Understand

Prepare yourself for the ultimate adventure in the untamed taiga of the Russian Far East. The Kolyma Highway, initially constructed by prisoners using primitive hand tools in the 1930s, represents the remarkable unification of two road systems. One stretches east from the fascinating city of Yakutsk, while the other extends north and west from the seaport of Magadan. Although the road conditions may vary, a recent 'all-seasons' road has permitted uninterrupted travel between the two ends since 2008. While the segment near Magadan has undergone significant improvements due to investments in reaching the gold mines near Susuman, the section between the Aldan river and Susuman remains virtually abandoned, showcasing the remote and rugged nature of the area. On this thrilling journey, get ready to witness a plethora of mines, untamed wilderness, captivating wildlife including bears and moose, curious squirrels, ghost towns, swirling dust, and encounters with resourceful and intriguing individuals.

Get in

When traveling to Khabarovsk, Magadan, and Yakutsk, there are regular and modern flight options available. You can easily reach these destinations through various routes, such as Tokyo-Khabarovsk-Yakutsk, Tokyo-Vladivostok-Khabarovsk-Yakutsk, Beijing-Yakutsk, and more. Flights from Moscow are also available. Keep in mind that flights between Yakutsk and Magadan operate only once per week. Upon arrival at the airports, taxis are readily available. The starting fare for taxis is usually 3 to 5 times higher than the regular fare. However, it is acceptable to negotiate and agree on a fare of a few hundred rubles, with the maximum correct fare being around 600 rubles (as of July 2013). In central Vladivostok, you may need to accept a slightly higher fare. If you do not have access to a car, bike, motorbike, or ample time to spare, hitch-hiking is a viable option. You can try catching rides with trucks, postal services, car salesmen, families, hunters, and other individuals traveling along the route. Alternatively, you can opt for paid group taxi services, which operate at high speeds and carry a significant number of passengers. These taxis can cover the distance in approximately 4 days, but remember that they can be hazardous due to overloading. Despite the challenges, the 2025km journey between these destinations is worth undertaking. Taking the time to explore and appreciate the unique attractions along the way will make the experience unforgettable.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Blini - Thin Russian pancakes made with buckwheat flour, typically filled with caviar, sour cream, or butter. Often served as a starter or snack.

Borscht - A hearty soup made with beets, potatoes, cabbage, and other vegetables, often featuring meat such as beef or ham. It may include additional ingredients like eggs, sour cream, or dill.

Pelmeni - Russian dumplings filled with meat, usually ground beef or pork, and seasonings. They can be boiled, fried, or baked and often served with sour cream or butter.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing