Малый Янискенгас, Waterfall in Kandalaksha District, Murmansk Oblast, Russia.
Maly Yaniskengas is a waterfall on the Kutsayoki River that cascades down in multiple drops, reaching a total height of roughly 20 meters. The water descends through three distinct falls of varying heights before continuing downstream.
This waterfall gained attention in the extreme water sports world when professional kayakers successfully descended it multiple times. These accomplished runs established its reputation among adventure paddlers.
Local people call this waterfall "Mamanya," a name that reflects how communities personify natural features in everyday speech. This familiar way of naming shows how deeply the landscape is woven into regional identity and daily conversation.
Getting there involves traveling 30 kilometers on forest roads from Alakurtti, then hiking 6 kilometers through unmarked terrain without trail markers. You will need navigation skills and physical fitness to complete the final approach.
This waterfall creates an unusual acoustic experience where visitors approaching from upstream hear almost no sound despite the large volume of water dropping. The sudden roar only becomes apparent when you reach the falls themselves.
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