PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS TO KAMCHATKA
KAMCHATKA
Join us on a fantastic tour to photograph the Kamchatka brown bears in one of the most pristine habitats in the world. This tour is more of an expedition with you staying in a remote destination for three nights after being dropped off in a chopper. The highlight of the tour would be having the liberty to lie flat on the ground to take stunning pictures of the bears jumping to catch the fish, while you would be surrounded by bears yourself. Of course, you will have armed guards to keep an eye out so that you can concentrate on making your best images
In the north-eastern part of Russia, lies the peninsula of Kamchatka. A region where the evocative song of ice and fire is very much a thrilling reality. Being an esteemed member of the UNESCO World Heritage List, Kamchatka covers a stunning expanse of 472,300 km square.
Much like the Indian peninsula is flanked by the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal, the peninsula of Kamchatka is surrounded by the Okhotsk Sea, the Bering Sea and the Pacific Ocean. It is a core of volcanic and seismic activity. As many as 28 active volcanoes bubble away in the eastern part. Kamchatka is also home to an abundance of flora and fauna. The number of wild animal species in the peninsula is close to almost three dozen.
Grassy Point lodge is definitely something to look forward to on this tour. Being the only point of lodging for the people visiting Kurile Lake, Grassy Point Lodge is as charming as it is quaint. It is a two-storied wooden house with bedrooms located on the top floor and communal dining areas and showers on the ground floor. Perhaps the most picturesque quality of Grassy Point is its location. It is located on a slight incline at the edge of a small peninsula overlooking Kurile Lake. These stunning views can be better enjoyed on the balcony or terrace of the lodge. On a clear day, it is even possible to watch the Bears fishing by the lakeshore without ever leaving the property!
The Kurilskoye Lake itself, also known as Kurile Lake, is the result of enormous volcanic eruptions that shook southern Kamchatka roughly 8000 years ago. This resulted in the formation of a volcanic crater that over the years, filled with water, birthing what we know today as the Kurile Lake. Currently, it is the second largest freshwater source in Kamchatka. The lake takes its name from the indigenous tribe, the Kuril, that inhabited the neighboring Kuril Islands.
The perfectly conical Ilyinsky volcano provides the kind of dreamy backdrop one could only hope for. Plus, the lush green forests surrounding the lake provide the kind of serene comfort that can only be achieved by being in the lap of nature.
From the smoky volcanoes to icy glaciers, from rivers forming up in the mountains to breathtaking waterfalls, from lush forests to alpine meadows filled with vivid flowers and lastly, the delectable hot springs, the landscape of Kamchatka is indeed a very diverse one that is virtually unblemished by human conquests.
To visit Kamchatka is to visit its most celebrated Kamchatka Brown Bears. Meeting one here is not only an ordinary happening but is to be expected!
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Experience up-close photography of the majestic Kamchatka brown bears as they fish in crystal-clear rivers.
- Explore the stunning volcanic terrain of Kamchatka, home to 28 active volcanoes. Capture dramatic vistas of smoking craters and lava flows amidst a backdrop of rugged mountains and geothermal features.
- Photograph picturesque waterfalls cascading through lush forests and pristine rivers meandering through the rugged terrain, providing stunning natural backdrops for your wildlife shots.
- Immerse yourself in Kamchatka’s untouched landscapes, from alpine meadows bursting with vibrant wildflowers to serene, unspoiled forests, all while enjoying the region’s dramatic and varied scenery.
TOUR ITINERARY
Please Note: TBD
This Tour begins with your arrival at Petropavlovsk. This is the administrative, cultural and scientific centre of the Kamchatka peninsula. It is a bustling town where more than half the population of Kamchatka reside. On this day, post check-in, we will take our time acclimatizing to our new surroundings while also shopping for the essential gear required for the excursion ahead of us. Some of the essential gear which we may need to buy at Petropavlovsk includes gum boots, head torches etc.
We start the second day of our Tour with a beautiful helicopter ride to Kurile Lake. This is where we will be witnessing and photographing the magnificent Kamchatka Brown Bears. Before our rendezvous with the Kamchatka Brown Bears, we will have the opportunity to visit the Ksudach Volcano and the Mutnovsky Volcano. The Ksudach volcano is one of the many volcanoes in the region. It last erupted in 1907 and was recorded as one of the largest volcanic eruptions in the Kamchatka region. It is a stratovolcano – a conical volcano built up by many hardened layers of lava.
After our short walk at the Ksudach volcano, we make our way to the Mutnovsky Volcano. This is one of the most popular and frequently visited volcanoes as it is the most active volcano in the area. Around the active crater of the Mutnovsky, one can catch sight of the fumaroles bubbling away on the crater floor.
Following our volcanic escapades, we embark on our helicopter ride yet again to our final destination – Kurile Lake. It is here at the Grassy Point Lodge that we will be spending a majority of our time being enthralled by the Kamchatka Brown Bears.
Following a small recess for lunch and freshening up, we set off on a short evening walk toward the sandy shores of the Kurile Lake. Our path for the evening walk takes place on the edge of the Kurile Lake toward where many tributaries drain into the lake. At this point of confluence is where we make our first contact with the splendid Kamchatka Brown Bears. It is here that we will be enthralled by the Bears fishing with extraordinary precision. Moreover, the entire walk by the beach is one of magnificent views.
The beauty and uniqueness of Kurilskoye lie in our pursuit of the magnificent Brown Bears. For this leg of our adventure at Kamchatka, we take morning and evening excursions toward the mouth of several rivers draining into Kurile Lake and it is here that we shall have an excellent chance of making close-up images of the Bears as they concentrate on fattening up for their upcoming hibernation. If the idea of traipsing about in close quarters to these beasts makes you tremble, fear not as we will be accompanied by armed local wardens at all times. Moreover, this is the only season where the Bears tolerate each other so we can expect to be the least of their concern.
This is the perfect time to visit Kamchatka to witness the brown bears in action. With abundant food, the bears are busy fattening up for winter hibernation, which lasts up to six months. It’s also a crucial period for pregnant females, as malnutrition can threaten their cubs’ survival. The salmon spawning season attracts large gatherings of bears to the streams, offering an incredible opportunity to capture close-up photos of this remarkable event.
Akin to our previous day, we start our morning with a visit to the Bears. We may take longer walking trips on this day to experience the landscape surrounding the region of Kurile Lake. For example, we may walk across to the other side of the beach while crossing the rivulets by foot, so as to capture the stunning beasts against the gorgeous backdrop of the Ilyinsky Volcano, or we may walk a little further toward a lush meadow where we can see the different berries and plants which the bears would survive on in a different season. However, similar to our experience thus far, we will be
greeted by the sight of the Bears fishing just a few paces away at a stream.
On this day, we walk the trail one last time in the morning to visit and photograph the Bears. After which, we board the chopper to take us back to the quaint little town of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Upon arrival at Petropavlovsk, we check in to our hotel there and spend the rest of our day processing and reminiscing about our tryst with the Kamchatka Brown Bears.
We kick off our marine expedition with a 2-day adventure from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, setting sail from the expansive Avacha Bay. This bay, one of the largest in the world at 215 square kilometers, features dramatic rocky landscapes and the iconic Tri Brata rock pillars, a local landmark steeped in legend. Our focus will be on exploring Kamchatka’s rich marine life, including the thrilling chance to see killer whales, which are abundant in these nutrient-rich waters.
On this day we continue on our journey in the Pacific Ocean. We break occasionally near rocky outcrops jutting out of the ocean. The captain takes us closer to these rocky terrains on smaller boats known as zodiacs. It is here that we will feast our eyes on various sea mammals such as the Spotted Seals, Steller Sea Lions and Sea Otters. We could also get lucky with Killer Whales, Grey Whales and the Hump-backed Whales
Being on our zodiac boats expertly handled by the captain will give us the perfect opportunity to photograph these beasts from various angles as they bask in the sun. Moreover, on these rocky shores and cliffs, we can also spot a variety of sea birds such as Seagulls, Auklets, Puffins, Red-Faced Cormorants, Urias and the White-Tailed Eagle. Following this, we conclude our marine expedition and head back to Avacha Bay at Petropavlovsk and stay at the same hotel that we have been thus far.
Our Tour concludes at Petropavlovsk where we enjoy our breakfast and check out of our hotels. We are then transferred to the airport where we say our final goodbyes to each other and board our respective planes back home.
Please note that visitation to all the destinations in the itinerary is subject to weather conditions on the day. However, we will do our best to make adjustments and visit all the places mentioned.
Similarly, the animals and birds mentioned are not “for sure” sightings and will depend on various external factors as well as our luck.
- All prices above are excluding taxes. 5% GST would be applicable.
- Patrons: Guests who have travelled with us on at least three photography tours.
- Foreign nationals please message us at contact@glidingfrog.com for a quote.
- Twin-sharing accommodation in comfortable lodges
- All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) as mentioned in the itinerary
- Guide and Photography Skipper services
- Safari permits and guide fees
- Any airfare
- Camera fees if any
- Any kind of personal expenses or optional tours, extra meals and beverages ordered
- Insurance, laundry and phone calls
- Bottled water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Vaccination, visa and insurance expenses
- All applicable taxes
- Anything that is not listed under ‘inclusions’
- 50% of the Tour fee before –
- 100% of the Tour fee before –
All figures per person.
- 50% of the Tour fee on or before –
- 100% of the Tour fee on or after –
Please note: The date of written (email) communication of intent to cancel is the date considered for calculation of the cancellation fees.
- Twin-sharing accommodation in comfortable lodges
- All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) as mentioned in the itinerary
- Guide and Photography Skipper services
- Safari permits and guide fees
- Any airfare
- Camera fees if any
- Any kind of personal expenses or optional tours, extra meals and beverages ordered
- Insurance, laundry and phone calls
- Bottled water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Vaccination, visa and insurance expenses
- All applicable taxes
- Anything that is not listed under ‘inclusions’
- 50% of the Tour fee before –
- 100% of the Tour fee before –
All figures per person.
- 50% of the Tour fee on or before –
- 100% of the Tour fee on or after –
Please note: The date of written (email) communication of intent to cancel is the date considered for calculation of the cancellation fees.
GALLERY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Absolutely yes! We will be happy to customize this tour for you based on your preferred dates. Kindly write to us and tell us your preferred time of travel and we shall get back to you with a tentative itinerary and quote. This tour can be with or without a photography guide.
Of course! This Tour is meant for newbies as well as experienced photographers. Beginners will get all the advantages of learning on and off the field from the photography mentors.
In fact if you are a fresher, you should jump on this great photography learning opportunity and sign up right away.
In Kamchatka, you can photograph Kamchatka Brown Bears, including their fishing behaviors, as well as sea mammals like Northern Fur Seals, Steller’s Sea Lions, and various seabirds. The region is also known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse flora.
The best time for wildlife photography in Kamchatka is during the summer months, from late June to early September. This period offers optimal conditions for bear sightings, salmon spawning, and marine life.
Pack warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and all necessary photography gear including lenses, tripods, and extra batteries. Don’t forget binoculars, and personal items such as sunscreen and bug repellent.
Yes, safety is a priority. In bear territories, you will be accompanied by armed local wardens to ensure your safety. Additionally, guides will provide briefings on how to interact safely with wildlife.
The tour involves moderate physical activity, including hiking and walking on uneven terrain. Good physical fitness will enhance your experience, especially when exploring volcanic regions and remote locations.
Most travelers reach Kamchatka via flights to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the main city on the peninsula. You may need to connect through major Russian cities like Moscow or Vladivostok before reaching Kamchatka.
BOOK TOUR
PLAN CUSTOMISED TRIP
In case these dates do not work for you and you would wish to travel on your own at your own convenience dates, then do write to us.
We will customise a tour for you on your preferred dates. This can be with or without a photography guide. We would ensure you have the best drivers, guides and will also suggest properties based on your preference.
We have close to two decades of experience in the wildlife travel sector and will be able to guide you based on our own experience.