnel crater. Upon descending, we jump into the cat and moving to the second giant located nearby - Gorely (1,829m), where we set up a base camp.

Day 4 Gorely volcano

From our campsite, the 4/6WD truck heads north around the edge of a large lake that lies in the unfilled eastern crescent of the Gorely Caldera. From the lake flats, the walk up the huge shield volcano, we’ll cross a mix of grassy tundra with dwarf willows and bare strips of basaltic lava and lava flow formations.

Our picnic lunch will be laid out on the shelf just below the top. The magnificent panoramic view in front of us looks out over a sudden, vertical descent into the active crater. Over 100m down, a hot acidic lake has active fumaroles around its margin and beneath the surface, thanks to Gorely’s recent steam eruptions.

This evening, we’ll return to Paratunka Village to have a hot shower and relax in the hotel.

Day 5 Avachinsky volcano

In the morning we drive to the last giant in our adventure - Avachinsky. To reach the summit involves a climb of nearly 1,800 m. An easier option is to aim to reach the shoulder on the old crater rim, which offers a lovely stretch of scenic walking, and requires a climb of about 1,100 m.

We have a bite on the edge of the crater of the volcano (filled to the brim with hardened black lava after an eruption in 1991) of the volcano while enjoying the magnificent panorama of the Pacific Ocean, Petropavlovsk, Zhupanovsky and Koryaksky Volcanoes, and Nalychyova Valley.

Day 6 Valley of Geysers or Kuril Lake - brown bears watching (optional)

Today the choice is yours to either enjoy a free day exploring Petropavlovsk or Paratunka at your leisure or join an optional* one of the optional excursions. One of them is the scenic helicopter flight to the World Heritage site of the Valley of the Geysers and the crater of the mighty Uzon Volcano.

The Valley of Geysers is the only geyser field in Eurasia and the second largest concentration of geysers in the world. This cluster of around 90 geysers, fumaroles and hot springs in this valley were only discovered in 1941. They lie above the marginal fractures of the oldest Uzon caldera and periodically expel hot water in spectacular jet streams.

Download a detailed itinerary to see a choice of other optional excursions on this day.

Day 7 Departure

It's time to say goodbye to Kamchatka! Transfer to the airport for your departure back home.

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Group airport arrival and departure transfers

All transportation on tour according to the itinerary

Hotel and tents accommodation (twin or double occupancy)

Breakfasts in the hotels, all meals during camping days

Local English-speaking guide, chef, experienced drivers

Camping equipment, except sleeping bag (can be rented)

Russian visa support document (voucher)

Travel insurance

Russian visa and visa fees. *Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service  here .

Optional excursions and activities

Individual transfers, not indicated in the itinerary

*Price is per person, based on min 4 people.

Testimonials

Randal Barry Australia

Would do it again in a flash and highly recommend it to others!

Cook and food were very good. Guides were very good. Vehicle and driver were very good. So in terms of choosing that particular company no hesitation in recommending them again. Keeping the group small was a bonus and would not have enjoyed anywhere near as much in a large group. We all got on fabulously and have remained in touch.

Marcelo Gonzales Spain

The journey exceeded my expectations!

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Dowlnload comprehansive info-kit for this tour, FAQ’s and extras

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The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

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Day 1: Arrival to Petropavlovsk

Day 2: mutnovsky ice caves, day 3: mutnovsky volcano, day 4: gorely volcano, day 5: avachinsky volcano, day 6: valley of geysers or kuril lake - brown bears watching (optional), day 7: departure, not included, start planning your tour.

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Kamchatka: “Island” of Volcanoes, Bears, and Red Caviar

• August 28, 2023

Kamchatka impresses with its combination of volcanoes and the waves of the Pacific Ocean, leisurely relaxation in thermal springs after active surfing or snowboarding, and encounters with friendly sea lions and fearsome bears. Kamchatka is a peninsula located in the Far East. However, the local residents consider themselves isolated from the mainland and often refer to their homeland as an “island,” while referring to the rest of Russia as the “mainland.” Only extreme off-roaders can reach Kamchatka by land. The peninsula is washed by the Pacific Ocean, Sea of Okhotsk, and the Bering Sea. It is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, so there is high volcanic activity here, with periodic eruptions, geysers, and hot springs.

The first Russian explorers reached Kamchatka at the end of the 17th century. In the next century, active development of the coastal area of the peninsula began, and the capital, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, was founded. Previously, only indigenous tribes like the Koryaks, Ainu, Evenks, Itelmen, Chukchi, and others lived in this area. Incidentally, since 1930, the northern territory of Kamchatka was a separate entity—Koryak Autonomous Okrug—which was merged with Kamchatka Krai in 2007.

Fishing, which has been the primary source of sustenance for the locals for many centuries, remains important today. It accounts for 60% of industrial production and about 90% of the region’s exports.

In 2021, I spent two wonderful summer months in Kamchatka, volunteering at Nalychevo Nature Park. Before and after my shift, I actively traveled around the peninsula. If you want to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Russia, climb majestic volcanoes, meet whales, orcas, brown bears, sea lions, try the freshest seafood and fish, or master northern surfing, then Kamchatka is the place for you.

Table of Contents

Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Upon arrival in Kamchatka, you may need to adapt to a new time zone (plus nine hours to Moscow) and acclimatize. You can stay in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky for a couple of days to rest and recover after the flight, and then travel around the peninsula. Alternatively, you can stay in the capital for the entire vacation and make periodic day trips. Either way, you cannot avoid visiting Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.

Attractions

Petropavlovsk stretches along Avacha Bay, one of the city’s main attractions. On a clear day, the bay can be seen from all vantage points in the city. Day and night, ships and boats cross it—it’s very beautiful. You may even get lucky and see a submarine entering from the open ocean into Vilyuchinsk, a closed city on the opposite shore of Avacha Bay.

The main walking area of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is located in the historical center—between Petrovskaya and Nikolskaya hills and the port in the Petropavlovsk basin.

Main streets: Sovetskaya, Leninskaya, Naberezhnaya, and Ozerovskaya spit . Apart from the views, they are noteworthy for the presence of several good cafes (“Kyoto”, “Two Seas, Ocean”, “Baker Street”) and a plethora of charming graffiti (Sovetskaya 22, Leninskaya 38). Walking around Petropavlovsk isn’t very convenient due to the hilly terrain. There’s not much to do in the city itself for more than two days.

Mishennaya Hill (381 meters) can be seen from any point in the city, and you can climb it in less than an hour. From the top, a panorama opens up over a large part of Petropavlovsk, Avacha Bay, and if you’re lucky, the Avachinsky, Kozelsky, and Koryaksky volcanoes. Some tourists climb Mishennaya Hill at sunset to look at the city in the evening lights. But this can be dangerous: at dusk, bears become more active not only in the remote forests but sometimes even in the city.

Nikolskaya Hill (103 meters) is located near the central square of Petropavlovsk. It is notable from a historical perspective — it was here that in 1854, during the Crimean War of 1853-1856, the defenders fought against the Anglo-French fleet. Monuments dedicated to the city’s defenders, including a chapel, the “Glory” monument, and an obelisk, are situated on the hill.

“ Vulkanarium ” is a museum dedicated to volcanoes. Here you can observe simulated eruptions and models of lava flows, and examine samples of rocks. Admission with an audio guide costs 1,000 rubles (10.62 $), or 1,200 (12.74 $) in a guided tour.

The Local History Museum is a typical museum with an interesting historical exhibition and a souvenir shop. Here you can learn a lot about the peninsula’s development and the capital city, see authentic sundials used by Vitus Bering, and exhibits on Kamchatka’s contemporary fauna.

The “Oceanrybflot ” museum is dedicated to fishing in the Pacific Ocean. Exhibits here are modern and interactive. Using visualizations on various screens, you can be on the deck of a fishing vessel and inside a processing plant, participate in quizzes, and familiarize yourself with the habitats of various fish species.

The Avachinskaya Bay Promenade is a pleasant place for a leisurely evening stroll, the sound of waves, a sandy beach, and several cafes where you can grab a bite or have a cup of coffee.

Kamchatsky Rock is not the most popular viewpoint on the southern outskirts of the city. It’s very sparsely populated and you can encounter wild foxes. The climb to the viewpoint takes about an hour.

Local residents go to relax in the Malaya and Bolshaya Lager bays. They are located a ten-minute drive from the city; the water there is calmer and warmer, and there are almost no waves, so you can swim. Keep in mind that the water in Avachinskaya Bay doesn’t get warmer than 20 degrees Celsius in the summer. On the wide sandy beach, there’s plenty of room for sunbathers and volleyball players. And if you get tired of the sun, there are places where you can hide in the shade of trees and have a picnic.

Where to Spend the Night – Which Hotel to Choose?

In Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, there are not many good hotels. However, new stylish projects have been opening in nature recently—near thermal springs, at the foot of volcanoes, and on Khalaktyr beach.

• Granin House is a guest house in the city center. On clear days, the rooms offer a view of Avacha Bay, and you can even see Avacha Volcano. You can rent either a studio or a small room. A double room costs 6,000 rubles (63.72 $) per night, and the price includes a hearty breakfast made from local products.

• “ Chief of Kamchatka ” is a three-star hotel near the central square. The rooms look even better in person than in photos, they serve delicious food, and the hotel administrators assist with all questions. A double room starts at 7,500 rubles (79.65 $).
• Bay House is a guest house located virtually at the foot of Mishennaya Hill, within walking distance of all the city’s landmarks. Rooms are decorated with art objects by the famous artist Ilya Robe. A double room starts at 7,000 rubles (74.34 $), and the price also includes a tasty breakfast.

Hotels in the Surrounding Areas

• “ Shiksha ” is a glamping site on the shore of the Pacific Ocean. It operates from May to October. Here you can rent a bike and explore the surroundings, steam in a sauna, or simply walk along the ocean’s black sand beach. A night in a tent costs 10,000 rubles (106.20 $).
• Tolbachik Camp —dome tents at the foot of the Tolbachik Volcano—are a real oasis amid a lava desert. The glamping site has a communal kitchen, hammocks, a fire pit area, and a BBQ zone. A dome starts at 4,000 rubles (42.48 $) per night.
• “ Kamchatka Forest Lodge ” is a park hotel near the Paratunsky springs. Renting a chalet costs 26,000–37,000 rubles (276.12–392.94 $). A room costs 18,000 rubles (191.16 $).
• Kamchatka Campers —for those who have always dreamed of living in a house on wheels with ocean views. The rental cost starts at 10,000 rubles per day (106.20 $).
• Vilyuchik Camp is a glamping site on Vilyuchinsky Pass, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature. The territory has a restaurant, but you can’t cook for yourself. Due to the remote location, there are some nuances: you have to bring your own water and take the trash with you. You also need to bring a sleeping bag or rent one at the glamping site. Electricity is only available during breakfast and until 11:00 PM. The cost of accommodation from July to September is 25,000 rubles (265.50 $) for a 2-3-person Eco-Module and 28,000 rubles (297.36 $) for a 7-person tent; in May-June and October, the same price applies for the Eco-Module and 23,000 rubles (244.26 $) for a tent.

Food in Kamchatka

There’s a widespread belief that food prices in Kamchatka are astronomical. Indeed, some products—fruits, vegetables, beef—are significantly more expensive than their mainland counterparts. The high prices are due to the cost of transporting goods. For example, one kilogram of beef in a supermarket costs around 1000 rubles (10.62 $), a kilogram of bananas—250 (2.65 $), tomatoes—400 rubles (4.25 $). All other products cost either the same as on the mainland or are 10–15% more expensive. Prices are accurate as of June 2023.

Local products—fresh fish and seafood, canned fish, crowberries, blueberries—are significantly cheaper than mainland products. Although they are still not cheap, and it would be costly to eat them every day. Prawns cost 1500 rubles (15.93 $) per kilogram, Kamchatka crab—starts from 1500 rubles (15.93 $), pink salmon roe—starts from 2000 rubles (21.24 $), crowberries—400 rubles (4.25 $). These low prices are mostly from private sellers. Prices at city markets, for example, at the Central Market near Komsomolskaya Square, are significantly higher, especially during peak season.

What to bring home

• Chavycha—this is a fish from the salmon family, rarely found in stores in other regions of Russia. It is unlikely that you’ll be able to bring fresh fish on a plane, so opt for salted or half-smoked, and they will pack it in a thermal bag for you.
• Horsehair crab or Kamchatka crab. Crabs, or, for example, their claws, are sold in a saline solution, so they are also easy to bring on a plane.
• Ivan tea (“Ivan-chay”), plain or with additives (blueberries, dwarf pine, rowan)
• Confiture from kneyazhika. This is a northern berry also known as Arctic raspberry.
• Souvenirs made from bear claws: amulets, pendants, keychains.
• Wooden products: utensils, boxes, statues.

Local people usually buy fish, roe, and seafood through Telegram chats, as market and store prices are inflated, especially during high season. In these chats, you can buy directly from private sellers at lower prices. Examples of chats: “ obyavleniya41 ,” “ kamchatka_chat_ru .” They are available only in Russian. In the chats, there are offers for selling products with delivery/self-pickup, and it is safe to order, the main thing is not to pay in advance. You can also find excursions and sea trips from local residents on the “Classifieds Board.”

At the main post office, they sell postcards (which you can send right away) and various artisan products (moccasins, drums, knives, products made from whalebone, woven baskets). “ Protect Kamchatka ” is a local clothing and accessories brand. Kamcha is a souvenir store: from Christmas ornaments to branded tea.

Tours and Hikes

People mainly go to Kamchatka for active vacations. However, don’t expect the comfort of a five-star hotel from such tours; you won’t find that even for tens of thousands of dollars. Roads in Kamchatka are often unpaved and of poor quality. To reach many attractions, you have to go on foot, live in tents or glamping facilities, where electricity may be available for only a few hours a day, and you have to bring your own water. However, all these difficulties are offset by the incredible nature of Kamchatka.

Independent planning is hampered by logistical challenges: there may simply be no road to a volcano, and you might have to drive, for example, over a lava plateau without tracks or along the bed of a dried-up river. This can be overwhelming even for experienced travelers. It’s also not recommended to set up a small or, especially, a solitary camp outside of organized sites or glampings due to bear attacks. Therefore, it’s safer and easier to trust professional guides and tour organizers—both local and from the mainland.

The main part of the hikes includes climbing volcanoes, crossing passes, and trekking through rocky and mountainous terrain. Therefore, when planning your vacation, consider your physical preparation and gauge your strength. The tour company will definitely consult you on any of the routes.

The classic Kamchatka tour offered by various firms is more or less similar and includes visits to Khalaktyrsky Beach, Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes, Tolbachik volcano, Vachkazhets massif, and a sea walk . Next popular activities are helicopter tours to the Valley of Geysers, surfing, visiting thermal springs, and climbing Avachinsky volcano . There are also specific tours with heli-skiing, freeriding, kayaking, and climbing Klyuchevskaya Sopka, but they are not designed for the general public.

Local Tour Companies

Listed below are major local tour operators. Many of their websites do not support English, but they are happy to organize tours for foreigners as well.

“ Kamchatka ” — This local tour operator offers summer and autumn tours lasting 10–20 days, one-day jeep tours, helicopter flights, photo tours, and visits to volcanoes. Multi-day hikes start at 49,000 rubles (520.38 $). A one-day jeep tour costs 10,000 rubles (106.20 $) per seat or you can rent an entire vehicle with a driver for 25,000 rubles (265.50 $).

Kamchatka Freeride Community — They organize not only extreme leisure activities for snowboarders and skiers but also regular tours. They take you to the Valley of Geysers (starting at 260,000 rubles) and to volcanoes and springs for one day (starting at 10,000 rubles / 106.20 $).

Galentina Tour — This local project offers custom hiking routes to Nalychevo and volcanoes starting at 41,000 rubles (435.42 $). Hikes that include easy climbs to volcanoes and salmon spawning observation start at 125,000 rubles (1,327.50 $).

“ Adventure Club ” — A large Russian aggregator offering various tours, including challenging hikes to the Sredinny Ridge. Prices start at 38,000 rubles (403.56 $) for a 12-day trek.

Russia Discovery — Another major tour operator. They offer individual tours starting at 300,000 rubles (3,186.00 $), gastronomy tours from 200,000 rubles (2,124.00 $), and tours without tents and backpacks from 100,000 rubles (1,062.00 $).

Almost all programs require participants to have their own backpack, mat, sleeping bag, and sometimes a thermos and utensils. A mat and sleeping bag can come in handy even if you don’t plan on camping. Even in glamping sites with heating, it can get cold. And some guest houses offer accommodation without mattresses and bedding. Whenever possible, it is better to buy all this in your hometown and test the equipment a few times on short trips before going on a multi-day trip to Kamchatka. Equipment rental in Kamchatka is not as well-developed as, for example, in the Caucasus, and the time spent searching for a sleeping bag is better used exploring the region.

The most important thing is to choose comfortable footwear. Even on a short one-day hike, uncomfortable boots or chafed blisters will ruin all the pleasure of the beauty of volcanoes and the ocean. Trekking boots are appropriate in the fall when it is rainy and during warm summers. Trekking sneakers with good ankle support will also work. But regular sports sneakers, canvas shoes, and other urban footwear are not the best option. Clothing should be quick-drying, ideally covering the skin from insects, the sun, and branches, and comfortable. You will definitely need a windproof jacket, pants, warm socks, headwear, gaiters (covers to protect the lower part of the legs), and a buff (for the face and neck).

Khalaktyrsky Beach

Khalaktyrsky Beach is one of the most popular attractions in the Kamchatka region. It is located 30–50 minutes by car from Petropavlovsk, depending on road conditions, as it is accessible by a dirt road. Public transport doesn’t go to the beach, so the easiest way to get there is by taxi or a ridesharing service. Such a trip will cost around 1,000 rubles (10.62 $) one way. It’s best to plan your return trip to the city in advance, for example, by asking the driver to wait for you for a few hours. If you plan to stay in one of the glamping sites or surf schools, they usually help arrange transportation.

Stretching nearly 50 kilometers, the beach is covered in black volcanic sand. The beach offers stunning ocean views, thousands of seagulls fly around, surfers ride the waves, and those who wake up at five in the morning can enjoy incredible sunrises. On clear days, you can see a panorama of the Koryaksky, Avachinsky, and Kozelsky volcanoes from the beach.

Interesting features—like an abandoned piano right on the shore, wooden idols, and coastal camp tents—are concentrated in the most popular part of Khalaktyrsky Beach near the Snowave and Surfway surf schools.

When visiting the beach, it is recommended to bring water, snacks, and a raincoat, as there are no stores or shelters in case of rain.

Sea Excursion

Many locals buy small boats and conduct day trips for tourists. You can find their contacts in the Telegram chats we mentioned earlier. From my experience, a 12-hour trip starting in Avachinskaya Bay, visiting Russkaya Bay, fishing in the open ocean, bird watching and observing marine mammals is enough to get a first impression of Kamchatka’s marine nature. Due to bad weather, we couldn’t reach the bay and just cruised around Avachinskaya Guba, saw many seabirds, sea lions, and seals (unfortunately, we didn’t encounter any whales or orcas), had a successful fishing session, and had lunch with the catch: crabs and Greenland halibut.

If you absolutely want to see orcas, whales, and sea lions, it’s better to take a longer excursion. There are two- and three-day options with an overnight stay in Russkaya Bay. You’re most likely to encounter gray and humpback whales, sperm whales, and orcas in Kamchatka’s waters during the high tourist season from July to September.

Prices for sea excursions vary from 5,000 (53.10 $) to 16,000 rubles (169.92 $) per person depending on the duration and richness of the program.

Lately, paddleboards have become popular: you can ride both in a calm bay and in the open ocean. It’s also a great way to experience the ocean.

Surfing in Kamchatka

You’d typically associate surfing with southern beaches of white sand, palm trees, and coconuts with straws. However, you can surf even in the northern latitudes of the Pacific Ocean. Over the last ten years, a whole community of several surf schools has formed at Khalaktyr Beach. Some even surf in winter when the surrounding mountains and the beach are covered in snow.

Waves in Kamchatka are the most stable and suitable for year-round surfing and are considered the best in Russia. Campsites are located opposite the most convenient spots (places where waves, seabed, and current allow for surfing). Surfers from beginners to pros live and train here. Most of these camps operate year-round but are most active from May to October. November waves are rarely suitable due to typhoons, but you can surf in other months.

Even in the warmest months, the water doesn’t get warmer than +13 degrees Celsius. Surf schools provide wetsuits, helmets, boots, and gloves to keep warm. Many schools offer not just accommodations but organized camps with transfers, meals, surfing (with an instructor), and outdoor activities. It’s a fully thought-out vacation, plus a social scene, but it would be hard to call such a holiday “laid-back.”

Most Known and Trusted Surf Schools at Khalaktyr

Snowave was founded in 2009 and is considered the first surfing school in Russia. Pioneers offer services from professional instructors, some of whom (like founder Anton Morozov) have 15+ years of experience. In 2023, they updated their rental gear and now provide tourists with new, cool wetsuits and helmets from top brands like Dakine and O’Neill. A photographer waits onshore during lessons, so you can later see and buy photos of your ride. Snowave offers a wide range of accommodation options: from tents and glamping huts to cozy family-type cabins.

Group lesson (2.5 hours): 5,000 rubles (53.10 $), Individual: 11,000 rubles (116.82 $), For children: 4,000 (42.48 $) and 7,000 (74.34 $). A two-week surf tour with accommodation costs from 200,000 rubles (2,124.00 $).

Quiksilver . Group lesson (4 hours): 5,000 rubles (53.10 $), Individual: 10,000 (106.20 $), surf and wetsuit rental without instructor: 3,000 rubles (31.86 $). Camp with accommodation for 13 days and ten surf lessons costs 162,000 rubles.

Local’s Surf Centre is located next to other surf schools. Book lessons and accommodations from June 16 to October 2. A two-week surf camp costs from 136,000 rubles (1,444.32 $), a 4-hour group lesson is 5,000 rubles (53.10 $), individual 10,000 (106.20 $), a 10-lesson pass costs 42,000 (446.04 $). Equipment rental is 3,000 rubles (31.86 $).

All prices are current for 2023.

Even if you don’t plan to devote much time to learning how to surf, trying it once with a view of the volcanoes is definitely worth it. So choose a school and ride the wave.

National and Natural Parks

One of the features of Kamchatka is a well-developed network of specially protected natural areas (SPNA). This is a rather complex system in a matryoshka format. A single reserve can include multiple national parks, sanctuaries, or other forms of SPNA. There are 121 of them in Kamchatka altogether.

It is precisely on the territories of SPNA where the most visited natural attractions are located, which are included in the programs of tours, hikes, and excursions. If you plan to visit independently, for example, Gorely volcano, you need to get permission in advance to access the natural park “Volcanoes of Kamchatka”. Visiting the territory of Kronotsky Reserve is a more complicated process since it is a federal SPNA and the rules are stricter. That’s why it’s more convenient and comfortable to travel to Kamchatka as part of a tour group where everything will be done by the organizers.

As mentioned earlier, due to long distances, lack of paved roads leading directly to the starting point of the ascent to any volcano, it is better to plan visiting Kamchatka’s SPNA on tourist vans or jeeps, and particularly remote objects by helicopter.

The “ Kronotsky State Reserve ” is the largest in Kamchatka. It is here that the famous Valley of Geysers is located. You can only get there by helicopter tour, as there are no roads through the surrounding mountain passes. In the Valley of Geysers, there are about 40 geysers that shoot water up to a height of 20–40 meters. Some erupt several times a day, some continuously — tours are planned according to their schedule. Besides geysers, you can see the Valley of Death with toxic fumes and the caldera of Uzon volcano — a huge (9×12 kilometers) basin of a destroyed volcano. All these attractions can be visited on a one-day helicopter tour , costing from 60,000 rubles (637.20 $) per person.

In the South Kamchatka Federal Reserve (part of the Kronotsky Reserve), on the shore of Kuril Lake, lives Russia’s largest population of brown bears—about a thousand animals. One can observe the daily life of bears in their natural habitat even from a close distance. The reserve has special enclosures that limit a small area accessible to visitors. Kuril Lake is also the largest spawning ground for Pacific salmon in Eurasia. Therefore, from July to September, you can witness bears hunting for fish. You can get there by helicopter or off-road vehicle. Information about routes, tour prices, and visiting rules can be found on the reserve’s website .

“ Volcanoes of Kamchatka “—in this natural park are the most visited Kamchatka volcanoes: Avachinsky, Vilyuchinsky, Gorely, Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Mutnovsky, and Tolbachik. This area is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. There are 47 tourist routes laid out. Some are accessible by foot, others only in winter by snowmobile (following the traces of Beringia — dog sledding races ). For example, I walked along the forest trail from the central cordon to Talovskie Springs accompanied by a ranger from Nalychevo Park. The hike with an overnight stay and return took three days. Note that beyond the cordons in Kamchatka, you won’t find any amenities, wooden boardwalks, or well-maintained trails. In Nalychevo, you can bathe in healing springs and are very likely to see a bear (on how to behave when encountering a bear—see the “Tips” section). In Bystrinsky, you will encounter diverse landscapes: from taiga to alpine meadows, in Vilyuchinsky—waterfalls and the eponymous volcano, in the biological reserve “River Kol” you can see salmon spawning.

Natural Monument Blue Lakes . You can easily and quickly get here from Yelizovo or Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky (just eight kilometers away). Tourists go on an easy trek to glacial lakes, which in early and mid-summer are indeed vividly blue due to the melting pure snow.

Volcanoes of Kamchatka

Volcanoes are one of the main highlights of Kamchatka. Some are active (sometimes smoking, like Klyuchevskaya Sopka, for example) and can erupt at any moment, some are dormant (showed activity within the last centuries—Gorely, Shiveluch), some are extinct (haven’t shown activity in the last ten thousand years—Kamen). The exact number of volcanoes is unknown; most sources indicate 29 active and 160 extinct ones.

Travelers see the majestic peaks even while approaching the airport in Yelizovo. A very memorable view of the Koryaksky and Avachinsky volcanoes opens up in good weather on the way from the airport to Petropavlovsk. Not only can you observe the volcanoes, but you can also climb their peaks.

Popular Volcanoes

Gorely (1799 meters). A gentle convenient trail leads to the summit, making it the most popular volcano among tourists. The crater contains a lake with turquoise-colored water. The ascent and descent take about five to six hours. Therefore, it’s better to allocate a full day for the volcano, and on the way back, if there’s time and energy left, you can visit the Spokoiny waterfall.

Mutnovsky (2322 meters) . Everything here is like a perfect volcano out of a stereotype: hot gas emissions from fumaroles, thermal springs at the base, a specific sulfur smell, colorful mountain rocks. Jeeps reach the Cross, a point from which you can get to the crater (and the peak, respectively) in an hour. Near the volcano operates the Mutnovsky Geothermal Power Station, using Earth’s internal thermal energy. Super-fit people can climb both Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes in one day.

Avachinsky (2741 meters) : A more challenging volcano to climb, you’ll definitely need above-average physical preparation, trekking boots, poles, and a good guide. The last eruption was in 2001. While people take day trips to Gorely and Mutnovsky volcanoes, many climb Avachinsky in the dark to catch the sunrise, aiming to descend before bad weather, which often occurs at such heights after noon, sets in.

Tolbachik (3682 meters) : No longer part of the day trips from Petropavlovsk because it’s 350 kilometers away from the city. Hiking expeditions use jeeps for a drop-off. This is a whole volcanic complex with two peaks, a dead forest, lava flows, and Martian landscapes. Climbing the Plosky Tolbachik (3085 meters) is accessible for any tourist with average physical preparation and does not require special equipment besides trekking footwear and sportswear. Only experienced hikers and professional mountaineers go to the neighboring Ostry Tolbachik (3682 meters).

Klyuchevskaya Sopka (4753 meters) : This is the highest active volcano in Eurasia. The volcano was active in June 2023 but safely so for people and aviation: it spewed lava fountains in the crater. Climbing this peak is only accessible to professional mountaineers.

Thermal Springs of Kamchatka

The underground waters heat up to 20–90 degrees Celsius due to volcanic activity. At the points where they reach the surface, you can take baths in natural pools. There are about 200 geothermal springs in Kamchatka.

The healing effect of bathing in thermal water is possible when undergoing a special course lasting several weeks. However, even a single visit can relax the muscles, recover after an exhausting day, and make you feel rested.

General rules for staying in thermal springs:

• Do not stay in the water for more than 20 minutes at a time.
• Take baths no more than twice a day.
• Entry and exit from the water should be smooth and calm.
• Do not move actively in the spring; rather lie or sit quietly in one place.
• After visiting the spring, it’s recommended to restore your water-salt balance and drink 500–700 milliliters of plain water.

Here are the most popular springs in Kamchatka:

Paratunski Springs (40 kilometers from Petropavlovsk): The most convenient in terms of location and comfort. You can get there from the city in half an hour. They are accessible in any weather and season. There are real pools, loungers, cafes, and changing rooms.

Zelenovski Lakes (50 kilometers from Petropavlovsk): Another well-equipped place with sunbeds for rent, heated changing rooms, and cafes. These springs contain radon, which is considered harmful in some countries. You can relax in comfortable bowls year-round.

Dachni Springs (110 kilometers from Petropavlovsk, but the road is worse than to Malki and travel time is longer): Usually visited after climbing the Mutnovsky volcano to regain strength. They are located at the foot of the Rocky Ridge and consist of unequipped rocky pools in hollows.

Malkinski Springs (120 kilometers from Petropavlovsk): These consist of unequipped stone pools next to the Kluchevka River. There are six groups of gryphons—this is what they call the emergence of underground waters to the surface. You can alternate between bathing in hot thermal water and in the cool river. The scenery around Malkinski is very picturesque, surrounded by wilderness. However, this leads to a major drawback—large numbers of mosquitoes. Don’t forget to bring repellent. On the way, locals often stop by “Pirozhkovy Ray” café; they sell delicious pastries, and a rating of 4.9 and 650 reviews speak for themselves.

Nalychevo Valley Springs (50 kilometers on foot or 200 kilometers by transport from Petropavlovsk): The road to these springs goes through Avachinsky or Semenovsky Pass. During summer, you can only get there on foot or by helicopter, while in winter, you can use a snowmobile. Many tours to the Valley of Geysers include a visit to these springs on the way back to the city. The valley has over 100 thermal water outlets, which make up seven different groups of springs with varying chemical compositions. The water temperature ranges from +20 to +75 degrees Celsius.

The Nalychevo Valley and Dachni Springs are difficult to access during the winter due to their remoteness from paved roads. Even if you manage to get there by snowmobiles, access to them might be restricted due to snow drifts. On the other hand, Malkinski, Paratunski, and Zelenovski Springs are accessible year-round.

Kamchatka Map

For this text, we have created a detailed map on Google Maps with all the points from this guide.

Transport in the Region

Public transport is difficult to use in Kamchatka due to poor road conditions. Old buses operate between cities and are very slow. Most attractions in Kamchatka are natural, so reaching them by public transport is nearly impossible. Renting your own car is also not always an option due to the bad roads; you may have to cross rivers or deal with severe off-road conditions. Rental Japanese cars (Toyotas) are not always adapted for the mainland; some have the steering wheel on the right, adding to the difficulties of independent travel. Therefore, most travelers, even those who usually plan all their trips themselves, book tours in Kamchatka. Guides will plan the route for you and provide a quality off-road vehicle with a driver.

Ground Transport

There are no railways on the peninsula and the road network is underdeveloped. The main highway is 700 kilometers long and goes from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to Ust-Kamchatsk through Sokoch, Milkovo, Yelizovo, and Kluchi. There are branches to the settlements of Oktyabrsky and Esso. Asphalt roads also lead to Vilyuchinsk and Termalny. Other roads are small and unpaved. Buses operate between major cities, but tickets are more expensive than on the mainland, and the speed is slower. A bus ticket from Petropavlovsk to Esso (500 km) costs from 2800 rubles (29.74 $), and the journey takes about ten hours.

Most excursions and hiking trips start with a ride on a truck-based bus or a powerful off-road vehicle to cross rivers and rocky areas. These vehicles are called “vakhtovka” and were primarily used to transport workers but are now used for tourists. In winter, snowmobiles become the main mode of transport.

Car rentals in Kamchatka are not very popular due to difficult roads, wild nature, and challenging terrain. Whenever possible, use the services of professional drivers and guides. Here are some rental organizations: CarGo , “ Forsazh “, and RentCity41 . An SUV will cost from 7000 rubles per day (74.34 $), a “Toyota Corolla” from 4000 (42.48 $), and a high-clearance jeep “Toyota Hilux” or “Toyota Prado” from 5000 (53.10 $). The deposit for each car starts at 25,000 rubles (265.50 $). Important: some websites do not include off-road damage insurance in the initial cost. This will be calculated in the final booking or when receiving the car, so consider this when planning your budget.

Bears in Kamchatka

Prepare for encounters not only with cute ground squirrels but also with the dangerous brown bear. Here are the main tips when meeting this large predator:

• Do not venture into wild areas alone.
• Do not approach or touch bear cubs — the mother bear will think you intend to harm them.
• Do not walk in the forest in complete silence; it’s better to talk and make noise in a group — this way, the bear will know you’re coming and will most likely avoid you.
• If you suddenly find yourself at an unsafe distance from a bear but it is acting calmly, do not try to do anything — it may start to defend itself.
• Animals are afraid of those who are larger, so gather your group and raise sticks and backpacks above your head.
• Have a flare and a whistle handy for encounters.
• Do not feed the bears and do not leave food remnants in field camps.
• Keep your distance and do not approach the bear for a photo closer than 100 meters.
• Do not turn your back on the bear and do not try to run away from it, as it’s impossible.
• Listen to the advice and commands of the guide.

How to Get to Kamchatka

Plane : Direct flights are available only from Russia: from Moscow, Vladivostok, Novosibirsk, Khabarovsk, Magadan, and Irkutsk. A flight from Moscow takes about nine hours. If long flights tire you out, you can buy a ticket with an extended layover in Novosibirsk or Irkutsk.

When purchasing tickets to Kamchatka from Moscow, the rule “early-bought tickets are often cheaper” does not apply. Half a year before the high summer season, tickets are the most expensive. However, subsidized tickets from Aeroflot become available in early May. A round-trip ticket with luggage starts at 20,000 rubles (212.40 $). In June, tickets for July cost from 29,000 rubles (307.98 $), for August from 40,000 (424.80 $), and for September from 29,000 (307.98 $). The highest demand is in August, the warmest and least rainy month.

Transport from the Airport : All flights arrive at Elizovo International Airport (as a joke for 2023 – there are no international flights), which is located in the city of the same name 30 km from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Buses and minibuses — №7, 8, and 104 — run to the city center. The fare is 25 rubles (0.27 $).

Taxis cost from 700 rubles (7.43 $) upwards. A trip via Yandex.Taxi will cost around 900 rubles (9.56 $) on average. It is better to use the popular Kamchatka app Indriver, where you propose the price for the trip, and drivers accept your offer. You can negotiate a lower price than in a regular taxi or Yandex.

By Land : Due to the complex terrain, harsh weather conditions, and the simple lack of roads, you can only reach Kamchatka by land within the framework of an expedition in jeeps or on foot.

Ferry : Ferries operate on only one route: Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky — Severo-Kurilsk (Sakhalin). The journey takes eight hours, and ferries run every three to four days. A ticket costs 4,300 rubles (45.67 $) and can be purchased online at rfbus.ru .

When to Visit Kamchatka

The high season in Kamchatka starts in July and lasts until October . It is during this time that you can easily access all the main attractions without having to deal with snow drifts and prolonged autumn rains. In June, this region still experiences sub-zero nighttime temperatures, which return again in mid-October. Another downside in spring and June is aggressive bears, still hungry after their winter hibernation. Therefore, if you plan on camping or staying in glamping sites, climbing volcanoes, or visiting national parks, come to Kamchatka from mid-summer to early October.

If you want to catch the golden autumn, aim for the second half of September when the volcanic slopes, locally known as “sopki,” turn yellow and red.

If the main purpose of your trip is surfing, suitable months are from May to mid-October when all Kamchatka surf camps are open, and the water warms up to 13–18 degrees Celsius. Surfing is possible year-round, even in winter. Perhaps winter surfing with a view of snow-covered sopki will be the most vivid experience of your life.

Another reason to visit Kamchatka in winter is skiing. There are several organized skiing spots with trails for snowboarders and skiers, for example, Mount Moroznaya or the “Alpina” base. For advanced athletes, freeride tours are conducted in wild conditions—using snowmobiles or helicopters.

Pros and Cons

Kamchatka is a unique region where you can see unusual natural phenomena, Martian landscapes, and encounter wild animals.

• Nowhere else in the world will you find volcanoes, ocean beaches, geysers, and mineral springs so close to populated areas.
• Active recreation in a not-so-popular tourist destination, so most attractions will be relatively uncrowded.
• Affordable subsidized flights by Aeroflot.
• The opportunity to try fish, caviar, and seafood.
• Absence of oppressive heat and humidity in the summer.
• The chance to try your hand at climbing and extreme sports like surfing and snowboarding.
• Expensive vacation, the cheapest tour (not entirely on foot, with a moderate level of comfort) will cost around 100,000 rubles (1,062.00 $) without the cost of tickets.
• High prices for some familiar products.
• Long flights, time zone changes, and acclimatization.
• During peak months, excursions, tours, and good accommodations must be booked well in advance.
• Unpredictable weather— for example, helicopter tours may be postponed for several days due to wind or precipitation.
• Independent nature trips without guides are not very accessible.

• Text and Photo: Anastasia Yurlova.
• Cover: Daniil Silantev.

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How to Travel to Kamchatka

Kamchatka has no ground connection with the mainland. No railways or roads lead to Kamchatka from the rest of Eurasia. The Navy and fishermen mainly use the seaport of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. There are no regular passenger ferries to anywhere from this port. The only possibility to get to Kamchatka or leave it is the air flight.

The airport is located in 20 km from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky in the village called Elyzovo. So the airport called “Elyzovo” airport. There are daily flights to Moscow, several flights a week to Siberia, Saint Petersburg and Alaska. To book your flight, you can use WayToRussia.Net Airline Tickets reservation service. Note, that if you buy your plane ticket beforehand it's going to cost about 2 times less, so it's better to plan your trip beforehand.

How to Get Around: It is hard to get around Kamchatka by yourself. There are two reasons – permissions required and the lack of public transport. Most of the area of Kamchatka is the closed and secured area. Some of it

by the military reasons, some by the ecological ones. So, to move around you need to obtain special permissions. There are just several locations, which can be reached by the independent traveler without permissions. Most of the volcanoes and geysers are in the nature reserves, so you will not be able to get there without the permissions. The local tourist agencies provide the permissions for their clients. Usually you just buy the tour and don’t bother with the permissions. The system of public transport is poor. There are just several regular buses, which operate at the routes from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to the nearest villages. The hitchhiking seems to be a hard activity at Kamchatka. There are few cars moving by the few roads of the peninsula. The cycling and trekking without the guide is hard cause there are lack of proper maps of Kamchatka and dangerous due to the wild animals living in the area. There are no companies which rent the cars in the city, however there are taxies which can get you to the villages around the city (using the inDriver or Yandex.Taxi apps to order it using your phone). The most of the tourists use travel agencies to get around Kamchatka and they book the tours before. The rest come to Kamchatka independently hoping to travel by themselves but in the few days they also buy the tours, as they can’t reach anything on their own.  If you don't like travel agencies, you can try the so-called "adventure clubs", which are usually ran by young people who create really cool itineraries. One that we recommend is called Sila Territorii (The Power of Territory)  — they can also provide the equipment for your travel.

Practical Advices There is a short high season at Kamchatka: from July to September only. This means that thousands of the tourists rush at Kamchatka at this time. During the high season it is hard to get the plane ticket to Kamchatka, find the room in the hotel in the city or package tour available – so, reserve the tour beforehand! You have to be equipped well to travel round Kamchatka. You should discuss with the travel agency the list of equipment they will provide and bring the rest by yourself.  

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