Polar Urals: expedition in search of the Musk Ox

Фотография Polar Urals: expedition in search of the Musk Ox
AboutItineraryGearGuidesPriceBookingFAQ
Dates
17-29 Aug 2026
Duration (days)
13 days
Difficulty
4/5
Advanced Difficulty

A long, challenging route.

  • Backpack weight: up to 25 kg
  • Daily distance: up to 20 km

Duration: 8-14 days.

Off-trail movement through wild tundra. Daily mileage and pace are higher than average. The route may involve difficult passes, river crossings, rocky terrain, or dense brush. Requires endurance, mental toughness, and targeted physical training 4-6 months prior.

For whom: Hikers with previous autonomous trekking experience who want to go further and see more.

Distance
128 km
Group
12 people

About the Tour

Author's trek

Polar Urals — in search of the Musk Ox.

A self-supported trek with backpacks and tents in a rarely visited due to its remote location, but incredibly picturesque part of the Polar Urals. The land of permafrost, where we will cross the border of the parts of the world — Europe and Asia on foot.

We are heading to the northernmost part of the Urals — the Polar Urals, where the majestic mountain range originates, dividing the country from north to south like a stone wall. Canyon rivers, deep valleys and glacial cirques formed by glaciers. The scale is breathtaking — the height of the mountains reaches 1 300 meters, covered with mosses and lichens as if fluffy. Harsh animals survive in harsh conditions: musk oxen, reindeer and brown bears. 

Learn more

Who is this trek for

The mileage, duration and autonomy are suitable for tourists who have experience in a week-long self-supported trek and are in good physical shape. Properly selected gear is necessary for comfort in the conditions of the Arctic while maintaining a low basic weight of the backpack.Indigenous peoples

The Polar Urals are home to the world's largest population of reindeer! The indigenous Nenets population still leads a traditional nomadic way of life. In the spring, their path lies through the mountains to the shores of the Kara Sea — here our paths cross. An opportunity to touch the culture of the northern peoples, try traditional cuisine and see herds of reindeer thousands strong.

Animals

The reindeer is on the list of the rarest hoofed mammals that survived the Late Pleistocene extinction along with musk oxen and bison. Here we have the opportunity to see two out of three of these unique animals in the wild — the reindeer and the musk ox. 

Upon completion of the trek

We head to the ethnopark in Salekhard for half a day to immerse ourselves in the culture of reindeer herding. The Polar Urals are harsh in nature and climate — this is a real challenge that we will take on together!

Itinerary

1 day, 17 August
Meeting in Vorkuta
2 day, 18 August
To the foot of the Polar Urals

We have breakfast and transfer. We start our way to the mountain wall through the endless tundra.

12 km
150 m
50 m
3 h
3 day, 19 August
Canyon river

Wild tundra without trails, our way leads to the source of the river.

13 km
350 m
50 m
4 day, 20 August
Two passes

We climb 850 meters, remote and rarely visited passes.

13 km
350 m
550 m
5 day, 21 August
Rock gates

Rest day. Radial exit.

9 km
400 m
400 m
6 day, 22 August
Pass

From one river valley to another

14 km
350 m
400 m
7 day, 23 August
Gorge
14 km
400 m
250 m
8 day, 24 August
Rest day

Radial exit

7 km
700 m
700 m
9 day, 25 August
Mountain lake
14 km
50 m
150 m
10 day, 26 August
Tundra
19 km
450 m
350 m
11 day, 27 August
Reindeer herders
8 km
50 m
200 m
12 day, 28 August
Transfer

A long way to the city of Salekhard, 11 hours on Tretyakov all-terrain vehicles, the ride is quite comfortable, but not fast because of the tundra. We will go fishing on the way, and in the evening we check into the hotel and relax.

12 h
13 day, 29 August
The program is over

We have breakfast and go to the ethno-park. We learn how to set up a chum, cook reindeer herders' national food and eat it, make crafts from reindeer antlers, try on Nenets outfits. We are heading to Salekhard airport by 4:30 p.m. If your vacation allows, I recommend staying in Salekhard for another 1–2 days, there is a lot to see here.

 

 

Safety is My Priority

Two Guides
One guide for every six people; two guides for a group of 12.
Scouted Route
I specialize in Polar regions. Rest assured, the route is thoroughly explored and planned in detail.
Always Connected
The group is registered with the Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM). I carry spare GPS, radios, and an Iridium satellite communicator. A city coordinator tracks our movement daily and provides weather updates twice a day.
First Aid
All guides are Red Cross certified in Basic and Advanced Wilderness First Aid.
Pro Gear
I use only Arctic-grade gear capable of withstanding storms and heavy rain, ensuring your warmth and safety.
Insurance
Insurance is provided for every participant.
Preparation
I personally discuss gear with each participant to ensure the highest level of group safety and comfort.

Gear

You will receive a checklist, detailed gear recommendations, and discounts at outdoor stores.
Снаряжение
Travel backpack, 75 liters
The backpack capacity depends on your experience and the compactness of your gear. On average, for men and women, it's 75 liters. The backpack should fit your size. I recommend: Osprey Aether Pro 70, Tatonka Yukon LT 60+10, Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 60-80, Karrimor Jaguar SA2 Flex Pro 75+15.
Rain cover for backpack
The cover should fully protect a loaded backpack and have wind fixation. I recommend a silicone impregnation.
Windproof tent for the tundra
I will provide my own tent for free or coordinate yours. Winds in the tundra can reach 25 m/s, so only windproof models are suitable for us. For example: Naturehike Cloud Peak 2, 3FulGear Taiji 1, Hilleberg Enan, Hilleberg Anjan 2, Fjallraven Abisko 2, Helsport Lofoten 2.
Sleeping bag (t lim from 0 to -5 °C for men and from -3 to -9 °C for women)
A sleeping bag suitable for your height is preferable, down, for example, Sivera «Iriy» or «Sплав» Graviton Comfort. Be sure to pack in a waterproof bag, usually 12 liters. Temperature: 0...-5 °C (T.lim) for men and -3...-9 °C (T.lim) for women.
Camping mat (R-Value of 2 or higher)
An inflatable mat is preferable, with a thickness of at least 7 cm and insulation of 2 R-value or more. The tundra always has uneven surfaces.
Technical mat
The karimat is used in conjunction with an inflatable or self-inflating mat, for example, Isolon Fitness Flex with a thickness of 5 mm and a weight of 120 g.
Trekking poles
Trekking poles with a clip lock are preferable. It is better to use summer rings.
Lightweight chair for the tent
A chair is a must for sitting in the tent. For example, a Folding Stool weighing 350 g, a Sплав Shell Light chair weighing 675 g, or a Helinox Chair Zero weighing 510 g.
Mug, spoon, bowl
The optimal volume of a mug is 450–600 ml, a bowl is 750 ml. Their total weight in titanium does not exceed 200 g. You can also find lightweight and aesthetically pleasing coconutware.
Water bottle, 0.5–1 l
Depending on the backpack pocket and preferences, we take a soft flask (the best choice is Hydrapack: Stow, Flux, Seeker) or plastic bottles, such as Nalgene.
Dry bags for sleeping bag, clothes and electronics
Dry bags: for sleeping bag — 12 l, for electronics — 7 l, for clothes — 12 l.
Headlamp
It's more convenient to use a lamp with a battery, 400 lumens of power is enough for regular use. I recommend lamps from Fenix and Nitecore.
Mosquito net
The best option for a mosquito net is black, a great option is the Sea To Summit Ultra-Fine Mesh Headnet, weight 23 g.
Одежда
Long-sleeve T-shirt
1–2 pcs. Fine synthetic material is best, but merino wool is also acceptable. This is the main clothing for warm weather. Long sleeves (long sleeve) will protect against midge and mosquito bites, as well as from sun exposure, improve thermoregulation in windy weather and protect the skin from damage by bush branches.
Thin thermal pants
1 pc. The thinnest synthetic thermal pants. They wick moisture away perfectly and provide little warmth. Their purpose is to be used with membrane pants to avoid overheating while moving. They can be used to insulate in combination with softshell pants or used in a sleeping bag on warm nights. I recommend: Sivera «Geta» or «Godyobль», «Sплав» Fresh or Motion.
Medium insulating thermal underwear
Thermal sweater (insulating layer) allows you to combine layers perfectly, it can be used while moving, in the camp and during sleep. Density — 130–180 g/m2. I recommend: «Sплав» Gulf Stream (pullover), «Sivera» Vuyma.
Softshell jacket and pants
Basic trekking clothing. It is best to choose the lightest softshell with a density of 100–160 g/m2. Pants and jacket will provide high breathability and protection against overheating, optimal protection against wind speeds of 5–15 m/s, and also serve as an additional layer when moving in cold weather. I recommend: Sivera «Gran», «Murash»; «Sплав» Action Flex, Vector. Average weight of the jacket in size M: 250–350 g; pants: 170–250 g.
Membrane jacket and pants
Basic protection against rain and stormy wind. Suitable membrane is 2.5-layer or more durable 3-layer (3L) with minimum indicators of 15,000 / 15,000 and higher. In the North, Gore-Tex performs best, but other membranes are also suitable in terms of price/quality ratio. Optimal fabric density is 30–70 den. Weight of the jacket in size M: 300–500 g; pants: 250–400 g. For pants, the self-dump function (long side zipper) is important. I recommend: Mountain Equipment Zeno, SMGear, «Sплав» Balance and brands Norrona, Haglofs, Bergans, Klattermusen.
Insulated jacket and pants made of synthetic materials
Main insulation in the camp and at stops during the day. Down insulation is acceptable, but in the conditions of the North and cold regions of Russia, synthetics from the «active insulation» category (active insulation) with a density of 60–80 g/m2 have proven themselves better. For reference: the weight of the jacket in size M is 350–400 g, pants — 200–300 g. I recommend: Arc'teryx Proton or Atom, Sivera «Faris» or «Ledeny», Norrona Femund Thermo60, Black Diamond First Light Stretch Hoody 2.0, Mountain Equipment Kinesis, Patagonia Nano-Air Hoody, etc. Insulated self-dump pants (with zippers to put on quickly) should be slightly below the knee length, with insulation of 60 g/m2. I recommend: «Sплав» Quark or Sivera «Ledeny».
Trekking socks
3 pcs. Two- or three-season. Synthetic socks help to wick away sweat, provide compression fit, and protect against blisters. I recommend models from Lorpen, Decathlon, or Sплав.
Membrane socks and liners
2 pcs. Membrane socks are the perfect solution for protecting feet from moisture and cold in the North. Paired with fully leather/nubuck trekking boots, they will keep your feet protected. I recommend: DexShell Running Lite and Ultra Thin Crew (usually run a bit small). They work great with a thin synthetic liner sock (liner), which can be worn under the membrane sock to provide extra insulation and protection against blisters. I recommend: Lorpen Liner, Sплав Liner.
Hat and gloves
Insulation in camp and on the move. Choose a thin and lightweight fleece or Power Grid.
Headgear
Protection against sunburn, mosquitoes and wind. The choice depends on your personal preferences, but my recommendation is a cap with a wide brim or neck protection. It provides the greatest protection and comfort. I recommend: Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap, AONIJIE E4089 and other analogues, for example Aonijie E4610, Kailas Neck Flap, Buff Pack Sahara Cap Acai.
Buff
A favorite accessory of a hiker. Protects the neck, and if necessary, the back of the head and ears from the wind. Used both on the move and in the camp and during sleep. Material — thin, summer, like Coolmax or CoolNet.
Общее
First aid kit
Medicines tailored to individual needs, a roll of adhesive plaster, an elastic bandage/knee pad, etc.
Documents
Passport, compulsory health insurance policy in waterproof packaging.
Toiletries
Toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper.
Обувь
Trekking boots
For the tundra, fully leather boots of medium stiffness are ideal, such as Meindl Kansas, Paradiso, Hanwag Tatra II. The boot should be about 1.5 sizes larger. I recommend trying on and buying them immediately with good Sidas Outdoor insoles: they will relieve excessive stress on your feet and reduce blisters.
Second footwear for wading, camp, hotel
Due to the deep moss, I recommend closed 'crocs' or short EVA boots from hypermarkets 'Auchan', 'Leroy Merlin', 'O'Key'. Weight — up to 350 g.

Guides

Pavel Rudenko
Pavel Rudenko
Ambassador of the Kola Peninsula and a big fan of the North, exploring it for you and with you.

I have been hiking for 10 years, I am a certified guide-instructor, have a mountaineer badge, completed First Aid and Avalanche courses. I taught at the Sport-Marathon Tourism School and participate in the development of equipment for the Sплав brand.
Anna Migalina
Anna Migalina
Brand manager of the Sплав tourism company, author of the WildWoman telegram channel about hikes, guide. In love with the North.

Price

135,000 ₽
Included
  • Все
Not Included
  • Все

I want to join the Polar Urals: expedition in search of the Musk Ox tour

Dates:
17-29 Aug 2026
Difficulty:
4/5
Distance:
128 km
Group full. Join the waiting list

After applying, you will receive a participant questionnaire. Once reviewed, we will call you to discuss details.

A deposit of 30 000 RUB is required to book. It is refundable if you cancel 30+ days in advance. If less than 30 days, it is only refundable if a replacement is found.

Ура!

FAQ

Can I handle the workload on the trek?
It largely depends on your experience, physical fitness, and mental attitude. Carefully study the program — each itinerary has not only its own difficulty category, but also specifies daily distances and elevation gain. It's important to choose an itinerary that is optimal for you in terms of workload. You need to consider the weight of the backpack, the need for acclimatization, climate, and the duration of the active part of the trip. That's why we pay so much attention to each application — we consult with the guide and select the appropriate route for you. 
How much does the backpack weigh?
It depends on the route, but on average, it's between 15 and 21 kilograms. Women's backpacks are usually lighter than men's. The weight of the backpack includes your personal belongings and the gear we provide: tent, sleeping bag, mat, and part of the food rations. The weight of our gear usually does not exceed 10–15 kilograms. Don't be alarmed by the heavy weight — a properly fitted backpack distributes the load so that it's much easier to carry than it seems. If porters or pack animals assist on the trek, your backpack's weight will be significantly lower! With maximum packing light, you can walk with just a light daypack of 5 kilograms — with the necessary things for the day and some snacks.
How do we handle hygiene on the trek?
On most routes, we wash in streams and lakes almost every day. The temperature of mountain rivers and lakes can be low — around 3–5 degrees, but if the weather is good, you can even swim! If you want to feel more confident, especially on long treks, start hardening yourself in the city. For washing, we recommend taking eco-friendly products to avoid harming nature. Guides have portable toilet shovels for the toilet — we'll show and tell you everything on site! We don't bury paper and hygiene products, but take them with us, for example, in individual garbage zip-lock bags. We recommend taking wet toilet paper with you — it uses less and provides additional hygiene. If possible, we always organize a bath at the end of the trek or make our own portable bath right on the route during one of the rest days.
How is the situation with drinking water?
On each route, we think in advance where we will collect water. Most often these are springs and clean streams, sometimes we use filters or boil water. Guides will always tell you which sources are safe to drink from and which ones it is better to avoid (for example, if there may be animals upstream). It is important to drink regularly — do not wait until you are very thirsty. If you need to replenish water or take a break, just say so — we will always find a convenient moment to stop.
Are there any wild animals on the route? Do I need to take self-defense equipment?
In some hikes, the likelihood of encountering a bear or other wild animal is high, but there is no need to be afraid of it. Each guide has protective equipment — a flare or a rocket launcher, there is no need to buy them yourself. The main thing is to follow the guides' instructions carefully. The bear, despite its sullen appearance and impressive size, is a very secretive animal that does not seek out encounters with humans.
How is the food organized during the hike?
The guides buy the necessary products in advance and make up a layout, taking into account the number of people and dietary restrictions of the participants. In the morning and in the evening there are full hot meals, and during the day, during the transition, there are hearty snacks with hot tea. The basis of the hiking cuisine is cereals, pasta and legumes. We complement the dishes with meat, cheese and vegetables, most often dried. This way, the products weigh less and last longer. In addition, there are prepared snacks: nuts, dried fruits, energy bars. And something sweet for the evening tea before bed! If you have allergies, intolerance to certain foods, or follow a certain type of diet, we can easily adapt the hiking menu for you, but please let us know in advance. We will ask you about this in the questionnaire after you make the prepayment.
How is everyday life organized? Do I need to do anything at the camp?
Our guides take care of everything — they prepare meals, make a fire and set up the camp. You will need to put up your own tent — on the first stop, we will definitely show you how to do it so that you can manage on your own later. The time for getting up, breakfast, and setting off is usually agreed upon by the guide the night before. On the way, we take short breaks and stop for lunch. Upon arriving at the next stop, you set up your tent, while the guides prepare dinner. In the evening, we share our impressions over a cup of hot tea and go to rest. If the itinerary includes a rest day, getting up may be later than usual — you can relax in the camp or go on a day trip with the group. If you want to help — for example, collect firewood or bring water — the guides are always happy to receive support. Just say if you want to learn something new or participate in everyday activities!

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