Sarychev Peak

Sarychev Peak is an active stratovolcano located on Matua Island in the Kuril Islands chain in Russia's Far East. The mountain forms a distinctive cone shape with steep andesite slopes that rise more than 1400 meters above sea level.

The volcano was named in 1792 after Russian Naval Admiral Gavril Sarychev, who explored the region during maritime expeditions. The area became significant in territorial disputes between Russia and Japan throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.

Scientists and researchers from different nations gather at this location to study volcanic behavior and its effects on regional climate patterns.

This location is extremely remote and requires special permits from Russian authorities plus organized transportation to reach it. The harsh conditions and unpredictable weather make visiting physically demanding and require thorough preparation beforehand.

The 2009 eruption was so powerful that ash clouds disrupted air traffic between Asia and North America, forcing many flights to change routes. This event demonstrated how volcanic activity on this remote island can have global consequences.

Location: Severo-Kurilsky District

Elevation above the sea: 1,446 m

Made from material: andesite

Part of: Kuril Islands

GPS coordinates: 48.09056,153.20139

Latest update: December 20, 2025 12:41