Our 2026 season picks — the Sakhalin and Kuril tours we actually recommend for different traveller types. Each programme reviewed with what is and is not included.

1. Sakhalin Classic (4 days) — ₽49,000

The quickest real taste. Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk city, Cape Velikan coastal trip, Tikhaya Bay and Zhdanko Ridge hike. Three nights in a 3-star hotel in the capital. Suits: short-trip visitors who want the headline landmarks without the logistics overhead.

2. Sakhalin Standard (7 days) — ₽89,000

Our most-booked programme. Adds Cape Aniva Lighthouse sea day, Busse Lagoon gastronomic excursion and one full day in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. Six nights mixed lodging. Suits: first-time visitors with a week to spare.

3. Moneron Dive (4 days) — ₽125,000

A specialist programme for divers. Return boat crossing from Nevelsk to Moneron Island, two nights on the island, four dives, guide and gear hire included. Suits: certified divers, April — October only.

4. Pearls of the Kurils (9 days) — ₽190,000

Sakhalin + Iturup + Kunashir. Volcano climbs, hot springs, Cape Stolbchaty, Yankito Plateau. Eight nights in a mix of hotels and guest-houses. Suits: experienced travellers, moderate fitness, weather tolerance required.

5. Pearl Scattering of the Kurils (11 days) — ₽235,000

The premium Kuril variant. Smaller group (max 6), two extra hot-spring nights, slower pacing. Same coverage as Pearls of the Kurils but less rushed. Suits: travellers who want the islands without the hurry.

6. Great Kuril Ring (14 days) — ₽380,000

The most extensive Kuril programme. Iturup + Kunashir + Shikotan, sea crossings between islands, all major volcanic features. Fourteen nights. Suits: committed explorers with two weeks and a wilderness mindset.

7. Winter Iturup (7 days) — ₽165,000

Iturup in January — March. Snowmobiles, hot springs against ice, Yankito Plateau under snow. Small group (max 6). Suits: cold-tolerant travellers who want the volcanic landscapes in an entirely different aesthetic.

8. VIP Sakhalin Private (bespoke)

Private driver, private guide, choice of itinerary, premium lodging throughout. From ₽450,000 per person for a group of 2. Suits: travellers who want the pace and comfort of private service.

How to choose

  • First time, one week: Sakhalin Standard (7 days)
  • First time, more time: Pearls of the Kurils (9 days)
  • Winter specialist: Winter Iturup
  • Diver: Moneron Dive
  • Wanting the full region: Great Kuril Ring

What is included across all AMIST tours

Lodging, airport transfers, ground transport, guide, most meals, border permits where required. What is not included: international flight to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, travel insurance, personal purchases. All prices quoted per person at double-occupancy.