Why the Kurils?
The Kuril Islands are a volcanic chain stretching between Kamchatka and Japan. No crowds here—only active volcanoes, emerald thermal lakes, bears on the shoreline and a palpable sense of the end of the earth.
Why visit the Kurils
Best fares
Where to stay in Kuril Islands, the Kurils
The islands' infrastructure is evolving—contemporary guesthouses and lodges with volcano views are emerging.
Islands of, the archipelago
When to visit the Kurils
The best period is July through September, when weather is most stable and fog less frequent.
Tours to the Kurils
What you need to know before you go
How to get there
Fly to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk (8–9 hours from Moscow), then continue by ferry (14 hours) or plane (1 hour) to Iturup. Ferry is cheaper, plane more convenient.
Visas and entry
Russian citizens need no visa. Foreign nationals require a border permit—apply 30 days in advance via FSB or a travel agency.
Transport
Main islands are connected by ferry. On-island transport: taxis and 4×4 rentals. Roads are often unpaved.
Money
ATMs exist only in district centres. Bring cash roubles in advance—cards are not accepted on remote routes.
Must-try experiences
The perfect cone of an active stratovolcano rising 1,819 m on Kunashir Island—one of the world's most beautifully shaped volcanoes (comparable to Japan's Fuji). The ascent from Dubovoye village takes 6–8 hours one way through forest, lava fields and scree slopes. A guide is mandatory (from 8,000 ₽/day)—the trail is unmarked and weather shifts in minutes. On clear days, views reach Hokkaido.
The crater lake of Bogdan Khmelnitsky Volcano on Iturup—Russia's most acidic lake (pH 1.7, like stomach acid). Surreal turquoise colour, vapour, mineral deposits lining the shore. 4x4 tour from Kurilsk takes 4 hours one way, with the final kilometre on foot. Swimming forbidden—the acid burns skin. Best time: July–August.
A colony of fur seals and Steller sea lions on a rocky promontory of Shikotan, with up to 2,000 individuals at peak season (July–September). Observation from a distance only—approach prohibited. Boat tour from Malokurilskoye village 1.5 hours, then 30 minutes on foot. The smell and noise are impressive—this is why people come.
Unique pumice cliffs extending 28 km along Iturup's eastern coast—the Kurils' most photogenic site. Milky-white volcanic ash contrasts with black sand and blue-grey ocean. Best views from the upper terrace at sunset. Access: 4x4 tour from Kurilsk 2 hours, with coastal walking possible at low tide.
Natural hot springs near Mendeleyev Volcano on Kunashir—dozens of pools at 35–60°C, mud baths, geysers. Open access year-round, minimal infrastructure—bring your own towel and swimsuit. Best are the Tretyakovsky springs near Goryachy Plyazh village. After a day of trekking—essential.
The Kuril Islands' rivers are the last untouched angler's paradise: pink, chum, sockeye, coho, chinook salmon. Spawning season July–September, with catches of 20–30 specimens daily. Licence 1,500 ₽/day (sport fishing only, catch-and-release). Premium tours with lodge and chef—from 80,000 ₽/week via Sales.Travel Concierge.