Things To Do
in Oymyakon
Oymyakon is a remote village in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) situated around 63.4608 N, 142.7858 E. It is famous for its record-low winter temperatures and its hardy, close-knit community living in one of the planet’s harshest inhabited climates. Life here revolves around permafrost, seasonal logistics, and traditional practices that keep residents warm and fed through extreme cold.
Access is challenging but achievable by winter road or occasional flights, making a visit here a stark, unforgettable Arctic adventure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast in Oymyakon, renowned for its extreme winter temperatures. After warming up, get bundled up for a guided tour of the surrounding tundra, where you can marvel at the breathtaking icy scenery and observe local wildlife. Capture stunning photographs of the beautiful contrasts of white snow against the deep blue sky.
After a morning of exploration, head back to town for a local lunch featuring traditional dishes like salmon and reindeer stew. Spend the afternoon visiting the small museum to learn about Oymyakon's unique culture and the history of its residents who have adapted to one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. Engage with locals and maybe even join a workshop on indigenous crafts.
As evening falls, gather around a warm fire outside your accommodation to share travel stories and enjoy a meal prepared over the flames. Take a moment to appreciate the incredible starlit sky, as Northern lights occasionally grace the region with their presence. The chill in the air enhances the cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect end to your first day.
Start your day early with a breakfast of porridge and tea, essential for fueling up for a thrilling ice fishing experience. Join a local fisherman who will guide you to the frozen rivers, where you'll learn techniques for catching Arctic fish. Feel the thrill of the catch while surrounded by stunning winter landscapes.
After a successful morning, return to enjoy a campfire lunch by the river, where you can taste the fresh catch you've just reeled in, grilled to perfection. In the afternoon, take advantage of the ice by trying your hand at snowmobiling or dog sledding for an adrenaline-packed ride through the snow-covered countryside. Experience the heart-pounding speed and the excitement of gliding over the pristine terrain.
As the sun dips below the horizon, enjoy a cozy meal at a local diner, savoring more regional delicacies. Spend the evening around a fire once more, this time enjoying hot drinks and toasting marshmallows while sharing laughs and stories with your group. The tranquil sounds of winter surrounding you create the perfect ambiance for a relaxing night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea at a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🛏️1 night in a basic guesthouse | $40-90 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $3-12 |
| 🧺Basic groceries for a few days | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class Arctic isolation and unique permafrost landscapes
- Warm community hospitality and authentic local cuisine
- Extremely cold winters and limited infrastructure
- Very limited nightlife and dining options; needs planning
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
- "Пожалуйста" - Please
Places to Visit in Oymyakon
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic roadside sign marking Oymyakon's status as one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth; striking against clear blue winter skies or dramatic auroras.
Wide, reflective ice surfaces with distant hills; especially photogenic at dawn or sunset with golden light on the snow.
Snow-laden spruce and pine forest scenes, often framed by low winter sun or moonlight for a moody Arctic ambiance.
Expansive permafrost terrain with a stark horizon—great for minimalist landscape shots and long exposure experiments.
Dark, clear skies offer opportunities to capture the Northern Lights dancing above snow-covered terrain.
Food in Oymyakon
Oymyakon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin-sliced frozen meat served cold as a traditional Arctic snack; commonly made from fish or reindeer and eaten with minimal accompaniments.
Must-Try!
Dumplings filled with a mix of locally sourced meat, boiled or fried and served hot in a simple broth or butter.
Boiled meat (often horse or beef) with broad noodles and onion sauce; a filling centerpiece in Yakut-style meals.
Meat aspic made from boiled bones and meat, set and served cold; a common cold-weather dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small seasonal market offering preserved fish, smoked meat, berries, and basic bakery items. Great for tasting simple, traditional snacks and talking with vendors.
Temporary stalls near guesthouses offering hot drinks, freshly baked bread, and occasionally grilled fish on winter evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet elders with polite forms. Dress modestly in communal spaces and show appreciation for hospitality.
Cold weather is a normal part of life; avoid displaying discomfort too loudly and respect others’ need to stay warm. Take care when pointing feet or hands; use open-handed gestures in conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Oymyakon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service. In small towns, a small tip (about 5–10%) for meals or guided services is common if service is satisfactory.
Cash in rubles is widely accepted. Card payments may be limited in some venues; carry local currency for markets, guesthouses, and small eateries. Some remote services may operate on a cash-only basis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Days are long with near-constant daylight; temperatures can reach the 10–20°C range but nights cool quickly. Mosquitoes can be bothersome, and infrastructure remains limited; bring layers and sun protection.
Extreme cold is the hallmark, with temperatures often dropping below -40°C (-40°F) and sometimes colder. Permafrost, snow, and ice define daily life; daylight is scarce, while the aurora can illuminate long nights.
Transitional weather with fluctuating temperatures and increasing winds. Road conditions can vary; plan for variable daylight and prepare for chilly, windy days and sudden snow.
Oymyakon at Night
Hiking in Oymyakon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Winter-friendly trail along the frozen river; offers scenic viewpoints of the surrounding taiga and permafrost terrain.
A more challenging hike with distant mountain views; suitable for experienced hikers with a guide in winter conditions.
Short, accessible loop through snow-covered boreal forest; ideal for a peaceful daylight excursion.
Airports
How to reach Oymyakon by plane.
A small, seasonal airstrip primarily used for charter flights and emergency services; accessibility depends on weather and season.
Major regional hub with connections to Moscow and other parts of Russia; serves as the main gateway for longer international and domestic flights; typically reachable via a multi-leg journey from Oymyakon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous people of the region with deep cultural roots, language, and traditional practices reflected in daily life.
A significant portion of residents and seasonal workers; communities blend Russian and Yakut influences.
Individuals involved in guiding, guesthouses, and service sectors who help support Arctic tourism and local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common winter activity that doubles as local recreation and sustenance practice; often done with family and guides.
Cross-country and backcountry routes through taiga landscapes are popular in winter.
Traditional method of transport and a cultural experience for visitors during the snowy months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oymyakon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited in Oymyakon. Expect more vegetable-forward dishes in guesthouse kitchens, but confirm availability in advance and be prepared to rely on grains, potatoes, and dairy.