Russia’s remote Kamchatka Peninsula, a land of volcanoes and geysers in the Far East, has experienced a remarkable 22% surge in tourism this summer, defying a period of heightened seismic activity. Official data reveals that over 91,000 travelers visited the region between June and July 2025, a significant increase from the approximately 74,500 visitors during the same period last year, demonstrating the growing allure of this untamed wilderness.
According to the region’s Minister of Tourism, Vladimir Rusanov, the powerful earthquakes that shook the peninsula did not deter visitors. In a striking statement, he characterized the seismic events as an “exclusive” feature of the destination, suggesting that the very forces that shape Kamchatka’s dramatic landscape are part of its unique appeal. Tourists have continued to explore all accessible routes, drawn by the promise of pristine nature and unparalleled adventure.
However, the season was not without its challenges. The industry faced a setback with the temporary closure of the main sea route in Avacha Bay, a critical hub for marine excursions. This disruption significantly impacted tour operators, as an estimated 95% of visitors to Kamchatka seek out sea tours. The chance to witness majestic whales and orcas or embark on deep-sea fishing expeditions remains a primary driver for travel to the peninsula.
The tourism boom is supported by a rapidly developing infrastructure. Kamchatka now boasts 222 accommodation facilities and 151 registered tour operators. This places the remote region third in all of Russia for the number of tourism businesses, surpassed only by the metropolitan hubs of Moscow and St. Petersburg. This robust framework signals Kamchatka’s ambition to cement its status as a premier global destination for adventure and nature tourism.