Taymyria Travel Guide

Plan a trip to Taymyria, Siberia using this comprehensive travel guide that includes information on where to go, what to do, and how to get around in this remote region of Russia.


Introduction to Taymyria

Taymyria is a remote region of Krasnoyarsk Krai located in Siberia, Russia. This region is known for its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and rich history. The name Taymyria is derived from the Taimyr Peninsula, which is the largest peninsula in the Arctic, and the region encompasses the peninsula and surrounding areas. Taymyria is located in the northernmost part of Russia, where the weather is severe and the daylight is limited. Despite its harsh climate, Taymyria is a fascinating destination for adventure seekers and those who want to experience the raw beauty of nature.

List of Places to Visit in Taymyria

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dudinka Museum of Local Lore: This museum has exhibits on the history of the Taymyr Peninsula, including its natural resources, indigenous peoples, and early explorers.
  • Talnakh Concentration Camp: This former labor camp is now a memorial to those who suffered and died during Stalin’s regime.
  • Putorana Plateau: This UNESCO world heritage site contains ancient rock formations, waterfalls, and fascinating flora and fauna. It is also home to the indigenous Evenki people.
  • Taymyr Nature Reserve: The reserve is home to a variety of rare species, including polar bears, musk oxen, and arctic foxes.

Natural Attractions of Taymyria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dikson Island: This small island in the Arctic ocean is known for its wildlife, particularly polar bears and walruses.
  • Lake Lama: The lake is surrounded by mountains and provides a stunning backdrop for hiking, fishing, and camping.
  • Taymyrsky Dolgano-Nenetsky District, known for its rolling tundras, snowcapped peaks and the River Khatanga that is trekked across by truck when it is frozen.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Taymyria

  • Taymyrski National Park offers various hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging treks.
  • Putorana Plateau has several trekking options, offering a chance to see barren mountain summits and mighty waterfalls inside the plateau.
  • Lake Lama, home to the Tofalar people, offers breathtaking views while trekking with some real adventurous camping experience.

Best Things to Do in Taymyria: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife watching: Taymyria is known for its unique wildlife, including polar bears, arctic foxes, musk oxen, and walruses, which can be seen on guided wildlife watching tours.
  • Ice fishing: Ice fishing is a popular activity in Taymyria, with many lakes and rivers providing opportunities for catching fish.
  • Northern Lights viewing: With long winter nights, Taymyria is the perfect place to witness the aurora borealis.

Week-Long Itinerary for Taymyria

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Norilsk and visit the Norilsk Museum of Local Lore
2 Take a guided tour of Talnakh Concentration Camp, then visit the Norilsk Nickel plant
3 Explore the Putorana Plateau and visit the Krasnoyarsk region in between
4 Kayaking is an option to explore the arctic rivers and witness wildlife
5 Visit Dikson Island and take a boat tour to see walruses and other marine life
6 Hike around Lake Lama and enjoy camping and fishing
7 Go on a guided Northern Lights tour before heading back to Norilsk

Food and Drink Scene of Taymyria

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stroganina: Thinly sliced frozen fish or meat served with salt and spices. This dish is a traditional way of preserving fish or meat in Taymyria.
  • Tyurya: A soup made of meat and flour-based dough, usually served with butter and herbs. This is a staple food of the indigenous peoples of Taymyria.

Local Beverages

  • Berry tea: This tea is made from local berries and is perfect for warming up during the long winter months.
  • Yaranga: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented reindeer milk.

Where to Stay in Taymyria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Norilsk has several hotels, including the Hotel Arctic and the Hotel Polyarnaya Zvezda.
  • There are guest houses and B&B’s available in some of the smaller towns like Talnakh.
  • Camping and yurt stays are an alternative option when hiking and touring the wild territories like the Putorana Plateau.

What to Buy in Taymyria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Souvenirs made of mammoth tusk, ivory and other exotic materials can be bought from local markets.
  • Traditional handicrafts such as fur hats, boots, and traditional clothing which has been preserved and used for living in the arctic conditions like parka’s and fur coats.

Local Culture and Customs of Taymyria

The indigenous peoples of Taymyria, including the Evenki and the Dolgans, have a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. Their ways of living in harsh environments with limited resources is a testimony that we should take care of our limited resources, especially being an arctic region. Being courteous and respectful towards their culture is expected and should be followed by visitors.

Best Time to Visit Taymyria

The best time to visit Taymyria is during summer, which is from June to August. This is the time when the weather is mild, and the streets come to life, with people heading outside. Winter is cold, dark, and harsh, and while it may be a unique time to visit in terms of landscape and aurora sighting, you might want to really be prepared.

Do’s and Don’ts of Taymyria

Do:

  • Dress appropriately in layers, with high-quality gear that can withstand cold weather conditions.
  • Travel with a knowledgeable guide who can ensure that you see the best sights and remain safe.
  • Respect the culture and traditions of the indigenous populations.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take any wildlife or Arctic plant life, as it is illegal and can potentially disturbing the ecosystem.
  • Don’t venture outside of designated areas without a guide.
  • Don’t litter or damage the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Taymyria

Crime rates are low in Taymyria, but it is a remote area with harsh terrain; therefore, it is important to travel with caution. Be sure to bring warm clothing and gear suitable for the weather. Travel with experienced guides while hiking, and stay aware of wildlife especially so when camping under circumstances with food which can attract them.

Health in Taymyria

Taymyria has medical facilities in the larger towns, though for more serious medical conditions it might be necessary to travel outside the region for treatment. Remote areas don’t have immediate medical backup, so cover your health insurance before travelling. Consult your physician for proper vaccination and bring any prescribed medicine with you.

Getting to Taymyria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Taymyria

Norilsk is the main airport for Taymyria, with flights from Moscow, Krasnoyarsk, and other major Russian cities.

Bus Stations Near Taymyria

There are bus stations in the major towns like Norilsk, with roads linked to the Moscow-Siberian highway, however, bus services are limited mainly used by locals only.

Other Options

Ferries providing connection from Dikson to Krasnoyarsk, along with preferred Helicopter or chartered small plane services, due to the relatively inaccessible nature of this region.

How to Get Around in Taymyria

It is best to travel around Taymyria with a knowledgeable and experienced guide. Options are Limousine or hired cars once you reach the region, snowmobiles (winter only) or on foot (for treks or hikes).

Where to Go Next from Taymyria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kupiyanosovo, on the river Khatanga, is a famous fishing spot and also the connection point to reach other small towns on the river.
  • Igarka is a small town nearby which is the last on the Moscow-Siberian Highway.

Conclusion

Taymyria is a remote region with a raw, unique beauty and an adventurous spirit that is worth exploring. Its natural landscapes are stunning, and the indigenous peoples have a rich cultural heritage. With the right planning, gear, and guides, Taymyria can make an unforgettable addition to the explorers’ journey to the Arctic.

Tundra near Dudinka Tundra near Dudinka


    Dikson
    Dudinka
    Norilsk