kamchatka best time to travel

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13 Nov 2019

What is the best time to visit Kamchatka?

The Kamchatka Peninsula of far Eastern Russia is a rugged and remote epicentre of wildlife, presenting an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the world’s last remaining frontiers. A pristine and largely uninhabited area, where a myriad of teeming marine and avian life thrive, Kamchatka is a majestic land of towering volcanoes, thermal hot springs, striking fjords, and boiling geysers. Home of the world’s most remote and hard to reach coastlines, the sheer scale of this region, its remoteness and inaccessibility makes travelling there only possible by small ship expedition vessels. Known for extremes, this dramatic scenery shaped by lava and ice is subject to intense weather patterns, making timing a crucial consideration in planning an expedition  cruise to Kamchatka .

The best time of year to visit Kamchatka  is during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, from late May through early September, with each month offering its own virtues and unique opportunities for exploration and wildlife sightings. Walruses, whales, sea lions, and an extraordinary variety of birds dominate this startling landscape where one is more likely to run into a bear than a tourist! Read on to discover how Kamchatka travel varies across the summer months and uncover your ideal adventure of a lifetime, depending on which aspects of this otherworldly peninsula intrigue you most.

May Through Early June The dawning of summer, from late May to early June, is an enchanting time for visiting Kamchatka . Dramatic cone-shaped volcanoes still capped with snow form a majestic backdrop for fields of wildflowers, as brown bears emerge from a long hibernation and the natural world awakens to the delight of warming temperatures after a long and brutal winter. During this time of renewal, our Kamchatka tour guides lead travellers on an expedition into three distinct geographical regions – the Kamchatka Peninsula, the Commander Islands and the Kuril Islands – on our expedition to Kamchatka and Kuril Islands , ‘Russia's Ring of Fire.'

May into early June is peak birdwatching season and you can expect to spot an innumerable array of rare, unusual, and majestic bird species, both resident and migratory. Notable is the intermingling of American and Eurasian species and given the startlingly high bird population, Russia’s Kamchatka is truly a birder’s paradise. Zodiac cruising provides ample opportunity to spot up to 14 Auk species including Tufted and Horned Puffins, Parakeet, Whiskered and Rhinoceros Auklets, as well as Spectacled and Pigeon Guillemots.

Other sea birds to look out for include the regularly encountered Laysan Albatross, Mottled Petrel, Fork-tailed Storm-petrel, Red-faced Cormorant, Red-legged Kittiwake and Aleutian Tern. In addition to all the avian wildlife, whale watchers will delight is spotting Sperm, Humpback, Northern Minke and Baird’s Beaked-Whales, as well as Orcas/Killer Whales, Steller Sea Lions, Northern Fur Seals and Pacific Sea Otters. A cruise along the scenic Zhupanova River is prime Steller’s Sea Eagle territory. Over half of the world’s population dwell here and at this time of year, this magnificent bird of an impressive 2.5 metre wingspan is often nesting in the trees adjacent to the river.

At the onset of summer, bears are particularly active, hungrily awaiting the salmon run after months of hibernation. An excursion into the head of a fjord brings ample opportunity to spot these impressive mammals as well as numerous unique bird species. The Kuril Strait has one of the highest densities of sea otters in the area and a stroll to Black Lake is unforgettable; for in early June, fields of wildflowers and stunning orchids colour the landscape with contrasting beauty.

June Through Early July Late June into early July is a splendid time to observe the famed Kamchatka Brown Bear. July is not only the warmest month in Kamchatka, but also the time when rivers run with spawning salmon racing upstream, becoming an abundant feast for hungry bears emerging from winter hibernation. Kamchatka is notably the only place left on Earth where all six species of wild Pacific salmon return to spawn. An estimated 20,000 bears inhabit the region and watching them catch salmon in the river as the largest active volcano in the Northern Hemisphere sits majestically in the background, is both thrilling and deeply serene. Travel to Kamchatka immerses you in some of the most extraordinary primal beauty this planet has to offer and July is the best month to see the stunning floral landscapes of the foothills. If you embark on the ‘ Siberia’s Forgotten Coast: Kamchatka Coast ’ expedition, you will even have the opportunity to accompany researchers into a breeding colony of the rare and iconic Spoon-billed Sandpiper, one of the world's critically endangered species which clings to life here. Other highlights of this Kamchatka expedition cruise include Zodiac cruising on the Zhupanova River where sightings of Steller’s Sea Eagles and Largha/Spotted seals are common. Waterfowl and waders delight birders and a crossing of the deep sea Kuril–Kamchatka Trench also invites observation of cetaceans and seabirds. Venture into largely unexplored parts of the coast where deep, forested fjords are home to brown bears, red fox, mountain sheep and marmots. Picturesque lagoons attract diverse birdlife and this coastline is rich in varied marine mammals, including the charismatic walrus.

September September is truly a mesmerizing window for visiting Kamchatka. Autumn explodes in a prism of color, where vibrant hues of red and orange contrast against the earthy shades of smoking volcanoes and tundra draped hillsides. September generally has less rain than July or August (which also means few mosquitoes), and is a prime time to observe well fed bears lounging on the riverbanks, while reindeer and mountain sheep feed in preparation for the long winter ahead. A perfect Kamchatka tour for this time of year is ‘ Jewel of the Russian Far East: Kamchatka Coast ’ which, alongside wildlife spotting, includes an unforgettable visit to a traditional village where you find yourself enchanted by local dance and customs. During this time of year, wild berries color the meandering fjords and deep forests. Highlights of this expedition include a visit to a fur seal rookery, stunning lagoons populated by brown bears, and the world famous Valley of the Geysers.

All summer months are extraordinary times for Kamchatka tourism and regardless of which month you choose, this mosaic of tundra, deciduous forest, pristine waterways, volcanoes and geysers are bound to leave you utterly awestruck. Less than 400,000 people inhabit this 1,250-kilometre Subarctic finger of land, preserving the Kamchatka Peninsula’s pristine beauty, exceptional biodiversity and exquisite abundance of wildlife that is virtually unparalleled anywhere else on Earth. Perched between the Sea of Okhotsk and the Pacific Ocean, Kamchatka boasts 414 glaciers and 160 volcanoes, 29 of which are active. This majestic landscape is dotted with calderas, fumaroles, volcanic lakes and thermal springs, alongside emerald forests skirted by deep mauve tundra, alpine meadows bursting with the hues of blooming wildflowers, and backed by volcanoes topped with glaciers and snow.

Kamchatka has a mythical allure, attracting the adventurous traveller eager to witness nature unfiltered on this frozen, otherworldly peninsula poised in continual recreation at the edge of the Earth.

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Best Time To Visit Kamchatka

Travel to Kamchatka is best during the Northern Hemisphere summer, which runs from late May through early September. Each month has its own advantages and chances for sightseeing & wildlife observation. While you're here, check out the walruses, sea lions, whales, and incredible variety of birds, but keep your distance from the bears.

Find out how the summer months in Kamchatka differ and how you may plan the trip of a lifetime by seeing the areas of this strange peninsula that most interest you.

Kamchatka During Summer Season

Traveling to this place during summers can be appropriate for amazing outdoor activities. You can try hands on photography, hiking and also go for wildlife watching. You can make a booking in advance for summer months either in the first week of July or for mid September.

Kamchatka During Winter Season

It would be impossible to witness bears in action throughout the fall and spring seasons since they would be hibernating. However, winter is the best time to see the natural splendor of Kamchatka by going on a heli-skiing, skiing, or other wintry adventure tour.

Choose the months of January through April for your Kamchatka winter adventure if you're not afraid of sub-zero weather. You may expect frigid weather in Kamchatka during these months, with temperatures dropping as minimal as 3 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels around 82%. A comfortable 34 degrees Fahrenheit is the norm.

Kamchatka During Monsoon Season

In the fall, when most tourists are in Kamchatka, the average temperature is a comfortable 54 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidity is perfect for a day of outdoor pleasure. This is amongst most popular times of year to visit Kamchatka, but it is also one of the most beautiful.

Humidity is around 86%, while temperatures vary between 23 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to this temperature, you may feel a colder air. You can go for a hot coffee early in the morning and can also have before going to bed, this will help you in having a day full of energy.

The average temperature in the month of December is 31 degree F. Precipitation is possible due to the 87% humidity, so bring an umbrella or a light jacket. The weather gets more erratic, making this a less ideal season to visit Kamchatka.

Note : It's best to avoid traveling at the end of October through December and in the middle of May through June.

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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 (10.85 $), or 1,200 (13.02 $) 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 (65.10 $) 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 (81.37 $).
• 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 (75.95 $), 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 (108.50 $).
• 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 (43.40 $) per night.
• “ Kamchatka Forest Lodge ” is a park hotel near the Paratunsky springs. Renting a chalet costs 26,000–37,000 rubles (282.10–401.45 $). A room costs 18,000 rubles (195.30 $).
• 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 (108.50 $).
• 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 (271.25 $) for a 2-3-person Eco-Module and 28,000 rubles (303.80 $) for a 7-person tent; in May-June and October, the same price applies for the Eco-Module and 23,000 rubles (249.55 $) 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 (10.85 $), a kilogram of bananas—250 (2.71 $), tomatoes—400 rubles (4.34 $). 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 (16.27 $) per kilogram, Kamchatka crab—starts from 1500 rubles (16.27 $), pink salmon roe—starts from 2000 rubles (21.70 $), crowberries—400 rubles (4.34 $). 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 (531.65 $). A one-day jeep tour costs 10,000 rubles (108.50 $) per seat or you can rent an entire vehicle with a driver for 25,000 rubles (271.25 $).

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 / 108.50 $).

Galentina Tour — This local project offers custom hiking routes to Nalychevo and volcanoes starting at 41,000 rubles (444.85 $). Hikes that include easy climbs to volcanoes and salmon spawning observation start at 125,000 rubles (1,356.25 $).

“ Adventure Club ” — A large Russian aggregator offering various tours, including challenging hikes to the Sredinny Ridge. Prices start at 38,000 rubles (412.30 $) for a 12-day trek.

Russia Discovery — Another major tour operator. They offer individual tours starting at 300,000 rubles (3,255.00 $), gastronomy tours from 200,000 rubles (2,170.00 $), and tours without tents and backpacks from 100,000 rubles (1,085.00 $).

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 (10.85 $) 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 (54.25 $) to 16,000 rubles (173.60 $) 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 (54.25 $), Individual: 11,000 rubles (119.35 $), For children: 4,000 (43.40 $) and 7,000 (75.95 $). A two-week surf tour with accommodation costs from 200,000 rubles (2,170.00 $).

Quiksilver . Group lesson (4 hours): 5,000 rubles (54.25 $), Individual: 10,000 (108.50 $), surf and wetsuit rental without instructor: 3,000 rubles (32.55 $). 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 (1,475.60 $), a 4-hour group lesson is 5,000 rubles (54.25 $), individual 10,000 (108.50 $), a 10-lesson pass costs 42,000 (455.70 $). Equipment rental is 3,000 rubles (32.55 $).

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 (651.00 $) 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 (30.38 $), 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 (75.95 $), a “Toyota Corolla” from 4000 (43.40 $), and a high-clearance jeep “Toyota Hilux” or “Toyota Prado” from 5000 (54.25 $). The deposit for each car starts at 25,000 rubles (271.25 $). 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 (217.00 $). In June, tickets for July cost from 29,000 rubles (314.65 $), for August from 40,000 (434.00 $), and for September from 29,000 (314.65 $). 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 (7.59 $) upwards. A trip via Yandex.Taxi will cost around 900 rubles (9.76 $) 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 (46.65 $) 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 (1,085.00 $) 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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Visit the Kamchatka Peninsula

Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase we will earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We chose these companies / hotels because of their quality and not because of the commission we receive from your purchases.

The most notable animals are bears and wolves. Large fish such as salmon, a popular prey of bears and Steller's White-tailed Eagles live in the lakes and rivers. There are otters, seals, sea lions and seabirds who live along the coasts. Reindeers are seen in the more northerly areas.

The best starting point to discover the wilderness is Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. In this small town on the east coast, the only paved road of the area ends. The town is enclosed between three enormous volcanoes and the more than 10 kilometers deep Pacific Ocean. In these fertile waters, killer whales, sperm whales, humpbacks and thousands of seals swim.

Best time to visit

If you cross Kamchatka from the south to the north you move from one climate zone to another. Kamchatka dangles just below the Arctic circle. Come in mid summer for endless days and the best weather. In winter the peninsula is hidden under a thick layer of snow that disappears in May. The short summer only lasts from July until mid-September. Click here for average weather details of the region.

This article was last updated on December 17, 2020.

© 2010-2024 World Weather & Climate Information All rights reserved.

Things to do and see in Kamchatka Russia

Kamchatka is a peninsula in northeastern Russia that did not actually allow tourists until the end of the last century. As a result, its landscape remains intact. It has a unique identity and is a magical, wild place with a lot to offer. The sights of Kamchatka will leave you speechless as it is a mountainous area, with many volcanoes and other points of interest, all of which we will tell you about below.

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What are the must-see places in Kamchatka Russia?

The Kamchatka Peninsula lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Okhotsk Seas, in the middle of the Pacific Ring of Fire, the most seismically active place on earth. As a result, the peninsula’s relief is made up of volcanoes, craters, geysers and other volcanic phenomena. The peninsula is more than 1,000 kilometres long, so if you’re into hiking, you’re sure to have plenty to see in Kamchatka.

1. Volcanoes in Kamchatka Russia

The peninsula has about 160 volcanoes, 30 of which are still active. However, the vast majority of them are difficult to access and require days of hiking. The ones mentioned below are easily accessible and can be reached from the city of Petropavlovsk by bus or helicopter.

The Klyuchevskoye volcano is one of the highest volcanoes in the world at 4,800 metres, and one of the best known for its perfect cone and surrounding landscapes. At the foot of Klyuchevskoye is Lake Kronotskoye, whose blue meltwater reflects the grandeur of the volcano. Not far away are the Avatchinski and Kozielski volcanoes. Excursions to these volcanoes can be arranged for around €150.

Other volcanoes such as Khangar and Tolbachik are further away and require helicopter tours to reach them. These excursions cost between €500 and €700. However, for mountain lovers it is well worth it as the scenery is breathtaking.

2. Valley of the Geysers

Several kilometres long, this valley in the Kronotsk Nature Reserve is full of geysers and thermal pools caused by seismic activity. You can visit the valley by helicopter. Tours are booked in Petropavlovsk and cost around €700.

3. Petropavlovsk

Petropavlovsk is the capital of Kamchatka located on Avacha Bay. It was founded in 1740 and many expeditions were necessary to get to know the area because of its difficult access. In fact, today it is one of the few cities in the world that cannot be reached by road. The city is the administrative, cultural and scientific centre of the peninsula, and although it doesn’t have much to offer, it’s the departure point for excursions to the volcanoes and the coast.

4. Ice cave

Below the Mutnovsk volcano, a cavity formed as a result of the erosion of glacial waters seeping down the mountain. Access to the cave is very difficult, however, and is only recommended for skilled mountaineers, climbers and speleologists.

5. Kamchatka river

The Kamchatka River is 758 kilometres long and runs the length of the peninsula, fed by meltwater. About 400 kilometres of the river is navigable, but for a period of the year it freezes over. The river is famous for the abundance of salmon that ascend it to spawn. You can take a boat trip from the village Atlasovo, which ends with a view of the volcano Ploski Tolbachik.

6. Lake Kurile

Lake Kurile, formed in the crater of a volcano, has an area of 77km2 and an average depth of 176m. The most striking feature of the lake is the fauna and flora it is home to. In fact, it is an ideal place for bear watching. In addition, the lake is one of the world’s top salmon spawning grounds. You can only reach it by helicopter, which for around €700, also includes the guide, transport to the hotel and food.

Organise your travel itinerary with Passporter , completely free to use, easy and practical. Get inspired by the experiences of other travellers and choose the places that interest you most by adding them to your route map.

Other excursions

For a more affordable price (around €150) day trips can be organised, such as the excursion to a Malka settlement which includes rafting, bathing in hot springs, transfer and guide. There are also boat trips from Petropavlovsk to see ocean wildlife, including whale and other cetacean sightings. Finally, you can take a trip to the indigenous village of Kamchatka, where you can see a kennel of Beringian dogs, the ethnographic museum and the village.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

What to see around Kamchatka Russia?

Kamchatka, located in the far reaches of Siberia, is a somewhat isolated peninsula that is difficult to reach, which means that it is not easy to visit the surrounding area. The only way is by plane. As we have already seen, there is a lot to see and do in Kamchatka, and it’s not cheap, so when visiting the peninsula travellers generally spend several days there with no intention of covering more territory. Interestingly, Kamchatka is closer to Seattle than Moscow, so if you want to visit closer to home, Alaska or Canada would be a better choice.

What to do in Kamchatka Russia in 5 days?

There is so much to see in Kamchatka, strecthing over 1000 kilometres and with such a diverse landscape you can imagine that it is not easy to cover it all in a few days. However, the main problem is the price of excursions. The peninsula’s points of interest are in places that are difficult to reach and somewhat remote from each other. Therefore the number of days to spend in Kamchatka will unfortunately depend on the tourist’s budget. Even so, here is a more or less accessible itinerary that you can see with Petropavlovsk as the centre of operations.

The first thing we recommend is visiting the Ariakski, Avatchinski and Kozielski volcanoes, as they are the easiest to reach from the city. Excursions last a full day to each volcano, about 7 hours including transport and visit. You can spend two or three days to see the volcanoes.

You can spend another day in the Valley of the Geysers. Recently an avalanche covered two thirds of the valley, but it is still worth a visit. The excursion also lasts a full day. Spend another day at the Kamchatka River and organise an excursion to the Makla settlement or visit the indigenous village.

Finally, if you want something more relaxed, you can choose to visit the city of Petropavlovsk and do a whale-watching trip around the bay.

Where to stay in Kamchatka Russia?

The best place to stay is Petropavlovsk because of its infrastructure and proximity to major attractions and the airport. Hotels in Petropavlovsk are not particularly luxurious, but prices are very affordable and there are plenty of options to choose from.

• Complex Petropavlovsk : this hotel is characterised by its good location and quality services, including a beauty salon and business rooms. They also offer breakfast and free parking. The room rate is around 70€ per night.
• Mini comfort hotel : this is a fully-equipped hotel for families and with more affordable prices from 50€ per night.
• Hostels : there are several hostels in the city with good locations and whose prices range around €20 per night. They are a very cheap option. Some of the best hostels are Khostel VULKAN, Hostel Brusnika or the Japanese-style Lunokhod Capsule Hostel.

Best restaurants in Kamchatka Russia

Kamchatka’s main attraction is its excursions, which means you’re likely to have a sandwich for lunch on most days. That’s why we’ve put together a selection of places where you can dine well in Petropavlovsk.

As for Kamchatka’s cuisine, due to its coastal location, it is not surprising that the best dishes are fish and seafood. The cuisine also has strong Asian influences.

• Kamchatka Local Kitchen : this restaurant serves both local dishes and international food, so you can find really exotic dishes in a very pleasant atmosphere. The price ranges from €5 to €17.
• Kalylan : this is a traditional seafood restaurant. The most curious thing is the rustic decoration and the earthenware crockery. The price per person is around 70€.
• Fast food: As in any other city, there are plenty of fast food restaurants and cheaper restaurants such as Max-Pizza or Café Express.

How to get to Kamchatka Russia?

Despite its remoteness, access to Kamchatka is not complicated, although it is limited to air travel. The only way to get there is by air.

From European countries you have to make a stopover in a Russian city, but most of them have cheap flights to Petropavlovsk airport.

Once you’re on the mainland, getting around is a bit more complicated, so it’s best to book excursions to tourist destinations by bus or helicopter.

Travel tips for visiting Kamchatka

• The Russian rouble is used in Kamchatka.
• Changed your money in advance, as currency exchanges at airports are very expensive.
• Cover yourself for medical emergencies: travel with insurance.
• The best time to visit Kamchatka is from May to September. During these months temperatures are more pleasant for hiking.
• You can also visit during the winter months if you’re interested in seeing the snow-capped peaks. Bring plenty of warm clothes as temperatures don’t rise above freezing.
• To travel to Russia from Spain you’ll need to get a visa from the embassy.
• The city is safe, but as with any tourist destination, you’d better be careful with your belongings. There is a lot to see in Kamchatka and you don’t want to spoil your trip for nothing.

How to organise your trip to Kamchatka Russia?

Sign up or download the Passporter App and discover all its useful features.

• Get inspiration from the experiences of other travellers.
• Create your own itinerary and add the app’s suggestions to it.
• Add the spots you are most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest listed in this post as a reference).
• Organise your itinerary by days and according to their location (you can take inspiration from the routes presented in the post).
• Check the travel budget that the app calculates for you based on your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
• Make the necessary modifications and you are ready for your trip.
• Finally, share your experience. Upload photos of every place you’ve visited to the app and recommend to other travellers all there is to see in Kamchatka, Russia.

If you have any doubts about how to plan your itinerary, you can read our post:  How to create your travel itinerary with Passporter .

Frequently asked questions about a trip to Kamchatka

The best time is from August to September, which is the salmon spawning season and when the bears hunt.

Flights and accommodation are not very expensive, but excursions are. A trip of about 5 days could cost approximately 3000 euros.

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Further reading....

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Things to do and see in Samara Russia

Things to do and see in Kazan Russia

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Exploring Kamchatka Peninsula: A Traveler’s Guide

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Unveiling Kamchatka’s Natural Marvels

Photo by Daniil Silantev on Unsplash

Nestled in the far eastern reaches of Russia, the Kamchatka Peninsula is a land of untamed beauty and rugged wilderness. With its diverse ecosystems, including volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs, Kamchatka offers a unique blend of natural wonders that captivate adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. The best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is milder and outdoor activities are in full swing. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in the annual Salmon Festival, celebrating the region’s rich fishing heritage.

Immersive Experiences and Spectacular Landmarks

From the iconic Valley of Geysers to the towering Klyuchevskaya Sopka volcano, Kamchatka is home to an array of awe-inspiring attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts can embark on hiking expeditions to witness the breathtaking landscapes and encounter diverse wildlife, including brown bears and eagles. For a deeper understanding of the region’s history and indigenous cultures, exploring the indigenous settlements and visiting the Kamchatka Regional Museum are highly recommended. Additionally, adrenaline-seekers can indulge in activities such as heli-skiing, river rafting, and dog sledding, creating unforgettable memories in this remote paradise.

Culinary Delights and Unique Accommodations

When it comes to culinary experiences, Kamchatka offers a delightful array of seafood dishes, showcasing the freshest catches from the surrounding waters. Must-try delicacies include Kamchatka crab, salmon caviar, and smoked fish, which can be savored at local eateries and markets. As for accommodations, visitors can choose from a range of options, from cozy guesthouses and eco-friendly lodges to luxurious wilderness resorts. For a truly immersive stay, consider booking a traditional yurt or a cozy cabin nestled amidst the stunning natural landscapes, providing an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Essential Tips for Exploring Kamchatka

Photo by Ivan on Unsplash

Traveling to Kamchatka requires careful planning, as the region is remote and less developed in terms of infrastructure. It’s advisable to arrange transportation and accommodations in advance, as options may be limited. While Russian is the primary language, English is not widely spoken, so having a basic understanding of Russian phrases can be helpful. Additionally, it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions, especially when interacting with indigenous communities. When exploring the wilderness, it’s crucial to be aware of safety precautions and to follow the guidance of experienced guides to fully enjoy the outdoor adventures that Kamchatka has to offer.

Embracing the Untamed Beauty of Kamchatka

With its unparalleled natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and boundless opportunities for adventure, Kamchatka Peninsula beckons to those seeking an authentic and awe-inspiring travel experience. Whether marveling at the geothermal wonders, savoring local delicacies, or embarking on thrilling outdoor escapades, Kamchatka promises an unforgettable journey that will leave a lasting impression on every traveler.

Land of geysers

Kamchatka is a wild splendor created by Times, Mother Nature, and the Ocean. Kamchatka is a land of untouched landscapes and the unspoiled nature with its volcanoes, acid lakes, and geysers. There are over 300 volcanoes (29 of which are still active); its landscape is a mosaic of tundra, forest, and pristine waterways, while its Pacific coastline supports a remarkable abundance of wildlife.

Due to its remoteness, the peninsula is rarely visited by foreigners, though this region has a lot to offer to nature lovers and spoiled travelers.

Kamchatka can be a great (though expensive) adventure travel destination for FIT and small groups, who love active and Eco tourism. It is good for the type of travelers who tends to avoid the well-trodden path in search of one-of-a-kind adventure experiences.

Kamchatka is a 1,250km (780 miles) long peninsula in Russia’s Far East, geographically closer to Alaska than to Moscow.

Big cities of Kamchatka: Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Yelizovo, Ust-Kamchatsk, Viluchinsk. Population of Kamchatka is less than 400,000 people.

How to get there

The only way to get to Kamchatka is by air (airport of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky):

• Daily direct overnight flights from Moscow
• Occasional flights from Russian major cities like St. Petersburg, Vladivostok and Khabarovsk
• During summer months there are occasional international direct flights operate from Tokyo, Japan (July) and Anchorage, Alaska (July – August).

Best time to visit

July — September: it is the best time to visit Kamchatka for trekking tours and wildlife watching.

January — April: it is a good time for adventure tours, embarking on skiing and heli-skiing. But it is a cold period, too: temperature is below-zero.

October — December and May — June: Shoulder season months, are not recommended for travelling.

Main Highlights

• 3 big natural reservations: Kronotsky, Koryaksky and Komandorsky
• The magnificent Valley of Geysers located in the Kronotsky State Biosphere Reservation. There are over 20 big geysers in the Valley. Some of them gush forth every 10-12 minutes, while others may erupt once in 4-5 hours.
• Dachniye hot springs are often called “Geyser valley in miniature”. They are situated at the foothill of Mutnovsky volcano on the south-east foothill of Skalistaya hill.
• Kamchatka’s volcanoes -The most famous Kamchatka’s and the greatest Eurasian volcano is Kluchevskoy. Almost 5000 km of its height was formed by a specific geological «pedestal», a slope of ancient volcano.
• The South Volcanic group is situated in 75 km south from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy. It includes the following volcanoes: Viluchinsky, Mutnovsky and Gorely. This volcanic group is considered to be one of the best tourist attractions of Kamchatka.
• Other volcanoes — Tolbachick (3.682m), Ksudatsch (1000m).
• Various thermal hot springs suitable for bathing and swimming.
• Uzon Caldera (a part of the Kronotsky State Biosphere Reservation). It contains a complete «museum» collection of everything that Kamchatka is famous for: hot springs and cold rivers, poisonous mud cauldrons and pure lakes full of fish, a berry tundra and a birch forest, mountains and bogs, animals and birds.
• Stunning Avacha bay (or Avachinskaya) is considered to be among the largest and most beautiful bays in the world, offering the picturesque panorama from the sea, fairly close to the capital of the peninsula.
• South of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is scenic Russkaya Bay, a narrow fjord-like bay with a rugged, rocky coastline back-dropped by snowy mountain peaks. Russkaya is the home to an incredible variety of marine mammals including whales, orcas, sea lions and otters.
• Esso village and reindeer herders. Located 520km from Petropavlovsk, relatively close to Klyuchevskoy Nature park, the village is a good “stop” on a tour, to relax in hot thermal pools after a long stay in the wild and trekking active volcanoes, thanks to its gorgeous scenery it is often called ‘Switzerland of Kamchatka’.
• Brown Bears. Can you believe that Kamchatka bears are not aggressive? That’s because of their fish «diet» as they much prefer fish to meat. It may seem incredible, but the huge predator is a vegetarian for a good few months before the rivers are filled up with fish. In July you can observe an idyllic picture of brown bears grazing like cattle in the forest’s and berry fields.

Possible activities

• Helicopter tours
• Fishing tours: in the Bystraya (Malkinskaya) River, the Plotnikova River, and the Bolshaya River. The Bolshaya Rover is one of the biggest rivers in western Kamchatka.
• Sea Cruise: Avacha bay is considered one of the most beautiful harbors in the world.
• Volcanoes and Mountain trekking: Trekking to Camel Mountain (territory of Nalychevsky Natural Park). Trip to the Pacific Ocean Coast – Khalaktyrsky Beach.
• Horseback riding tours: Horseback riding to the Pacific Ocean coast will take you several hours in the fresh air (7-8 hours). Horseback riding to the Wild Hot Spring near the Pinachevo River. The rout runs through the good forest paths and roads (4-5 hours).
• Sup-surfing/Rafting: Rafting along the Khalaktyrka river. The river flows through the picturesque Kamchatka jungle and goes to the coast of the Pacific Ocean. When arriving to the Pacific coast, we’ll make a short ascending to the top of the rock from where opens a beautiful view to the ocean. After that you will have a chance to try SUP surfing on the oceanic waves or just swim in the waters (8 hours).

In late autumn and winter

• Heli-skiing
• Snowmobiling and dog sledding

Example of the Itinerary

Arrival to the Yelizovo Airport and transfer to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatski (20 km). Check in at a hotel.

Ride 500 km in a cross-country vehicle from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to the Kozyrevsk village located in the central part of Kamchatka. Enjoy sceneries of the Middle and East mountain ridges, cross the Kamchatka river and visit the Kluchevskoy, the highest summit in the Russian Far East and the biggest volcanic cone in Eurasia. In fact, there are few volcanoes that can compete with this impressive giant! Set a camp next to the Kozyrevsk village. Accommodations are in two-bed tents.

Your groups will be transferred to the foot of the Plosky Tolbachik shield volcano that overlaps with the Ostry Tolbachik to volcano and forms the Tolbachik volcanic complex, one of Kamchakta’s largest and most active volcanoes. Set a camp and explore surreal and striking views of the area.

Witness “the moon sceneries”, boundless slag fields, and the weird shapes of hardened volcanic lava. Touch still warm volcanic rocks, and feel as if being on another planet. This is the very place where in the 1970s the first Soviet space robots «Lunokhod-1» and «Mars Rover-1» were tested confidentially.

Put on your hiking shoes for a 5-7 hour climb to the top of the Plosky Tolbachik volcano (3,082 m)! The trail weaves around frozen lava flows and slag fields. From the summit, see a striking panorama of the Kluchevskoy volcano complex and the crater, 500 meters deep and 1700 meters wide. Return to the camp. Forest and Lava Caves

Visit the New Northern cones and walk through a petrified forest formed at the 1975 Great Crack eruption of the Tolbachinsky volcano. Explore the ascending New Tolbachinsky cones (300 meters) and the famous lava caves. Return to the camp. Esso

Transfer to Esso known as «Kamchatka Switzerland», a village in Kamchatka’s central region, 520 km north of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Check in to a hotel. Rest and relax in nearby thermal hot springs. Interestingly enough, the hot springs are used for heating homes in Esso.

Visit the Ethnographic Museum and learn about the culture and life style of the Kamchatka population. Take a walk around the Esso village. Ride back to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatski, check in to a hotel and rest. River

Ride 400 km to Bystraya (Malkinskaya) river, set camp on the river bank, rest, and go fishing. Prepare for the next days’ rafting adventure.9: Rafting

Rafting begins! It is not uncommon to see a brown bear on a rafting trip. Fish from a raft and catch a salmon. Accommodations are in two-bed tents. Springs

At the Malkinsky Hot Springs, our rafting adventure ends. Relax in the thermal mineral water. Transfer to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatski and check in to your hotel.

A 7-hour helicopter trip to The Valley of Geysers. From above, observe the Karymsky and Maly Semyachik volcanoes. On the way back, your helicopter lands by the hot thermal springs where you can relax. Return to your hotel in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatski. 12: Sea Fishing

Take a boat trip along the Avacha Bay and go out to the open ocean. Explore the Starichkov Island and try your luck in sea fishing. While not guaranteed, our tourists are often fortunate enough to see marine life including orcas, seals and sea lions.13: Fish Market

A Helicopter Ride

Visit Petropavlovsk-Kamchatski’s Fish marketing and souvenir shops. Transfer to the airport.

January — April (best for adventure tours, skiing and heli-skiing) July — October (best for trekking tours and wildlife watching)

From 7 days

By daily direct overnight flights from Moscow, non-regular flights from the Russian major cities (St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, Khabarovsk) During summer — by non-regular international direct flights from Tokyo (Japan) and Anchorage (Alaska)

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What to see in Kamchatka

1. travel recommendations, 2. places of interest in kamchatka krai, 3. details about volcanoes in kamchatka krai, 4. ethnic groups in kamchatka krai, frequently asked questions (faqs), 1. what is the best time to visit kamchatka krai, 2. is it safe to visit the volcanoes in kamchatka krai.

Welcome to our article on the best things to see in Kamchatka Krai in 2023. If you are planning a trip to this region of Russia, you are in the right place. Here we will provide you with travel recommendations, places of interest and details about the volcanoes and ethnic groups present in the area. Read on to find out everything you need to know!

If you are looking for a unique adventure, Kamchatka Krai is the perfect destination. This remote and little-explored region offers stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. We recommend visiting the Valley of the Geysers, where you can witness eruptions of hot water and steam that create a fascinating natural spectacle. We also suggest exploring Kronotsky National Park, home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including brown bears and bald eagles.

Kamchatka Krai has a wide variety of attractions that will take your breath away. One of the highlights is the Klyuchevskaya Sopka volcano, the highest active volcano in Eurasia. If you are a nature lover, you cannot miss the Kamchatka Peninsula, known for its impressive landscapes, lakes and rivers. Additionally, we recommend visiting the town of Esso, where you can immerse yourself in the culture of local ethnic groups and enjoy their traditions and festivals.

Kamchatka Krai is famous for its volcanic activity. The region is home to more than 160 volcanoes, 29 of which are active. These volcanoes offer a unique experience for adventure lovers. You can take excursions to get closer to the craters and observe the volcanic activity up close. However, it is important to keep in mind that safety is paramount and the recommendations of tour guides and local authorities must be followed.

Kamchatka Krai is home to several ethnic groups, each with their own culture and traditions. The most prominent groups are the Koryaks, Itelmens and Evenks. If you are interested in learning more about these cultures, we recommend visiting the Kamchatka Ethnographic Museum in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Here you can explore exhibits that showcase the history and lifestyle of these ethnic groups, as well as enjoy traditional music and dance performances.

The best time to visit Kamchatka Krai is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is warmer and conditions are ideal for outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that the weather in Kamchatka can be unpredictable, so it is advisable to wear clothing suitable for different weather conditions.

Visiting the volcanoes in Kamchatka Krai can be an exciting experience, but it is important to keep safety in mind. It is recommended to hire licensed tour guides who are familiar with the area and follow proper safety measures. Additionally, it is essential to follow the guides' instructions and not venture into restricted areas. Volcanic activity can be unpredictable, so it is essential to prioritize safety at all times.

In short, Kamchatka Krai is a fascinating destination that offers a wide variety of experiences for nature and adventure lovers. From the impressive volcanoes to the cultural sites of local ethnic groups, this region has a lot to offer. Remember to plan your trip in advance, follow safety recommendations, and fully enjoy everything Kamchatka Krai has to offer. You won't regret visiting this incredible corner of the world!

Until next time,

The fortravelovers.com team

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• 8 Amazing Reasons To Visit...

8 Amazing Reasons to Visit Kamchatka

When you think of travelling to Russia, the first places that probably come to mind are Moscow and St Petersburg , followed closely by the Trans Siberian Railway . While all of these are undeniably must-see attractions for anyone interested in Russia, the country, which spans across two continents and nine time zones, has so much more to offer. From hiking in the Urals to eating fish in Vladivostok , Russia has many undiscovered gems, including Kamchatka, a peninsula in the far east of the country. Here are 7 reasons why it should be on your wish list.

#1 climb an active volcano.

There are 160 volcanoes on Kamchatka and 29 of them are still active. The 29 active volcanoes are considered a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. Many of the volcanoes can be hiked and the views are absolutely breathtaking, both from the ground and from the peaks. Knowing that the volcanoes still have an active connection with the molten rock in the mantle of the Earth and seeing the fumes escaping the crater only add to the thrill.

#2 Walk down the Geyser Valley

#3 See a bear out in the wild

Kamchatka is famous because of its thriving, pristine nature, which brown bears are a part of. While some of them can be found across the entire Eurasian continent, they usually hide away from the eyes of passers-by. On Kamchatka your chances of seeing a bear in the distance are significantly higher, so be careful and be watchful!

#4 Soak up in the natural hot springs

Even though the geysers can only be accessed by a helicopter, volcanic hot springs are much more available to visitors. A quick bath in a hot spring is a favourite pastime for locals and visitors alike. This hot springs adventure is, apparently, the most enjoyable in winter, when the temperature difference is the biggest. Try it if you dare!

#5 Walk down a black-sand beach along the Pacific ocean

Kamchatka stretches between the Sea of Okhotsk and the Pacific Ocean. The water rarely gets warmer than 14℃ (57°F), so only the bravest of visitors jump into it. However, walks down the shore on the black, volcanic beaches don’t require as much self-discipline. The shores of both the ocean and the sea make for another breathtaking landscape on Kamchatka.

#6 Fish in four different types of bodies of water

Kamchatka is a splendid place for outdoor entertainment: hiking, sailing, racing dog sleds and fishing. The latter is especially diverse here; on Kamchatka, one can fish in the Pacific Ocean, the Okhotsk sea, countless lakes and even rivers. Whether you love fishing or are only looking to learn, Kamchatka is the place to make it happen.

1. #7 Get to know the indigenous cultures

Kamchatka is a very harsh place to live in, yet people have lived here for centuries. In order to survive, they had to learn to live in harmony with nature. That led to the development of traditions and rituals that are still performed. When you visit, you can see how the indigenous people of Kamchatka have been living for generations in the village of Pimchakh: an inhabited village that is open to visitors.

Pimchakh Etnographical Complex, Kamchatski Krai, Russia

Itelmens. the native people of Kamchatka / © Kamczadalka / WikiCommons

#8 Race the dog sleds

Kamchatka is a perfect setting for dog sled racing. Shortage of snow is never an issue, so the locals happily indulge in competitive and recreational races. If you’re brave enough to visit Kamchatka in winter, you should most certainly put a short dog sled trip on your bucket list.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Exploring Kamchatka, Russia's Adventure Playground

By Sophy Roberts

Berry picking in the Russian Taiga is tricky business, I think, as I graze on a bowl of mountain ash berries and picture the swampy forest outside. It’s September in Kamchatka, and I’m standing in the predawn darkness by the kitchen sink of a cabin in Yelizovo village. My host, Martha Madsen, who runs the guesthouse and is the only American living on the Kamchatka Peninsula, picked the berries during these few weeks of melt. Recently, another local went collecting in the woods and got lost in the huge thicket, never to return. The weather, too, is always against you. In Kamchatka, spring, summer, and autumn pass so quickly they feel like one brief season. Even now the freeze is pinching the last leaves off the trees, with cold air sweeping down from the Arctic to chill the bones of this volcanic peninsula on Russia’s eastern rim.

On a map, the Kamchatka Peninsula is the part of Russia that curls into the upper northwest Pacific like a dog’s ear. At its southern tip, it peters out into the Kuril Islands, also known as the Fog Archipelago, which scatter down into the Sea of Okhotsk just northeast of Japan. The region’s geopolitical sensitivities are as fragile as its tectonic plates, with an ongoing territorial dispute in the southernmost Kurils. (Because of that, Russia and Japan still haven’t signed a peace treaty putting a formal end to World War II.) this is where the Asian continental shelf meets the Pacific seabed, one plate subducting under another to create violent tsunamis, curious vents, and uninhabited islets that, over time, have been commandeered as submarine bases by the Russians and naval hideouts by the Japanese (who set out for Pearl Harbor from the Kurils). Among Russians, Kamchatka is synonymous with Boris Pasternak’s oft - quoted description equating it with the back of the classroom where the worst-behaved kids would sit. Among Westerners, the name instantly conjures the board game Risk, Kamchatka being the best territory from which to attack North America.

Whatever the associations, the reality here is deeply challenging. There is no road connecting the neck of the Kamchatka Peninsula to the rest of Russia, nor any fully paved passage dissecting its spine of ice caps and volcanoes. Since I arrived, these peaks have been hidden for days behind skies bruised black with rain. Out the window this morning I search for the twinkle of Vilyuchinsk—a Soviet naval base founded in 1968, and one of several “closed” cities still left in Russia that deny entry to foreigners and Russians without permits. Even traveling outside the capital, Petropavlovsk- Kamchatskiy, requires approval from the Federal Security Service, a cat’s cradle of red tape.

With all these apparent hurdles, my motive for coming here not just once but twice in recent months might seem suspect, or eccentric. The first time, I was in Russia to interview a pianist for an ongoing book project. I digressed for a two-week adventure on a small expedition ship, the Spirit of Enderby , along Kamchatka’s coast and south through the Kuril Islands. I also ventured inland when Kamchatka was still under snow, with a driver who told me everything about life in this distant backcountry: how to drive a monster truck (our ride into the mountains); where she bought her fake Y-3 sneakers; how this part of Russia had been colonized in the 17th century by Cossacks on the hunt for sable. But she would reveal nothing about her childhood in the secret port I imagined to be so cluttered with nuclear submarines you could cross the water using periscopes as stepping stones. The idea of a closed city held an almost cartoonish allure for me, encompassing everything impenetrable, paranoid, and sinister a foreigner fears about this country. But I soon stopped asking questions. In Kamchatka, you don’t want to attract attention, especially when Russian relations with the West are tense. Besides, I wasn’t here for politics, but to go deeper into the landscape, which had snagged me like one of its berry briars.

Flying into the Kamchatka interior with Natural World Safaris.

At first, I’m thankful to be grounded at Martha’s guesthouse by the weather. It allows me to get on top of the jet lag that comes from flying to a place nine hours from Moscow, in the same time zone as Auckland. I make friends with the pony that wanders around Yelizovo waiting for the schoolboy who leads it home each day. I eat my fill of Russian borscht, and visit the capital’s fish market for its caviar (sold in buckets), where I gorge on the sweet pink flesh of Kamchatka’s red king crabs. From Martha’s kitchen, I watch a babushka come out of her house to walk her plot with a broken gait: In one corner is a pile of potatoes; in another, a blue tractor; in another, a patch of bright dahlias, which she delicately deadheads with fingers plump as sausages. I read books under quilted bedcovers that make the four-bedroom cabin feel like it belongs to a homesteader on the American frontier, which arguably it does. Martha’s migration was an accidental one: She befriended the captain of a Russian sailing boat that turned up in her hometown of Homer, Alaska, three years in a row, and decided to visit him and his family in Kamchatka. She fell in love with a hydrologist, married, and imported two German draft horses to pull a cart.

Beyond the cabin, I can hear stamping hooves in the paddock. Finally, the weather is clearing, which means we’ll be able to helicopter out to Kuril Lake in Kamchatka’s south, where the bears are gathering for the spawning salmon. Along with a few millionaire fishermen—acolytes include entrepreneur Toby Rowland (husband of Plum Sykes) and Evgeny Lebedev (newspaper mogul and London socialite)—the Russian far east attracts hardcore heli-skiers and wildlife connoisseurs. Tourists travel by Russian Mil Mi-8 in-engine helicopters, stopping off at the Valley of the Geysers, Russia’s Yellowstone, where volcanic vents spout boiling water 30 feet into the air. The choppers land at the pale-blue Uzon Caldera, visit hot springs, and do a flyover of the Gorely volcano, caves, and calving glaciers.

Laura Walsh

Ryan M. Moser

Anastasia Miari

Meaghan Kenny

The helicopter leaves from a base a few miles from our guesthouse and growls rather than whirs into action—a heavyweight military-style machine filled with our group of 15. There are Russian tourists, the photographer, myself, and our British fixer, Will Bolsover , who organizes private wildlife tours throughout Russia. Bolsover, who is well versed in the Siberian tiger country to the south, is visiting Kamchatka for the first time, on a reconnaissance mission. His clients, who are wildlife obsessives, have been pressing him for trips to this frontier, where the bears pack Kuril Lake like a Black Friday sale.

The group includes everyday citizens who’ve saved up for a vacation to Russia’s ultimate wilderness, which they seem to hold in the same regard as Americans do Alaska: an adventure playground in their own backyard. There are two naval recruits in blue-and-white- striped jerseys, a blogger who asks me to take pictures of her doing yoga poses in front of hot springs, and our guide, Kirill Kiselev, who is both a snowboard instructor and in a Russian rap group. Soon we’re pulling away from the horseshoe-shaped Avacha Bay flanking Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy.

If the helicopter seems like a rocket-load of eccentrics undertaking a cruise to the moon, the deeper one travels into Kamchatka, the less bombastic that analogy appears. The landscape is otherworldly. We fly over valleys with snow slicked into place like icing. A silver river curls through the endless taiga, creating calligraphic loops and oxbows. Smoke trails from volcanic peaks. With every gaping crater, we all let out a collective groan—and sometimes a little shriek. The helicopter carries an engineer to fix technical issues as they arise, which they do: For an hour, we watch as three crew members tinker with the propellers, treating the grind we’d heard with the kind of nonchalance I might show my car’s dodgy side-view mirror.

A local bus takes the high road toward Gorely volcano.

This edgy adventure ratchets to a new level when we swap our heli for a powerboat, which we use to cruise across Kuril Lake. On its shores, a mother bear tends her family of three cubs; she snatches at the sockeye salmon, which circle like giant carp in luminously green water. The next day, we splinter off from the full group and head out on a three-night road trip to reach the lava field at the foot of the two Tolbachik volcanoes, a landscape so fierce the Soviets used it to test their moon rovers in the ’70s. The burnt-out forest beneath the crater looks like a sea of stubble; the birch trees are as thin as matchsticks, the scene an apocalyptic Mordor from when Tobalchik erupted in 1975, sending a flow of lava that turned 150 square miles of Kamchatka into desert.

It’s a tricky journey into a disorienting heart of darkness, in the hands of a driver with a grin of golden teeth. We get stuck in mud so deep our local guide has to winch us out—the same man who produces an ax to cut open a road where some unidentified source, be it storm or earthquake, has brought down trees to block our passage. We ford a high river. For days we lose cell-phone contact. At times I’m scared of how far we are from any kind of help, but the experience is so deeply exhilarating that all vulnerability is eclipsed by respect for my protectors. I love every one of our Russian guides: the pilot who offers me a cigarette while he stands beside our chopper full of fuel; the driver in camouflage fatigues who tells me my luxury English camping food tastes like muck; and our guide, Igor Sesterov, who works for Kamchatka’s mountain rescue team. You’ve got two days to survive alone in the Russian taiga before you’re dead, he tells me, as our four-wheel drive crawls up a glacier at a 30-degree angle.

A camaraderie takes root. In a larger world that seems to be narrowing its state of mind, Kamchatka does the opposite. It demands endurance (long journeys), humility (can’t complain when there’s only gristle-y soup on the menu), and a great deal of patience. It’s one of the last places left that isn’t geared toward high-end tourism (though it gets high-end visitors), with only one or two cozy cabins and no luxury hotels. But all of this pales in significance when you’re traveling beyond wilderness to a place that brings a glimpse of self-discovery. I learn I’m more prejudiced than I’d believed (Russians with gold teeth can be as gentle as puppy dogs), and a tiny bit braver. This is why I travel: to demythologize fear of the unknown. Which also makes me hesitant to recommend this swath of Russia to everybody.

Yankicha, in the Kuril Islands, where Silverseas expeditioners walk the crater rim.

Because there’s preciousness, too—an ecological fragility. Earlier, in May, when I took that boat trip south from Kamchatka through the Kuril Islands, our ship dropped anchor off Yankicha—a small, uninhabited caldera mid-way down the chain. The anchor snapped into place in a sea that swelled into blisters, then dipped to reveal a cluster of perpendicular rock stacks. A pod of killer whales seemed to warn us off, circling close to our dinghy when we tried to enter a sunken caldera. We let the swell push us through the narrow gap; then, once inside, we walked along a shoreline that bubbled with springs of yellow sulfur. An arctic fox sat and watched us, fearless in our presence. Then the birds started to fly in under a dusty evening light.

Inside this tiny ellipsis on Asia’s eastern boundary, I was witnessing one of the world’s great natural wonders. The ornithologists I was with, who pursue “edge species” to their last surviving breeding grounds, were speechless with excitement. Within 30 minutes, seemingly billions of birds— crested and whiskered auklets—were rafting on the sea’s surface until their numbers turned the water black. Then they swirled up into thick balletic curls to find their nesting burrows in the cliffs. It was a mesmerizing show of life—a deafening cacophony inside the caldera, the swarms blocking the sun’s last light. Nobody, not even a Russian border guard, could have interfered with the sensation that I was deep inside a wild, primordial pin-prick of our planet that few humans get to experience.

In easier parts of the world, such plenitude would bring with it an equal concentration of tourists. But then I remember Risk. Because as long as Kamchatka is still seen as the edge of a country that outsiders fear like a Bond villain, the birds’ world is safe.

A bear at Kuril Lake.

Into the Wild

Getting There Whether you fly via the Pacific or Atlantic route, the journey to Kamchatka is an arduous one. You’ll want at least a week to take in the inland highlights before picking up a cruise along Kamchatka’s coast and through the Kuril Islands. To get to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy, the region’s hub, Yakutia Airlines flies a Pacific route in summer from Anchorage (four-plus hours). Alternatively, you can fly via Seoul to Khabarovsk, in Russia’s far east, which is three hours by plane from Kamchatka. Moscow has direct flights to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy operated by both Aeroflot and S7 (about eight hours).

Cruising the Russian Far East The few ships that go are without doubt the most comfortable way to experience the region. I used Heritage Expeditions , which operates Spirit of Enderby for just 50 passengers. It is unpretentious, with simple cabins and intellectual gravitas: the guides, who include both Russian and international ornithologists, marine biologists, and natural historians, are second to none. Because it is a Russian-registered vessel, it benefits from more liberal permitting than the very few foreign-flagged cruise ships. Silverseas ’ expedition ship Silver Explorer is the only true luxury ship in these waters. Our photographer used this larger boat for the Kurils; it makes fewer stops but has more sophisticated food and wine. The ship also has a spa on board, and the kind of service you would expect from a five-star hotel. Departures run May to October, when the Sea of Okhotsk isn’t frozen. August and September are best for bear viewing, and April is ravishing for short inland excursions: there is still snow, and there are few visitors.

Inland Tours of Kamchatka The Russian Federal Security Service deems parts of Kamchatka a pre-border area, with the Kuril Islands an even more sensitive military zone. Your travel fixer needs to provide all the correct permissions, which take time to process. But do not be fearful of traveling here. Kamchatkans are exceptionally hardy, deeply hospitable, and some of the most professional wilderness experts I’ve ever encountered. For a Kamchatka mainland-only visit, with helicopter touring, volcano treks, and seasoned guides and drivers, U.K.-based Will Bolsover at Natural World Safaris has put some pioneering groundwork into trips for wildlife-centric English-speaking visitors. For heli-skiing, there’s Heliski Russia (I worked with their Russian guide Viktor Zakharin, who is first-class). I didn’t fish, but U.S.-based Ouzel Expeditions has nearly 30 years of experience in Kamchatka.

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Weather and Seasons in Kamchatka

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Best Time To Visit Kamchatka

Worried about tourists flocking or closing hours of Kamchatka while planning your trip? The best time to visit Kamchatka would be a time when you can completely soak in the experience and not worry about such hassles. The weather of Kamchatka is favorable along with the best of activities during this particular time in Kamchatka. If you are thinking about when to go to Kamchatka then, come visit Kamchatka at it's best time where you can make a memorable experience without having to worry about small issues.

Kamchatka Weather in January-February : With the air being damp (Humidity is 82%) and temperature being as low as 3℉ , you can expect cold weather on your visit to Kamchatka in these months. The average temperature is 34℉ .

Kamchatka Weather in March-April : Temperatures ranging from 30℉ to 75℉ call for delightful afternoon explorations of Kamchatka. Mornings and evening can be a tad difficult to get out owing to the humidity reaching 75% making the weather cooler. Perfect to bank on all that napping!

Kamchatka Weather in May-June : The highest temperature recorded is 86℉ which would make you want to run to the nearest café to down a glass of chilled drink, but the moderate humidity of 78% makes this an excellent time to visit Kamchatka.

Kamchatka Weather in July : If you are contemplating the best time to visit Kamchatka, the month of July fits the bill just right. The weather is nice and sultry with the lowest temperature being around 54℉ and the warmest being a usual 97℉ . Albeit a humidity of 65%, July marks a good time to explore the best things to do in Kamchatka.

Kamchatka Weather in August : The month of August is considered as the best time to visit Kamchatka owing to temperatures ranging from 52℉ to 100℉ . An ideal situation to get around exploring all the points of interest in Kamchatka.

Kamchatka Weather in September : The air is slightly humid with average humidity being 68% and the average temperature is 68℉ . The weather is perfectly balmy making it a great time to visit Kamchatka. The maximum temperature recorded in this month is 93℉ . An ideal season to visit Kamchatka.

Kamchatka Weather in October : An excellent season to visit Kamchatka, the average temperature falls around 54℉ . The weather is great for outdoors, the air being moderately humid. This is most likely one of the best times to visit Kamchatka and also a tourist high season.

Kamchatka Weather in November : While the temperatures range from 23℉ to 72℉ , humidity sits moderately high at 86%. This phenomenon makes the weather seem cooler than usual. Perfect for afternoon sightseeing, the mornings and evenings will make you want to reach for a steaming cup of coffee.

Kamchatka Weather in December : The month of December sees an average temperature of 31℉ . With humidity being as high as 87%, there are chances of precipitation, so make sure you carry umbrellas and jackets. The weather becomes slightly unpredictable hence this might not be the perfect time to be in Kamchatka.

• 20℉ 0℉

Highest temperature in Kamchatka is recorded as 100.4℉ in August.

Lowest temperature in Kamchatka is recorded as 3.2℉ in January and December.

Most humid month in Kamchatka is December.

Least humid month in Kamchatka is August.

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Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Anyone coming to experience the magical scenery and rugged beauty of Kamchatka will have to spend some time in the peninsula's sprawling capital, Petropavlovsk, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. Compared to the active volcanoes and geysers that bring travellers to Kamchatka, it's true that Petropavlovsk is a fairly workaday and architecturally uninteresting place. However it does have a magnificent setting on Avacha Bay and is overlooked by two giant volcanoes and surrounded by a long line of snow-capped mountains.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kamchatka Regional Museum

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…

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…

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…

Nikolskaya Hill

Petropavlovsk's most charming spot for a walk, this thickly wooded hill is in the centre of the city between the harbour and the lake. There are numerous…

Lenin Statue

As Lenin statues go (and there are still around 1800 in Russia still standing), this is an impressive one, with the revolutionary leader in a dramatic…

Mishennaya Hill

Looming over the downtown area is wooded Mt Mishennaya (382m), an easy ascent with excellent views of town and Avacha Bay.

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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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Kamchatka is a peninsula located in the north-eastern part of Russia. It is surrounded by the Okhotskoye Sea, the Beringovo Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. This region has a very unique environment which makes it a place to visit when you’re longing for picturesque views, unforgettable traveling, and unity with nature. Famous volcanoes, numerous rivers and lakes, enigmatical geysers, traces of wild animals, adventure, and delight - this is an incomplete list of what awaits you in Kamchatka.

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Kamchatka Tours

Land of Bears and Giant Volcanoes. Experience a Lost World in the Russian Far East.

Home / Russia travel Destinations / Kamchatka Tours

KAMCHATKA TOURS - An Overview

If the thought of trekking up giant volcanoes, coming within metres of wild brown bears, pristine valleys and dramatic mountain ranges is your idea of adventure? Then ditch the tourist roadmap and lose yourself on one of our Kamchatka tours!

A Kamchatka Travel Experience will expose you to prehistoric volcanoes, thriving wildlife in dense forests and lush valleys in Far Eastern Russia. When you visit Kamchatka , due to its remoteness, you set foot in one of the few places on Earth not connected to the outside world by a single road. Welcome to pure wilderness, where adventures begin and roadmaps end - the Kamchatka Peninsula.

Kamchatka Trip Highlights

• Visualise solid lava fields, gaping craters, mountainous tundra of lush forests, pristine valleys and shimmering lakes. Revel in Kamchatka’s breathtaking alien landscapes, sure to excite the intrepid traveller within.
• Get up close and personal with the magnificent Kamchatka brown bears on the shores of  Kurilskoye or Kuril Lake. Watch as the bears gorge themselves during the annual salmon run.
• Trekk up Kamchatka's active volcanoes. Concur the iconic Gorely, Avachinsky and Tolbachik volcanoes. Take in the astonishing panoramas of snow-capped mountain peaks.
• Be exposed to the rich and unique varieties of Russian Far East flora and fauna on the Starichkov Island Nature Reserve. Spot fascinating marine wildlife while exploring Avacha Bay and Russkaya Bay.
• Discover  Kamchatka in winter and try your hand at one of the many snow-filled winter activities. Master activities like dog-sledding, snowmobiling and heli-skiing.
• Uncover one of Kamchatka's most prized jewels, the secret ice caves of the Mutnovsky Volcano. Capture the natural reflection of light which transforms the caves into magical hues of colours.

Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula: Good to know

Located at the northernmost edge of the “Pacific Ring of Fire” Kamchatka is home to over 30 active volcanoes. Volcanoes such as Klyuchevskaya Sopka, the largest in the Northern Hemisphere, and what many consider one of the world’s most picturesque, Mount Kronotsky. It’s no wonder these majestic giants contribute to the region’s six UNESCO World Heritage sites . Equally, as stunning are the 90 geysers and numerous hot springs that make up the 6km the Valley of Geysers; the second largest concentration of geysers on earth. The valley is accessible only by chopper. This natural gem remains a virtually untouched region of raw geothermal power.

The Kamchatka Peninsula is the ultimate destination for travellers seeking a once in a lifetime "adventure in nature" experience in a land few outsiders have laid eyes on.

Check out the amazing Kamchatka tours we have on offer below...

Explore Kamchatka Tours

Kamchatka - Spring Awakening

The "Kamchatka - Spring Awakening" tour showcases the natural diversity of the Kamchatka Peninsula during its beautiful time when nature awakes from the harsh Siberian winter and showcases its first alpine flowers.

Kamchatka Discovery

Enjoy a variety of day excursions around Kamchatka, such as volcanoes trekking, marine trip, rafting and cultural experience, while staying in a comfortable hotel in the Paratunka area. The tour is suitable for any age and fitness level.

Kamchatka - Kingdom of the Brown Bears

Stay for three days on the shores of the iconic Kurilskoye Lake and take part in bear viewing, as the bears gorge themselves during the annual salmon run. After Kurilskoye Lake, spot marine life on pristine Avacha Bay, and get a glimpse into the thrilling world of volcanologists on the plateau of Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes.

Kamchatka's Critters and Craters

Take part in some of the best bear viewing on the peninsula, stay in the camp on a slope of active volcano Tolbachik and explore its lava fields. Immerse yourself in the semi-nomadic culture, visit the reindeer herders camp and the village of Esso. Spot marine life on pristine Avachinskaya Bay and opt to take an awe-inspiring helicopter flight to visit the famous Valley of Geysers.

Kamchatka - The Lost World

This 18-day expedition to Kamchatka takes place in late August, one of the best times to enjoy the spectacular scenery with the first signs of the autumn colours. We visit as many places as possible, including the central valley with the Kamchatka River, Tolbachik, Ksudach, Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes, Kurilskoye Lake and the hot Khodutka River in the southern tundra.

Kamchatka Photo Expedition - Bears and Volcanoes

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the explosive drama and raw beauty of Kamchatka’s volcanic landscapes on camera, this is the tour for you. We will stay for 3 days on Kuril Lake for brown bears photography. Afterward, we hike up the mighty Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes with its ice caves.

Giants of Kamchatka - Trekking Active Volcanoes

Enjoy easy and moderate hikes of Kamchatka’s active volcanoes: Mutovsky, Gorely and Avachinksy, for thrilling views of steaming vents and breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped mountain peaks. Opt to take an awe-inspiring helicopter flight to visit the famous Valley of Geysers - the second biggest geysers field in the world.

Sea Kayaking in Kamchatka

Explore the bays, islets and caves of Kamchatka by kayak and get closer to its wild inhabitants than you ever imagined.

Kamchatka Winter Adventure

Enjoy skiing from Kamchatka’s fiery volcanic peaks, relax in thermal hot springs and experience the most popular winter activities - dog sledding and snowmobiling.

Kamchatka Heli Ski

Fly high above the untamed peaks of Kamchatka in a Russian chopper, and carve down the untouched slopes of the peninsula.

Ring of Fire - Kamchatka, Commander & Kuril Islands Expedition Cruise

Journey to the most dramatic reaches of the Pacific Ring of Fire in the Russian Far East. Discover astounding landscapes, active volcanoes, forgotten Soviet hideouts, nesting seabirds in their millions and pristine oceans home to some of the world's rarest marine mammals.

Kamchatka's Forgotten Coast - Expedition Cruise

Kamchatka's forgotten coastline is largely unspoiled by human influence. Get up close and personal as you explore this remote, pristine landscape which is home to a variety of bird and marine life including the endangered Spoon-billed Snapiper, brown bears, sea otters, walruses, marmots and whales.

A custom tour made to order

We understand sometimes our set departure dates do not align with your ability to travel at that time, or you just want to travel bespoke. We got you covered.

Go custom — gives you the choice & flexibility of creating your own bespoke itinerary, using our tours for inspiration.

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What the New Overtime Rule Means for Workers

One of the basic principles of the American workplace is that a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay. Simply put, every worker’s time has value. A cornerstone of that promise is the  Fair Labor Standards Act ’s (FLSA) requirement that when most workers work more than 40 hours in a week, they get paid more. The  Department of Labor ’s new overtime regulation is restoring and extending this promise for millions more lower-paid salaried workers in the U.S.

Overtime protections have been a critical part of the FLSA since 1938 and were established to protect workers from exploitation and to benefit workers, their families and our communities. Strong overtime protections help build America’s middle class and ensure that workers are not overworked and underpaid.

Some workers are specifically exempt from the FLSA’s minimum wage and overtime protections, including bona fide executive, administrative or professional employees. This exemption, typically referred to as the “EAP” exemption, applies when: 

1. An employee is paid a salary,  

2. The salary is not less than a minimum salary threshold amount, and 

3. The employee primarily performs executive, administrative or professional duties.

While the department increased the minimum salary required for the EAP exemption from overtime pay every 5 to 9 years between 1938 and 1975, long periods between increases to the salary requirement after 1975 have caused an erosion of the real value of the salary threshold, lessening its effectiveness in helping to identify exempt EAP employees.

The department’s new overtime rule was developed based on almost 30 listening sessions across the country and the final rule was issued after reviewing over 33,000 written comments. We heard from a wide variety of members of the public who shared valuable insights to help us develop this Administration’s overtime rule, including from workers who told us: “I would love the opportunity to...be compensated for time worked beyond 40 hours, or alternately be given a raise,” and “I make around $40,000 a year and most week[s] work well over 40 hours (likely in the 45-50 range). This rule change would benefit me greatly and ensure that my time is paid for!” and “Please, I would love to be paid for the extra hours I work!”

The department’s final rule, which will go into effect on July 1, 2024, will increase the standard salary level that helps define and delimit which salaried workers are entitled to overtime pay protections under the FLSA. 

Starting July 1, most salaried workers who earn less than $844 per week will become eligible for overtime pay under the final rule. And on Jan. 1, 2025, most salaried workers who make less than $1,128 per week will become eligible for overtime pay. As these changes occur, job duties will continue to determine overtime exemption status for most salaried employees.

The rule will also increase the total annual compensation requirement for highly compensated employees (who are not entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA if certain requirements are met) from $107,432 per year to $132,964 per year on July 1, 2024, and then set it equal to $151,164 per year on Jan. 1, 2025.

Starting July 1, 2027, these earnings thresholds will be updated every three years so they keep pace with changes in worker salaries, ensuring that employers can adapt more easily because they’ll know when salary updates will happen and how they’ll be calculated.

The final rule will restore and extend the right to overtime pay to many salaried workers, including workers who historically were entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA because of their lower pay or the type of work they performed. 

We urge workers and employers to visit  our website to learn more about the final rule.

Jessica Looman is the administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. Follow the Wage and Hour Division on Twitter at  @WHD_DOL  and  LinkedIn .  Editor's note: This blog was edited to correct a typo (changing "administrator" to "administrative.")

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How to watch NFL Draft 2024 Round 2-3: Start time, pick order and key notes to know

The Athletic has live coverage of the 2024 NFL Draft .

It might be hard to top some of the twists and turns in Thursday night’s Round 1 of the 2024 NFL Draft. But 225 more players will be selected the next two days with the focus turning to Rounds 2 and 3 on Friday night in Detroit.

Here’s our little handy dandy guide to Day 2 of this year’s NFL Draft.

NFL Draft 2024 ‘The Beast’ Guide: Dane Brugler’s scouting reports and player rankings

• The Beast , Dane Brugler’s expansive guide to the NFL Draft , is here.

When is the rest of the NFL Draft?

• Rounds 2-3: April 26, 7 p.m. ET
• Rounds 4-7: April 27, Noon ET

How can I watch the NFL Draft?

All rounds will be televised on ESPN/ABC and NFL Network and in Spanish on ESPN Deportes.

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NFL Draft 2024 tracker: Live blog, pick-by-pick grades and analysis Big board best available: Who’s left from Dane Brugler’s Top 300? Draft pick grades: Nick Baumgardner, Scott Dochterman rate the selections

Best players available

(Via Brugler’s top 300 prospects list)

Round 2-3 order

33. Buffalo Bills (from Carolina) 34. New England Patriots 35. Arizona Cardinals 36. Washington Commanders 37. Los Angeles Chargers 38. Tennessee Titans 39. Carolina Panthers (from New York Giants ) 40. Washington Commanders (from Chicago) 41. Green Bay Packers (from New York Jets ) 42. Houston Texans (from Minnesota) 43. Atlanta Falcons 44. Las Vegas Raiders 45. New Orleans Saints (from Denver ) 46. Indianapolis Colts 47. New York Giants (from Seattle) 48. Jacksonville Jaguars 49. Cincinnati Bengals 50. Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans) 51. Pittsburgh Steelers 52. Los Angeles Rams 53. Philadelphia Eagles 54. Cleveland Browns 55. Miami Dolphins 56. Dallas Cowboys 57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 58. Green Bay Packers 59. Houston Texans 60. Buffalo Bills 61. Detroit Lions 62. Baltimore Ravens 63. San Francisco 49ers 64. Kansas City Chiefs

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65. Carolina Panthers 66. Arizona Cardinals 67. Washington Commanders 68. New England Patriots 69. Los Angeles Chargers 70. New York Giants 71. Arizona Cardinals (from Tennessee) 72. New York Jets 73. Dallas Cowboys (from Detroit through Minnesota ) 74. Atlanta Falcons 75. Chicago Bears 76. Denver Broncos 77. Las Vegas Raiders 78. Washington Commanders (from Seattle ) 79. Atlanta Falcons (from Jacksonville) 80. Cincinnati Bengals 81. Seattle Seahawks (from New Orleans through Denver) 82. Indianapolis Colts 83. Los Angeles Rams 84. Pittsburgh Steelers 85. Cleveland Browns 86. Houston Texans (from Philadelphia) 87. Dallas Cowboys 88. Green Bay Packers 89. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 90. Arizona Cardinals (from Houston) 91. Green Bay Packers (from Buffalo) 92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from Detroit) 93. Baltimore Ravens 94. San Francisco 49ers 95. Buffalo Bills (from Kansas City) 96. Jacksonville Jaguars (compensatory pick) 97. Cincinnati Bengals (compensatory pick) 98. Pittsburgh Steelers (compensatory pick, from Philadelphia) 99. Los Angeles Rams (compensatory pick) 100. Washington Commanders (compensatory pick, from San Francisco)

(Photo: Matthew Visinsky / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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Larry Holder is a Senior Writer for The Athletic, focusing on the NFL. He was a Saints beat writer from 2006 to 2013, then became a Saints/NFL columnist starting in 2013. Before joining The Athletic in 2018, he worked for the New Orleans Times-Picayune, CBSSports.com and the Biloxi (Miss.) Sun Herald. Follow Larry on Twitter @ LarryHolder

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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2024 NFL Draft: Best available entering Day 2, headlined by Illinois DT Johnny Newton, Iowa CB Cooper DeJean

Wide receivers went late in round 1.

The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft has concluded. There are several very good players still available for selection. The Buffalo Bills will have their pick of the litter at No. 33 overall after the Carolina Panthers moved up one spot on Thursday night. 

Entering Day 2 of the draft, here are the best available players, according to CBSSports.com : 

• WR Ladd McConkey, Georgia
• CB Cooper DeJean, Iowa
• DT Johnny Newton, Illinois
• WR Adonai Mitchell, Texas
• CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama
• CB Kris Abrams-Draine, Missouri
• DT Braden Fiske, Florida State
• C Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon
• CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri
• OT Kingsley Suamataia, BYU
• DT Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson
• C Zach Frazier, West Virginia
• EDGE Bralen Trice, Washington
• EDGE Chris Braswell, Alabama
• WR Troy Franklin, Oregon
• LB Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M
• DT Michael Hall Jr., Ohio State
• S Tyler Nubin, Minnesota
• OG Christian Haynes, UCONN
• S Calen Bullock, USC
• CB Mike Sainristil, Michigan
• WR Keon Coleman, Florida State
• TE Ben Sinnott, Kansas State
• WR Ja'Lynn Polk, Washington 
• S Jaden Hicks, Washington State
• WR Jalen McMillan, Washington
• CB Kamari Lassiter, Georgia
• WR Malachi Corley, Western Kentucky
• CB T.J. Tampa, Iowa State
• LB Payton Wilson, NC State
• RB Trey Benson, Florida State
• S Javon Bullard, Georgia
• EDGE Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan
• OT Christian Jones, Texas
• WR Javon Baker, UCF
• S Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, Texas Tech
• DT Kris Jenkins, Michigan
• CB D.J. James, Auburn
• OT Roger Rosengarten, Washington
• RB Jonathon Brooks, Texas
• EDGE Adisa Isaac, Penn State
• DT Maason Smith, LSU
• OG Delmar Glaze, Maryland
• WR Ainias Smith, Texas A&M
• CB Khyree Jackson, Oregon
• CB Max Melton, Rutgers
• EDGE Jonah Elliss, Utah
• QB Spencer Rattler, South Carolina
• OG Cooper Beebe, Kansas State
• OT Blake Fisher, Notre Dame

Here is the full list of best prospects available . Tune in to CBSSports.com's coverage of Day 2 beginning at 7 p.m. ET Friday.

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