Onekotan the island that in turn has another island

Explore the Mystical Island of Onekotan: The Island with Another Island Inside

Discover the awe-inspiring landscapes of Onekotan Island, a hidden gem in Russia’s Kuril Islands chain, featuring a volcano within a caldera surrounded by a picturesque lake and another island inside.

Located in the remote Kuril Islands chain between Japan and Russia, Onekotan Island is one of the world’s most intriguing natural wonders. Its unique topography includes a volcanic caldera that holds a lake, and in the middle of this lake sits another volcanic island—Krenitsyn Peak—creating a rare and awe-inspiring geological phenomenon. This volcanic island-in-an-island is a natural marvel that remains largely untouched by human development, offering adventurers a rare opportunity to explore a pristine and mystical landscape. Let’s dive into the breathtaking beauty, the natural history, and the allure of this remote island.

Geological Wonders: Onekotan’s Volcanic Origins

Onekotan Island is the result of millions of years of volcanic activity. The island itself is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its tectonic volatility and active volcanoes. At the heart of Onekotan lies the caldera of the ancient Tao-Rusyr volcano, which collapsed long ago, forming a massive depression that eventually filled with water, creating a large crater lake—Lake Koltsevoye.

In the middle of this lake stands Krenitsyn Peak, a smaller but active stratovolcano, rising dramatically from the water like a natural fortress. The cone of Krenitsyn Peak forms a perfect symmetrical island within the larger caldera, creating the stunning visual effect of an island within an island. This unique geological formation is not only a photographer’s dream but also a testament to the raw power of nature.

Volcanic activity on Onekotan is ongoing, with fumaroles and hot springs dotting the landscape, providing further evidence of the island’s dynamic nature. Visitors are often struck by the otherworldly beauty of this volcanic paradise, which looks like something from a science fiction novel.

The Remote Journey: How to Get to Onekotan Island

Visiting Onekotan is not for the casual traveler. Its remote location in the northern Pacific Ocean and its harsh, unpredictable weather make it one of the most difficult places to reach in the Kuril Islands. Onekotan is uninhabited and lacks any tourist infrastructure, so anyone wishing to explore this island must be well-prepared for a rugged adventure.

The journey typically starts from the Russian city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, where travelers can join guided expeditions to the Kuril Islands. From there, you’ll embark on a multi-day sea voyage by boat or yacht to reach Onekotan. The waters around the Kuril Islands can be treacherous, so it’s crucial to travel with experienced local guides who are familiar with the region’s conditions.

Alternatively, some adventurous travelers opt for helicopter tours that provide a bird’s-eye view of Onekotan’s incredible landscape. The helicopter ride offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, allowing you to see the full scale of the caldera and the island within the lake before landing for a closer exploration.

Hiking the Island: Exploring Onekotan’s Rugged Terrain

For those who make the trek, hiking on Onekotan is an unforgettable experience. The island is characterized by rugged volcanic terrain, sweeping tundra, and dramatic cliffs. Most visitors come for the chance to hike around Lake Koltsevoye and summit Krenitsyn Peak, both of which offer unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes.

The hike around the caldera is challenging, with no formal trails and unpredictable weather conditions. Hikers must be prepared to navigate through rocky paths, thick vegetation, and steep inclines. However, the reward is worth it: as you walk along the rim of the caldera, you’ll witness panoramic views of the lake and the island within it. The contrasting colors of the turquoise lake, the green tundra, and the volcanic rock create a mesmerizing landscape.

Summiting Krenitsyn Peak is an even more demanding adventure, requiring technical climbing skills and excellent physical fitness. The climb takes you up the slopes of an active volcano, offering breathtaking views of the caldera and the surrounding Pacific Ocean. Reaching the summit feels like standing at the edge of the world, with the rest of the planet stretching out below you.

Lake Koltsevoye: The Jewel of Onekotan

Lake Koltsevoye is one of Onekotan Island’s most defining features. Formed by the collapse of the Tao-Rusyr volcano’s caldera, the lake is nearly circular and perfectly frames Krenitsyn Peak. Its serene blue waters are in stark contrast to the rugged volcanic landscape that surrounds it, creating a peaceful yet dramatic environment.

While the lake’s surface appears calm, it’s important to remember that this is an active volcanic area. Fumaroles and geothermal activity can be found around the edges of the lake, creating pockets of bubbling hot springs. The lake’s shores are lined with lava rock formations, remnants of past eruptions that have shaped the island over millennia.

Onekotan’s lake is a favorite subject for photographers and nature lovers. At certain times of the day, the sunlight casts a golden hue over the lake and the surrounding mountains, creating a surreal and almost magical atmosphere. The reflection of Krenitsyn Peak in the lake’s still waters adds to the visual splendor, making Lake Koltsevoye one of the most photogenic spots in the world.

Wildlife and Flora: A Pristine Natural Habitat

Despite its volcanic landscape and remote location, Onekotan Island is home to a surprisingly diverse range of wildlife and flora. The island’s isolation has allowed nature to thrive relatively undisturbed, and visitors will encounter a variety of unique species.

The cold waters surrounding the island are rich in marine life, and it’s not uncommon to spot whales, dolphins, and seals during the sea voyage to Onekotan. On land, the island’s tundra is home to several species of birds, including seabirds that nest on the cliffs. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the abundance of puffins, auks, and gulls that can be seen soaring above the island.

The plant life on Onekotan is equally remarkable. Despite the harsh volcanic soil, the island’s tundra is dotted with hardy vegetation like mosses, lichens, and wildflowers. In the summer, the tundra bursts into bloom, adding splashes of color to the otherwise barren landscape. The flora on Onekotan is adapted to the island’s extreme conditions, with plants that thrive in the acidic, nutrient-poor soil created by the volcanic activity.

The Climate: What to Expect on Your Adventure

Onekotan’s climate is harsh and unpredictable, which adds to the sense of adventure when visiting this remote island. The island lies in a subarctic zone, meaning temperatures are generally cool throughout the year, with chilly winds coming off the Pacific Ocean. The best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is more favorable, and the snow has melted from the higher elevations.

Even in summer, however, the weather can change rapidly. Visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures, heavy fog, and sudden rain showers. Layered clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy hiking boots are essential for anyone planning to explore the island. The island’s remoteness means there are no facilities or shelters, so all provisions must be brought with you.

Despite these challenges, the island’s wild beauty is best experienced in these unpredictable conditions. The shifting weather often creates dramatic skies, with clouds swirling around Krenitsyn Peak and mist rising from the lake, adding to the island’s ethereal atmosphere.

Onekotan’s Volcanic Activity: Respecting Nature’s Power

As an active volcanic island, Onekotan is constantly changing, and visitors must always be aware of the potential risks associated with this dynamic environment. The island’s volcanoes, particularly Krenitsyn Peak, have erupted in the past, and geothermal activity continues beneath the surface.

Although eruptions are rare, fumaroles and hot springs around the island are constant reminders of the island’s volcanic origins. Visitors should avoid approaching active geothermal areas too closely and should always travel with experienced guides who can monitor volcanic activity and ensure safety.

The power of nature is on full display on Onekotan, and while it’s a place of immense beauty, it’s also a reminder of the unpredictable forces that shape our planet.

Why Onekotan Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

Onekotan Island is one of the most extraordinary and least-visited places on Earth. Its unique geography—a volcanic island within a caldera lake on a larger island—makes it a destination that appeals to those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. This is not your typical tropical island paradise, but rather a remote and rugged landscape where nature’s raw power and beauty are on full display.

For experienced hikers, photographers, and lovers of wild, untouched landscapes, Onekotan offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Its remoteness, combined with the sense of isolation and the incredible natural formations, makes visiting Onekotan feel like stepping into another world.

Conclusion

Onekotan Island, with its breathtaking combination of caldera, lake, and volcano, is a true natural wonder that few have had the opportunity to explore. Its unique beauty, remote location, and challenging conditions make it a bucket-list destination for adventurers, hikers, and photographers alike. For those willing to make the journey, Onekotan offers an unforgettable glimpse into the raw power of the Earth, where volcanic forces continue to shape one of the planet’s most stunning landscapes.