Russian Far East - Wander Russia Guide 2025

Stroganina is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes in Yakutia (Sakha Republic), a region known for its extreme climate and ancient traditions. This dish consists of frozen, thinly sliced raw fish, typically Siberian whitefish (chir) or perch, served with salt, pepper, and sometimes a splash of vinegar or oil. It is often enjoyed in the coldest months of the year when the fish are frozen solid, allowing for a unique, refreshing, and unforgettable culinary experience.If you're visiting Yakutsk, the capital of Yakutia, and want to try this traditional delicacy, here’s where to find stroganina in the city,...

Vladivostok, Russia’s far-eastern port city, has a fascinating history of public transport, with its historic trams playing a central role in shaping the city's growth and development. Over the years, trams have become an iconic part of Vladivostok’s landscape, offering both transportation and a glimpse into the city’s transport heritage. In addition to trams, the city boasts a well-developed public transport system that includes buses, trolleybuses, and ferries, each contributing to the unique character of the city’s daily life.This guide will take you through the history of Vladivostok’s trams, how they’ve evolved over the years, and how you can...

Kamchatka, a land of dramatic landscapes, towering volcanoes, and untamed wilderness, offers a truly unique opportunity for adventure seekers. Among the many thrilling activities available in this remote Russian peninsula, paragliding stands out as an exhilarating way to experience Kamchatka’s incredible natural beauty from above. Paragliding over Kamchatka’s active volcanoes, vast valleys, and pristine rivers offers a bird’s-eye view of one of the most dynamic and geologically active regions on Earth. Whether you’re an experienced paraglider or a beginner looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Kamchatka’s paragliding opportunities promise to take you on an unforgettable journey over some of the...

Kamchatka’s pristine wilderness is home to a variety of wild game, and its rich culinary traditions incorporate many of these unique meats into the region's dishes. From moose and reindeer to bear and wild boar, Kamchatka offers a selection of game meats that provide a truly distinctive dining experience. Whether you're looking to try hearty stews, grilled cuts, or traditional Russian game meat specialties, here’s a guide to where you can enjoy Kamchatka’s finest game meat dishes.1. Koryak Restaurant (Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky)Overview:Koryak Restaurant is one of the best places in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to experience traditional Kamchatka cuisine, especially when it comes to...

Kamchatka, located in the Russian Far East, is home to some of the most pristine and wild landscapes on Earth, and the Yuzhno-Kamchatsky Wildlife Sanctuary is one of its crown jewels. Covering over 3,000 square kilometers, this protected area in the southern part of the Kamchatka Peninsula is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. The sanctuary’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from volcanic slopes to river valleys and coastal regions, provide a sanctuary for an array of endangered species and unique habitats. This sanctuary is one of the most important natural reserves in Russia and an...

Kamchatka, with its abundant marine life and diverse natural resources, is known for its rich culinary heritage, which includes some of the finest fish roe and local delicacies. From the famous Alaskan King Crab to wild salmon and trout, Kamchatka’s waters offer some of the freshest and most prized fish roe, which is often served in creative and traditional ways. The region’s unique dishes, often paired with local herbs and ingredients, give diners an authentic taste of Kamchatka.Here’s a guide to the best restaurants in Kamchatka where you can experience the finest fish roe and local delicacies.Why Kamchatka’s Fish...

Yakutsk, the capital of the Sakha Republic in Siberia, is renowned not only for its harsh climate but also for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional jewelry and silverwork. The Sakha people, or Yakuts, have a long history of crafting intricate and symbolic jewelry using local materials like silver, bone, wood, amber, and reindeer antlers. These handmade pieces are not only beautiful but are also infused with cultural significance, reflecting the deep connection the Yakut people have with their land, animals, and spiritual traditions.If you are visiting Yakutsk, taking the time to explore its traditional jewelry and silverwork is...

Kamchatka, known for its pristine rivers and lakes, offers a variety of freshwater fish, including salmon, muksun, and trout, which are often prepared as fish steaks. These freshwater fish steaks, served in various styles, highlight Kamchatka’s culinary focus on fresh, local ingredients. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or served in a savory sauce, freshwater fish steaks are a true delicacy in Kamchatka.Here are the best places in Kamchatka to taste freshwater fish steaks:1. Kamchatka Fish Restaurant – VilyuchinskLocated in Vilyuchinsk, Kamchatka Fish Restaurant specializes in fresh fish, with a particular focus on local freshwater fish like muksun, salmon, and trout. This...

Kamchatka, a rugged and remote peninsula in Russia’s Far East, is an adventurer's paradise. Known for its towering volcanoes, vast wilderness, and dramatic landscapes, Kamchatka offers some of the most thrilling and unique extreme sports opportunities in the world. Among the most exciting activities in the region are paragliding and skydiving—extreme sports that allow you to soar high above the volcanic peaks, explore untouched landscapes from the sky, and experience Kamchatka’s unparalleled beauty from a bird’s-eye view. Whether you’re gliding above snow-capped volcanoes or free-falling over dramatic craters, Kamchatka provides an adrenaline-pumping adventure like no other. In this article,...

Yakutsk, the capital of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia), is a city surrounded by some of the most extreme natural environments on Earth. The region's harsh Arctic climate, unique ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage make it an exciting hub for scientific and environmental research. The city is home to several research institutions, science centers, and museums that focus on geography, astronomy, climate science, and Sakha culture. Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply curious about the region’s fascinating studies, Yakutsk offers an array of innovative research centers that contribute to both local and global knowledge.Here’s a guide to the best...

Yakutia, or the Sakha Republic, is one of the coldest regions on Earth, with winters that bring freezing temperatures and stunningly beautiful snowy landscapes. The Ice Roads of Yakutia are one of the most extraordinary and unique travel experiences in this remote Siberian region. These frozen highways, made from rivers, lakes, and snow-covered terrain, serve as crucial routes for locals and adventurous travelers alike. They are often the only means of transportation in winter, connecting isolated communities and providing access to places otherwise unreachable during the warmer months.For those seeking a thrilling and unforgettable winter adventure, exploring the Ice...

Kamchatka, with its rugged volcanic terrain, towering peaks, and pristine landscapes, is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for extreme snowboarding. Known for its remote location and breathtaking beauty, the peninsula offers some of the most challenging and exhilarating slopes for snowboarders looking to push their limits in an untouched wilderness. From snow-covered volcanic ridges to deep powder runs and steep descents, Kamchatka’s slopes provide an unparalleled experience for thrill-seekers. In this article, we’ll explore Kamchatka’s extreme snowboarding opportunities, including the best volcano slopes to ride, what makes snowboarding here so unique, and the challenges you may...

Vladivostok, with its mix of beautiful nature, engaging cultural attractions, and family-friendly spots, offers plenty of opportunities for an exciting and educational day out with kids. Whether you’re looking to explore museums, enjoy the outdoors, or let your children have some fun at an amusement park, the city has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best places to take kids for a fun day in Vladivostok.1. Oceanarium of the Primorsky AquariumThe Primorsky Aquarium, located on Russky Island, is a fascinating place for children to explore the wonders of marine life. It's one of the largest aquariums in...

Kamchatka, located in the Russian Far East, is a land of untamed wilderness, where volcanic mountains, steaming geysers, and geothermal features define the landscape. Among its many hidden gems, the Nalychevo Valley stands out as a breathtaking destination for trekkers and adventurers. This pristine valley, nestled within the Kronotsky Nature Reserve, offers stunning geothermal landscapes, dramatic volcanic backdrops, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a true paradise for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.Trekking the Nalychevo Valley is a journey into one of the last great wildernesses of Kamchatka, where travelers can explore hot springs, volcanic craters, and lush...

Kamchatka, with its rugged landscapes, towering volcanoes, and vast snow-covered terrain, is one of the ultimate destinations for snowboarding enthusiasts. While most people think of Kamchatka’s volcanic activity or its remote wilderness, this untouched peninsula in Russia’s Far East also offers some of the world’s most exciting off-piste snowboarding opportunities. With its pristine powder, steep volcanic slopes, and secluded backcountry, Kamchatka provides snowboarding expeditions like no other. For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure in a pristine, wilderness setting, Kamchatka’s snowboarding expeditions promise a once-in-a-lifetime experience.In this article, we’ll dive into the unique world of snowboarding in Kamchatka, exploring the...

Kamchatka, one of the most remote and untamed regions in Russia, is home to a wealth of wildlife, including a surprising population of wild dogs. These feral canines, a mix of domestic dogs gone wild and indigenous predators, have become an integral part of Kamchatka’s ecosystem. While not as well-known as the region’s iconic brown bears or sea eagles, Kamchatka’s wild dogs are fascinating creatures that offer a unique glimpse into the adaptability and survival instincts of canines in the harsh wilderness. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, behavior, and role of wild dogs in Kamchatka, and provide...

Kamchatka, often referred to as the "Land of Fire and Ice," is a region of unparalleled natural beauty, dominated by towering volcanoes, stunning mountain ranges, and breathtaking landscapes. For those seeking not only world-class cuisine but also spectacular views, Kamchatka offers a selection of restaurants that combine fine dining with panoramic vistas of its iconic volcanic peaks. Whether perched high on a cliffside, nestled in the foothills, or located by a volcanic lake, these restaurants offer an extraordinary setting for a memorable meal.In this article, we will explore the best dining spots in Kamchatka that allow you to indulge...