7 places in Russia where you can encounter BEARS! (PHOTOS)

1. South Kamchatka Nature Reserve, Kamchatka Krai

The world’s highest density of bears is found in southern Kamchatka, near Kurile Lake. This is especially noticeable during the salmon spawning season – dozens and even hundreds of brown bears gather there to feast on fresh fish. Tourists can also witness this spectacle: such excursions are offered in Kamchatka. While the bears are busy with their meal, they pay no attention to people, though it's still not advisable to wander too conspicuously in front of them!

2. Kronotsky Nature Reserve, Kamchatka Krai

Another favorite habitat of brown bears is the Kronotsky Reserve in Kamchatka. Around 700 bears live there, all under state protection. With plenty of fish and berries available, the bears don't particularly bother people. The reserve is famous not only for its bears, but also for the ‘Valley of Geysers’ – one of Russia's natural wonders.

3. Koni Peninsula, Magadan Oblast

There are many wild forests in Magadan Oblast inhabited by brown bears. But, according to experts’ estimates, the highest concentration is on the Koni Peninsula, which is part of the Magadan State Nature Reserve. This is a rugged, rocky terrain where no people live, except for reserve staff and tourists. In the summer, during the pink salmon spawning season, bears gather along the rivers and show off their impressive catches.

4. Wrangel Island, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug

This remote island in the Arctic Ocean is often referred to as the “birthplace” of polar bears. Every year, hundreds of cubs are born there. Scientists regularly conduct aerial monitoring and surveying and discover numerous birthing dens. Polar bears build dens only for giving birth, so they carefully choose safe shelters, where no one will disturb them until spring.

5. ‘Bear Islands’ Nature Reserve, Yakutia

Another favorite spot for polar bears is the Arctic archipelago of six small islands in the East Siberian Sea. The name speaks for itself: these islands are home to birthing dens, roughly one for every two square kilometers. These locations are very secluded – the nearest settlement is more than 100 kilometers away by water.

6. ‘Udege Legend’ National Park, Primorsky Krai

This national park in the Russian Far East is home to both brown bears and Himalayan black bears. In 2026, a pilot project was launched there to count Himalayan black bears using their unique white chest markings. Camera traps help detect the animals.

7. Bolshekhekhtsirsky Nature Reserve, Khabarovsk Krai

Both Himalayan and brown bears can also be found in this reserve. Remarkably, it’s located just 20 km from Khabarovsk. Bears sometimes venture out into rural farmlands to eat honey and fresh berries. As with the other locations, visiting this reserve should only be done with experienced guides and in a group to avoid any unpleasant encounters or situations!