AMIST has run Kuril programmes since 2005. Here is the full overview of current catalogue offerings, what each covers, and how to choose between them.
Why operator choice matters for the Kurils
The Kuril Islands are not a destination for independent travellers. Border permits, weather-dependent logistics, limited lodging and few English-speaking locals all require an experienced operator. The question is not whether to use one but which.
Tour 1 — Pearls of the Kurils (9 days, ₽190,000)
Our most popular Kuril programme. Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk — Iturup (4 nights) — Kunashir (3 nights) — return. Covers Yankito Plateau, Belye Skaly, Baransky Volcano, Mendeleev fumaroles, Golovnin Caldera, Cape Stolbchaty. Group up to 10.
Tour 2 — Pearl Scattering (11 days, ₽235,000)
The premium variant of Pearls. Same coverage, slower pace, two additional nights at hot-spring guesthouses. Group capped at 6. Suits travellers who want the islands with less rush.
Tour 3 — Great Kuril Ring (14 days, ₽380,000)
The most extensive programme. Iturup + Kunashir + Shikotan, four inter-island sea crossings, all major volcanic features. Fourteen nights mixed lodging. Suits committed explorers with two weeks.
Tour 4 — Winter Iturup (7 days, ₽165,000)
Iturup in the January — March window. Snowmobiles, hot springs steaming against ice, Yankito Plateau under snow, Cape Stolbchaty winter view. Group up to 6.
Tour 5 — Iturup Classic (5 days, ₽110,000)
Iturup-only programme for travellers short on time. All main Iturup landmarks, no inter-island transfer. Group up to 8.
Tour 6 — Kunashir Focus (5 days, ₽115,000)
Kunashir-only. Mendeleev fumaroles, Golovnin Caldera day-hike, Cape Stolbchaty, hot-spring coast. Group up to 8.
What every AMIST Kuril tour includes
- Border permit application and processing
- Return flight Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk ↔ Kuril island(s)
- Weather-contingent rebooking at no charge
- All lodging
- Ground transport in 4WD
- AMIST Kuril specialist guide throughout
- Breakfasts and activity-day lunches
- Russian travel insurance
What is not included
- International flight to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk
- Additional restaurant dinners
- Personal purchases and souvenirs
- Optional activities outside the programme
How to choose
| Your profile | Tour |
|---|---|
| First Kuril trip, one week | Iturup Classic or Kunashir Focus |
| First Kuril trip, more time | Pearls of the Kurils |
| Want slower pacing | Pearl Scattering |
| Want maximum coverage | Great Kuril Ring |
| Winter specialist | Winter Iturup |
Booking window
Kuril tours should be booked 3-4 months in advance. Lodging capacity is limited on all islands; premium itineraries (Pearl Scattering, Great Kuril Ring) often fill by March for the summer season. Winter Iturup departures are limited to 3-4 windows per year.