This chain of volcanic islands is famous for its beauty and unspoiled nature… It is very hard to get the information how to get there. I came without complete knowledge. Now let you know more: Yuzho-Sakhalinsk and little port of Korsakov are the gateways. You need a special permit to go to the Kurils. Friendly “Intur-Sakhalin” (former Intourist) will help you to obtain the paper. Contact Ludmila Ivanova intourist-sakhalin(at)isle.ru ph.420278 -Russian only or Marina (same phone) who speaks basic English. They need 5-6 days to complete the procedure. The cost of the permit is eqiuiv. of 20 USD in Roubles.
Transport: there are erratic flights only to Kunashir Island, often cancelled due to the foggy wheather. The only passenger boat “Igor Forkhudinov” sails weekly visiting 3 island one by one (Iturup, Sikhotan,Kunashir) before returning to Korsakov and make same route in the opposite direction. One way fare is 3500 roubles, due to the big demand book well in advance!.
The ship start sailings in April/early May – it depends of ice situation. I come this year too early – they to not operate yet -the first sailing will be at the end of April…
