14-day trip
Available 1 July to 1 September
Moderate to Active Hike

This is thought to be the most scenically spectacular route in the Kluchevskaya group of volcanoes, an area occupying about 6500 square kilometers. The Kluchevskaya group lie in north central Kamchatka and include not only the tallest active volcano in Eurasia (Kluchevskaya at 4750 meters) but 11 other volcanoes.

Bezymyanny Volcano (2869 meters) is among the most active volcanoes in the world and is thought to have emerged 5000-5500 years ago. She had a spectacular eruption in 1955-56. This is one of the most accessible volcanoes for hikers in average condition.

Zimina Volcano (3080 meters), is extinct and of moderate difficulty for hiking. From her summit there is the best view to all the volcanoes of Klyuchevskaya group.

Plosky (Flat) Tolbachik volcano (3000 meters), easy for climbing. At the top of the volcano is a 3km in diameter caldera filled with ice and volcanic debris, making the summit look like a plateau nearly 3 kilometers high. The first historic record of Plosky Tolbachik erupting was by the famous Russian explorer S. P. Krashninikov in 1740. The last great eruption was in 1975-76.

This is a trip for those who are in average to good hiking condition but who aren't technical climbers.

Day 1 Arrival, overnight in hotel or homestays. If you choose a hotel, it will be in Paratunka, 25 km from Yelizovo's airport. There you may swim in hot springs-fed pools situated amidst birch forests. After checking into your accommodations spend the day preparing for departure to Kozirevsk. Meet YTS staff, your expedition guides and interpreters, buy last minute food and incidentals, equipment and clothing check, distribute weight among rucksacks. Go for a swim in Paratunka at a hot springs spa.

Day 2 Drive to the Kozirevsk village 10-12 hours. Kozirevsk is a village of 3000 people at the foot of the Kluchevskaya group of volcanoes. Overnight in homestays organized by Maria, the nicest hostess in Kozirevsk. Steam away the long miles riding in the car in Maria's family's Russian banya.

Day 3 Drive to the 1975 Severnim eruption site and make camp. Hike along the cone, explore the area. Overnight in camp 2 people per tent unless you bring your own.

Day 4 Hike to the seismic station Tolud (12 km) Camp.

Day 5 Hike to the source of the Praviy Tolbachic River (16-18 km). Camp at the base of Zimina Volcano.

Day 6 Hike across Tolbachinskiy Pass (1503 meters) & Bezimyanniy Pass (1500 meters) to the seismic station Plotina (16-18 km). Camp.

Day 7 Ascend the shoulder of the Zimina Volcano (2200 meters). In good weather this is an outstanding panorama of the entire Kluchevskaya group of volcanoes. For those who are physically ready, ascend Zimina Volcano (3080 M). Return to camp.

Day 8-9 Reserve days in case of bad weather. In good weather the time can be used to explore the area.

Day 10 Hike to the Baraniy River (15 km) Overnight.

Day 11 Hike to the Kopito Mt. and meet the vehicle (10 km). Drive to the hot springs in the area of the 47th km near Esso. Overnight in camp. Bathe at the hot springs.

Day 12 Drive back to the city (10-12 hours) Overnight at your accommodations.

Day 13 Yelizovo and Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky cultural tour. Visit the open markets, museums, have lunch at a Russian dacha, and a closing banquet at a great little restaurant in Yelizovo featuring Russian folk music.

Day 14 Departure day.

Notes: This route may be extended to include ascents of the Bezimyanniy 1 day (2869 M), Ploskiy Tolbachik 1 day (3000 M), and an excursion to the cone and lava of BTTI 1975 eruption (1-2 days)
For ascents of the upper reaches of the Zimina Volcano it is necessary to have the following personal gear: ice axe, crampons, climbing harness, 2 carabiners.
This route may be extended to retrace its steps.

This tour is organized by Yelizovo Tour Service. Please contact them for more information.

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