Lapland: Ski Trek to the White Fells

Trek Completed
No new dates are scheduled at the moment, but it may return in upcoming seasons. Choose from the current treks below
Dates
22-28 Feb 2026
Duration
7 days
Difficulty
3/5
Moderate Difficulty

A week-long self-supported trek suitable for beginners.

  • Backpack weight up to 21 kg.
  • Daily hiking distance up to 15 km.

5–7 day trek.

Traversing off-trail Arctic wilderness. You carry all your gear and food, camping in tents out in the wild. Daily distances and elevation gains are balanced so that any healthy individual without specialized training can complete the route. Light preparation such as long walks, running, or general fitness will make your trek even more enjoyable.

Who it's for: Beginners in average physical shape eager to experience authentic wilderness life.

Distance
61 km
Group size
12 person

About the trek

Signature Trek

Lapland — White Fells on skis.

A ski expedition with Arctic pulkas and overnight stays in stove-free tunnel tents on the Kola Peninsula.

Day one covers gear preparation, ski touring techniques, pitching tents, and winter camping skills, along with exploring the Pomor North
The route takes you through one of the most picturesque areas of Russian Lapland. We traverse the frozen White Sea, break fresh trail through the northern taiga, and take day trips from camp to scenic tundra fells.

Learn more

Who this trek is for

Ideal for beginner and advancing ski tourers seeking to witness the dazzling beauty of northern nature and master new ski touring skills. A willingness to face cold temperatures, wind, and breaking trail is required, but all efforts are richly rewarded with unforgettable landscapes, smooth gliding, and the taste of true wilderness life. 
Since Soviet times, this region has been considered ideal for winter ski expeditions — with no avalanche-prone slopes or technically complex mountain passes, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. 

The Pomor Heritage

The coast of the White Sea is the ancestral homeland of the Pomors, a distinct ethnographic group of the Russian North. In spring, starting in late February, Pomor hunters ventured toward the Barents Sea, covering 300–600 km on skis in the dead of winter. We preserve and build upon the ski craft of our ancestors, traversing the North with warm hearts and a forward gaze.

Day-by-day itinerary

Elevation gain by day
1360 m 1350 m
Day 1, Meeting in Kandalaksha: ascent 0 m, descent 0 m 1 Day 2, Straight to the White Sea Ice: ascent 60 m, descent 0 m, 13 km 2 Day 3, Day Hike up the Fell: ascent 600 m, descent 600 m, 15 km 3 Day 4, Across Frozen Swamps: ascent 150 m, descent 150 m, 12 km 4 Day 5, Day Hike up the Fell: ascent 500 m, descent 500 m, 6 km 5 Day 6, Return: ascent 50 m, descent 100 m, 7 km 6 Day 7, End of the Program: ascent 0 m, descent 0 m 7
Elevation is shown relative to the starting point and calculated based on ascents and descents from the itinerary.
1 day, 22 February
Meeting in Kandalaksha

At 7:00 AM, we meet at the railway station in Kandalaksha, Murmansk Region. An action-packed day awaits us: slope ski handling training, theory session, and an evening movie screening over dinner.

1 h
2 day, 23 February
Straight to the White Sea Ice

Breakfast and packing up.

13 km
60 m
0 m
3 day, 24 February
Day Hike up the Fell

Rest day. We put on climbing skins and head out light up the fell. The tundra zone offers stunning views of the White Sea, along with plenty of snow and fantastic skiing fun.

15 km
600 m
600 m
4 day, 25 February
Across Frozen Swamps

We break camp and trek with pulkas through the snow-covered pine forest. 

12 km
150 m
150 m
5 day, 26 February
Day Hike up the Fell

Rest day. We put on climbing skins and head out light up the fell. The tundra zone offers stunning views of the White Sea, along with plenty of snow and fantastic skiing fun.

6 km
500 m
500 m
6 day, 27 February
Return

We step out onto the White Sea ice with breathtaking views of Lapland's white fells. Transfer.

7 km
50 m
100 m
1 h
7 day, 28 February
End of the Program

We have breakfast, pack our gear, and depart before 12:00 PM. Transfer to the Kandalaksha railway station.

1 h

About the expedition

Safety is my top priority

Two guides
On every trek: one guide per six participants, two guides per 12 participants
Scouted route
I specialize in Arctic regions. Rest assured that every route is thoroughly scouted and planned down to the smallest detail.
Always connected
The group is registered with EMERCOM (Search and Rescue). I always carry backup GPS navigation, a radio, and an Iridium satellite communicator. A base coordinator tracks the group's progress daily and sends weather updates twice a day
First aid
All guides are certified in Basic and Wilderness & Remote First Aid by the Red Cross
Professional gear
I use only gear tailored for Arctic conditions—designed to withstand gale-force winds and torrential rain while keeping you warm, comfortable, and safe
Insurance
Travel insurance is arranged for every participant
Preparation
I speak personally with each participant to review every piece of gear, ensuring a consistently high level of safety and comfort for the entire group

Why join this trip

1/7
Unique Arctic Style
Unique Arctic Style

On skis with large pulkas.
 

Northern Lights
Northern Lights

Visible right from the tent.
 

World-Class Gear

Thoughtful down to the smallest detail, ensuring safety and comfort.
 

Unique Trekking Area
Unique Trekking Area

Trekking across the ice of the White Sea
 

Wild Wilderness
Wild Wilderness

We won't see other tourists
 

No Camp Chores

Our guides serve gourmet trail cuisine
 

Two nights in a cottage
Two nights in a cottage

We rest one night before the trek and one night after.
 

Trek Details

Thermos Flask
During a winter trek, there is no usual access to running water, as everything freezes in sub-zero temperatures. Therefore, we melt snow daily using high-output stoves.

Hot water for tea and freshly ground coffee is always available during breakfast and dinner.

For the trail day and nighttime, we boil additional water to fill personal thermoses. Recommended thermos volume: 0.7–1 L.
Food on the trek
Breakfast:
Rice, millet, and oatmeal porridges with dried berries, coconut flakes, nuts, sesame seeds, candied fruit, and assorted jams for every day.

Lunch:
Signature toasted burrito and Kola sandwich on bread, crispbread, and lavash, with smoked pork loin, bologna, and dry-cured sausage. A variety of high-quality cheeses.
Freshly brewed tea with berries and herbs, or freshly ground coffee with cream.
Sweet cookies.

Dinner:
Delicious, hearty meals with soba, pasta, potatoes, rice, and buckwheat, accompanied by dried vegetables, shrimp, mushrooms, and venison, ostrich, and turkey meat.
Hot tea and sweet treats.

Personal snack pack:
Jerky, nuts, dried mango, pineapple, cereal, and sweet snack bars, portioned for each day.

*If you have allergies or food intolerances, please let us know in your participant form, and we will substitute the items.
Guides prepare meals
There are no cooking duties for participants on my treks. All meals are prepared by the guides.
This ensures consistently delicious, high-standard expedition cuisine while giving you more time to rest, socialize, and soak in the Arctic landscapes. That said, we share a great team spirit, so any spontaneous initiative to help chop or serve is always appreciated.
Group Mess Tent
In the open, wind-exposed Arctic terrain, we use a Hilleberg group shelter for breakfast and dinner, affectionately calling it a chum or vezha.
The whole team sets it up using poles, guy lines, and snow shovels. Inside, we dig out a foot trench and sit on insulating foam pads.

The shelter protects us completely from the wind and creates an incredibly cozy atmosphere, while the heat from gasoline stoves warms the air inside, making it the perfect setting to unwind and connect.
Train Tickets
Meeting point: February 22, 2026, at 7:00 AM at the railway station of Kandalaksha, Murmansk Region. You can get here only by train or private car.

The branded train No. 016 “Arktika”, arriving at 6:50 AM at Kandalaksha station, is the best fit. Tickets go on sale 90 days before departure. Skis and a duffel bag/backpack with gear fit on the top luggage rack of a standard open-plan carriage (platskart). Compartments (kupe) have slightly less room, but still enough for our gear. Please note that skis must be packed in a ski bag.
If necessary, you can check your luggage into a dedicated baggage car by booking and paying for it in advance.

Before the trek, you will pack your personal gear into the pulkas, leaving your city clothes and travel bag/backpack in the hotel's luggage storage.

Return:

February 28, 2026: The tour concludes, check-out from the cottage by 12:00 PM.
Transfer to Kandalaksha railway station; feel free to choose a train departing at a time convenient for you. You can take a stroll around Kandalaksha and visit its iconic sights.

Please note that there is no airport nearby. The closest ones are KVK (Apatity / Kirovsk), a 2-hour drive away, or MMK (Murmansk), a 4-hour drive away.
For those joining two consecutive ski tours (Lapland + Far North), we will take a shared transfer to Murmansk on February 28.

Weather
Late February is an excellent time for ski treks across the Kola Peninsula.
Daylight returns to a comfortable schedule after the polar night, lasting from 8:15 to 18:00.

Average daytime temperatures range from 0 to −20 °C, and nighttime from −5 to −30 °C, though colder snaps can occur. Wind and humidity from the White Sea can make it feel colder.

Temperatures fluctuate between +3 and −30 °C. Typical conditions are −15 °C during the day and −20 °C at night.
The wind chill can be felt across the White Sea crossings and on the summits of the fells during day hikes. However, our camps are set up in sheltered forest areas providing solid natural protection.

The ideal clothing for skiing is a heavy softshell jacket and pants, paired with windproof mittens and a warm hat.
Ski goggles and a balaclava will shield your face and eyes from wind and blowing snow.
In camp during morning and evening downtime, an insulated jacket, warm pants, and overboots are essential.
For sleeping: a combination of a closed-cell foam pad and an inflatable insulated pad (total R-value 4+), along with a sleeping bag with a temperature limit of at least −30 °C (T.lim).

More detailed information can be found in the gear section.
How to stay warm
On this trek, we do not rely on an external heat source like a campfire or wood stove. Rather than a drawback, this is a distinct advantage: we are not tied to firewood, we waste no time or energy building fires, and our clothes stay safe from stray sparks. Instead, we use high-performance warm clothing and gear, carefully selected so you stay comfortable and warm even in the harshest cold.

Properly selected gear is essential: follow our recommendations and feel free to ask questions anytime. With the right gear, you will feel completely warm and secure.

For an extra boost of warmth, chemical heat packs can be used. Stick them to your socks, gloves, or chest during the day or at night. I will supply two pairs of heat packs for everyone; if you want more, please buy them in advance. Important: they activate and heat up properly only with initial body warmth, meaning they must be kept in the chest pocket of your base layer prior to use. Their heat output is subtle, so treat them as a supplementary aid.

The quickest way to warm up is to get your blood circulating: swing your arms and legs or do a few squats, and within minutes you will feel warmth returning.
Sleeping in a tent
To guarantee maximum comfort and safety, I provide tunnel tents from Hilleberg, Helsport, and Fjällräven.
Their full-coverage flysheet and breathable fabric inner tent protect you from the wind. High-strength fabric, robust poles, and multiple guy lines ensure superior storm stability.

The tents are designed for three and four occupants, but to ensure a comfortable night's sleep we sleep two and three people respectively, providing 70–80 cm of width per person. Dry bags with essential night gear go inside the tent or vestibule, while the rest stays packed in the pulkas.
Tent assignments are arranged before the trek in the Telegram group chat.

I will demonstrate how to pitch and pack down the tents during our briefing in Murmansk.
If you prefer to bring your own expedition tent, please note this in your application and coordinate with me in advance.

Repair Kit & First Aid Kit
I carry a comprehensive group repair kit and first aid kit.
The first aid kit contains essential medications, ointments, bandages, and blister plasters. You must also bring a personal medical kit containing your regular medications tailored to your individual needs. Keep in mind that in winter conditions, all liquids and some ointments will freeze. Typically, a personal first aid kit weighs under 100 grams.

The group repair kit has everything needed: from multi-tools, patches, needles, and threads, up to a spare Fischer ski with a universal Hagan Xtrace Pivot binding. Bringing a small personal repair kit is always a good idea—it enhances the group's self-reliance and allows you to handle minor fixes instantly. If you do not have one, no worries: you can fully rely on mine.

Night in a cottage before the trek
Check-in on February 22 right after the train into triple rooms at the cottage. Each room features an en-suite shower and toilet. Amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, billiards, table tennis, and a fireplace.
Night in a cottage after the trek
After the trek, on February 27, we return to our cottage by lunchtime. We enjoy a Russian banya, a celebratory dinner, get a good night's sleep, and rest. On February 28, check-out is by 12:00 PM with transfer to the Kandalaksha railway station.

Gear

You will receive a checklist, detailed gear recommendations, and exclusive discounts at outdoor stores
Зимнее снаряжение
Backcountry Touring Skis
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:160:"For example, Fischer Transnordic, Traverse, Excursion, S-Bound, or Åsnes Nansen, Amundsen, etc.; Sporten Expedition, Ranger, Madshus, Rossignol, Ski Trab, etc.";}
Ski Bindings
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:138:"NNN BC is recommended as the optimal choice for the tundra, but NN75, Xplore, or universal Hagan X-Trace pivot bindings are also suitable.";}
Climbing Skins
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:257:"Full-length skins. A 65/35 mohair/synthetic mix is best, but 100% mohair will also work. Skin width: 45 mm or 60 mm, no wider. If you have Fischer or Åsnes skis, bring an extra pair of short kick-skins to better adapt to changing snow conditions.";}
Ski Poles
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:83:"Ski poles or appropriately sized aluminum trekking poles with large powder baskets.";}
Sleeping Bag
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:260:"Sleeping bag temperature rating from –30 °C T.lim. — either 1 warm sleeping bag or 2 layered together (approximately rated down to –5 °C T.lim. and –15 °C T.lim. respectively). Both down and synthetic are suitable.";}
Two Sleeping Pads
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:88:"A closed-cell foam pad plus an inflatable or self-inflating mat, combined R-value of 4+.";}
Mug, Spoon, and Bowl
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:73:"Plastic is not recommended as it gets brittle and cracks in extreme cold.";}
Dry Bags
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:58:"Dry bags for your sleeping bag, clothing, and electronics.";}
Thermos Flask
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:31:"Capacity per person: 0.7–1 L.";}
Microspikes
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:194:"Universal microspikes made of elastic material with chains and cleats underneath. Must fit over ski boots and insulated overboots in camp. Choose a large size and make sure to test them at home.";}
Зимняя одежда
Thermal base layer
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:204:"Midweight warmth. Top and bottoms or a one-piece suit. + 2 pairs of underwear. The cut should not pinch at the elbows or knees, and cuff elastics must not restrict circulation to prevent cold extremities.";}
Hardshell jacket and pants
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:76:"Membrane (hardshell) jacket and pants. The optimal shell layer for trekking.";}
Insulated camp jacket
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:133:"Heavy insulated camp jacket: 300+ g of down or 260+ g/m² synthetic fill. For camp use; a weatherproof membrane shell is recommended.";}
Socks
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:94:"3 pairs of insulated winter trekking socks. 1 pair of warm non-compression socks for sleeping.";}
Trekking mittens
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:54:"Convenient options: Sivera Nokhra or Splav Torrent v2.";}
Insulated mittens
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:50:"For camp, rest breaks, or severe cold on the move.";}
Spare mittens
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:40:"In case your main pair gets lost or wet.";}
Buff or balaclava
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:59:"2 pcs — wind protection for your neck and face.";}
Ski goggles.
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:198:"Ideally with interchangeable lenses: Cat 1 and Cat 3. Cat 1 is for blizzards, low visibility, and twilight; Cat 3 is for bright, windy days. Photochromic or a versatile single Cat 2 lens also works.";}
Sunglasses.
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:87:"Cat 2–3, for when it's too warm for goggles under bright sun. An essential gear item.";}
Общее
Personal First Aid Kit
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:197:"Personal prescription medications, a roll of adhesive plaster/tape, and an elastic bandage or knee brace. Detailed checklist of a hiking first aid kit.";}
Documents
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:63:"Passport and health insurance policy in a waterproof dry pouch.";}
Toiletries
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:41:"Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toilet paper.";}
Зимняя обувь
Ski boots
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:138:"Specialized boots for the corresponding binding (NNN BC, NN75, Xplore) or for universal bindings; trekking boots with insulated overboots.";}
Insulated overboots
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:76:"Worn over ski boots at camp to keep your feet warm when you are not on skis.";}
Crocs
a:2:{s:4:"TYPE";s:4:"HTML";s:4:"TEXT";s:33:"Slippers for the hotel and train.";}

Guides

Pavel Rudenko
Pavel Rudenko
Founder of the project and polar guide, ambassador of the Kola North, solo traveler, and outdoor gear specialist.
Certified wilderness guide, Mountaineer of Russia badge holder. Completed Wilderness First Aid, avalanche safety, and survival courses.
Former instructor at the Sport-Marafon Outdoor School.
Anna Migalina
Anna Migalina
Polar guide, brand manager at Splav outdoor company, and author of the WildWoman trekking Telegram channel.

Trek participant reviews

Маргарита Платонова

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!



Мария Кубышкина
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.
Дмитрий Боровой
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!
Михаил Цой
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!
Андрей Громов
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!

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FAQ

Will I be able to handle the physical demands of the trek?
This largely depends on your experience, physical fitness, and mindset. Please review the itinerary carefully—each trek lists not only its difficulty rating, but also daily distances and elevation gain. It is essential to choose a hike with an optimal workload for you. Factors to consider include backpack weight, acclimatization needs, climate, and the overall duration of the active itinerary. That is why we review every inquiry thoroughly, consulting with our guides to find the perfect route for you.
How much does the backpack weigh?
It depends on the route, but on average it ranges from 15 to 21 kilograms. Backpacks for women are usually lighter than those for men. The total weight consists of your personal belongings plus the gear we provide: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and your share of group food supplies. Our gear typically adds no more than 10–15 kilograms. Don't be intimidated by the weight—a properly fitted backpack distributes the load so well that it feels much lighter than it sounds. If porters or pack animals are available on the trek, your pack will be considerably lighter. In fully supported options, you may only need to carry a light daypack of about 5 kilograms with daily essentials and trail snacks.
What about personal hygiene on the trek?
On most routes, we wash in streams and lakes almost every day. The water in mountain rivers and lakes can be quite cold—around 3–5°C—but in good weather, you can even take a dip! To feel more comfortable, especially on longer treks, consider cold-shower conditioning before the trip. For washing, we strongly recommend biodegradable, eco-friendly toiletries to protect the pristine environment. For sanitation, our guides carry camp trowels—we will explain and demonstrate the Leave No Trace routine on-site. Toilet paper and hygiene items are packed out rather than buried, using personal ziplock waste bags. We recommend bringing moist flushable wipes for better hygiene and efficiency. Whenever feasible, we arrange a traditional banya at the end of the trip or set up a portable wilderness sauna on a layover day.
What is the drinking water situation?
On every route, we plan our water refill spots in advance. Most often, we draw water from natural springs and clear streams; occasionally, we filter or boil it. Your guides will always advise which water sources are safe to drink from and which to avoid (for instance, if wildlife might be upstream). Staying hydrated is crucial—drink regularly without waiting until you are parched. If you ever need to refill your bottle or take a short breather, just let us know—we will always find a convenient moment to pause.
Are there wild animals along the route? Do I need to bring self-defense items?
On some treks, the chances of encountering a bear or other wildlife are notable, but there is no need to worry. Every guide carries protective gear — signal flares or flare guns, so there is no need to buy your own. The most important thing is to carefully follow your guides' instructions. Despite their formidable appearance and imposing size, bears are very elusive animals that do not seek encounters with humans.
How are meals organized during the trek?
Our guides purchase all necessary provisions in advance and plan the meal rations, taking into account group size and dietary restrictions. Mornings and evenings feature hearty hot meals, while daytime trail stops include satisfying snacks with hot tea. The expedition menu is based on grains, pasta, and legumes, complemented by meat, cheese, and vegetables—most often dried to reduce weight and ensure long shelf life. We also provide pre-packed snacks: nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars, plus sweet treats for evening tea before bed! If you have allergies, food intolerances, or follow a specific diet, we can easily tailor the menu to your needs—just be sure to let us know in advance. We will ask you about this in the questionnaire after your deposit is made.
What is camp life like? Do I need to help around camp?
Our guides take care of everything — cooking meals, making campfires, and setting up camp. Your only task is pitching your personal tent — at the first campsite, we will show you exactly how to do it so you can easily handle it on your own moving forward. Wake-up, breakfast, and departure times are usually arranged by the guide the evening before. On the trail, we make short rest stops and pause for lunch. Upon reaching the next camp, you pitch your tent while the guides prepare dinner. In the evening, we share impressions over a cup of hot tea and turn in to rest. If a rest day is scheduled on the route, wake-up may be later than usual — you can relax in camp or join a day hike with the group. If you would like to help — for example, gathering firewood or fetching water — our guides always appreciate the support. Just let us know if you want to learn something new or take part in camp life!

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