I lived until the age of 25 in Vladivostok (Primorsky Territory). Many Vladivostok residents dream of moving or to St. Petersburg (since the climate there is the same wet, always humid, always gray sky, it will be easy to adapt, and the city - cultural capital). The second part of the numerous Vladivostok residents tend to Moscow (to build a career and all that). This option is more suitable for young people who have just graduated from the university. A third of those wishing to move - to all other cities in Russia.
I fell into the category of those wishing to move to Moscow. Prepared for 1 year, then moved. She lived in Moscow for 3 years, but then returned. Yes, there were advantages in Moscow in terms of a fairly good career growth in a large international company that provided a lot, including training and internships abroad, once even for 1 month (just imagine: studying abroad lasts 1 month, while the employer pays for accommodation and travel allowance for each day). Thanks to a good education, plus additional education blocks.
The company also provided for quarterly bonuses in the form of expensive products, etc. But there was no time left either for arranging a personal life, or for relaxing with friends, or even for normal sleep. Constant lack of sleep, processing in the name of career growth. The nervous psyche suffers a lot, you live in constant stress, everything ceases to please.
In Moscow, the MAIN GRAIN is lost - a normal measured way of life, kind and warm human relations, the opportunity to meet friends. This is a city of eternally sleep-deprived people, each of whom survives as best he can, lives in rented housing, spends about several hours on the road from home to work, etc. Cons I can list further, there are VERY many of them.
After returning to my Vladivostok, after sitting and thinking, I decided to move to a completely opposite side of Russia, to its very edge - to Kamchatka :) (moving extreme girl 🙂)
I've been living here for 4 years and I'm not going anywhere. The city has 180 thousand people, but at the same time people here are NORMAL, kind, open ... There are no problems with work. After all, you know that if a person’s hands grow from the right place, he will find work everywhere. Even if they pay little for the main one, you can always fuss and find a part-time job. It is necessary to fuss, living in any city (wherever it was), and then life will go smoothly.
Here is a very beautiful "virgin" nature, volcanoes stretch against the backdrop of the city. Very clean environment! You probably have no idea, but this is a fact: you can drink water straight from the tap, it does not need to be boiled. In our time, this is generally something not real.
Not far from Petropavlovsk (about 40 km) is Paratunka - a series of well-maintained thermal therapeutic reservoirs, tourists from all over Russia come here year-round to improve their health. And the inhabitants of Kamchatka can afford it at least every day (taking into account the fact that there are practically no "traffic jams" here).
Every year, at the end of autumn, there is a general holiday - Volcano Day, when a nationwide mass ascent to the nearest volcano (located at the foot of the city) takes place. In winter, the International Biathlon Championship is held, athletes from all over the world come, there is a special territory equipped by GAZPROM.
Almost every inhabitant of Kamchatka has his own ski equipment. It is fashionable to go skiing here on weekends. There is a lot of snow!
Winter is very snowy, but what especially pleasantly surprised me was that it was not cold. In Vladivostok, Khabarovsk and the entire Far East, in winter, it is practically minus 30 and even minus 40 (specifically in Khabarovsk). And here, it seems to be the Far North, and the winters are warmer (for me it was a discovery).
Especially, here is a "paradise" for hunters and fishermen. Lots of bears and fish. Actually, she herself saw bears “walking” during a helicopter flight over the environs of the “Valley of Geysers”, known throughout Russia.
In terms of summer in Kamchatka, yes, it is quite cool, on average no more than +20 in July during the day. But people here are far from being poor, and even those who do not have a lot of financial opportunities - and they manage to fly in the summer either to Krasnodar or to Turkey and Thailand. There are also charter flights at affordable prices…
And what is most pleasant, the Kamchadals have a vacation of 60 days, and not 30, like everyone else, therefore they rest more on their allotted and paid vacation. We draw conclusions, dear Russians 🙂
This is the Land in which I found a lot of prospects for doing “my own business”, since many “niches” are not occupied, and, accordingly, there is much less competition ....
People here live far from being poor and not poor (it even sometimes seems to me that they simply have nowhere to spend their money, they are not spoiled by diversity and abundance, therefore they are simple, and are content with what they have).
A lot of Kamchadals have real estate abroad, and here they earn really good money. The other part of the population is mainly employed in the maritime industry, which is also far from poor (if we also take into account the fact that most people come here to go to sea from different parts of Russia, so, purely “on a voyage” .... it would be like this bad, it is unlikely that there was such an abundance of people who wanted to make money on the maritime fishing season here). The third part is contract servicemen (who do not even feel bad here).
In general, I am very satisfied! And I won’t go anywhere else, but I will develop Kamchatka (whatever it is in my power to do and improve, I will improve). Which is what I advise you, dear readers: to ennoble and in every way support and improve everything that surrounds you in the place where you live.
Judge for yourself, the final choice of where to move, of course, remains with each individual ...)))
Tourist seasons in Kamchatka
For your convenience in planning your vacation, we will tell you about the features of traveling around Kamchatka in different seasons and explain what time is most favorable for a particular activity.
The peak of attendance of Kamchatka by tourists, of course, falls on the summer season.
Let's start with him.
Kamchatka rightfully bears the name of the fish land. Fishing is one of the main economic areas of the peninsula. Not to mention the fact that there are a lot of avid fishermen among the local population. Moreover, both river / lake and sea fishing is common. River and coastal waters abound in a very wide variety of species, but of course the most famous are salmon: mykizha, coho salmon, kunja, chum salmon, pink salmon, char, sockeye salmon, chinook salmon.
fishing lovers can come to Kamchatka already from the beginning to the middle of June - the time when chinook (king salmon) - the largest of the Pacific salmon - enters the rivers.
Fishing in Kamchatka continues until October.
Also in June, boat trips along Avacha Bay, to Russkaya Bay will start and will continue until the end of September.
July and August- the most favorable months for lovers of trekking and climbing: snow comes off almost all slopes, with the exception of non-melting snowfields and glaciers in the highlands, trails are open. Helicopter excursions to the Valley of Geysers and Kuril Lake also start in July.
August- I would like to emphasize that it is the final summer month - the most pleasant time for traveling around the peninsula, when there are a lot of fish in the rivers, all routes are open, the weather is warmest; this is also the best time for watching bears on Kuril Lake and for trips to the Klyuchevskaya group of volcanoes (Tolbachik volcano).
September- the trekking period continues, the mountain circus of the Vachkazhets volcano is especially beautiful at this time, but snow is already falling on the tops of many volcanoes.
Excursions are also made to the Valley of Geysers and to the Kuril Lake, boat trips.
September is a great time for photo tours, when nature acquires bright contrasting colors, the air becomes clearer.
October November- fishing is still available on some rivers until mid-October: Opala, Pymta, Bolshaya. But the main tourist destinations are no longer available: snow falls, the summer season closes and preparations for the winter season begin.
Winter season in Kamchatka it starts in December and continues until the snow melts - that is, almost until mid-May (in mountainous areas).
December - January- the most wonderful and magical time is of course new year holidays! If you decide to spend them in Kamchatka, then you will find a wide variety of snowmobile excursions, skiing, dog sledding and even boat trips.
February - April- during this period, freeride lovers tend to get to Kamchatka. Here you will find the most interesting routes for ski touring, which are accompanied by the most experienced mountain guides of Kamchatka. The most experienced and advanced riders will discover the slopes of volcanoes and the most high mountains where helicopters will deliver them are heliskiing and heliboring.
Snowmobile excursions to volcanoes, hot springs, and the Pacific coast continue. You can also get to the ocean in winter on ultra-passable off-road vehicles that will confidently take you through snowdrifts to ocean beach with black volcanic sand.
May- the snow cover begins to slowly open up routes for us to travel to volcanoes by car. We will be the first to pave the way to the Mutnovsky volcano, which is also beginning to thaw and provide best review its active crater, and the caldera of the Gorely volcano is covered with the brightest blue lakes.
Plan your trip with us and know that no matter what season you choose for a trip to Kamchatka, our region will always find something to surprise you and leave unforgettable pleasant memories!
general information
It must be remembered that you can get to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky - the main city of the region only by plane. The plane arrives at the Elizovo airport (30 km from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky). The airport connects Kamchatka with Russian cities- Moscow, St. Petersburg, Samara, Novosibirsk, Magadan, Krasnoyarsk, Vladivostok, Khabarovsk, Irkutsk.
It is necessary to tell us in advance information about your arrival: flight number, date of departure, airport of departure - this information is necessary for us to organize your meeting. (nnon-standard meetings are negotiated additionally with a representative of the company, pcosts associated with late or early departure are not reimbursed)
The cost of stay programs includes: transfers according to the program, services of a professional guide, meals on routes, accommodation on routes, permission to visit parks.
Off-route meals and all food preferences for on-route meals (what is allowed, what is desirable and what is not to be eaten) are agreed in advance.
It must be borne in mind that as a result of the vagaries of the Kamchatka weather, the order of routes may be changed. Routes such as climbing volcanoes, excursions around Avacha Bay, helicopter route options are sensitive to changes in weather conditions.
Planning a trip to Kamchatka
Even a month is not enough to enjoy the beauties of Kamchatka. In any case, you need to plan a trip for at least a week.
You can and should start looking for tickets for the summer months in the fall. Fortunately, airlines provide such an opportunity. The closer to the date of the planned trip, the higher the cost of the ticket.
In addition, at the end of August, beginning of September, Kamchatka vacationers return home. A vacation in Kamchatka is planned very early.
In November - December, airlines often offer cheap airfare for March.
In the winter months, the cost of air tickets to Kamchatka is much lower than in the summer months.
There is only one way to get to the Kamchatka Peninsula - by air.
The message is year-round. Planes arrive at the airport of Yelizovo.
Non-stop flights to Kamchatka can be made from the following cities:
Moscow, Khabarovsk, Vladivostok
Direct flights with 1 or 2 landings depart from:
St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, Krasnodar, Yekaterinburg
When you check in for a flight P ask for a window seat on the left side of the cabin in the direction of the aircraft. It will simply take your breath away when the plane, going down, suddenly plunges into the clouds and “emerging” from them will present to your attention the Kamchatka volcanoes in all their glory.
Some passengers, forgetting that they are on a plane, even try to turn around to continue enjoying the beautiful views. Having shown the volcanoes, the pilots will turn the plane towards the ocean, and your air liner will make a lap of honor over the most beautiful bay in the world - Avachinskaya ... In general, if it is possible to book seats in advance - do it, you will not regret it!
Visas and registration
Every foreign guest needs a visa to enter Russia. To apply to the Russian Embassy, you will need an invitation from the host (your hotel, travel company, business partner or Russian friend). A tourist visa is valid for a maximum of 30 days.
To obtain a visa for longer trips, a business visa (multiple entries 3, 6, 12 months) must have a good reason, although you will not be able to stay in Russia for more than 90 days in any 180 day period. Don't forget that you need an insurance certificate and a document confirming your negative HIV status if you want to get a visa for more than 3 months.
Check the documents at the consulate before submitting. You must be registered within 72 hours of your arrival in Russia. If you do not check in on time, you will have serious problems when you check out.
Tips
In Kamchatka, a service charge (tips) is usually not included in the bill, as is done in many countries.
Weather in Kamchatka is unpredictable and can change very quickly. In the mountains, the air temperature can drop to 0 ºС, precipitation in the form of rain, thick fog, strong wind are possible, so be careful in choosing and preparing your clothes.
Mountainous terrain, talus, snowfields, grassy slopes, wet paths and turbulent riversare a source of increased danger.
Tourists should remember that the mountains and gorges of Kamchatka are prone to avalanches, especially in February - March - during the period of heavy rainfall.
Kamchatka brown bear
Harmless at first glance, bears are actually quite dangerous ...
In Kamchatka, the largest brown bear in the world lives next to a person. They constantly meet each other in the forest, on rivers, lakes, in mountain valleys and at the foot of volcanoes. Bears are intelligent, curious and rather peaceful animals that usually prefer to avoid meeting you. They rarely attack people.
However, sometimes bears can threaten a person or even attack. This happens when a meeting with a person happens unexpectedly for them. Then they are forced to protect themselves and their offspring or just food. Situations are also dangerous when bears get used to human food. So your safety, like that of the bear, will depend on you and your reactions and actions in the wild.
When traveling with a professional guide, listen to his advice and instructions. He is a professional and knows how to behave in the wild!
Don't harass the bear! Traveling through the wild, you find yourself in its territory!
- Never put up tents on the trail, even if it is poorly visible. Seeing a tent on its path, a bear may try to remove an unexpected obstacle from its path.
- Don't put tents too close to each other, creating a small area of your camp. The bear should not be frightened by the sudden appearance of a large object (for example, a cluster of tents in one place).
- Do not allow food, especially condensed milk, to be stored in your backpacks. Bears can smell treats even through an iron can. And never miss an opportunity to get it out of your backpack! Give your products to the chef, who will put them in special containers.
- Keep your camp clean! Do not leave dirty dishes and food waste overnight. Wash dishes, burn waste, burn cans at the stake! Never bury waste! The bear will still try to dig up the find!
- Never imitate the growl of a bear and do not scream piercingly! You won’t be able to become a bear, but you can scare an animal and cause aggression - yes.
- If the bear is on the same path as you, step aside to a safe distance and let it pass!
Bears are the real rulers of Kamchatka. They are its guardians and deserve your respect. Do not violate their rights to the territory and then they will allow you to see yourself in their natural habitat without threats and attacks!
What to take with you to Kamchatka (standard list of things ):
Identity documents, compulsory health insurance policy.
♦ Backpack for 45 liters You will need a backpack of this volume for radial exits. For example, for climbing volcanoes. In a backpack you will carry a snack, as well as personal items - a hat, gloves, a jacket, etc. In case of warm weather, you can take off your jacket and put it in your backpack, in case of bad weather, take extra warm clothes with you.
♦ Trekking boots with hard grooved soles and waterproofing The ideal option is high mountain boots that fix the leg and protect the ankle. The corrugated sole is necessary for movement on stones, slag and snowfields. Impregnation from getting wet - is necessary to protect shoes while traveling in the rain, in the early morning, when the dew does not have time to dry yet, while crossing streams, snowfields, while rafting down mountain rivers. ! If you are purchasing new shoes, then before leaving for Kamchatka, you need to break them in well. Otherwise, in the mountains, you run the risk of rubbing your feet badly. Alternative - rubber boots without a heel.
♦Warm windproof waterproof jacket with a hood. In the mountains, even in the midst summer season snowfields persist, thick fog may suddenly fall (clothes get wet instantly), rain with strong gusts of wind is no exception. Having a hood on a jacket is a big plus.
♦Warm windproofwaterproof pants ski or snowboard pants that do not hinder movement are suitable.
♦Comfortable hiking clothes, shorts Things should be made of lightweight material that dries quickly and is able to retain heat in case of temperature changes. Do not take jeans and similar trousers to the mountains. They get wet quickly, dry for a long time, do not warm and do not keep warm.
♦ Sneakers After climbing and long transitions in the camp, you will be comfortable and pleasant to be in light shoes.
♦ thermal underwear The weather in Kamchatka is unpredictable. Therefore, there is never a lot of warm clothing, because it can be removed at any time. In thermal underwear it is also comfortable and convenient to sleep, being in a tent in a sleeping bag.
♦A warm sweater It is especially necessary in the mountains in the late afternoon or at night, when the air temperature can drop very much.
♦wool socks Thick wool socks prevent blisters from forming. During long walks, it is not recommended to wear cotton and synthetic socks.
♦T-shirts It is desirable to have at least one T-shirt with long sleeves.
♦Gloves, warm mittens Protect your hands from the cold and cuts from slag or ice.
♦Woolen cap Protects from cold and wind.
♦Cap or panama hat For sun protection.
♦Change of underwear
♦Gaiters / gaiters / "lanterns" Worn over boots. Protect the foot and boot from small stones, sand, slag, snow and water. Particularly comfortable when climbing Mountain peaks and the passage of swampy terrain.
♦Bath and bathing accessories Necessary when visiting "wild" hot springs, as well as thermal pools in the Paratunka River area.
♦Seat for sitting on stones and slag Sold in almost any sports store. They are light, do not interfere with movement, moreover, they are additional protection for the lower back. During rest stops, they are indispensable when sitting on rocks or on a cold slope.
♦Personal care products Kamchatka is a wild place. Therefore, during a multi-day hike, only in rare cases will you be able to use a shower or bath.
♦Individual first aid kit The instructor-guide will have a general first-aid kit with the necessary medicines. But, if you have any special medications that you may need, be sure to bring them with you. It is also desirable for everyone to have their own set, consisting of a patch and a bandage in case of corns and small cuts / scratches on stones.
♦ Sunglasses They will protect your eyes from sun glare on the surface of the water and on the snow, and while fishing in fine weather, they will reveal what is happening under the water.
♦Headlamp with a set of spare batteries In the dark, it will be an indispensable assistant while searching for things in a tent, trails to the dining room or toilet.
♦Trekking poles. They greatly facilitate self-insurance when moving over stones, as well as when descending. On the rise and when driving on a flat surface, they save energy.
♦Sun cream and after sun When driving in clear weather, there is always a risk of sunburn. Snowfields and glaciers increase this risk several times.
♦Cream against mosquitoes and midges / balm after bites Mosquitoes and midges cause great inconvenience while traveling. We recommend that you always keep mosquito repellent in your backpack. In Kamchatka, Gardex (red) copes well with mosquitoes.
♦Mosquito net Sometimes there are so many mosquitoes and midges that no ointments help. In this case, a mosquito net will save you.
♦Knife The most convenient - small and foldable.
♦Photo and video equipment On the route, we recommend taking spare batteries / accumulators for cameras, as it will not be possible to charge them in the mountains. We also recommend taking spare memory cards with you. You will be photographing a lot, but the opportunity to free the card in time for new photos may not present itself.
♦Copies of documents in sealed packaging.
Advice. When traveling around Kamchatka, try to write down your feelings and impressions on paper. Perhaps this advice will seem completely stupid to you. However, the magic of Kamchatka's attraction is such that the bright colors and emotions given to you by this extraordinary land will overwhelm you even more when you are back on the plane heading back to your worries and everyday life.
At these moments, your notes will help you remember Kamchatka without sadness, and every now and then the memories that arise in bright flashes will form into an adventure story. After reading which sadness will be replaced by a firm intention - be sure to return
We will provide you with care and comfort, just tell us where…
My father Ivan Pavlovich was a naval doctor. In 1969, after studying at the Military Medical Academy. S. M. Kirov, he was offered 2 options for continuing the service: in Kamchatka or in Primorsky Krai. It was then that I, an 11-year-old boy, bending over a map of the USSR with my parents and sister, found out where the Kamchatka Peninsula was located. This is very far from Leningrad, in fact, the Kamchatka Territory - eastern border of our country. That's where we flew.
Flight to Kamchatka
Flight on Il-18 from Leningrad to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky continued 18 hours. At the same time, the plane landed 3 times for refueling:
- in Omsk;
- Krasnoyarsk;
- Magadan.
From the Magadan region it was already "within a stone's throw" to Kamchatka. She is nearby, you just need to fly above Sea of Okhotsk washing the peninsula from the west. Washes Kamchatka from the east Bering Sea And Pacific Ocean . Later I found out that Kamchadals actually consider themselves islanders. In fact, no one builds their routes through Chukotka, which is adjacent to the Krai from the north. Going on vacation, everyone says: "Let's fly to the mainland!"
I sat at the porthole and looked under the wing all the time. The main impression, in addition to the fact of the immensity of the country, was that there are no traces of human activity below - solid forests! Clouds were obscuring something, but when they did not interfere with the view, I did not see any roads or villages. I distinctly remember my surprise.
Kamchatka - where there are hills, volcanoes, winds, snowfalls
Right in Airport "Yelizovo" we were met by a couple of handsome volcanoes! It was so unusual and great! We quickly got used to the hills and volcanoes. Looking ahead, I’ll cry that after returning back to Leningrad after 6 years, I really suffered for a very long time from plain "boring". And at first he was shocked by the “hole” he fell into. Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky was a city from the 1st street, stretching at the foot of the hills, along the Avacha Bay.
It blows very often here. strong winds (up to 50–60 m/s). In winter - constant blizzards, sweeping 2 m of snow per night. Sometimes the entrance of the house was visible and external help was required! But how I fell in love with this wind and blizzard! In St. Petersburg, something like this rarely happens, but in any snowstorm, I still always go out for a walk.
Kamchatka - the "capital" of earthquakes
Most residents of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, as it is now fashionable to say, "species" apartments. Our windows overlooked Avacha Bay with the majestic Vilyuchinsky volcano in the middle of the opposite coast.
This volcano is considered extinct. But only there are 29 active volcanoes in Kamchatka. It is not surprising that almost every day the idyll of our view apartment was violated. trembling glasses in the sideboard and swinging chandeliers- consequences of earthquakes 1–2 points. On the ground, they were not felt at all. The higher the floor of residence, the more terrible the feeling. In the autumn of 1971 at 7.30 in the morning a very powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake. I remember it like it was yesterday! By the way, at that time scientists from the Institute of Volcanology came to our school No. 10 and asked to describe what they remembered. I remember the fear from the rocking of the house and the sound - "cod", accompanied by the formation of cracks on the wall. My sister and I sat on the bed, and my mother with her one-year-old brother Sasha (he was born in Kamchatka) ran into the doorway. My father was on duty at the hospital that day. Then we looked out the window - there were about a dozen half-dressed people standing outside the house. As the years go by, I believe earthquakes are the only natural disadvantage of Kamchatka.
The Kamchatka Peninsula is not only “far from everywhere”. It is also unique natural landscapes, healing springs, hunting, fishing, ancient way of life and customs of local people...
You can always surprise friends and acquaintances with brought souvenirs, photo and video materials. Kamchatka is unlike any corner of the Earth. But the peninsula is large, its area is 270 thousand square kilometers.
How not to miss the most interesting things in Kamchatka? We will talk about ten places that, in our opinion, any tourist who has visited this far and mysterious corner of Russia should visit.
Valley of Geysers, fantasy reality
It is no coincidence that the legendary Sannikov Land was filmed here in the eponymous fantasy movie. The Valley of Geysers is well known all over the world, but most people know it only from films, photographs, and articles.
Real impressions are most often stunning - a huge mountain valley literally boils, throwing out jets of steam and hot water.
There is no such landscape anywhere on our planet, and if you manage to photograph a hefty bear (they are just like that in Kamchatka) who came to “warm up” - you are guaranteed a reputation as an experienced and courageous traveler for many years to come!
True, you will have to get to the Valley of Geysers by helicopter, but traveling to Mars is not an easy task, is it?
Klyuchevskaya Sopka - a volcano with an unpredictable character
According to travelers, Klyuchevskoy is a volcano with a terrible character. The highest stratovolcano on the Eurasian continent (a conical volcano) can at any moment spew clouds of smoke, or even lava flows, and flying stones.
So it’s not worth going specially “for an eruption”, having been near Klyuchevskaya Sopka, in any case you have a chance to enjoy an unforgettable sight.
As for climbing to the top, we categorically do not recommend it for unprepared tourists to do it on their own, without a local instructor. And getting to the Klyuchevskoy volcano is not difficult - a bus runs from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to the village of Klyuchi.
The popularity of the Nalychevo Nature Park was brought by thermal springs, the water of which contains silver, cobalt, silicon oxide and a host of other substances useful to humans.
In some sources (griffins) the water temperature reaches +75C.
And, importantly, these springs are located in incredibly beautiful, typically Kamchatka, places, which can be easily seen from the observation tower.
You can get to Nalychevo by helicopter from the main Kamchatka airport, Yelizovo. In winter, you can make an interesting hike on a snowmobile here.
Avachinskaya Sopka - a volcano in the accessibility zone
Avachinsky volcano has a completely different character than Klyuchevskoy described above.
Residents of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky call this volcano "home", in good weather you can admire it right from the city. But it is more interesting, of course, to climb to the top, especially since such an ascent is accessible to people with almost any physical fitness and does not require special skills.
At the end of a five- or six-hour hike, you will find yourself at an altitude of 2741 meters. Agree, the opportunity to look into the vent active volcano, which last erupted not so long ago, in 1991, is worth the effort spent on climbing.
We must warn you right away - you are unlikely to be able to swim on this beach, the waves of the Pacific Ocean are too strong and cold, and the currents are life-threatening.
But the very sight of the mighty and ancient ocean, framed by unusual black volcanic sand, is an unforgettable sight.
You can get to Khalaktyrsky beach from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky both by bus and by taxi, but experienced people advise to overcome the distance of several kilometers from the city to the beach on foot and gain indelible impressions of Kamchatka nature along the way.
And your body and soul will be able to get such a rest in just an hour's drive from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
The tourist infrastructure of the Paratunsky springs is well developed: there are several boarding houses and hotels, you can enjoy hot baths for as long as you like. But even one bath is enough to feel a surge of energy and mental strength.
Kurile Lake was formed eight thousand years ago, at the site of a volcanic eruption, and fit perfectly into the unusual Kamchatka landscape.
From April to November, the most delicious fish of the salmon family, sockeye salmon, spawns here, millions of fish are sent here from the ocean to spawn and die. Naturally, such a quantity of tasty food attracts Kamchatka bears to the lake.
These brown giants demonstrate amazing dexterity during their fishing. Fans of photography and video filming have a chance to take unique shots on Kuril Lake. But only with the use of long-focus optics - it is better not to come close to bears during fishing (and indeed in general).
Mutnovsky volcano, on skis - into the crater!
lovers skiing and thrills associated with this sport Kamchatka provides unique opportunities.
You can go skiing right into the crater of the active (!) Mutnovsky volcano, 80 kilometers from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
And the whole peninsula in winter is a paradise for skiers. This is hard to imagine anywhere else on our planet: skiing down from the top of an active volcano right to the ocean shore!
While traveling through this interesting land, like Kamchatka, tourists have a lot of impressions, and in order to systematize them and better understand what they saw, we recommend visiting the Regional Museum in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.
Experienced guides will tell you about the life of the indigenous peoples of the peninsula - the Koryaks and Itelmens, about the history of the development of Kamchatka.
There are many unique exhibits here, such as a sundial with a compass that once belonged to Admiral Wrangel, or chess pieces carved from whalebone.
The warmest welcome awaits you in this Karyak village, in the literal sense of the word - almost all buildings here are heated with thermal waters.
People come to Esso to get medical treatment and get acquainted with the history and life of the indigenous population of Kamchatka.
The Bystrinsky Ethnographic Museum is located here. You will have the opportunity to visit a real yaranga and visit a real deer camp.
Of course, you can also try the delicious reindeer meat.
Spring lasts from April to June, since the snow usually melts in May or June, in early April it is still possible to ski.
Summer is the most popular period for travelling, and many seek to capture this short period of time to enjoy the warm days on the peninsula and its natural surroundings.
The summer months are July, August, and the beginning of September is also added here. This is the most favorable time for hiking tours, river rafting, fishing, exploring the wildlife of the peninsula, helicopter excursions to the Valley of Geysers.
Autumn period - the end of September-October, at this time the hills are covered with the first snow.
The nature of Kamchatka is beautiful in any season, so it is better to choose the time for travel based on your vacation preferences. One more piece of advice - do not plan your trip for the off-season - spring and autumn, at this time the weather changes are especially noticeable, which can limit the possibilities of spending time in Kamchatka.
Reviews by month
| June 5 | July 33 August 22 September 11 | November 1 December 1 |
Photos of Kamchatka
Transport
Not on the peninsula railways, but there are cars, they allow you to get to many attractions. There is a main highway here, along which, for example, you can get from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to Elizovo or Klyuchi. There is also a road that leads to Esso. Thanks to existing roads, you can also reach other small settlements.
Someone prefers to get to the sights by bus or taxi, some rent a car, but it is important, due to climatic features and terrain, to choose models with high traffic. Another option for moving is hitchhiking, it is especially relevant when traveling long distances (allows you to save on travel) and when visiting places that cannot be reached by public transport.
However, there are also attractions that are difficult to reach on your own. For example, the territory of the reserves can only be reached by helicopter and as part of excursion group. You can order a tour to other hard-to-reach objects, its organizers usually provide a transfer to the place thanks to off-road vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, water transport, helicopter drops or a combination of several of the listed modes of transport. Horseback riding is also offered to some of the sights. winter time you can ride a dog sled to the place.
You can learn more about the main ways of getting around Kamchatka thanks to a special material, which also contains tips on how to get to the natural objects of the peninsula more conveniently.
Districts and cities
There are only three cities on the Kamchatka Peninsula - Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Yelizovo and Vilyuchinsk. And if the first two are of interest to tourists and they can be freely visited, then Vilyuchinsk is a closed territory, mainly military personnel and their families live here, there is a base of nuclear submarines in the city. The region is divided into 11 districts, which have small towns, some are located close to iconic natural attractions, some of them have well-developed infrastructure necessary for comfortable living and recreation.
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky
Founded by Vitus Bering during the Second Kamchatka Expedition, it is one of the oldest cities in the Far East. Tourism is actively developing in the city, there are many agencies offering excursion services. Thanks to a large number tourists like to stay here, because the city has places to go and what to see.
In Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, you can find accommodation options designed for almost any budget - there are inexpensive hostels, mini-hotels, and for those who are used to comfortable conditions, there are hotel complexes with an expanded range of services. The beauty of the city is that the developed infrastructure in it is adjacent to nature - from almost any of its districts you can see home volcanoes, named so by the locals for their proximity to locality. These are Avachinsky and Koryaksky volcanoes, which are active, as well as extinct Kozelsky, Arik, Aag.
But where the closeness of wildlife is especially felt, it is in the bay called Mokhovaya. It seems surprising that within the city you can see a rookery of sea lions listed in the Red Book. If you catch them on the spot, you will be amazed by the sight of these animals graceful in the water, their immediacy and lack of fear of people. However, you should not get too close to them and even more so feed the animals, it is better to just observe sea lions from a distance in their natural habitat.
A walk around the city will help you get to know it better, walk along the embankment with its beautiful views, visit Nikolskaya Sopka with its memorial complex in honor of the defense of the city during the Crimean War and a cozy park.
If you want to see the city in all its beauty and diversity, be sure to climb Mishennaya Sopka - the most high point cities. Here it is Observation deck, which offers a stunning view of the city and its surroundings - the mysterious ocean, rocks, picturesque bays, volcanoes and city buildings.
If you are not indifferent to boat trips, then be sure to go on a trip along Avacha Bay, look at the hills from the water, visit bays, capes and islands.
There are routes to picturesque lakes. Fans of extreme entertainment will enjoy rafting on the Bystraya River among the rocks and forts of the Sredinny Ridge, which is organized by guides. There are also opportunities for fishing.
The real highlight of the place is the opportunity to get acquainted with the culture, traditions and rituals of the indigenous peoples of the region. On the territory of the village there is an ethnographic museum, part of the exposition is located indoors, part is right under the open sky. Here you can see reconstructions of traditional Aboriginal dwellings, musical instruments, shamanic paraphernalia, household items and other exhibits. Another original museum in the village is dedicated to bears, which were considered a totem animal by the indigenous people.
In winter you can go skiing and snowboarding on ski base"Moroznaya Mountain", which is located nearby. The trails are designed for both experienced skiers and beginners. Also at this time of the year you can go snowmobiling or hunting.
Sights of Kamchatka
What is worth visiting in Kamchatka? Of course, its main asset is nature, pristine and full of landscapes unusual for most. There are also curious museums here, but many of them, one way or another, are connected with the nature of the region.
Nature
Untouched nature is the main feature of Kamchatka, so it is quite understandable that they are trying to preserve this natural wealth. Huge territories are occupied by nature reserves and natural parks whose employees monitor the state of natural objects and conduct scientific research. Despite the special status of protected areas, tourists are welcome here, for whom ecological routes are being developed that allow them to get acquainted with natural objects, flora and fauna, observing the rules that will avoid harm to natural complexes.
Kronotsky State Reserve
It consists of three specially protected natural areas- Kronotsky and Koryaksky reserves, South Kamchatka Federal Reserve named after. T. I. Shpilenka. Due to the status and inaccessibility of these places, they can be visited only by using the services travel companies, which are engaged in issuing a permit to visit, organize a transfer and provide excursion services.
Among the most famous objects of the Kronotsky State Reserve:
This is one of the most spectacular places in Kamchatka, many people are impressed by the boiling springs that throw columns of water and steam to the surface. An ecological trail has been laid for tourists, which allows you to see constantly operating and pulsating geysers, as well as thermal springs, mud boilers.
No less striking is the bowl-shaped basin, which was formed on the site of the Uzon volcano more than 40 thousand years ago. There are many lakes in the caldera, foam and bubbles can be observed on their surface. On the territory you can see thermal springs, columns of steam rising above fumarole fields, streams and rivers. The place is also of interest to scientists who use it to study hydrothermal processes.
It attracts with picturesque views and ranks first in terms of area among the fresh water bodies of Kamchatka. It has several islands where bears like to swim in search of eggs, which are laid here by seagulls.
Swans are considered the decoration of the lake, which become especially noticeable in the autumn.
One of the most popular among travelers objects of the South Kamchatka Reserve. This is explained by the opportunity to watch bears who like to catch sockeye salmon in the lake - it comes here to spawn in large numbers. You can also find many bird species here. Add to the contemplation of animals the mesmerizing view of volcanoes reflected in the waters of the lake in clear weather, and you get the perfect picture of outdoor recreation.
Natural Park "Volcanoes of Kamchatka"
The territory is divided into 4 natural parks:
- Natural Park "Nalychevo"
It is popular among tourists who prefer hiking, climbing volcanoes. Home volcanoes are especially often visited due to their transport accessibility. On its square are operating and extinct volcanoes, among them: Avachinsky, Kozelsky, Koryaksky, Arik, Aag, Zhupanovsky, Dzenzur.
Travelers are also attracted here by rivers, lakes and thermal springs.
Diverse vegetable and animal world park, especially tenderness of tourists is caused by evrazhki - these are Kamchatka ground squirrels that easily make contact with people and safely accept food from their hands.
On the territory of the park there are volcanoes: Vilyuchinsky, Mutnovsky, Sopka Asacha, Khodutka, Ksudach, Zheltovskaya Sopka.
There are also many here thermal springs, among the most famous are Khodutkinsky, Mutnovsky, Vilyuchinsky, Asachinsky.
The park will appeal to lovers of walking tours and active species sports - on the mountain ranges and slopes of volcanoes you can ski, snowboard, snowmobile, and you can do this almost all year round. If you want to see geysers, but there is no way to go to the Valley of Geysers, go to Mutnovsky Volcano, where you can see boiling springs.
- Natural Park "Klyuchevskoy"
Considered the most powerful volcanic region of our country, there are majestic and hard-to-reach volcanoes, 4 of them are active. Among the most famous are: Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Kamen, Bezymyanny, Ushkovsky, Tolbachik, Zimina.
Among the developed tourist routes of particular interest may be the one in which you can see the consequences of recent eruptions. Especially the destructive power of volcanoes is reflected in the Dead Forest, it is located next to the Tolbachik volcano. The vegetation was burned out, only the strongest tree trunks remained standing, which look lifeless, the ground here is covered with a layer of ash and slag.
It is worth a visit for those who are interested in the life and traditions of indigenous peoples, because it is here that they mainly live today. Their original way of life is best preserved in the villages of Esso and Anavgay. In Esso you can visit the ethnographic museum, in Anavgay an open-air ethnographic complex is now being formed. The park offers tourists various options for active pastime - climbing volcanoes (Ichinskaya Sopka is located here), swimming in lakes and open thermal springs, river rafting. In winter people come here to ski and snowboard.
Avacha Bay
It occupies the second place in the world in terms of its size, the peculiarity of Avacha Bay is that it does not freeze even in winter. Here you can take a boat trip, on the way to the Avacha Bay you will meet 3 rocks of an unusual shape. According to legend, these are brothers who protected the inhabitants from the tsunami and were petrified forever.
Blue Lakes
Attractions
Museums and galleries
Where to eat and drink
Entertainment
Parks and recreation areas
Transport
Shops and markets
Wellness vacation
Private guides in Kamchatka
Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Kamchatka in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.
Things to do
Kamchatka is beautiful because there are many opportunities for recreation: climbing volcanoes, river rafting, skiing and snowboarding, fishing, animal watching, visiting national holidays - this is far from full list. Yes, you need to reckon with the harsh climate - many activities are seasonal, but there is something to do here almost at any time of the year.
Event tourism
The originality of the region can be felt through national holidays, they allow you to preserve the traditions of indigenous peoples and introduce them to tourists. Plan your trip for one of them, and along with natural beauties Kamchatka you will get an unforgettable experience from contact with a new culture.
Reindeer herder's day held on the first Sunday of March in the village of Esso. Before the start of the main events, an ancient rite of offering to the fire is performed and a traditional yurt is set up, which can be visited by each participant of the event. Of course, many people come here on this day to see a spectacular action - a reindeer sled race.
Also in the program are competitions in national sports, performances by national creative teams, entertainment for spectators. Well, what is a holiday without treats? Get ready to taste venison shurpa and tea with flatbread.
"Beringia" is a traditional Kamchatka dog sled race, which has been held since 1990. This long race, usually starting in March, covers the whole of Kamchatka, it has been marked by the Guinness Book of Records more than once. "Beringia" is considered one of the most significant events in the region, because it combines the sports component, the desire to preserve the cultural characteristics of the area.
In addition, the race participants perform an important mission to deliver sports equipment, stationery, books and other necessary items to remote villages. It will be interesting for tourists to visit the opening of the race, where you can see dog kennels, get acquainted with their furry inhabitants, and take part in festive events - quests and contests.
Indigenous peoples are grateful for the natural wealth of their land, they strive to live in harmony with nature. You can verify this at Day of the first fish, which is celebrated on the first Sunday of June in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Once here, you will see the ancient rites that the natives perform, luring fish into the rivers so that the catch is rich in summer and autumn. In addition, exhibitions of arts and crafts, ethnic discotheques, and competitions are held. According to tradition, they treat the audience with fish soup.
Is it possible to note New Year in summer? Yes, if you are in Kamchatka! On the third Sunday of June is celebrated here Nurgenek- the beginning of the year for the Evens. In the vicinity of the village of Anavgay, those who wish can participate in dance marathons in traditional aboriginal costumes, make a wish by tying a piece of fabric on a rope wrapped around two larches. The Evens believe that the more people they treat, the better the coming year will be, so you will not go hungry at the holiday.
Perhaps the most significant event of the summer is volcano day taking place in August. The main locations on this day are the slopes of Avachinsky and Kozelsky volcanoes, where master classes are held on harvesting fish and caviar and other useful local crafts, picnics, competitions, movie screenings, playing golf in volcanic terrain. The most spectacular part is the competition on jeeps and motorcycles. As part of the celebration, a mass ascent to Avachinsky Sopka is held, in which everyone can participate.
Alhalalalai- such an unusual and melodic name for autumn holiday falling on the last Sunday in September. It can be translated as thanksgiving - this is the time to say thank you to nature for its harvest. In the village of Pimchakh, rituals of Itelmens are held in the language of this people, in parallel, their words are translated into Russian. Spectators can take part in a dance marathon that can last several hours.
It will help to get acquainted with the traditions of the Koryak people Hololo- a holiday in honor of the first caught seal. It is held on the first Sunday in November. Here you can see rituals for luring a large seal - dancing to the sound of a tambourine, burning twigs smeared with fat in a fire. Festive events are held on a grand scale in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the participants have the opportunity to get acquainted with the ancient culture of the Koryaks and taste dishes local cuisine- ear, crush, shurpa from the seal.
Fishing in Kamchatka
It can be both an independent type of pastime, and an integral part boat trip. On the peninsula, you can fish at least all year round, it is famous for its fish resources. In warm weather, the period from mid-May to early December is considered the most favorable, because at this time salmon species enter the rivers from the ocean - sockeye salmon, chum salmon, chinook salmon, pink salmon and other species. Ice fishing also has its own charm; in winter, grayling, char, flounder, and smelt bite well.
seasonal holiday
Depending on your preferences, you can choose different options for seasonal activities.
Hiking in Kamchatka
Travel agencies of Kamchatka offer various tours, including walking tours and complete trips.
The former can last from one to several days and are suitable for tourists who want to see the famous natural attractions of the region, but are not ready for the hiking life - heavy backpacks, life in a tent camp - or are able to live in this mode for only a few days. For those who do not want to deprive themselves of a comfortable overnight stay, there are even tours with accommodation in modern hotels.
For tourists who are ready to test themselves and break out of their usual comfort zone, trips have been developed with complete immersion in the wild nature of Kamchatka with all the attributes of a camping life - long transitions with heavy backpacks, food cooked on a fire, the absence of the benefits of civilization. But, according to many tourists, all the difficulties on the way are worth it, because how else to really get to know the beautiful wildlife terrain. Such tours usually include climbing volcanoes, visiting local lakes and thermal springs, observing animals in their natural habitat.
Hikes are designed for different levels of training - if climbing Avachinsky volcano does not require special skills, then in order to conquer Kozelsky, Koryaksky or Vilyuchinsky volcanoes, you need special equipment, climbing experience and accompaniment of an experienced guide.
One of the popular routes is a trip to the Nalychevo park, which includes swimming in hot springs, visiting the Dzenzur volcano, picking berries that the area is rich in, and, of course, enjoying the landscapes of the Nalychevo Valley.
If you are attracted by volcanoes, then you can choose tours dedicated to them. For example, there are routes along the Klyuchevsky park, which are at a sufficient distance from civilization. In addition to climbing the Plosky Tolbachik volcano, last eruption which took place in 2012, they may cover visits to Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes, as well as acquaintance with other natural objects.
Helicopter tours
You can only get to some sights by air - after all, cars cannot drive through the territory of nature reserves. Routes with flying around and visiting volcanoes, the Valley of Geysers and other natural complexes will leave unforgettable experience because the views from the air are truly breathtaking.
Beach holidays in Kamchatka
To visit Kamchatka and not see the Pacific Ocean would be an omission. Go to Khalaktyrsky beach, look at the waves, walk on the black volcanic sand. Only the most desperate decide to swim here - the water does not warm up above 15 ° C on the warmest days. You may be surprised, but here you can meet surfers who are not afraid of cold water and strong waves.
Rafting
They are often combined with fishing. You can choose routes of varying difficulty, one of the easiest is rafting along the Levaya Avacha River, more difficult ones are along the rivers Bystraya, Opala, Pymta. For lovers of extreme sports, spring rafting is more suitable, at this time the speed of the river reaches its maximum.
Ski holidays in Kamchatka
There are several bases on the peninsula with equipped infrastructure, among them: Krasnaya Sopka, which is located in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, and Moroznaya Mountain in the vicinity of Yelizovo. The slopes of the volcanoes Koryaksky, Kozelsky, Vilyuchinsky are also suitable for freeriding. Do not forget that mountaineering experience and equipment are required to climb these peaks.
Purchases
Of course, in Kamchatka you can buy magnets and other popular souvenirs depicting sights and local animals. However, there is also a large selection of original things that convey the special flavor of these places. True, you need to be prepared for high prices for such products.
Fish and seafood
Fish, caviar and seafood are the first things travelers bring back from their trip to Kamchatka. Of course, it is important that the products do not deteriorate along the way, so you should opt for delicacies in airtight packaging. You can buy such products in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, for example, at the market, which is located on 50 Years of October Avenue. Here you can buy fresh fish, caviar, smoked products, canned food. The products are fresh, the choice is large, in addition, the sellers give the opportunity to taste different types caviar to compare and choose the one you really like.
herbal teas
Another popular gastronomic souvenir of the region is various herbal teas. Before the arrival of the first Russian settlers, the indigenous peoples of Kamchatka did not know about black tea and drank teas based on local plants and berries. As part of ethnic tours to the camps, travelers have the opportunity to treat themselves to traditional herbal teas. From the trip it is also worth bringing collections of Ivan tea, bearberry, cinquefoil and other herbs in combination with berries - blueberries, cloudberries, blueberries, lingonberries, cranberries.
bone souvenirs
Like other northern peoples, bone crafts in this area are considered one of the crafts. Products are made from the horns of deer, elk, rams, walrus tusks. The drawing is applied to the bone plate, and then processed with an engraving needle. Souvenir shops sell knife handles, figurines, bracelets, hair clips.
wooden crafts
Master carvers for author's products mainly use alder: in addition to being easy to work with, it has a beautiful texture on the cut. Amulets are made from wood - figurines of heroes of local legends. Often you can find images of Kutkha - the deity of the natives, who is depicted in the form of a raven. Also common are figurines of the good spirits of Pelikens, which bring happiness and good luck to their owner. In addition to amulets, you can find wooden figurines of animals in shop windows.
Souvenirs made of leather and fur
The harsh climate required warm clothing, which was made by the indigenous peoples. Now in stores you can buy clothes in traditional style- warm hats, vests, high boots or cozy slippers.
Food and drink
Not only nature makes this region unique, its cuisine is also considered a calling card. It is closely intertwined with the history, lifestyle of the indigenous peoples and the natural gifts of the peninsula. Itelmens, Evens, Koryaks have achieved perfection in the combination of fish and meat with berries and herbs, due to this, the food becomes especially tasty and fragrant, acquiring a northern exotic flavor.
Aborigines have developed many options for preserving fish for the future - they dry it, dry it, smoke it, ferment it and freeze it. One of the popular dishes national cuisine considered yukola, this is a fairly easy-to-prepare delicacy, it only needs fresh fish and time. It does not require salt or spices - the fish is suspended and, thanks to the wind, dried and dried.
Yukola can be used to prepare another dish - tolkushi. Red caviar, shiksha berries and lingonberries, pine nuts, and herbs are added to yukola crushed in a wooden mortar. Usually this dish is seasoned with fish oil.
Of course, people in this fish region are very fond of cooking and eating fish soup, and the recipes may be different, but the taste will be amazing anyway thanks to fresh ingredients.
In addition to fish, peoples know how to cook venison deliciously. This meat has a peculiarity - it is dryish to make it tender, Koryak add lingonberries and honeysuckle to it. Stroganina prepared by local residents is famous.
Thanks to Russian settlers, a dish called telne appeared. To prepare it, you need to chop the fillet of red fish and onions, then mix them with flour, eggs, dried porcini mushrooms and herbs. From the mixture you need to form crescent-shaped zrazy, adding mashed potatoes as a filling.
So where in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to try local food and drinks? Perhaps the most colorful place is the ethnocafe "Kelylan", its furnishings resemble the traditional semi-dugout of Kamchadals, the staff in national costumes serves the guests. Acquaintance with the culture of peoples takes place not only through local cuisine, but also through songs and dances. Here you can try squid salad, marinated venison, grayling stroganina, berry juices and fruit drinks. However, the institution has one peculiarity - they work only by prior order with groups of tourists.
Fans of burgers and craft beer should visit the Friends&Burgers grill bar, where you will be treated to a king crab burger.
Do you want to try original cocktails? Then head to the Alchemist bar, here you will find signature cocktails, craft beer and seafood dishes.
