Reviews
When deciding to join a trek and wondering what to expect, nothing beats hearing from fellow travelers who have already walked the trail. All reviews are published unedited.
I had never been on a ski trek before, so I was nervous and worried that I wouldn’t pack properly.
But Pasha consulted me and helped pick the right gear, suggested different options, and explained how the trek would go, so once everything was packed, all my fears were gone!
The trek itself was absolutely amazing!!
On the first day, we checked into a very cozy cottage, got to know each other, and in the evening watched a film about the Arctic! Camp organization, meals, and safety were top-notch! Nobody rushed anyone on the trail; we just skied and enjoyed the incredible winter wilderness!
For beginners, this is the perfect ski trek! In the evenings, we sat together comfortably, drinking tea, chatting, and reflecting on the day.
Pasha and Sasha created an incredibly warm atmosphere even on the coldest evenings! It was so nice to wake up and already be served hot porridge)
It’s also worth coming just for the views opening from the fells over the northern tundra! A ski trek is definitely a great experience to discover yourself in challenging conditions and push your boundaries!
Thanks to Pasha for introducing me to winter ski touring — I can’t wait to do it again!
A ski trek along the shores of the White Sea was the kind of life event that is wonderful to look back on while watching videos over a cup of hot tea at home.
There were crossings over the frozen sea ice with stunning views of the endless snow-white expanses, and fun ski descents between the trees.
In between all of that, there was the exciting experience of pitching camp, digging each other out of snowdrifts, and spending nights in the winter forest.
Thanks to Pasha and Sasha for great organization and delicious food!
There were crossings over the frozen sea ice with stunning views of the endless snow-white expanses, and fun ski descents between the trees.
In between all of that, there was the exciting experience of pitching camp, digging each other out of snowdrifts, and spending nights in the winter forest.
Thanks to Pasha and Sasha for great organization and delicious food!
The trek across Lapland was truly unforgettable.
Spellbinding views of the White Sea, snow-covered fells, and slumbering northern forests. Joining this expedition is a must not only for the breathtaking nature, but also because of the “evangelist” of the North — Pavel Rudenko.
Pasha is the most passionate guide I have ever met. It was my first long ski trek, and Pasha helped me choose the right gear and clothing, found a sleeping pad for me, and helped sort out an issue with my skis. Pasha’s treks always bring together incredible people, with a supportive atmosphere where everyone is ready to lend a hand.
On the first day of the trek, I blistered both my feet, but the team was super supportive, and I completed the whole trek thanks to Pasha and our crew.
Spellbinding views of the White Sea, snow-covered fells, and slumbering northern forests. Joining this expedition is a must not only for the breathtaking nature, but also because of the “evangelist” of the North — Pavel Rudenko.
Pasha is the most passionate guide I have ever met. It was my first long ski trek, and Pasha helped me choose the right gear and clothing, found a sleeping pad for me, and helped sort out an issue with my skis. Pasha’s treks always bring together incredible people, with a supportive atmosphere where everyone is ready to lend a hand.
On the first day of the trek, I blistered both my feet, but the team was super supportive, and I completed the whole trek thanks to Pasha and our crew.
This was my first long winter trek across the Kola Peninsula.
Pure delight with a warm aftertaste! The format was very comfortable, allowing me to take photos of nature at my own pace. An interesting and diverse route: the landscape changed every day, from sea to fells, to beaches, with a fox darting past here, and another one there!
Plus a cozy atmosphere in the group, a great team, and Pasha is a master of funny stories!
Pure delight with a warm aftertaste! The format was very comfortable, allowing me to take photos of nature at my own pace. An interesting and diverse route: the landscape changed every day, from sea to fells, to beaches, with a fox darting past here, and another one there!
Plus a cozy atmosphere in the group, a great team, and Pasha is a master of funny stories!
This was my first commercial trek, and I am so glad I chose this one.
The trek and its organization were top-notch. The bar was set so high that now, when joining other teams, I catch myself being picky.
A few highlights that made the trip truly comfortable and rewarding:
Flawless organization and service. Staying in a cozy cottage with a sauna before and after the trek was a brilliant touch, giving us time to prepare without rushing, and then relax and recharge in the warmth.
Special kudos for the gear. Pulkas, tents — everything was field-tested, premium quality, and in mint condition. That alone takes away a huge load of worries, especially for beginners.
The trek was not just about physical effort, but also about fascinating stories of the Kola Peninsula and great talks about gear. After a day on the trail, it was amazing to listen to stories and ask questions. A truly cozy atmosphere.
The food was varied, hearty, and delicious. You could tell the menu had been planned with care, always offering something new.
This trek is perfect for those who want to experience a well-paced, self-supported ski expedition with tents for the first time. The instructors are true professionals and passionate about what they do. “Lapland — White Fells” delivered the feeling of a genuine northern adventure with high comfort and warm company. Highly recommended.
P.S. Bring a positive attitude and a bit of patience for the ascents — the Arctic beauty is well worth it!
The trek and its organization were top-notch. The bar was set so high that now, when joining other teams, I catch myself being picky.
A few highlights that made the trip truly comfortable and rewarding:
Flawless organization and service. Staying in a cozy cottage with a sauna before and after the trek was a brilliant touch, giving us time to prepare without rushing, and then relax and recharge in the warmth.
Special kudos for the gear. Pulkas, tents — everything was field-tested, premium quality, and in mint condition. That alone takes away a huge load of worries, especially for beginners.
The trek was not just about physical effort, but also about fascinating stories of the Kola Peninsula and great talks about gear. After a day on the trail, it was amazing to listen to stories and ask questions. A truly cozy atmosphere.
The food was varied, hearty, and delicious. You could tell the menu had been planned with care, always offering something new.
This trek is perfect for those who want to experience a well-paced, self-supported ski expedition with tents for the first time. The instructors are true professionals and passionate about what they do. “Lapland — White Fells” delivered the feeling of a genuine northern adventure with high comfort and warm company. Highly recommended.
P.S. Bring a positive attitude and a bit of patience for the ascents — the Arctic beauty is well worth it!
Андрей Громов
I have long wanted to visit the Rybachy Peninsula, and I finally got the chance on a 10-day trek with Pavel Rudenko and Anna Migalina in late August.
Unlike most — if not all — other offers, this is a walking trek, and that is its distinguishing mark and key advantage. Hiking around almost the entire peninsula on foot as part of an organized group is a true pleasure.
You get to savor all the beauty and unpredictability of the peninsula's nature. In fact, unpredictability and diversity are perhaps Rybachy's defining traits. For instance, the forecast might promise fair, rain-free weather in the morning, but come dawn you're greeted with 15 m/s winds and downpours that last all day. Then the next day, fully geared in hardshell membranes expecting foul weather, Rybachy treats you to bright sunshine, 20-degree warmth, and a double rainbow.
The same goes for the scenery: one day brings cliffs and whales in the sea, the next reveals apocalyptic vistas of uplifted volcanic formations, and the day after welcomes you with an idyllic panorama of expansive beaches, rolling hills, and reindeer, which are quite plentiful across the peninsula.
The abundance of bilberries, blueberries, cloudberries, and mushrooms deserves special mention. There are unimaginably many. Berry clearings turn into irresistible obstacles you simply cannot pass by, and they occur constantly. By the way, if anyone tells you there are no berries along the northern coast, do not believe them! It felt to me like that was where they were most plentiful.
In short, the trek was an absolute success, packed with emotions, leaving an itch to return. I would like to express my gratitude to Pavel and Anna for the superb organization and the expedition atmosphere, the cozy gatherings inside the red tent, the attentive care given to each participant in every detail, and, of course, the meals.
In fact, the food on Pavel and Anna's expeditions deserves a story of its own, but instead, I simply encourage you to join them on a trek and experience this immense joy and positivity for yourself.
Unlike most — if not all — other offers, this is a walking trek, and that is its distinguishing mark and key advantage. Hiking around almost the entire peninsula on foot as part of an organized group is a true pleasure.
You get to savor all the beauty and unpredictability of the peninsula's nature. In fact, unpredictability and diversity are perhaps Rybachy's defining traits. For instance, the forecast might promise fair, rain-free weather in the morning, but come dawn you're greeted with 15 m/s winds and downpours that last all day. Then the next day, fully geared in hardshell membranes expecting foul weather, Rybachy treats you to bright sunshine, 20-degree warmth, and a double rainbow.
The same goes for the scenery: one day brings cliffs and whales in the sea, the next reveals apocalyptic vistas of uplifted volcanic formations, and the day after welcomes you with an idyllic panorama of expansive beaches, rolling hills, and reindeer, which are quite plentiful across the peninsula.
The abundance of bilberries, blueberries, cloudberries, and mushrooms deserves special mention. There are unimaginably many. Berry clearings turn into irresistible obstacles you simply cannot pass by, and they occur constantly. By the way, if anyone tells you there are no berries along the northern coast, do not believe them! It felt to me like that was where they were most plentiful.
In short, the trek was an absolute success, packed with emotions, leaving an itch to return. I would like to express my gratitude to Pavel and Anna for the superb organization and the expedition atmosphere, the cozy gatherings inside the red tent, the attentive care given to each participant in every detail, and, of course, the meals.
In fact, the food on Pavel and Anna's expeditions deserves a story of its own, but instead, I simply encourage you to join them on a trek and experience this immense joy and positivity for yourself.
Ten out of ten!
I once heard an opinion from people who have done demanding treks in Europe and the Americas: “Abroad, you're guided like a client — professionally, but strictly within the service contract. In Russia, you're guided like a friend — with empathy and personal care, but often cutting corners on safety and protocols.”
After trekking with Pavel and his team, I can confidently state that this is not true. We can blend professionalism with personal care just as well. Gear, planning, briefings, and decision-making in challenging conditions are top-notch. And how else could it be on a self-supported expedition beyond the Arctic Circle?
I once heard an opinion from people who have done demanding treks in Europe and the Americas: “Abroad, you're guided like a client — professionally, but strictly within the service contract. In Russia, you're guided like a friend — with empathy and personal care, but often cutting corners on safety and protocols.”
After trekking with Pavel and his team, I can confidently state that this is not true. We can blend professionalism with personal care just as well. Gear, planning, briefings, and decision-making in challenging conditions are top-notch. And how else could it be on a self-supported expedition beyond the Arctic Circle?
There is a rare gift: revealing the world in all its beauty, where tiny details create a sense of fullness, where crisp air free of scents and noise expands the horizon, and where the unseen wildlife makes its presence deeply felt.
When a person is at peace and in harmony with themselves and their companions — that is a gift Pavel Rudenko possesses. He has unlocked the Arctic for himself and many fellow travelers: the Kola Peninsula, a land of unique magnetic pull, raw power, and beauty.
Deeply passionate about what he does, exceptionally reliable, educated, welcoming, open, and eager to share his experience and warmth, he is constantly expanding his horizons, and it is a true joy to be around him. You want to preserve that connection, which is why people return to trek with Pavel time and time again, immersing themselves in those northern yet heartwarming moments of true recreation.
Any trek along the Kola coast with Pavel is a route that will make you fall in love with the tundra without a doubt. It will suit and delight experienced hikers, those who are just gaining trail experience, and even first-time backpackers alike.
The gentlest Arctic experience imaginable.
When a person is at peace and in harmony with themselves and their companions — that is a gift Pavel Rudenko possesses. He has unlocked the Arctic for himself and many fellow travelers: the Kola Peninsula, a land of unique magnetic pull, raw power, and beauty.
Deeply passionate about what he does, exceptionally reliable, educated, welcoming, open, and eager to share his experience and warmth, he is constantly expanding his horizons, and it is a true joy to be around him. You want to preserve that connection, which is why people return to trek with Pavel time and time again, immersing themselves in those northern yet heartwarming moments of true recreation.
Any trek along the Kola coast with Pavel is a route that will make you fall in love with the tundra without a doubt. It will suit and delight experienced hikers, those who are just gaining trail experience, and even first-time backpackers alike.
The gentlest Arctic experience imaginable.
Надежда Мартос
What can I say about the Arctic Ocean beaches? They are beyond compare.
What can I say about the mountain tundra? It is pure magic.
This was my fourth time in these places, and they truly resonate as my own. I have been here in storms, throughout week-long treks, and on bright sunny days, and to me, these landscapes are endlessly beautiful.
This trek was also wonderful thanks to our organizers, Pavel and Anna. It is a genuine pleasure to hike with people who share a deep love for this land. And speaking from experience, Pavel and Anna are invaluable organizers because their expertise is not based on rumors or hearsay — they know what they are talking about and what they are doing.
A huge thank you for an outstanding trek!
What can I say about the mountain tundra? It is pure magic.
This was my fourth time in these places, and they truly resonate as my own. I have been here in storms, throughout week-long treks, and on bright sunny days, and to me, these landscapes are endlessly beautiful.
This trek was also wonderful thanks to our organizers, Pavel and Anna. It is a genuine pleasure to hike with people who share a deep love for this land. And speaking from experience, Pavel and Anna are invaluable organizers because their expertise is not based on rumors or hearsay — they know what they are talking about and what they are doing.
A huge thank you for an outstanding trek!
The desire to extend the hiking season eventually led to winter touring. And that is how it turned out, with the promised beauty exceeding all expectations.
First, you simply cannot enjoy such breathtaking views from angles like standing right in the middle of a White Sea bay, a forest lake, or a bog in any other circumstance.
Second, it felt like a journey back to childhood with its fairytale winter forest — snow-laden firs, frost-covered pines, the crunch of fresh snow under skis, and that warm, cozy vibe.
Winter camp life turned out not to be as daunting as it is painted. The team was fantastic — I haven't experienced such concentrated laughter in the shared tent and throughout the entire day in a long time!
On the challenging side, cross-country ski touring is unlike any other physical activity in my daily life. It opened up a whole new portal to a universe of previously unknown leg muscles! But a couple of weeks later, that soreness was forgotten, and the initial awe took complete hold. Now my head is full of plans for the next winter season.
About the guides: Sanya, without you we would have starved, skipped our stretches, and probably been lost out there! And of course, huge thanks to my dear friend Pasha Rudenko for championing this, patiently helping with preparations, and leading this expedition at his signature flawless standard!
Go ski touring — you will love it!
First, you simply cannot enjoy such breathtaking views from angles like standing right in the middle of a White Sea bay, a forest lake, or a bog in any other circumstance.
Second, it felt like a journey back to childhood with its fairytale winter forest — snow-laden firs, frost-covered pines, the crunch of fresh snow under skis, and that warm, cozy vibe.
Winter camp life turned out not to be as daunting as it is painted. The team was fantastic — I haven't experienced such concentrated laughter in the shared tent and throughout the entire day in a long time!
On the challenging side, cross-country ski touring is unlike any other physical activity in my daily life. It opened up a whole new portal to a universe of previously unknown leg muscles! But a couple of weeks later, that soreness was forgotten, and the initial awe took complete hold. Now my head is full of plans for the next winter season.
About the guides: Sanya, without you we would have starved, skipped our stretches, and probably been lost out there! And of course, huge thanks to my dear friend Pasha Rudenko for championing this, patiently helping with preparations, and leading this expedition at his signature flawless standard!
Go ski touring — you will love it!
Ski expeditions with cold tent camping and pulkas are absolute exotics in these parts, kept alive by just a handful of enthusiasts.
As for an organized commercial guided trip — just a couple of years ago, you couldn't even dream of it. But I strongly believed Pasha would make this happen eventually. And lo and behold, it came to life. Without hesitation, I grabbed this ticket to happiness.
I should note that I have all the gear needed for this kind of adventure myself, spend winters in these parts precisely for this kind of outdoor fun, and could easily go solo or with my wife. Furthermore, an uncompromising approach is crucial here: if we go with pulkas, everyone pulls a pulka. If it's cold camping, then every single night is cold tent camping. So my personal bar for evaluating this expedition was set extremely high.
In short: everything was top-notch))
In detail on the key points:
— Logistics were excellent. Considering potential transport disruptions, contingency routes were planned for both drop-off and pick-up.
— Gear: if you don't have your own, what's provided is truly high-end and premium: Hilleberg, Helsport, Fjällräven… everything that delights any fan of Scandinavian outdoor gear is here for you to try.
— All safety protocols were strictly followed: emergency services (EMERCOM) registration, satellite communication, and briefing participants on safety.
— Demands are made of participants as well as their gear. Out here, one person's problem becomes everyone's problem, and that is taken into account.
— Food. My wife and I strictly stick to freeze-dried meals and don't risk culinary experiments on expeditions, but the food looked great and nobody complained by word or deed. Huge thanks to the co-guide Sasha!)
— The overall atmosphere was great with zero gloom. We got pretty unlucky with the weather — there was a thaw. But even so, spirits didn't thaw into misery. Down with gloom!)
Overall, Pasha brings a progressive vision to expedition travel, which is fantastic to see. I am thrilled I got into the very first group and will gladly join again in a few years to see how it has evolved and reflect on the years passed)
I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing it exactly this way: on skis, with pulkas, with cold camping. And getting into it with Pasha is an incredible opportunity)
As for an organized commercial guided trip — just a couple of years ago, you couldn't even dream of it. But I strongly believed Pasha would make this happen eventually. And lo and behold, it came to life. Without hesitation, I grabbed this ticket to happiness.
I should note that I have all the gear needed for this kind of adventure myself, spend winters in these parts precisely for this kind of outdoor fun, and could easily go solo or with my wife. Furthermore, an uncompromising approach is crucial here: if we go with pulkas, everyone pulls a pulka. If it's cold camping, then every single night is cold tent camping. So my personal bar for evaluating this expedition was set extremely high.
In short: everything was top-notch))
In detail on the key points:
— Logistics were excellent. Considering potential transport disruptions, contingency routes were planned for both drop-off and pick-up.
— Gear: if you don't have your own, what's provided is truly high-end and premium: Hilleberg, Helsport, Fjällräven… everything that delights any fan of Scandinavian outdoor gear is here for you to try.
— All safety protocols were strictly followed: emergency services (EMERCOM) registration, satellite communication, and briefing participants on safety.
— Demands are made of participants as well as their gear. Out here, one person's problem becomes everyone's problem, and that is taken into account.
— Food. My wife and I strictly stick to freeze-dried meals and don't risk culinary experiments on expeditions, but the food looked great and nobody complained by word or deed. Huge thanks to the co-guide Sasha!)
— The overall atmosphere was great with zero gloom. We got pretty unlucky with the weather — there was a thaw. But even so, spirits didn't thaw into misery. Down with gloom!)
Overall, Pasha brings a progressive vision to expedition travel, which is fantastic to see. I am thrilled I got into the very first group and will gladly join again in a few years to see how it has evolved and reflect on the years passed)
I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing it exactly this way: on skis, with pulkas, with cold camping. And getting into it with Pasha is an incredible opportunity)
This was my first winter ski trek with pulkas, and I fell in love with this format!
Skis offer an incredible sense of freedom: no heavy backpack, the pulkas take the load off, and you simply glide across the snow, soaking in the wide-open space and views.
Winter camp life is thoughtfully organized, allowing you to stay completely present in the moment, while the pulkas let you pack a large thermos, a book, and everything that warms both body and soul.
And, of course, the landscapes of the Kola Peninsula! The ice-free ocean, the bays of the Barents Sea, snow-covered fells, whimsical boulder formations, willow ptarmigans against the snow, red foxes, soaring birds — there is so much to see and admire.
What's truly special is that Pasha doesn't just guide you along the route, he helps you truly see and experience the place. An experience you definitely want to repeat!
Skis offer an incredible sense of freedom: no heavy backpack, the pulkas take the load off, and you simply glide across the snow, soaking in the wide-open space and views.
Winter camp life is thoughtfully organized, allowing you to stay completely present in the moment, while the pulkas let you pack a large thermos, a book, and everything that warms both body and soul.
And, of course, the landscapes of the Kola Peninsula! The ice-free ocean, the bays of the Barents Sea, snow-covered fells, whimsical boulder formations, willow ptarmigans against the snow, red foxes, soaring birds — there is so much to see and admire.
What's truly special is that Pasha doesn't just guide you along the route, he helps you truly see and experience the place. An experience you definitely want to repeat!
I've never liked writing reviews. It always felt like you had to find just the right words to make it sound nice and read well… but these people, with whom I shared a week of my life, will stay in my memory forever)
Once again, I am genuinely grateful to the Universe for bringing me together with such bright, charismatic people)
Thank you, my dear new friends, for being by my side throughout the entire trek.
Once again, I am genuinely grateful to the Universe for bringing me together with such bright, charismatic people)
Thank you, my dear new friends, for being by my side throughout the entire trek.
I was planning for a rugged trek through the mountain tundra, but in reality, I spent the week surrounded by incredible care, completely taken care of, and enveloped in stunning beauty all around.
The tundra turned out to be an incredible place. You would think there is just a standard set of plants, mosses, lichens, rocks, lakes, and streams, but behind every fell, a breathtaking new view was waiting for me. And then there was the sea.
At one point, I caught myself almost running with my heavy pack just to see what was around the corner. For the first time all winter, I could finally breathe out completely, and my face even grew tired from smiling.
I am so grateful to the wonderful Pavel Rudenko and Anna Migalina for this fairytale and genuine care, as well as for their professionalism. Guys, you are the best! Rumor has it that Pasha still has spots available on other trips this summer — folks, don't miss your chance)
The tundra turned out to be an incredible place. You would think there is just a standard set of plants, mosses, lichens, rocks, lakes, and streams, but behind every fell, a breathtaking new view was waiting for me. And then there was the sea.
At one point, I caught myself almost running with my heavy pack just to see what was around the corner. For the first time all winter, I could finally breathe out completely, and my face even grew tired from smiling.
I am so grateful to the wonderful Pavel Rudenko and Anna Migalina for this fairytale and genuine care, as well as for their professionalism. Guys, you are the best! Rumor has it that Pasha still has spots available on other trips this summer — folks, don't miss your chance)
Thanks to you and Anya for organizing this whole experience)
It's super cool that someone is finally doing the 'everyone brings their own gear' format. It makes the price better, and the group itself ends up more experienced and interesting, so to speak) Really great that everything is modern and up-to-date, without acoustic guitar sing-alongs over drinks))))
Thank you for your passion and professionalism; that’s truly priceless. And, of course, for all the long chats about gear)))
And a special thanks for motivating us by your own example to trek further, longer, and stronger)
Looking forward to upcoming trips, especially winter ones. If you start guiding those, I think it'll be an absolute blast—nobody else is doing anything like that right now))
We will be fiercely recommending you to anyone interested in the North)
Nothing negative to report. Well, maybe subjectively the food portions were way too huge)))))
It's super cool that someone is finally doing the 'everyone brings their own gear' format. It makes the price better, and the group itself ends up more experienced and interesting, so to speak) Really great that everything is modern and up-to-date, without acoustic guitar sing-alongs over drinks))))
Thank you for your passion and professionalism; that’s truly priceless. And, of course, for all the long chats about gear)))
And a special thanks for motivating us by your own example to trek further, longer, and stronger)
Looking forward to upcoming trips, especially winter ones. If you start guiding those, I think it'll be an absolute blast—nobody else is doing anything like that right now))
We will be fiercely recommending you to anyone interested in the North)
Nothing negative to report. Well, maybe subjectively the food portions were way too huge)))))
You live in the city, a year goes by, and your brain starts looking like Sméagol from The Lord of the Rings. The time comes to embark on a long journey.
You step onto reindeer terrain sinking into reindeer moss, peat moss, and crowberry. Under the weight of the backpack, your feet sink into the soft surface. Balancing like this every new day, you push forward, picking your way through massive lichen-covered boulders. While the blazing sun exhausts your body, swarms of mosquitoes dance around you, testing how deeply civilised city life has frayed your nerves.
The tundra is the perfect place to reset. In a single day here, you can experience all four seasons. Sunshine suddenly gives way to pouring rain and freezing wind. You stop complaining about mosquitoes and midges, but now you are shivering with cold. To ford a river, you untie your boots, hands shaking uncontrollably and teeth chattering. Amazingly, after crossing the icy river, you feel revitalised and even warm up from the adrenaline rush (the fear of water hasn't left me yet).
Sharing this journey with you are 13 other “hobbits” eager to hit the reset button. Here, you cannot wear a mask or pretend. Here, you are real, laid bare. Here, everyone sees just how deeply stuck you were in the urban routine. Yet it is precisely these conditions, this very wilderness, that can shake you awake. By the end of your trek, you begin to feel the inner Sméagol fading away.
The first time was when, as a young girl, I went to the sea with my very first real paycheck… it stole my heart, and I thought, yes, this is my place, so beautiful and warm! I said, I'll live by the sea! But then… I saw the mountains! And there, the sheer power, height, and majesty of these ancient giants swept me off my feet! And of course, I shouted: I'm staying here! And now, the North happened… By a twist of fate, I ended up on the Kola Peninsula, and I feel it welcomed me, gifted us its warmest days, hugged us with sunlit tundra, laid out the softest reindeer moss, gave us fresh water, and fed us wild berries… what more could one ask for? And on top of that… behold the Northern Lights!
I couldn't even imagine everything would be so perfect! We stood at the edge of the world, with nothing beyond… the wind from the Arctic Ocean didn't cut with cold; it brought a refreshing breeze on a hot day… The most incredible feeling, of course, was that we were completely alone out there… as if we were the first explorers of these lands!
And of course, none of this would have happened without our incredible guides, the best in the North — Pavel Rudenko and Anna Migalina. They share and show the North with so much love! Truly amazing instructors! Together with the tundra, they welcomed us warmly and gave us an unforgettable adventure!
The North is in my heart now, which means I will definitely return.
You step onto reindeer terrain sinking into reindeer moss, peat moss, and crowberry. Under the weight of the backpack, your feet sink into the soft surface. Balancing like this every new day, you push forward, picking your way through massive lichen-covered boulders. While the blazing sun exhausts your body, swarms of mosquitoes dance around you, testing how deeply civilised city life has frayed your nerves.
The tundra is the perfect place to reset. In a single day here, you can experience all four seasons. Sunshine suddenly gives way to pouring rain and freezing wind. You stop complaining about mosquitoes and midges, but now you are shivering with cold. To ford a river, you untie your boots, hands shaking uncontrollably and teeth chattering. Amazingly, after crossing the icy river, you feel revitalised and even warm up from the adrenaline rush (the fear of water hasn't left me yet).
Sharing this journey with you are 13 other “hobbits” eager to hit the reset button. Here, you cannot wear a mask or pretend. Here, you are real, laid bare. Here, everyone sees just how deeply stuck you were in the urban routine. Yet it is precisely these conditions, this very wilderness, that can shake you awake. By the end of your trek, you begin to feel the inner Sméagol fading away.
The first time was when, as a young girl, I went to the sea with my very first real paycheck… it stole my heart, and I thought, yes, this is my place, so beautiful and warm! I said, I'll live by the sea! But then… I saw the mountains! And there, the sheer power, height, and majesty of these ancient giants swept me off my feet! And of course, I shouted: I'm staying here! And now, the North happened… By a twist of fate, I ended up on the Kola Peninsula, and I feel it welcomed me, gifted us its warmest days, hugged us with sunlit tundra, laid out the softest reindeer moss, gave us fresh water, and fed us wild berries… what more could one ask for? And on top of that… behold the Northern Lights!
I couldn't even imagine everything would be so perfect! We stood at the edge of the world, with nothing beyond… the wind from the Arctic Ocean didn't cut with cold; it brought a refreshing breeze on a hot day… The most incredible feeling, of course, was that we were completely alone out there… as if we were the first explorers of these lands!
And of course, none of this would have happened without our incredible guides, the best in the North — Pavel Rudenko and Anna Migalina. They share and show the North with so much love! Truly amazing instructors! Together with the tundra, they welcomed us warmly and gave us an unforgettable adventure!
The North is in my heart now, which means I will definitely return.
A scenic route that I probably would never have taken on my own. I would like to note the comfortable pace and great campsites. But for me, the most important thing is that this journey left vivid, positive, and lasting memories. The guides and fellow participants were incredibly interesting, diverse, and wonderful to be around.
I am deeply grateful for the organization of this trek.
I truly hope the stars align again and we head out on another adventure.
I am deeply grateful for the organization of this trek.
I truly hope the stars align again and we head out on another adventure.
A while ago, after attending one of Pavel's lectures, it was immediately obvious: here’s a capable guy you’d follow to the ends of the Earth. Outdoor school only confirmed it, so when I saw an Instagram story in winter about group registration for a trek, my summer plans were set)
I was delighted to meet our second guide, Anna, and be in her caring hands—she fed us so deliciously!
The personal approach to each participant was wonderful: preliminary calls, advice on arrival logistics, answers to all questions no matter how trivial, constant support, and a handy cheat-sheet for women covering trail essentials.
What made it especially enjoyable was the absence of rigid timetables; we adjusted the route a couple of times to linger longer and simply savor the scenery)
Special thanks for the hiking pace—we never had to sprint across the tundra like reindeer, but walked at a comfortable stride, with plenty of time to take in the rolling hills. The group always stayed together without splitting up on the trail.
Organization-wise, everything was seamless, thoughtful, and well prepared. Lovely details like snack bars, cheering sweets during hill ascents, mementos at the end of the journey, and always smiles and good vibes)
Thank you, Pavel and Anna, for the chance to experience the beauty of the tundra, step away from routine life, immerse into Arctic Zen, and revel in the rugged, brooding, yet deeply soulful scenery of moss, rocks, lichen, and crystal-clear lakes. Breathing sea breezes, walking into sea mist, and soaking up the midnight sun of the North. I will remember this adventure with warmth and affection for a long time.
A reliable companion at the edge of the world—for a second I wondered who or what to describe that way: the sun that never set overhead for all ten days, or Pasha, who devised, planned, scouted, and leads this epic expedition through the heart of wind, sea, and tundra—'Granitny'.
It wasn't easy, but endlessly rewarding: every day brought shifting weather, terrain, vistas, wind, sea, and wildlife on the horizon. How many people get to hike from Murmansk to Teriberka across tundra and coastline in their lifetime? If you're pondering this trek right now, go for it—after all, the tundra loves us)
Despite the rugged terrain, there are no impassable technical sections along the route. Plenty of pure water, secluded coves, rivers, streams, and lakes. I've never seen so many lakes in a single day—I think we passed 15–20 lakes daily.
The route is quite demanding on gear, stamina, and sensitive to pack weight. Yet the care and attentiveness of Pasha and Ilya (the second guide) keep you going, and your feet carry you forward—just a couple more fells.
For the history, wilderness, and Arctic life of Kola, plus stunning photos by Rudenko—head for Granitny!
It wasn't easy, but endlessly rewarding: every day brought shifting weather, terrain, vistas, wind, sea, and wildlife on the horizon. How many people get to hike from Murmansk to Teriberka across tundra and coastline in their lifetime? If you're pondering this trek right now, go for it—after all, the tundra loves us)
Despite the rugged terrain, there are no impassable technical sections along the route. Plenty of pure water, secluded coves, rivers, streams, and lakes. I've never seen so many lakes in a single day—I think we passed 15–20 lakes daily.
The route is quite demanding on gear, stamina, and sensitive to pack weight. Yet the care and attentiveness of Pasha and Ilya (the second guide) keep you going, and your feet carry you forward—just a couple more fells.
For the history, wilderness, and Arctic life of Kola, plus stunning photos by Rudenko—head for Granitny!
