Until recently, the Kamchatka Peninsula was a closed territory. Until 1990, entry there was carried out with special passes, which were not issued to everyone. Now the peninsula is open to everyone. Its "capital" - Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky - can be safely called one of the unique cities in Russia. If you're still in doubt, there are five good reasons to finally visit.
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is one of the oldest cities in the Far East. The first Cossacks arrived in this region in 1697 and founded a prison. Half a century later, a settlement began to be built in its place. It was decided to name it by the names of the holy apostles Peter and Paul. Until the 60s of the last century, the settlement was a large village with houses chaotically scattered along the coast of the bay. Now the city is the cultural and industrial center of the Kamchatka Territory. It is home to about 180 thousand people.
1. Walk on the volcano
Avachinsky volcano in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is visible from everywhere. This giant is only 30 km away from the city. It is active, but open for climbing. The ascent will take approximately 8 hours. Climbing is possible only in groups under the supervision of instructors. The pleasure is not cheap, but worth it. When else will the opportunity to set foot on an active volcano be presented!
During activity, its crater is filled with hot lava. It illuminates the outskirts of the city with a bright red light - an enchanting sight.
If there is no time or opportunity to climb to the top of the giant, you can visit the "Vulcanarium". This is an interactive museum that will be interesting for both adults and children.
2. Swim in the largest bay in the world
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is located on the shores of the Avacha Bay. Its scale is impressive even for seasoned tourists. In size, it is second only to the Brazilian Guanabara. The surrounding landscape is mesmerizing: picturesque cliffs with grottoes alternate with sandy beaches, thousands of seabirds nest on the shore. The view is riveted by three bizarre rocks sticking out of the water. They are known as the Three Brothers. If you wish, you can take a boat trip along the bay or swim in its waters.
3. Walk along the black beach
Khalaktyrsky beach is located half an hour drive from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. It stretches for 30 km along the coast of Avacha Bay. The beach is unique: it is black because of the volcanic sand. This is a favorite spot for surfers. The endless Pacific Ocean is hidden behind strong waves.
4. Swing your feet in the ocean
You can also sunbathe and swim on Khalaktyrsky Beach. True, even in the heat, the water temperature does not rise above +15. However, she is quite comfortable to swing her legs in the ocean.
5. Taste the most delicious fish soup
The most atmospheric fish soup is prepared in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. This is the opinion of true connoisseurs of this fish soup. Here you can not only taste it, but also take a direct part in the preparation. A similar opportunity is provided to tourists by local excursion companies.
To begin with, you will have to go fishing in Avacha Bay, because the most delicious fish soup is obtained from freshly caught fish. Local gourmets use melted ice water for cooking, and at the final stage, they dip a burnt log into the soup to add a smoke aroma. If you don't want to cook, you can do an easier thing - order a fish soup in one of the local restaurants.
