Taz, Siberian river in Krasnoyarsk Krai and Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Russia
The Taz River flows through western Siberia for about 1,400 kilometers, moving northwest from its source until it reaches the Gulf of Ob. The waterway connects several neighboring river systems and shapes the sparsely settled landscape between forest and tundra regions.
The river played a role in early Russian expansion into Siberia, particularly with the founding of Mangazeya in the 16th century, an important trading center in the region. This trading outpost was later abandoned but shaped the colonial history of the north.
The river flows through lands where indigenous communities continue their traditional hunting and gathering practices today, relying on the water for daily activities.
The river basin is difficult to access and ranks among Russia's most remote regions, with harsh climate and lengthy winter months. Visitors should prepare for basic conditions and limited infrastructure when exploring the area.
The river system's drainage basin spans several hundred thousand square kilometers with numerous lakes and tributaries forming a complex hydrological network. This hidden water abundance makes the region an overlooked geographic feature of northern Siberia.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.