Understand

Magadan Oblast, located in Russia, is a region known for its abundance of minerals and a haunting history of human suffering. This region, along with its neighbor Chukotka, was once the site of the notorious Kolyma Gulag — a vast network of labor camps that covered an area equivalent to France. Tragically, between 500,000 to 1,000,000 men, women, and children lost their lives due to the brutal conditions, overwork, malnutrition, extreme cold, and the cruelty inflicted upon them. For those interested in delving into the history of the Kolyma gulags or seeking a deeper understanding of human nature through literature, a must-read is Varlam Shalamov's "Kolyma Tales." In this collection, Shalamov masterfully portrays the harsh realities of life in the Gulag system, providing profound insights into the depths of human resilience and the enduring power of the human spirit.

Get in

Magadan Oblast is an incredibly remote destination, making it a truly adventurous travel experience. To reach Magadan, it is highly recommended to take a flight from either Moscow or the closer cities of Khabarovsk and Vladivostok. Unfortunately, there is no railroad connecting to Magadan Oblast. However, there is one road known as the Kolyma Highway that leads from Yakutsk in the west. This road, although mostly dirt or gravel, stretches over 2025km and crosses three majestic mountain ranges. In 2008, the all-season connection from Kyubyume to Ust-Nera was completed, making the road technically passable for two-wheel-drive cars. Yet, it is important to note that only a few vehicles would be capable of the return trip. During the months of April to September, when the ice breaks and freezes, river crossings at Yakutsk and Khandyga can only be accessed by helicopter. Except for a few mining towns, long sections of the road are uninhabited, and many towns lack a police presence. In fact, the 500km section between Yagodnoye and the outlying settlements of Magadan is home to fewer than 4000 people. Prepare yourself for a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure in Magadan Oblast!

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