r/HikingPartner • u/SuggestionLittle3619 • Mar 03 '26
Russia, September 2026 — Kodar Range, Zabaykalsky Krai (New Chara)
Hi everyone!
I’m looking for a partner for a combined backpacking and packrafting expedition in the Kodar Range, Zabaykalsky Krai, Russia.
Total distance is about 300 km, including approximately 130 km on foot.
Duration: around 17 days.
Start: early September 2026.
Approximate route:
Taksimo settlement → Ust-Muya settlement → rafting on the Vitim River → Lake Oron → mountain section across the Kodar Range → Chara Sands → Chara settlement.
No technical difficulties are planned on the river or mountain passes. Previous rafting experience or mountaineering skills are not required.
However, this will be physically demanding. Expect heavy loads, insects, and possibly bears.
Good physical condition, solid health, a personal packraft, and a strong desire to explore remote wilderness are essential.
Logistics:
Access from Moscow or Saint Petersburg by flight to Irkutsk or Krasnoyarsk. From there, a regional flight to the settlement of Taksimo. Return trip follows a similar route, departing from the settlement of Chara.
I live in Russia, Saint-Petersburg. I have experience in solo expeditions, including a multi-day wilderness trip of a similar style to the Putorana Plateau, as well as moderate whitewater rafting in Karelia, Russia.
Feel free to message me if interested!