Yugyd Va National Park Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and nature-packed Yugyd Va National Park in Russia with this comprehensive guide featuring hiking routes, best things to do, food scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Yugyd Va National Park

Tucked away in the Northwestern region of Russia lies Yugyd Va National Park. Established in 1994, the park covers a sprawling 18,917 square kilometers, making it the largest in Europe. Yugyd Va, which means “Big Water” in the local language, is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including endangered and elusive creatures like the snow leopard, brown bear, and lynx. Aside from its natural wonders, Yugyd Va National Park also boasts a rich cultural heritage and towering mountains, creating an ideal spot for outdoor adventures. Here’s a complete guide to help you explore the best of Yugyd Va National Park:

List of Places to Visit in Yugyd Va National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Inta Ethnographic Museum: Located just outside the park, Inta Ethnographic Museum is the perfect place to learn about the local culture and history of the Komi people.
  • Komi Republic Museum of Local Lore: This museum located in the city of Syktyvkar houses a vast collection of artifacts related to the Komi Republic.
  • Holy Dormition Pechora Monastery: This 14th-century monastery located in the nearby town of Pechora is an important cultural and religious site.

Natural Attractions of Yugyd Va National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Manaraga: Standing at 1,664 meters, Mount Manaraga is the highest peak in Yugyd Va National Park. It offers a challenging but rewarding climb, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Lake Imlor: A picturesque lake located within the park, Lake Imlor is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and camping.
  • Stone Labyrinths: Considered by locals as sacred places, the stone labyrinths found in Yugyd Va National Park are believed to serve as portals to the afterlife.
  • Abramov Ples: An impressive waterfall, Abramov Ples offers breathtaking views and a refreshing swimming spot during summer months.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yugyd Va National Park

  • Mount Manaraga Trail: This challenging trail takes you to the summit of Mount Manaraga, offering stunning views of the park.
  • Korschun Trail: This 12-kilometer trail takes you through the heart of the park’s wild forests, bogs, and rivers.
  • Imlor Trail: An easy hike around Lake Imlor that offers great views in a peaceful setting.
  • Ice Gorge Trail: A moderate hike that takes visitors through Kedykverp Wilderness, past scenic views, frozen waterfalls, and hanging icicles.

Best Things to Do in Yugyd Va National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Watching: Yugyd Va National Park is home to several unique and rare species of wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife watchers.
  • Fishing: The park’s rivers and lakes are rich in trout and other types of fish, making it an ideal destination for anglers.
  • Camping and Trekking: Yugyd Va National Park offers an incredible range of camping options that allow visitors to get closer to nature.
  • Whitewater Rafting: The challenging rapids of the Pechora River offer a thrilling whitewater rafting experience with scenic views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yugyd Va National Park

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Yugyd Va National Park:

Day 1: Arrival in Syktyvkar

Explore the city of Syktyvkar, the capital of the Komi Republic. Visit Komi Republic Museum of Local Lore and Syktyvkar Art Museum, and grab lunch at one of the local eateries.

Day 2: Trekking and Camping

Take a guided trek or hike through the forests and mountains of Yugyd Va National Park. Camp overnight and enjoy the starry skies.

Day 3: Wildlife Watching

Set out early in the morning for wildlife watching in Yugyd Va National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for brown bears, snow leopards, lynx, and other rare species.

Day 4: Fishing

Spend a day fishing at one of the park’s scenic lakes or rivers.

Day 5: Cultural Exploration

Visit Inta Ethnographic Museum and Holy Dormition Pechora Monastery to learn more about the Komi people and their history.

Day 6: Whitewater Rafting

Experience the thrilling rapids of Pechora River with a guided whitewater rafting tour while soaking in the stunning scenery.

Day 7: Departure

Return to Syktyvkar for last-minute sightseeing and souvenir shopping before departing for your next adventure.

Food and Drink Scene of Yugyd Va National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Komi-style Pike Soup: A traditional Komi soup served with chunks of fresh pike and vegetables.
  • Chiburekki: A fried pastry stuffed with minced meat or mashed potatoes.
  • Tulem: A Komi dessert made of cranberries and sugar.

Local Beverages

  • Komi Syr: A creamy, sweet cheese made of milk and served with honey and berries.
  • Mors: A refreshing drink made of berries, fruits, or honey.

Where to Stay in Yugyd Va National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • National Park Hotel “Sineglazka”: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of the park, with panoramic views of the surrounding forest.
  • Guest House “U Krutitsy”: A rustic guesthouse located on the bank of the Pechora River, offering basic but comfortable accommodation.
  • Hostel “Khurkul”: A budget-friendly hostel located in the nearby town of Pechora, offering dormitory-style accommodation.

What to Buy in Yugyd Va National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Birch Bark Crafts: Birch bark is a traditional material used in crafting various items such as baskets, boxes, ornaments, and jewelry
  • Honey: Produced in the region, Komi honey is reputed to be one of the best in Russia.
  • Handwoven Fabrics: Traditional Komi fabrics made of wool, cotton, or silk make unique souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Yugyd Va National Park

The Komi people are known for their rich cultural heritage, including intricate folk music, storytelling, and various traditional crafts. In Yugyd Va National Park, visitors can experience Komi traditions through local festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural events.

Best Time to Visit Yugyd Va National Park

The best time to visit Yugyd Va National Park is during the summer months of June to September. This time of year offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and nature sightseeing. However, the park is also beautiful in winter, with snowy landscapes and frozen waterfalls.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yugyd Va National Park

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Stay on designated trails to minimize damage to the fragile ecosystem.
  • Dispose of waste properly.

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife or remove any plants or animals from the park.
  • Make loud noises or engage in disruptive activities that could affect the park’s natural peace.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yugyd Va National Park

Yugyd Va National Park is a safe destination for visitors. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions while hiking or camping. Avoid hiking alone, and always carry a map, compass, and enough food and water for the trip.

Health in Yugyd Va National Park

Visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations before visiting Yugyd Va National Park. Visitors should also take necessary precautions against tick-borne diseases, as they are common in the area.

Getting to Yugyd Va National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yugyd Va National Park

  • Syktyvkar Airport: Located in the capital city of Komi Republic, Syktyvkar airport is the closest airport to Yugyd Va National Park.
  • Ukhta Airport: Located 140 kilometers from Yugyd Va National Park, Ukhta Airport is another airport option

Bus Stations Near Yugyd Va National Park

  • Syktyvkar Bus Station: Located in Syktyvkar, the bus station offers direct bus services to Yugyd Va National Park.
  • Inta Bus Station: Located just outside the park, Inta Bus Station is another convenient option for visitors.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to drive or rent a car to Yugyd Va National Park.

How to Get Around in Yugyd Va National Park

The best way to get around Yugyd Va National Park is on foot, as the park is best explored through various hiking trails. However, visitors can also rent a bike or hire a guide for transportation around the park.

Where to Go Next from Yugyd Va National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Syktyvkar: The capital city of Komi Republic is a lively destination that offers sightseeing, cultural exploration, and food experiences.
  • Ural Mountains: Located southwest of Yugyd Va National Park, the Ural Mountains are a stunning range that offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
  • Solovetsky Islands: Located in the White Sea, Solovetsky Islands are home to a stunning 15th-century monastery and a vibrant culture.

Conclusion

Yugyd Va National Park is a hidden gem in Northwestern Russia that offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. With an abundance of outdoor activities, scenic trails, and rich local cuisine, Yugyd Va National Park is the perfect destination for nature and culture enthusiasts. Whether you are seeking a week-long adventure or a short getaway, Yugyd Va National Park offers something for every traveler.

Sablinsky Ridge Sablinsky Ridge To get into the park from Inta in summer, you (or your driver) will need to ford the Kozhim River To get into the park from Inta in summer, you (or your driver) will need to ford the Kozhim River Narodnaya Mountain Narodnaya Mountain Manaraga mountain hut in Yugyd Va National Park, September 2019 Manaraga mountain hut in Yugyd Va National Park, September 2019