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Nowhere else can so many elements coexist: volcanoes, brown bears, ice caves, the ocean, salmon runs, fly fishing... This is the Kamchatka Peninsula, Eurasia's exile. Mystery, wildness, and authenticity are its hallmarks.
It is connected to the mainland, but can only be reached by plane and boat...
It's very close to us, but because it was a military restricted area, it was not opened to the public until 1991...
It is close to the Bering Sea, but has more than 200 volcanoes, 29 of which are active all year round.
Only a specially modified off-road vehicle can get you to the foot of the volcano through numerous obstacles. To conquer the volcano, you must climb it on foot!
Every summer and autumn, countless salmon migrate here to spawn...
Countless brown bears also come here to enjoy the feast, taking a Russian Mi-8 helicopter to reach the remote lake to catch a glimpse of the world's largest brown bear!
The end of the world!
Kamchatka is a peninsula in Russia's Far East, surrounded by the sea on three sides. It's still inaccessible by road, and its capital, Petropavlovsk, is the second-most inaccessible city in the world (after Iquitos, Peru). Want to visit? The only options are flight or boat.
This peninsula, once known as "Liugui" in ancient times and now called "Kamchatka," is located in northeastern Asia and now belongs to the Kamchatka Krai. It borders the Sea of Okhotsk to the west and the Pacific Ocean and the Bering Sea to the east. It is Russia's second largest peninsula.
The area there is vast and sparsely populated, with an area of 470,000 square kilometers, slightly smaller than Sichuan; the population is 330,000, less than that of Tiantongyuan.
In Russia, this land has always been synonymous with the remote frontier. In Russian, Kamchatka means "faraway land," a place even more remote than Siberia. During the Russian Empire, Siberia was the most famous place for criminal exile, but Kamchatka was even more dreaded by exiles. Naughty students who were once punished by being sent to the back of the classroom were often nicknamed "Kamchatkans." Perhaps precisely because of this, Kamchatka has survived human devastation and remains a seldom-traveled land. It boasts some of the most pristine, unique, and captivating natural scenery on the planet. Compared to China, which has been transformed by humans for millennia, this pristine nature seems particularly precious.
Mention Kamchatka and the words "remote, mysterious, cold, desolate, and dangerous" always come to mind. Even today, the Kamchatka Peninsula remains the least populated region on Earth. With only one major city, the rest of the island is completely uninhabited. Over half of the territory is inhabited not by humans, but by bears. Yet, this peninsula, with a population of only 330,000, possesses a mysterious power that captivates the world. Kamchatka was once a Cold War military frontier between Russia and the United States. For various military reasons, it was off-limits to tourists for 74 years, even to the local population. Even today, remnants of the Cold War remain.
Due to the complex climate, topography, and political factors of the Kamchatka region, the marvelous Kamchatka does not welcome simple-minded reckless people. If you want to go deep into Kamchatka, you must find a professional guide to lead you through the mountains and seas to experience the wildness of Kamchatka.
#True niche destination#
Since opening to tourists in 1991, fewer than 8,000 Chinese have visited Kamchatka. Given its location of just over 3,700 kilometers from Shanghai and 2,200 kilometers from Beijing, why are there so few Chinese tourists? Kamchatka has long been a key Russian military stronghold, serving as a testing ground for new missiles. It was long closed to the outside world, opening to residents of the rest of the country only in 1989 and to foreign tourists in 1991. Currently, the largest number of tourists to Kamchatka are Americans, followed by Japanese and South Koreans, with relatively few Chinese.
With a six-hour flight, visas available with just one passport and application form, stunning scenery, and incredibly low prices, why hasn't anyone gone? It's because people don't know. For some reason, Kamchatka remains so under the radar, rarely heard of except in National Geographic photos and whispers from fly-fishing enthusiasts (Kamchatka is considered one of the world's best fly-fishing destinations).
#Eurasian continental margin#
The Kamchatka Peninsula is located in the Kamchatka Krai of Russia's Far East, on the edge of the Eurasian continent, across the Pacific from Alaska. Its only city is the capital, Petropavlovsk. The peninsula borders the mainland to the north and northwest, the Kuril Islands to the south, the Sea of Okhotsk to the west, and the Bering Sea and the vast Pacific Ocean to the east.
#330,000 population#
Kamchatka is a vast region with a sparse population of only about 330,000 people, of whom about 180,000 live in the capital, Petropavlovsk-Karak. The rest of the population lives mostly in the southern part of the peninsula. While some people often complain that Russians are aloof, Kamchatkans are relatively friendlier and more welcoming than residents elsewhere in Russia.
#29 active volcanoes#
The Kamchatka Peninsula is one of the world's most famous volcanic regions, home to 29 active volcanoes and nearly 300 extinct ones. For locals, volcanic eruptions are as common as eating and drinking, nothing to be surprised about. Volcanic activity and the associated natural phenomena have shaped Kamchatka's unique geography and landscape, making it a popular destination for travelers.
#A Song of Ice and Fire#
Although Kamchatka's latitude is relatively northerly, its maritime climate keeps temperatures relatively mild. However, the weather is highly variable, with extreme summer weather ranging from snow on the volcanoes to sun showers below. This unpredictable weather makes travel plans in Kamchatka highly susceptible to disruption and rescheduling. Therefore, maintaining an open mind and embracing nature is crucial in Kamchatka.
#WildlifePark#
Kamchatka boasts an exceptionally rich wildlife, most notably the brown bears, visible only from July to mid-September, and the migrating salmon, numbering tens of millions (Kamchatka is the only place in the world where all Pacific salmon species can be found). Kamchatka is home to over 17,000 brown bears. Over millennia, humans and bears have learned to coexist harmoniously, the bears the masters of the wilderness, humans the quiet guests. When a brown bear catches a salmon, glances up at you, and then devours it, the majestic sight of "all creatures competing for freedom under the frosty sky" will remain etched in your memory forever.
The islands are also home to large populations of otters, foxes, mink, and deer. Along the coast and on the islands, you can see large herds of walruses, fur seals, and seals, as well as soaring Steller's sea eagles and other seabirds. If you venture further out into the ocean, you might even spot sperm whales, killer whales, and humpback whales.
#Outdoor Paradise#
In summer, you can hike through valleys and lakeside areas and climb sparsely populated volcanoes. In winter, it's a ski resort, and even if you're not a skiing expert, dog sledding is an unforgettable experience.
#The only place where you can still explore in the 21st century#
This mysterious place, once forgotten but now rediscovered, is both remote and wild, with mountains and seas, no romantic dramas. If you prefer a hardcore travel experience, Kamchatka is for you.
Kamchatka's relatively late start to local tourism, incomplete supporting facilities, geographical isolation, and poor infrastructure all contribute to its high cost. Coupled with the lack of domestic tourists, the lack of economies of scale has kept Kamchatka's travel costs high in China. This, in turn, has left us with a truly authentic Kamchatka. Understanding it will understand why Kamchatka is the only place still open for true adventure in the 21st century!
Except for the relatively long winter, the other seasons in Kamchatka are relatively short, especially autumn, which lasts only 55 days on average, while the longest winter is 137 days, nearly three times as long.
The average temperature in Kamchatka Peninsula ranges from 12°C to 25°C in July and August. Please pack the necessary clothing. We recommend waterproof clothing like a windbreaker, warm clothing, and rain gear. For summer travel to Kamchatka, be prepared for mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and strong mosquito repellent spray (there are a lot of mosquitoes outdoors!). If you're going to the sea, it's recommended to bring a windproof jacket, as the cold ocean breeze can be chilly.
The official language of Kamchatka is Russian. Most people don't speak Chinese or English, and some don't even know basic words like "yes" or "no," so communicating in English can be quite challenging. Unless you speak Russian, a translator is essential.
Russian tourist visas are divided into two categories, simply put, group tourist visas and individual tourist visas.
If a qualified travel agency (officially recognized by both China and Russia) handles group visas, you can enjoy visa-free treatment. Just pick up your passport and go.
For individual visas, the price ranges from 700-1200, and the processing time is approximately 15 working days. The application materials are relatively simple, requiring only the original passport, two color photos with a white background, and a completed form.
Kamchatka has been open to the outside world since 1991. Apart from a visa, no other documents are currently required to enter Kamchatka.
Tips:
Regardless of whether you're applying for a Russian tourist visa individually or as a group, it's a single-entry visa. Entry and exit times are very tight, so it's recommended not to apply for one before you've planned your trip. Otherwise, you won't be able to stay longer.
The time difference between Kamchatka Peninsula and China is 4 hours (4 hours ahead of China). Local sockets are two-pin round European standard sockets, with a voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz.
Because the peninsula is surrounded by the sea on three sides, Kamchatka has no accessible roads and relies on satellite communications. It wasn't until October 2016 that an undersea fiber-optic cable was connected, bringing true internet access. Local hotels generally don't have Wi-Fi service. Some offer paid internet access, typically costing 100-150 rubles per hour, but speeds are very slow. Mobile internet is virtually nonexistent, and cell phone signal disappears once you leave the city. Once you're here, you have to get used to life without internet.
Russia's three major mobile phone operators are Megafon (Megaloń), MTS (MTS), and Beeline (Biliń). Megafon is recommended. Sim cards are available at many supermarkets, with a variety of plans to choose from. Telecommunications services in Kamchatka are not very good. While calls are generally possible in the city, mobile internet data usage can be very slow. Don't expect any signal in the wild.
The Russian currency unit is the Ruble (RUB), often abbreviated to р. or руб. Currently, RMB can be exchanged for Rubles in China, so it is recommended to exchange before departure. 1 RMB = 9.503 Rubles (July 2018)
Paying by credit card isn't very convenient in Kamchatka. Only major hotels and large shopping malls in the city accept bank cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.). Most transactions in restaurants, shops, and hotels are in cash, while markets and small shops only accept cash. It's recommended to prepare cash before departure. (In Kamchatka, you can use UnionPay cards to withdraw cash at ATMs operated by the Bank of Kamchatka and Rosbank. These ATMs generally have the UnionPay logo. Several ATMs at the airport now accept UnionPay cards. UnionPay card payments are not widely accepted in the region, so check for the UnionPay logo or ask the staff when making a purchase.)
Currently, there are no direct flights from China to Kamchatka. Generally, travelers must fly from Beijing, Shanghai, or Hong Kong via Vladivostok or Khabarovsk before arriving in Petropavlovsk, the largest city on the Kamchatka Peninsula. Petropavlovsk's city center is approximately 20 kilometers from the airport, and there are direct buses to the airport.
P.S.: With the increasing number of Chinese tourists visiting Kamchatka, Petropavlovsk Airport is experiencing a significant shortage of capacity. The local government is currently planning to build a new, futuristic airport to accommodate Chinese airlines. (It's said that the lack of domestic airlines flying to this airport stems from the inadequacy of Chinese pilots' skills.)
Kamchatka's road network is extremely underdeveloped. Despite its 472,300 square kilometers, the peninsula boasts only a mere 300 kilometers of roads. The inland areas are largely uninhabited, and the region's unique experiences are mostly concentrated in the southern coastal areas. However, air, sea, and land transportation also play a significant role.
This also greatly limits the possibilities for independent travel. Want public transportation? No! Want to drive? No roads! Because the area is so vast and sparsely populated, many places are usually unvisited and can only be reached through local tour companies.
Kamchatka's tourism industry is still in its infancy, so supporting infrastructure is still very underdeveloped. In 2016, there were only two regular hotels in the entire city (currently, with Russian investment, many more are under construction). Therefore, if you want to stay in Kamchatka's city center, you need to book a hotel at least three to six months in advance. Otherwise, you'll have to consider tourist resorts and cabins in the suburbs.
As Kamchatka's only city, Petropavlovsk is a popular stopover point for adventure tours into the region. The surrounding area boasts numerous attractions, including the Pacific Ocean's black sand beaches, Blue Lake Nature Park, Vazig Valley, Triple Bay, Cape Lighthouse, Three Brothers Rock, Starichkov Island, and Avachinsky Bay. These areas, all clustered around the city, are ideal for day trips, typically requiring boat or off-road vehicle access.
A top recommendation is to watch the sunset beneath the volcanoes of Mission Mountain. The Koriako and Avachinsky volcanoes sit on the edge of the city, surrounded by the waters of Avachinsky Bay. A quiet sunset is the first step to unlocking this destination.
Located at the southernmost tip of the Kamchatka Peninsula, the South Kamchatka Wildlife Refuge encompasses vast forests, lakes, and volcanoes. These exceptional natural conditions create ideal habitats for wildlife, with tens of thousands of animals choosing this area as their chosen habitat. The Refuge was originally established to protect the region's numerous brown bears and migratory birds.
At the center of the reserve lies a vast lake called Kurile Lake, also known as Kuril Lake. Formed by an ancient volcanic crater, it serves as a natural food source for brown bears. Every year from early July to early September, salmon migrate here to spawn. How abundant are the fish? So numerous are they that they block the river channels... Throughout the Northeast Pacific, including the Kamchatka Peninsula and Alaska, salmon are keystone species, transferring nutrients from marine ecosystems to forest ecosystems. Grizzlies, in turn, play the role of "ecosystem engineers." Grizzlies prey on salmon and carry them to nearby forests. There, the bears excrete their nutrient-rich feces, leaving behind salmon carcasses that provide 24% of the forest's nitrogen needs. Nutrients from salmon carcasses can also be found in the leaves of white spruce trees growing within 500 meters of salmon-run streams.
Brown bears began to come out to fish, and every day tens, even hundreds, of them would gather on the lake, creating a truly spectacular sight! A single number gives you an idea of the bear population: photographer Sergey Gorshkov once captured 17 bears in a single wide-angle shot.
Helicopter Ride Precautions
The most common way to visit Kurile Lake bear viewing is by helicopter, a retired Russian military Mi-8 helicopter. The one-way flight from Petropavlovsk to Kurile Lake takes about 1.5 hours. The scenery within the peninsula is truly breathtaking, as the Mi-8 helicopter flies very steadily and at a relatively low altitude, allowing for stunning views. (Please note that while the views are stunning, taking photos from the windows is prohibited while the aircraft is in flight.)
Tips:
※ Follow the crew's instructions and board the plane in an orderly manner.
※ After the aircraft starts, do not approach within 5 meters of the fuselage.
※ Never approach a helicopter from behind; if you must approach a helicopter, be sure to approach from the front of the aircraft so that the pilot can see it.
※ Please fasten your seat belt throughout the flight. Do not smoke, drink, move around, or disturb or distract the pilot.
※ Upon arrival at the destination, the crew will disembark first. Passengers can only disembark after obtaining their permission.
☆Bear Watching Guide☆
Bear watching at Kurile Lake is a must-see on any Kamchatka trip. A trip to Kamchatka without seeing brown bears would be completely meaningless. Spending even a minute at Kurile Lake is truly breathtaking. Helicopter flights may stop at a volcanic crater, offering a chance to visit the lake. However, Kamchatka's weather is highly unpredictable, so a trip to Kurile Lake to see bears requires not only money but also a bit of luck. Inclement weather can prevent helicopter flights, so be prepared.
The helicopter will land at a campsite near Kurile Lake. Camp security officers will brief the brown bear spotters (you guys) on local conditions and precautions. Armed guards will then lead the bear-watching expedition. Camping is also available, and many European and American guests choose this option to extend their stay in the lake area. However, you can't just pack a tent and stay there. Due to the fragility of the local ecosystem and personal safety, camping spots are limited, and drop-in accommodation is almost impossible. If you're interested in camping, be sure to book six months in advance. For photography enthusiasts, a 400mm focal length lens is recommended for capturing bear poses.
Tips:
※ Please obey the instructions throughout the trip and ensure that the places you pass through are clean and orderly.
※ If there is news that bears are seen near residential areas, be sure to avoid going into the wild.
※ Do not pile up food scraps and smelly items near the house, as these are likely to attract bears.
※ Keep at least 100 meters away from bears and bear cubs, and never feed bears.
Bears don't like to be disturbed suddenly, so if you're alone, make sure to frequently make noises (such as blowing a whistle or using a bear repellent bell). If you spot new bear tracks or feces, speak loudly, clap your hands, sing, or whistle.
※ If you see discarded fish or things covered with soil in the wild, leave immediately, as a bear may be nearby.
※ Do not use strong-smelling hygiene products (such as wet wipes, body deodorant, shampoo, etc.) outdoors. Place used items in a sealed bag and carry them with you (if incineration is not possible). After incineration, be sure to confirm that there is no residue.
When cooking at your campsite, be sure to cook only as much as you can eat. Do not leave any leftovers; if you do, pour them into the stream. When you leave, clean up the campsite and incinerate or seal up any trash to take away.
If you encounter a bear, running away will be futile and will only trigger the bear's instinctive pursuit. The correct approach is to stay calm, avoid screaming, and back away slowly.
The Kamchatka Peninsula boasts an astonishing number of volcanoes, over 300 in total, 29 of which are active, 19 of which are World Heritage Sites. Throughout history, it has been one of the most volcanically active regions in the world. Active volcanoes are divided into two categories: those where lava can be seen, and those where only smoke and steam can be seen.
Human activity primarily occurs in the southern part of the Kamchatka Peninsula, where volcanoes rarely produce lava. The most popular volcanoes are Avachinsky, Mutnovsky, and Gorely. Climbing on Koryaksky, near Avachinsky, is currently prohibited due to its recent eruption in 2008.
Many tourists visiting Kamchatka mistakenly believe volcanoes are simply lava eruptions, leading to disappointment. So, are there lava volcanoes in Kamchatka? Yes, but they're extremely remote from tourist areas, located in the uninhabited northern region. Even helicopters can't reach them, requiring only a 6X6 off-road vehicle to carve a path through the mountains, a journey that takes about three days. With no supplies along the way, camping is mandatory, making it incredibly difficult to reach.
So, there's no need to feel overly disappointed. Volcanoes are more than just lava. Their most captivating attraction is undoubtedly their unique volcanic landscapes—the "Song of Ice and Fire." You can see glaciers and volcanoes coexisting, hot springs and steam rising from geyser valleys, and smoke from the mountaintops, mixed with the smell of sulfur, drifting into the distance. The most important things you need for a volcano hike are a pair of reliable hiking shoes and a pair of trekking poles. The rest is a team of reliable companions. We recommend that you never hike a volcano alone! A professional guide is absolutely essential.
Avachinsky Bay is one of the world's most beautiful and largest bays. Unlike the delicate islands of Southeast Asia, the ocean here offers a rugged edge. As a representative of the cold ocean, the Bering Sea's austere presence strikes you deeply upon first encounter.
If you come to Kamchatka between June and early September, be sure to take part in a sea cruise and experience firsthand this wonderful world composed of the sea, birds, sea beasts, islands and underwater life.
If you're lucky, you might spot sea lions, seals, or fur seals near the pier, or perhaps even encounter the spout of a whale surfacing to breathe. The scent of the ocean, the roar of the waves, and the cries of seagulls accompany you along the way, along with the rare Steller's sea eagles and flocks of harbor seals. On board, you can enjoy freshly caught seafood caught directly from the boat. During the cruise, the onboard divers dive directly into the water, hauling in a net full of king crab, sea urchins, starfish, and more, all cooked right on board. This is truly fresh seafood. Of course, fishing rods are also available on board, so you can try your hand at sea fishing. Delicious seafood is readily available, ensuring a bountiful harvest even for beginners. The crew can cook your catch directly from the water, ensuring a truly fresh experience.
1. Kamchatka is one of the few places in the world where the natural environment and human life are perfectly integrated. Therefore, the people of Kamchatka are very protective of the environment. Therefore, for travelers, the most important thing when traveling in Kamchatka is to protect the local natural environment and not become an annoying tourist.
Many travelers come to Kamchatka for photography, but be especially careful about safety. Avoid approaching any wild animals without permission, especially aggressive ones like brown bears and sea lions. Avoid entering any jungle without permission, as encountering brown bears is a real possibility in Kamchatka.
3. Do not buy any unauthorized animal fur products and do not get yourself into trouble. If you get into this kind of trouble in Russia, no one can help you get out of it.
Unlike other parts of Russia, Kamchatka residents have a more relaxed sense of time. Being late for appointments is common, which can leave people feeling somewhat unpredictable. In Kamchatka, anything is possible. Keep an open mind and embrace the constant excitement and change!
5. We recommend traveling in a small group; traveling alone can pose safety and communication risks. Regular travelers may be overwhelmed by the unpredictable weather and schedules, and may not be able to withstand the reserve's isolation and the harsh conditions of tent life. The faint of heart may not be able to enjoy a relaxed and comfortable trip.
We recommend the China-TravelNote Kamchatka Adventure route, featuring eight exciting experiences: fly fishing, overflights, volcanoes, hot springs, fresh produce, wild rafting, cruising, and brown bears. With extensive tour experience and a professional leader, you'll explore Eurasia's lost "island."
If you are an avid photography enthusiast, we have also prepared a 9-day geological and geomorphological photography route for you, including volcanoes, bear watching, waterfalls, glaciers, canyons and hot springs. Conquer Far East Russia, the magical song of ice and fire, and a thousand kinds of wilderness beauty!
Warm reminder: Photography groups are requested to prepare extra batteries and memory cards in case of need.
Remember the famous saying of the Kamchatkans: "In Kamchatka, there are no roads, only directions." This is Kamchatka: no harbingers of beauty, no jewels, no golden fragrance, only the purest wilderness and unadorned scenery. If ever you tire of the city's hustle and bustle, the pristine, unpretentious nature of Kamchatka will rekindle your fearlessness.
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