Republic of Komi - gold mine of ecotourism

We all know that tourism brings people undeniable benefits. Thanks to the possibility of tourism to enlighten, surprise, treat and give rest, this service has become not only popular, but also fashionable today. Of course, now more and more people prefer active types of recreation, such as cognitive, sports, extreme and other types of tourism. In the past few years, people have paid less attention to the starryness of the hotel and the uniqueness of the travel destination. Given the growing popularity of eco, rural and ethnic tourism, as well as the so-called tourist realism, we can take a new look at the most remote corners of Russia from industrial centers.

In the UNESCO heritage list are five natural sites of Russia: Komi forests, Lake Baikal, Kamchatka volcanoes, Altai mountains, Western Caucasus. The first registered tourist brand in the country was pleased with the residents of Komi. And it sounds expressive: "EcoRepublic of Komi".

On the territory of Komi there are countless natural resources: endless virgin forests - the lung of Europe, a huge number of species of animals and birds and of course crystal rivers overflowing with fish. To preserve this unique place, the Yugyd Va National Park (Bright Water) and the Pechoro-Ilych Biosphere Reserve were created.

Elk farm.

If you ever happen to visit Komi, start your trip with the Yakshi moose farm - the pearl of the Pechero-Ilyinsky Reserve. More than fifty years ago, the first moose farm in our country was founded here. Unfortunately, because of poachers moose have to keep in cages, but this does not prevent you from enjoying communication with these amazingly beautiful, regal creatures.

Mountain sculptures

Also, the Pechoro-Ilychsky Reserve offers us to admire the Ural ridge, which takes bizarre forms. Some mountain peaks here have unusual names: Squirrel Stone, similar to a frozen squirrel; Hare Stone, resembling huge ears hidden behind the rock of a hare; Bear Stone, similar to two sleeping bears. Special impressions are made by the Seven Bogatyrs on the mountain Man-pupu-nyer (mountain of idols in the local language). Seven huge stone pillars up to fifty meters high are on top of the mountain. In ancient times, this mountain was considered sacred, as there was a belief that these are frozen gods who can wake up if disturbed.

Ural summit

The highest point of the Ural Mountains is the People's Mountain. For a long time it was difficult to access due to the remoteness of settlements. Today you are waiting for unforgettable impressions from the seen transparent lakes, huge glaciers and impressive stone blocks. In order to climb the mountains there is no need for climbing equipment, but you still need to have good physical training.

Reindeer herders

Komi is probably the best place to get acquainted with reindeer herding. Not far from Vorkuta live reindeer herders, who for a reasonable fee will show you what they do, lead you to the plague and even set a table for you. It is clear that civilization has long been there and most of the reindeer herders enjoy all its benefits, but residents of megacities this usually does not overshadow the joy of discovering the far north.

Hunting and fishing

For fans of hunting and fishing, the virgin Komi forests are a real paradise. In Russia, and in the world, there are not many places where civilization has not touched forests, lakes and rivers, Komi is one of the few. The most fishing by right are considered White, Yamozero and Sindore Lakes, the Pechora River. For hunting, there are so many places that you can not list everything. An experienced instructor will show you wild places for amateur hunting. Here, having a license, you can hunt a bear, elk, hare, beaver, boar, as well as a fox, deaf, grouse or migratory goose.

Text by Oksana Kuzmitskaya