Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is the largest city in Kamchatka and is interesting for its geographical location.
This city is literally surrounded by volcanoes and geothermal areas. Postcard views of the city from Avacha Bay against the backdrop of the Koryak Hill attract more and more tourists here.
Here you can climb one of the “home” volcanoes closest to the city or visit the Valley of Geysers and look into the caldera of the Uzon volcano with your own eyes. This is compensated by the high cost of the region and the low level of service.
Volcanoes, waterfalls, hills and lakes: where can you go from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky?
For ease of route planning, we have marked all the mentioned attractions on the map:
What to see in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky first
Avacha Bay
This picturesque bay has something to suit every taste. There is an observation deck on the 100-meter Nikolskaya Hill, on Lenin Square there is a monument nicknamed Vladimir Ilyich Batman, and there is also the only theater in the city, an Art Gallery and a Museum of Local Lore.
Ozernovskaya Spit
It is worth taking a walk along the embankment of Ozernovskaya Spit along the shore of the Pacific Ocean. It connects Avacha Bay with Lake Kultuchnoye. From here you can see three volcanoes: Avachinsky, Koryaksky and Kozelsky. In summer, people on the spit swim on the pebble beach or in the lake. It was recently reconstructed, so now you can ride swings and ride bicycles along the embankment.
Address: Ozernovskaya spit.
Museum of Local Lore
On excursions they talk about the development of Kamchatka and how the indigenous peoples lived. In the nature rooms, stuffed animals and birds have buttons to listen to the sounds they make. It is here that you will learn that the portrait of Vitus Bering from school textbooks is not his, and you will see what the discoverer really looked like.
Address: Leninskaya st., 20
Art Museum
There is no permanent exhibition, but at temporary exhibitions you will be able to get acquainted with the work of local artists. Some works are for sale.
Address: Leninskaya st., 62
Central Market
Caviar and crabs are, if not one of the main attractions of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, at least worth a try. It is best to buy them at the market - on the Central or on the sixth. There they will give you everything to try, and then they will pack it so that you can get it home safely.
Address: 50 Let Oktyabrya Ave., 16/6
Advice: after June, it is worth asking whether the fish caviar (the season of mass migration and fishing) is from last year or this; last year's is more salty.
Target Hill
Observation platforms with the best views are located on the tops of two hills - Nikolskaya and Mishennaya. The height of Mishenka, as the locals call it, is 382 meters; this is the highest point of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. From here you will see a panorama of the city, Avacha Bay, Khalaktyrskoye Lake and the Pacific coast. You can climb to the crown-shaped observation deck either on foot or by car, but in the first case, the road to the top will take about 1-1.5 hours.
Address: Mishennaya Sopka
Avacha Bay
This Pacific Ocean bay is located on the southeastern coast of Kamchatka. It was discovered and included on the map in the 18th century during an expedition led by Vitus Bering. The bay occupies 215 square kilometers, its impressive depth allows it to accommodate any ships.
Avacha Bay
It is important to know that you need a permit to walk through this area. The reason for this is the military bases located nearby. Most often, tourists are not deterred by this, and they remain delighted with the bay.
What to see in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky with children
Museum of Volcanology
Its exhibition features a collection of minerals and volcanic bombs, and guides talk about how eruptions happen and show documentaries. After the excursion, everyone will have tea with jam from Far Eastern berries. You must register here in advance.
Address: blvd. Piipa, 9
Vulcanarium
You can walk through this museum either with a guided tour or on your own, with an audio guide. Interactive exhibits and panels demonstrate the volcano's eruption and how it works from the inside. With the help of VR glasses you will be able to go on a virtual journey through Kamchatka, and during the experience they will show how the eruption begins.
Address: st. Klyuchevskaya, 34
Sea lion rookery on Mokhovaya
Sea lions are Red Book animals, the largest of the eared seals, weighing at least a ton. In the city, they prefer to gather on the old pier near Mokhovaya Bay, as well as on the Chavych and Signalny capes. A platform has been renovated near the pier on Mokhovaya, from where it is most convenient to observe these funny giants. In the summer they swim away, but from October to March they are easy to find on the shore.
Address: Mokhovaya Pier
Parks and monuments, streets
Avachinskaya Bay
Coordinates: N 52.97097° E 158.55537° How to get there: for independent boat trips, tourists need to hire transport. You can also explore the bay from the water during an organized excursion.
This bay, also called Avachinskaya Bay, is considered one of the largest ice-free sea bays in the world and the main cargo water gates of Kamchatka, with the largest port of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. The Paratunka and Avacha rivers flow into the bay, and the shores, which are of volcanic origin, are very picturesque. From the water you can clearly see the slopes of the active Avachinskaya Sopka volcano, as well as the dormant Kozelsky Volcano and Koryakskaya Sopka.
In the northern part of the bay in Mokhovaya Bay, right on the old pier of the former cannery, sea lions have set up a rookery. Closer to the exit from the bay there is another interesting place - the small island “Grandma’s Stone”. Its extensive system of underwater grottoes and caves and rich flora and fauna attract diving enthusiasts.
People come to the bay for fishing and crabbing.
Russian Navy vessels are stationed in the bay, so an appropriate permit is required to take a boat trip.
Three Brothers Rocks
Coordinates: 52°53'35″N 158°41'19″E How to get there: you can see the rock from the water during a boat trip. In order to see the rock from land, you need to move from the city along the road to the village of Zavoiko, take the road that leads from Bolshaya Lagernaya Bay to the ocean, and then follow the sign.
Three Brothers is one of the most memorable natural sites of Avacha Bay. An unusual rock formation in the form of three pillars protruding from the water at the entrance to the bay.
According to legend, once upon a time three brothers lived near the bay; they loved each other and their city very much. In those days, the city often suffered from destruction due to high tsunami waves. People did not know how to protect their houses from it, they simply hid in the mountains, waited out the violence of the elements, and then returned and rebuilt their homes. But one day the residents decided to build a barrier that would prevent the wave, and all the townspeople, young and old, tirelessly carried stones and built a high wall. And when their strength ran out and people realized that a new wave was approaching, and they did not have time to complete the dam, panic occurred. Everyone ran, except for the three brothers, who stayed behind and closed the unfinished gap in the wall with their bodies. The dam stood, and the wave receded once and for all. And the brothers’ desire to save their city was so strong that they turned into stones and are still standing guard.
Monument to Peter and Paul
Address: st. Ozernovskaya Spit, 3
The relatively new monument, opened in 2005, is installed in a square on the embankment where locals like to spend time.
The holy apostles Peter and Paul are considered the patrons of the city. On October 17, 1740, the Second Kamchatka Expedition under the command of Vitus Bering entered Avacha Bay on two packet boats. These ships were named after two saints, which is why the city of Petropavlovsk is called that way.
What to see in the vicinity of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky
Volcanoes Mutnovsky, Gorely and Avachinsky
Avachinsky volcano is located very close to the city, and Mutnovsky and Gorely are located in the Valley of Geysers. It’s worth coming here to stroll through alien landscapes and watch the water jets of geysers. Usually the hills are climbed during multi-day hikes, but in the summer you can choose an excursion to the volcanoes with climbing the slopes without special equipment and preparation.
Khalaktyrsky beach
This beach has become famous for its black magnetic sand and surfable waves. The beach is wild, but it has already begun to be developed: there is a cafe and a children's playground, and in the warm season many people stop here with tents.
Address: Khalaktyrsky beach
Churches and Temples
Holy Trinity Cathedral
Address: st. Vladivostokskaya, 18/4 Telephone: Opening hours: 09:00-18:00, Mon-Sun
The Cathedral of the Holy Life-Giving Trinity is completely new; its construction began only in 2002. A metal capsule containing the Mortgage Deed and the relics of the Holy Vilna Martyrs was laid into the foundation of the temple.
The two-story building, 42 meters high and with a capacity of 3 thousand people, is unique in that it can withstand even a 10-magnitude earthquake.
The mineral paints used for the interior painting of the cathedral will petrify over time, which will allow them to be preserved for centuries. It is planned that in the future the premises of the lower temple will become a concert hall due to good acoustics.
Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker
Address: st. Vladivostokskaya, 18 Phone: Website: pravkamchatka.ru/duxovno-prosvetitelskij-centr Opening hours: 09:00-18:00 Mon-Sun
The Spiritual and Educational Center, to which the temple belongs, also has an assembly hall, a school of bell ringers and catechesis, a youth cafe, a children's theater and a library. It is curious that the building where the temple is located today used to house the Rodina cinema.
Today, this particular church is considered the spiritual Orthodox center of the entire region; relics and shrines are brought here, and the largest services are held here.
Khalaktyrsky beach: sunset by the Pacific Ocean
Individual car tour “Khalaktyrsky Beach: Sunset by the Pacific Ocean” is available every day. The duration of the excursion is 3.5 hours, the price is 6,500 rubles for a group of up to 4 people.
Are you ready to go to the ends of the world?
The guide-driver will take you to Tolsty Cape and observation platforms of Kamchatka. You will see mountain panoramas, views of dormant volcanoes and dunes of black beaches. Along the way, get tips on where to sample the best Far Eastern cuisine. The day will end with sunset and the romantic sound of ocean waves.
If you wish, you can have a family picnic on the ocean shore; bring snacks and hot drinks for relaxation.
To the volcano via Vilyuchinsky pass
To all guests of Kamchatka, novice climbers and lovers of active recreation, we present the tour “To the volcano through Vilyuchinsky Pass”. The journey will last 12 hours, the price is 6,000 rubles per guest.
The path to Gorely volcano runs through the Vilyuchinsky pass (1000 m above sea level) - one of the spurs of the extinct giant - Vilyuchinskaya Sopka.
The road through the formidable Vilyuchinsky Pass will lead you to an observation deck. The guide will tell you about the nature of the region and the origin of volcanoes. The main character of the excursion is Gorely volcano. At its top is the most dizzying point of the route. The climb to the hot crater will take three hours. Get your cameras ready, the views will be amazing!
In total you will cover 10 km on foot. Dinner, included in the price, will refresh your strength. You will finish the tour tired but happy!
Mutnovskaya HPP and Dachnye springs
The cool excursion “Mutnovskaya Hydroelectric Power Station and Dachnye Springs” is available on weekends at 7 am. Price: 8,500 rubles per participant. Your group (up to 5 people) will leave the city for 10 hours to reunite with the wild!
Relax in an outdoor hot spring.
The first stop at Silver Creek will help you stock up on clean spring water. The path will pass through the Vilyuchinsky Pass. You will visit observation decks and go down to the geothermal power plant. After a safety briefing, your guide will take you around the surrounding area, and at the end you will take a swim in the healing springs.
For a long journey, special shoes and warm clothes are suitable.
Volcano Maly Semyachik
Once in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, most tourists come here first. This place is breathtaking, so visitors to the city do not miss the opportunity to admire this miracle of nature. This natural site has not been operational for 60 years.
Volcano Maly Semyachik
The main highlight of this place is the acid lake Zelenoe. It has a bright hue, thanks to which tourists flock here to see this picture with their own eyes and take pictures. The acidity of the reservoir is one of the highest in the world.
Valley of Geysers
This valley belongs to the Kronotsky Nature Reserve. This geyser field is the only one in the entire territory of Eurasia. The attraction occupies 6 square meters. km, while walking along it you can see waterfalls, volcanoes, lakes, geysers, thermal springs. Due to landslides, a limited number of people are allowed here. Helicopter excursions are also available on site
Valley of Geysers
So, these places are very popular among tourists, so we recommend you to visit here. We are sure that they will leave only the most vivid memories in your memory.
Klyuchevskaya Sopka
This volcano is one of the most active in our country. The most extreme eruption occurred in 2022; now a volcanological station operates at the foot of this natural site. Klyuchevskaya Sopka is the calling card of the city; it is often depicted on local postcards and magnets.
Klyuchevskaya Sopka
The big advantage of this attraction is that it can be seen even from afar . While walking around the city, you will not ignore the hill, the highest point of which is 4.8 thousand meters from the base.
These regions are primarily interesting to tourists for their nature. A wide variety of plants and animals can be found here
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Avacha pass and Mount Camel
Excursion tour “Avacha Pass and Mount Camel” for lovers of dizzying mountain descents. Organized on weekends, duration - 6 hours, payment 6000 rubles per participant.
At the foot of the Avachinsky volcano.
The main point of the route will be Avachinsky volcano. There will be a sightseeing tour with an ascent to the unusual Mount Camel. You will see the grandiose Koryaksky volcano and, if desired, visit a real Russian bathhouse. If you are lucky, you will meet the indigenous inhabitants of the Eurasian (Kamchatka ground squirrels).
The excursion price includes a hearty snack and group equipment for climbing the mountains. Dress warmly and go conquer the peaks!
In the review of Valery and Marina Gorin from Moscow - details of a visit with a guide to the Avachinsky Pass:
“We would not have been able to organize such a rich and vibrant excursion on our own. Tickets to the Avacha Pass and equipment rental are not cheap, but here you have all 33 pleasures in one and for a reasonable price. We happily bought a tour in September 2022 and took a break from the bustle of city civilization for 1 day. We recommend that you equip yourself wisely for the excursion—put on trekking boots, waterproof clothing, gloves, a hat, and bring mosquito repellent. Charge your cameras to take explosive pictures on the mountain trails of Kamchatka..."
Vachkazhets mountain range
An intensive individual excursion “Vachkazhets Mountain Massif” will last 12 hours and cost 20,000 rubles for a group of up to 5 people. Guide services are available every day.
Vachkazhets is a natural monument of regional significance.
The trip starts at 8:00. At the first stop, you will receive instructions from your guide in case you encounter wild animals. The group faces a 14 km long road. The main stop will be Lake Tahkoloch, where the natural diversity is amazing. After visiting the waterfalls and glacial cirques, you will return to camp for a hearty dinner.
You need to be well prepared for a hike. Check out the list of necessary things and go on your Kamchatka adventures!
In the finale, a review from the young traveler Kirill Antonov from Khabarovsk about climbing the Vachkazhets massif:
"Hello! I am a beginner climber, and here in Kamchatka I gained a lot of experience. It’s good that I booked an excursion to Vachkazhets, chipped in with the guys and covered the difficult route for an inexpensive price. The impressions were incredible, I didn’t want to leave the peninsula...”
Dear travelers! Kamchatka is a land of volcanoes and alpine meadows, where nature has been preserved in its original form. Thanks to excursions, you will see this harsh and beautiful land in a short vacation, and the Kamchatka trip will be the most wonderful journey for you.
Bon Voyage!
Author: Irina Mamedova
