Overview
We think that the summer is one of the best times to come and explore the Russian Arctic. The locals are excited for the brief period of warmth and sunshine, the wildlife emerges for some spring fun, and outdoor adventurers are spoiled for choice. This trip involves a couple of days of gentle hiking, four days rafting on some of the most beautiful rivers in the area, and a chance to experience the best fishing in Yamal. Price is based on double occupancy: a single supplement of €200 will apply if you are a single traveller and are not happy to share a twin room. Contact us via email or phone if your preferred dates are unavailable.Itinerary
· Arrive at Salekhard airport and transfer to the hotel.
· Check-in and arrival briefing about what to expect in the days ahead
· Our local guides will check that your gear is suitable for the expedition.
· Afternoon tour of Salekhard.
· Group arrival Dinner.
· Early breakfast and depart via ferry for Kharp village.
· Hiking to the campsite on the banks of the Makar-Ruz
· 18km hiking.
· Dinner and overnight in our tents.
· Breakfast and depart campsite.
· Follow picturesque streams and rivers to our campsite on the Haramatolou.
· 15km hiking.
· Set up camp for overnight stay.
· Exploring the local area
· Short hikes or fishing on the river.
· Briefing for rafting tomorrow.
· Overnight camping.
· After breakfast start the rafting portion of the trip.
· Breaks for photos, swimming, walking or fishing.
· Camping overnight.
· Breaks for photos, swimming, walking or fishing.
· Camping overnight.
· Breaks for photos, swimming, walking or fishing.
· Camping overnight.
· Short rafting period to final stop in Katravozh.
· Transfer to Salekhard and check in to our hotel.
· Optional banya in the city.
· Group dinner.
· After breakfast we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight.
The Trip Cost Includes:
- Accommodation: 2 nights in Salekhard hotel (twin-share), 6 nights camping
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Russian Arctic Travel English-speaking guide
- Tour of Salekhard if desired
- All transfers in Salekhard
- Vehicles and fuel on expedition
- Arctic safety/security equipment
- Rafting equipment including wetsuits and life vests
- Fishing equipment
- Tents, sleeping bags and cooking equipment for camping
- Permits and visa invitation letter
- Return flights from Moscow or St Petersburg to Salekhard
The Trip Cost Does Not Include:
- Personal expenses such as drinks, tickets, phone calls, etc.
- Travel Insurance
- Individual clothing, backpack, cold-weather clothing, (contact us for advice)
- Use of banya/sauna in Salekhard if desired
Frequently Asked Questions
Expand/CloseIn the summer, the weather is usually quite warm during the day, but temperatures can drop significantly overnight. We recommend bringing both a lightweight and thicker down (or equivalent) jacket. Multiple layers are recommended so that you can dress for different temperatures. You can hire your outer layers from us if you arrive and find that it’s colder than expected!
We recommend good quality waterproof hiking boots for this trip and if you usually use poles for hiking then please bring these too.
We advise bringing 2 sets of swimwear to put on under your wetsuit, so that you can be sure of having a dry set each morning. You’ll also need a swimsuit for the banya if you wish to visit during your trip!
Sleeping bags are included in the cost of your trip, as are tents, rafting, camping and fishing equipment where applicable.
You can book a trip to the Banya in Salekhard in advance – this is a mixed banya and you should bring swimwear if you book this option.
We’re always happy to discuss any further customisations to trips. Please email or call us with additional queries.
When camping we’ll be cooking for ourselves and can cater to any dietary restrictions. Please inform us at the time of booking so that we can ensure we are able to source the required ingredients. Please be aware that meat and fish will be served at mealtimes.
The hiking portion of the trip involves covering around 20km each day. The terrain is varied with some steeper uphill portions. We recommend some hill training prior to the trip.
No specific training is required for our rafting trips as we will go through a safety briefing and general instructions on the first evening. We are very used to taking people with no rafting experience on these trips, so you don’t need to worry if you’re a total beginner! A moderate level of fitness will definitely help you enjoy the trip a little more, but most people will find the pace very manageable.