Things To Do
in Susuman
Susuman is a remote mining town in Magadan Oblast, located in the far northeast of Russia. It sits in a rugged valley along the Susuman River, surrounded by taiga and nearby mountain ranges. The town features a practical, Soviet-era landscape with a tight-knit community and weather-beaten buildings.
Visitors should expect a pristine winter panorama, a quiet pace of life, and a chance to connect with local residents who have generations of mining history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a guided walking tour around Susuman, soaking in the unique architectural styles and local culture of this remote town. Engage with friendly locals and learn about their way of life in this Arctic region. Don't miss the photo opportunities of the stunning landscapes that surround you as the sun rises.
After lunch, visit the local museum to gain insight into the history of Susuman and its significance during the Soviet era. Explore the remnants of mining operations that dominated the economy, and see artifacts that tell the story of its people. Enjoy some free time at a cozy café, where you can savor traditional Siberian dishes and hot drinks.
As evening approaches, take a stroll along the banks of the Susuman River, where the golden hues of the sunset reflect on the water. You may encounter locals fishing or gathering for evening activities, offering a glimpse into daily life in this remote town. End your day with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional seafood dishes paired with a warm atmosphere.
Wake up early for a guided nature hike into the surrounding wilderness, where you can see the breathtaking tundra and possibly spot some local wildlife. The crisp morning air will invigorate you as you walk through the dramatic landscapes, with opportunities for photography. Listen as your guide shares fascinating information about the flora and fauna that inhabit this unique ecosystem.
Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by stunning views of mountains and valleys, before continuing your hike. In the afternoon, explore more remote areas that could include lakes or small waterfalls, enhancing your connection with the arctic landscape. The serenity of the wilderness makes it a perfect time for reflection or simply enjoying the tranquility.
Return to Susuman as twilight descends, where the skies put on a colorful display. Relax at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures while snacking on local treats. As night falls, consider gathering with fellow travelers around a fire if possible, sharing stories and laughter under the vast, starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $5-15 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (budget) | $40-90 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Remote, pristine natural landscapes
- Authentic Siberian culture and hospitality
- Low crowds and off-the-beaten-path experiences
- Rich history of mining and frontier life
- Limited amenities and dining options
- Harsh winters and unpredictable weather
- Language barriers for non-Russian speakers
- Long travel times to major hubs
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello / Good day
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
- "Где находится…?" - Where is…?
- "Говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Susuman
Visit one of these nice places.
High overlook of the river valley with mountains in the distance, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Abandoned shafts and tailings near the outskirts offer stark industrial imagery against taiga backdrops.
A row of wooden and concrete apartment blocks and utilitarian buildings that tell the town’s history.
Dense conifer forest with changing light filtering through the pines; great for moody landscape shots.
Open square with practical street life and snow or rain reflections on the pavement during winter.
Food in Susuman
Susuman Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Handmade dumplings filled with minced reindeer meat, typically served with sour cream or butter.
Must-Try!
Thinly sliced frozen meat (often reindeer or fish) served with onions and bread or crackers.
Grilled or smoked salmon/trout from local rivers, flavored with dill and lemon or simple butter.
Hearty cabbage soups, sometimes with potatoes and carrots, offered with bread and sour cream.
A staple grain dish served as a side or main, often featuring forest mushrooms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market stalls selling smoked fish, berries, root vegetables, and locally produced dairy and bread.
Seasonal street stalls offering simple hot dishes, pelmeni, and baked goods, especially in the colder months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a firm handshake and a polite 'Zdravstvuyte' (Hello). Use formal language with strangers.
Remove hats indoors in public buildings; modest dress is typical when visiting homes.
Avoid sensitive topics like politics in casual settings; small talk about weather, nature, and local work is common.
Be on time for meetings or appointments; locals value punctuality in business contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Susuman
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is satisfactory. Some places may include a service charge; check the bill.
Cash in rubles is widely accepted. Card payments are increasingly available in larger establishments, but many remote places still prefer cash or mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; mosquitoes can be abundant near water. Pack light layers, sunscreen, and insect repellent; trails are accessible and scenery is lush.
Crisp air and vivid foliage before snow. Shorter days; dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Harsh cold and heavy snowfall are common; plan for extreme low temperatures and limited daylight. Dress in multiple insulating layers, protect extremities, and be cautious on icy roads.
Meltwater and mud in the valleys; rivers swell and trails may be slippery. Clothing should be waterproof and flexible for changing conditions.
Susuman at Night
Hiking in Susuman
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested ridge with panoramic views of the valley and distant peaks; best in summer and shoulder seasons.
River canyon route offering dramatic rock walls and forest scenery; suitable for day hikes.
Rolling hills and tundra landscapes near the river, offering varied terrain and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Susuman by plane.
Small regional airport serving Susuman and nearby areas; flight availability is seasonal and limited.
Magadan's main airport with broader connections to Russia and some international routes.
A larger regional airport further afield, useful for broader travel itineraries when combining regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Russians with small numbers of Indigenous peoples and mining-related migrants.
Aging population in many parts of Magadan Oblast, with a strong sense of community among long-time residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in winter; local rinks host informal games and community leagues.
Common on forest trails and open fields during winter.
Seasonal activity in nearby rivers and streams; catch is often shared and enjoyed locally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Susuman.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited in this remote town. Plan ahead: rely on soups, buckwheat dishes, dumplings with vegetables, breads, grains, and dairy. When possible, request vegetable sides or mushroom dishes and carry light snacks.