Arrival & Departure: Kamchatka Peninsula

First Steps Upon Arrival

Upon landing, several actions help you settle in and get oriented.

Arrival Process

Navigate immigration, customs, and initial setup seamlessly.

Immigration & Migration Card

Passport & Visa Presentation

Present your passport and visa (or e-visa printout) to immigration officers.

Migration Card Retention

Receive and keep your migration card; it is required for tourist registration and departure.

Customs Procedures

Proceed through customs, declaring any items as per Russian regulations.

Currency & Connectivity

Cash Exchange/ATM

Exchange currency or withdraw rubles from an ATM at the airport for immediate needs.

Local SIM Card Acquisition

If you plan to use a local number and data, purchase a local SIM card from kiosks.

Device Charging

Fully charge all your electronic devices before you travel.

Orientation & Meetings

Accommodation Locating

Locate your pre-booked accommodation in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.

Local Amenities

Find the nearest ATM, grocery store, and pharmacy to your lodging.

Tour Operator Meeting

Meet with your local tour operator to confirm your itinerary and discuss permit details.

Arrival Transportation

Reach your lodging from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Airport.

Options

Use your pre-arranged transfer.
Utilize Yandex Go taxi service.
All options connect to your accommodation.

Initial Purchases

Acquire immediate necessities upon your arrival.

Cash & Small Bills

Exchange enough cash to cover initial expenses.
Make small purchases to break larger notes into smaller denominations.
This helps with minor transactions and tips.
Keep receipts for any significant purchases.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Complete these tasks before leaving for your trip.

Household Security

Secure your home.
Suspend mail delivery.
Unplug non-essential electronics.
Turn off main water valve if leaving for an extended period.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet care (sitter, boarding).
Organize plant watering.
Ensure vehicles are secure or parked safely.
Set up automatic lights or timers for home security.

Financial & Contacts

Ensure all bills are paid.
Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of your travel plans.
Leave a spare with your trusted contact.
Provide your itinerary and emergency contacts to family.

Pre-Departure Confirmation

Double-check all flight details, tour itineraries, and accommodation reservations a few weeks before departure. Make physical and digital copies of all essential documents and store them separately.

Departure Preparations

Ensure a smooth departure from Kamchatka and Russia.

Souvenirs & Shipping

1
Purchase Timing:
Acquire souvenirs a few days before your departure to avoid last-minute rushing.
2
Shipping Time:
If shipping items, allow ample time for postal services. This can take a while.
3
Customs Regulations:
Be aware of customs rules for exporting certain items, especially caviar (limits apply; keep receipts).

VAT Refund

System Existence:
Russia has a VAT refund system for foreign tourists.
Implementation:
It is not widely implemented for all purchases and can be complex.
Inquire at Stores:
Inquire at larger stores if VAT refund is applicable to your purchase.

Departure Timing

Domestic Flight

Arrive at Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Airport (PKC) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled domestic flight.

This time allows for check-in and security procedures.

International Connection

If you have an international connection in Moscow, allow at least 3-4 hours layover time.

This duration helps for re-checking baggage and going through immigration/customs.

Baggage Compliance

Confirm your bags follow airline baggage rules (weight, dimensions) to avoid excess fees.

Double-check that you have your passport and migration card ready for departure.

Final Document Check

Before heading to the airport, confirm you have your passport and the migration card you received upon arrival. These are necessary for a smooth exit from Russia.

Emergency Preparedness

Kamchatka offers rugged adventures.

Unexpected Delays

Weather in Kamchatka is highly unpredictable.
Helicopter tours are weather-dependent and might be delayed or cancelled.
Build a few buffer days into your itinerary for such eventualities.
Plan for potential extra nights if tours are postponed.

Medical Emergencies

Carry any personal medications in their original packaging.
Have a doctor's note for prescription drugs if traveling internationally.
Know your travel insurance emergency contact number.
Familiarize yourself with local emergency medical services.

Bear Safety Guidelines

Kamchatka is bear country. Take these precautions.

Essential Protocols

Always travel with an experienced guide in bear habitats.
Never approach or feed bears.
Store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears.

General Safety Tips

Keep a low profile and avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
Carry identification at all times.
Stick to well-traveled areas unless with a guided tour.
Have emergency numbers saved on your phone and written down.

Preparedness Mindset

Kamchatka is an incredible wilderness destination. An adaptable and prepared mindset enhances your experience.

Arrival & Departure