kitty hawk kites bioluminescence tour

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Kitty Hawk Kites’ Kayak Tours

To see a totally different side of the Outer Banks, slip back into the marsh creeks and coves on a kayak. Kitty Hawk Kites offers kayak tours leaving from several locations, including the Manteo waterfront, Kitty Hawk, Alligator River, Pea Island, Bodie Island, Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Corolla. Guides point out features of the area ecology and wildlife and talk about the history of the Outer Banks. Some of the most unique to paddle locations include the Alligator River Wildlife Refuge, Kitty Hawk Maritime forest, Bodie Island Wildlife Refuge, and nighttime bioluminescence tours. You must make advance reservations for guided kayak tours. Tandem and single kayaks, and stand up paddleboards are available for rent, with hourly, daily and weekly rates available.

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Bob's Wild Horse Tours

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have been offering tours since 1996, and they have a reputation for being both entertaining and informative. Bob’s tours last two hours and incorporate quite a bit of local history and interesting lore to complement the sightseeing. In the four-wheel-drive area, you’ll see the horses grazing in their natural habitat, often along with the sight of dolphins in the ocean. All tours are given in safari-style, open-air vehicles for a one-of-a-kind experience, and they can accommodate large groups of as many as 15 people. Call for details and reservations. 

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have been offering tours since 1996, and they have a reputation for being both entertaining and informative. Bob’s tours last two hours and incorporate quite a bit of local history and interesting lore to complement the sightseeing. In the four-wheel-drive area, you’ll see the horses grazing in their natural habitat, often along with ... read more

Bob White is a legend in the horse-tour business. He and his highly trained staff have ... read more

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Outer Banks Kayak Tours

Kitty hawk maritime forest kayak tour.

The Kitty Hawk Woods Maritime Forest Kayak Tour is hands down one of the best family ecotours experiences to be had on the islands of the OBX. A beginner friendly environment explores a calm, glassy creek that meanders through the natural glory of one of North Carolina’s largest tract of deciduous maritime forest habitat.

LOCATION:   6150 North Croatan HWY , Kitty Hawk, NC 27949

Alligator River Kayak Tour

They don’t call it the Alligator River Kayak Tour for nothin’!

Perhaps the Crown Jewel of our kayak tours quiver, the Alligator River Kayak Tour on the Outer Banks rarely disappoints!!! Home to the OBX’s most robust gator population, sightings are frequent on this tour. But don’t fear, despite conventional wisdom to the contrary, gators are shy and elusive creatures and are not aggressive. This is one of our most exciting and beautiful kayak tours; it is also our longest tour at 2.5 hours. A true Outer Banks treasure kayaking in Milltail Creek, home to an old logging and whiskey distilling community during Prohibition amidst the spectacular natural beauty of the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Who knew the OBX had black bear, endangered red wolves? Also see your staple water fowl of snowy egrets, great blue herons, and the once endangered red wolf all call this area home, so come check ’em out and paddle the refuge with us.

The Alligator River Kayak Tour on the Outer Banks will definitely quench your OBX kayak tour thirst, and is a must do on any self-respecting kayakers To-Do list for Outer Banks Kayak tours. Let the Kitty Hawk Kayak & Surf School deliver this incredible OBX kayaking experience today.

Directions to the Alligator River Kayak Tour

We will meet at the Buffalo City Boat Launch off of Buffalo City Road and 64 West. Look for a big, brown sign that says Buffalo City Road and follow the dirt road to the boat launch. Please park in the designated parking areas.

LOCATION:  Buffalo City Road off of HWY 64 West, East Lake NC 

Cape Hatteras National Seashore Kayak Tour

Come and experience this rare Salt Marsh Ecosystem on our Cape Hatteras National Seashore Kayak Tour.

Another recent addition to the Kitty Hawk Kayak & Surf School ecotour quiver, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Kayak Tour is a must do on Hatteras Island. On this kayak tour, we frequently spot ospreys, pelicans, herons, egrets, ibis, terns, rails, skimmers, wrens, and warbles just to name a few. We will tour the salt marsh canals and flatwaters of the Pamlico Sound. This tour location also packs a punch with its unreal sunsets!!!! This prime kayak tour ecosystem is centrally located South of Salvo in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. This location is ideal for folks staying on Hatteras Island in Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon Buxton, Frisco or Hatteras Village. Kayaking in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a must do for visitors to Hatteras Island so let Kitty Hawk Kayak & Surf School show you the beautiful, pristine estuarine environments on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Kayak Tour. This is a killer place for beginner and experienced kayakers alike. Meet at the Salvo Day Use Area south of Tri-Villages Rodanthe, Waves Salvo on Route 12.

LOCATION:  HWY 12 South, Just South of  Rodanthe, NC 27968 

Duck Kayak Tour

The Duck Kayak Tour explores the salt marshes and open sound environments of the Currituck Sound of the Northern Outer Banks.

Come check out our Duck Kayak Tour on the border of Duck and Corolla on the Currituck Sound of the Northern Outer Banks: the Duck Currituck Sound Kayak Tour. We launch at the newly renovated Sanderling Resort & Spa and paddle around the salt marsh islands and flatwaters salt of the Currituck Sound. Check out salt marshes, small islands while spotting shore birds, eagles and other local wildlife.

This kayak tour is centrally located to southern Corolla, Duck Village and Southern Shores and is a great access to the Currituck Sound .

Meet at the Sanderling Resort & Spa  1461 Duck Rd, Duck, NC 27949

LOCATION: 1461 Duck Rd, Duck, NC 27949

Roanoke Island Kayak Tour

Learn about the rich history on Roanoke Island while kayaking its protected canals and waterways on our Roanoke Island Kayak Tour.

The Roanoke Island Kayak Tour environment bore witness to the first English settlement in the New World. Downtown Manteo is a great kayaking environment located between the Outer Banks and the mainland and also provides an ideal activity to begin your exploration of the Outer Banks and Roanoke Island. The Roanoke Island Kayak Tour is offered daily. Paddle down narrow salt marsh canals, explore the Roanoke Sound and return back to historic downtown Manteo. Maybe even grab lunch, check out the Lost Colony Outdoor Drama or a beer after the tour at one of the nearby pubs or restaurants.

Meet at the Kitty Hawk Kites Location in Downton Manteo:    307 Queen Elizabeth Ave, Manteo, NC 27954

Location:   307 Queen Elizabeth Ave, Manteo, NC 27954

Corolla Kayak Tour

Come check out the most beautiful place to paddle in the Northern Outer Banks, our Corolla Kayak Tour on the Currituck Sound.

Kayaking around the sheltered islands, bays and canals of the Currituck Sound on the Outer Banks is a real treat!!! This Corolla Kayak Tour is one of the few places where you can leave the hustle and bustle of the summer madness and really unwind with your family on Outer Banks. Launch from Timbuck II shopping center and cruise around at a leisurely pace. See snowy egrets, great blue herons, and the occasional river otter. A great place to watch the sunset as well or check out the full moon at night.

Join us for a Corolla Outer Banks Kayak Tour to get your OBX kayaking fix this summer. You may have seen  Corolla by land but try a new water angle with our ecotours to get a whole new appreciation of the Northern OBX and Corolla Village!!!

Location:  Tim buck II Shopping Center, HWY 12 North, Corolla, NC  27927

Kitty Hawk Bay Kayak Tour

Come and experience the Kitty Hawk Bay Kayak Tour.

The Kitty Hawk Bay Kayak Tour is a must see on the Outer Banks.  On this kayaking tour, we frequently spot ospreys, pelicans, herons, egrets, ibis, terns, rails, skimmers, wrens, and warbles just to name a few. We will tour the salt marsh canals and flatwaters of the Kitty Hawk Woods Maritime Forest Preserve as it dumps into Kitty Hawk Bay. This tour location also packs a punch with its unreal sunsets and is great for beginner paddles!!!! When the conditions are right on Kitty Hawk Bay, we can paddle in a more open water environment and get great views of the Albemarle Sound. Not a high volume tour, but a hidden gem for out tour areas; a veritable Dark Horse!

This Kayak Tour Meets at the Bob Perry Boat Launch on Bob Perry Road in Kitty Hawk

Location: Bob Perry RD, Public Boat Launch, Kitty Hawk, NC   27949

Bodie Island Kayak Tour

Come and experience the Bodie Island Kayak Tour behind the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. 

The Bodie Island Kayak Tour is a must see on the Outer Banks. Located in Nags Head, we frequently spot ospreys, pelicans, herons, egrets, ibis, terns, rails, skimmers, wrens, and warbles just to name a few. We will tour the salt marsh canals and flatwaters of the Roanoke Sound. This tour location also packs a punch with its unreal sunsets and night paddles!!!!

This prime kayak tour ecosystem is located on the causeway heading towards Manteo on Route 158 on the south side of the highway.

7517 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959

Location:  7517 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC    27959

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Central Beaches Kayak Tours

Kitty hawk bay tour.

Come and discover what often goes unseen on the Outer Banks. Kitty Hawk Bay provides an excellent venue for some of nature’s most inspiring moments. Within sight of the Wright Brother’s Memorial, this area is very much as it has always been. Listen and learn as our guides unfold the secrets of these marsh waters and the creatures which call them home. Follow our lead as we paddle along the creeks and ponds of Kitty Hawk’s best brackish water marsh. Sunset tours are available, so book today.

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Safari River Maritime Forest Kayak Tour

Experience another world as you kayak through this amber creek under a canopy of Live oaks and Red Maples. While kayaking, let our guide teach you about maritime forests. Wildlife such as turtles and snakes are very common in this area, as well as birds such as herons, egrets, woodpeckers, kingfishers, and ducks. This kayak tour is great even on windy days, due to the shelter provided by the tall trees of the forest.

Bodie Island Kayak Tour

Wind your way with us through the northernmost marshes of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore’s, America’s first National Seashore. Look, listen, and learn as our guides unlock the wonders of these estuarine ecosystems and the abundant wildlife which calls them home. We will guide you through a maze of canals and creeks as you enjoy the slow passing of nature’s beauty here on the Outer Banks.

Alligator River Kayak Tour

Take a step back in time as we paddle through the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest and most pristine Wildlife Refuges on the East Coast. Discover the history of Buffalo City’s logging community and the story behind on of prohibition’s most famous “moonshine capitals”. We will wind our way through open creeks and narrow canals as we explore the swirling red waters and ‘living fossils’ of this cypress swamp.

Bioluminescence Night Kayak Tour

Come and see the beauty of the marsh after dark as we paddle through the night on a search for bioluminescence. Watch as fireflies from the deep create light and glow when disturbed. Although not great for bioluminescence, the full moon provides the perfect light for a paddle in the night. This is a tour not to be missed and one you won’t soon forget.

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Prepare for the Unexpected: Kitty Hawk Kites Adventures

The word “adventure” holds different meanings for different people. Individuals that we are, what constitutes an exciting activity can range from the sight of dolphins playfully racing alongside your boat to an adrenaline junkie’s moment of truth kite boarding on air.

Kitty Hawk Kites provides a broad spectrum of adventure activities unmatched on the Eastern Seaboard. Is your idea of excitement a leisurely paddle in a kayak or perhaps the incredible rush of lifting off the water like a super hero strapped in a JetPak? Maybe it’s a breathtaking ride on the wind, harnessed beneath the wings of a glider.  

The reservations team at Kitty Hawk Kites has seen and done it all. One of the finer perks of working for this company is the opportunity to try every adventure they offer. (In fact, it’s encouraged, evident in the modest raises earned for doing so.)  Work is play at this outfit, but it also means the reservations team is uniquely equipped to offer advice based upon first-hand experience.  

Knowing what to expect is helpful to be sure, but what about the unexpected? We were curious to know about such moments, and the stories were a thrill to say the least.  

Horse Tour Adventure Jennifer Marshall loves her job.  She takes groups on the Wild Horse Tour, a four-wheeling drive on the beach north of Corolla. “It’s all magical,” she said, recalling a day they saw more than 100 horses on the beach, stallions running harem after harem along the whole 12 mile stretch of beach. “This was special; generally the horses stay together in little herds,” Jenifer said. But this was like a parade on the beach, and the mares were the star attraction. 

Hang Gliding Adventure Around here, the sport of hang gliding is almost synonymous with Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head, the location of the largest hang gliding school in the world.  It would be no surprise that the store, located across the street from the park, has the very latest in techy hang gliding gear. In comparison to that high tech, it might be surprising that the company would take you on a giant step back in time and offer flights on a museum quality replica of the Wright brothers’ 1902 glider. Not everyone realizes that the famous brothers were very experienced glider pilots, having made hundreds of successful flights from the dunes here before they actually put an engine on it the following year, accomplishing the first heavier-than-air powered flight in the world. 

But let’s get back down to earth and to the water…and to an adventure that went glow in the dark of night. 

Bioluminescence Kayak Adventure It was a warm summer evening as Sandra Allen, Chief Financial Officer at Kitty Hawk Kites, was about to embark on a Bioluminescence Kayak Tour and 17 of her favorite kids, all members of her church’s youth group. As they were getting settled into the kayaks, one of the girls cried out: There was something alive in her boat! 

“Most of us were convinced she must have been mistaken and maybe just a little nervous about going out in the dark,” Sandra said. But with the comforting presence of Operations’ Vice President, Sandra “SE” Schawang, who was also on the tour, the girl acquiesced and joined the group, although she and her boat mate sat themselves above their seats with feet dangling over the sides, clearly not wanting another encounter with whatever “it” might be lurking below.

“The stars were beautiful,” Sandra recalled, “and the moon was late rising, so we had much darkness to enjoy the little marine creatures that really did glow in the water when we disturbed them. 

“We paddled and paddled to get to the best spot to see the bioluminescence. It was worth it. Hard to describe, but beautiful to see, these little marine creatures glow in the water. You can wave your hand underwater and watch little sparkling glowing glittery spots scatter around. Drag your paddle and the water all around it glows brightly, and the glow spreads out with your paddle’s wake.” 

Imagine that scene in your head: All quiet and peaceful, floating through a watery galaxy. But that sense of peace morphed into panic when all of a sudden shrimp started jumping into Sandra’s boat! In a flash she realized that the girl who had screamed back at the dock really did have something alive and slippery in her kayak...but it wasn’t a girl-eating creepy crawlie! All smiles and laughing now, they paddled back to the dock, and the moon rose, lighting the way.  

The widely varied adventure stories printed here are true and personal to each contributor in this article. More than 100,000 hang gliding flights have been made from Jockey’s Ridge. Horses have been roaming free on our beaches for centuries, and the miracle of bioluminescence, as old as time, still gives a sense of wonder to those who experience it. Yet, for each of us, our adventure story is uniquely ours. Maybe yours will be a beach yoga session, standup paddleboarding, surf lessons or a sunset sail. There are plenty of adventures — and stories to tell about them — at Kitty Hawk Kites.

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Hang Gliding | Kiteboarding | Parasailing | Kayak Tours | Aero Adventures

Standup Paddleboarding | Dolphin Tours | 1902 Wright Glider Experience

Jet Ski Rentals & Tours | Surf Lessons | Sailing Cruises | Wild Horse Tours

Outer Banks Segway Tours | Wakeboarding, Water-Skiing & Tubing

Paragliding | JetPak Adventure | The Lost Colony | Fishing Tours | Sightseeing Tours

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KITTY HAWK MARITIME FOREST & MARSH TOUR

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 Hours
• User Ages: All Ages

TRY OUR POPULAR KITTY HAWK KAYAK TOUR

Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest is an ideal Outer Banks kayak tour for young children and beginner paddlers. We paddle at a very relaxed pace. The trees surrounding the canal provide excellent protection from the elements, even on windy days, as well as shade from the heat from the summer sun.

We explore the Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest by way of Ginguite Creek. A rare and endangered habitat, the forest is home to abundant wildlife and intriguing native plants. On this lengthy yet delightful Kitty Hawk kayak tour, you might spot an egret standing along the shore or a river otter swimming across the creek. Geese, Osprey, Kingfishers, and majestic Bald Eagles are often spotted flying just above our watercraft. We usually see turtles sunning on logs as we paddle through the loblolly pine, live oak, and wax myrtle woods. This paddling tour is perfect for anyone who enjoys being surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Here at Outer Banks Kayak Adventures, we want to provide our customers with the best kayaking experience on the OBX. We use American-made Perception Kayaks, which are incredibly versatile, making them the top choice for beginner and intermediate movability. If you are new to kayaking and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), fear not! Before each of our tours, Outer Banks Kayak Adventures provides a paddle lesson on land, ensuring that you and your group have the experience they need before paddling.

There are NO shoe or clothing requirements. Along with kayaks, Outer Banks Kayak Adventures provides paddles and life jackets. For people with limited mobility, we use sit-on-top-style hybrid kayaks, making it easier for you to get in and out. SUPs are available for anyone looking for a more advanced tour.

Which Kayak is Right for You and Your Group?

• We recommend children 12 and under paddle in a tandem (double) kayak with an adult, but it’s not a requirement.
• If your child is ages 10-12 years old and you’re super confident in their kayaking ability, you can request that your child paddle a single kayak (please do so only if you’re certain your child can paddle the entire trip).  Only put a child in a single kayak, If you are confident they can paddle for 1 1/2 – 2 hours by themselves.
• Unless requested otherwise, all children ages 12 and under will be placed in a tandem (double) kayak with an adult.

What to Bring

• Plenty of water and a snack if you’d like
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and/or a hat
• A towel for after the tour (you’ll want to leave it in your car)
• Shoes and clothing you don’t mind getting wet
• You may also want to consider insect repellent, a rain jacket if it might rain, and a dry bag
• Chevron down Driving Directions

The meeting place for the Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak & SUP tour is located at 4190 Bob Perry Rd, Kitty Hawk, NC. You’ll be making a right turn into the parking area and you’ll see a sign for the Kitty Hawk Recycling Center & Boat Ramp. This is the same parking lot you’re going to. You should plan to arrive 15 minutes early for your Outer Banks Kayak Adventures tour.

• Chevron down Additional Information & Requirements

There are NO shoe or clothing requirements. Along with kayaks, Outer Banks Kayak Adventures provides the paddles and life jackets. We offer single and tandem (double) kayaks and we use sit-on-top-style hybrid kayaks, making it easy for you to get in and out. Please be sure to select the number of tandem (double) kayaks you’d like for your tour when making the online reservation.

• Chevron down Cancellation Policy

The Fine Print:  All cancellations must be at least 48 hours before your scheduled tour for a refund. We paddle in the rain and the wind but not during thunderstorms. If we must cancel due to inclement weather, we will reschedule your tour or issue a refund. If you choose to reschedule and you don’t attend the tour for any reason without giving us notice before 48 hours of your tour, you will not receive a refund. You are expected to arrive at the correct tour location 15 minutes before the tour’s start time (we will send location details in your confirmation email). Late arrivals and no-shows will not be issued a refund.  If you choose to cancel for any reason within 48 hours, there is no refund.

RELATED TOURS & RENTALS

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• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Tour

This is our maximum adventure tour! Explore this unusual habitat and learn about its exotic wildlife. Alligators call this refuge home along with black bears and endangered red wolves.

• Hour Glass 1.5 Hours

Bioluminescence & Full Moon Night Kayak Tour

Our nighttime kayak tours give you the perfect opportunity to experience an Outer Banks full moon or bioluminescence in the water.

Hatteras Island Kayak Tours

Book online, pick a date range that best matches your visit.

Select a start AND end date. Select the same date twice to choose only one day

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Call 1-877-359-8447 to Reserve over the phone.

• Adults - $59
• Child (5-12 yrs old) - $40

Location(s)

Salvo day use area, rodanthe, nc, hatteras, nc.

Kayak along the peaceful salt marshes of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. With the mainland just out sight over the horizon, this is one of the few places on the east coast to kayak and watch the sun set right over the water.

Hatteras Island offers paddlers miles of untouched coastal marshland. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge and many other areas along the Pamlico Sound offer incredible access to unparalleled bird life and other wild life that seek refuge in the salt marshes. Try a sunset paddle to see dip into the vast expanse of the Pamlico sound…it will be an experience that you won’t forget.

Unfortunately our Tours in Avon and Pea Island have been shut down for various reasons this year, including construction on the new bridges by NC D.O.T, but we’re introducing a NEW TOUR just south of Salvo.

Introducing the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Kayak Tour!

Book a Cape Hatteras National Seashore Kayak Tour

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Thursday, April 25, 2024

April 25: New temporary beacon for Cape Hatteras Lighthouse/SBI still probing shooting of woman by Dare Deputy/Room in the Inn fundraiser nets $35K.

Oregon Inlet Fishing Center gets major facelift

SBI still investigating March shooting by Dare Deputy

No injuries in Kill Devil Hills structure fire

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February 2024 occupancy revenue drops from previous year 

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Kitty Hawk Kites celebrates 50 years of teaching the world to fly

By Submitted Story on April 23, 2024

The original garage shop of Kitty Hawk Kites in 1974.

Kitty Hawk Kites, a premier adventure and retail company based in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, proudly announces its anniversary, marking 50 years of outdoor adventures, community engagement, and unparalleled service excellence.

John Harris, CEO, founded Kitty Hawk Kites in 1974 after discovering the sport of hang gliding, and ultimately deciding to share it with the world. John Harris began teaching hang gliding lessons, making glider repairs and selling t-shirts and gear out of an old garage shop across the street from Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Over the past five decades, the company has grown into a beloved retail and outdoor recreation spot with more than 28 store locations up and down the east coast and more than 25 Outer Banks based adventures.

“It’s been an honor that we’ve been able to continue to teach people to fly and glide, as well as help families create memories throughout the years as we’ve grown.” Harris said, noting that the success of the company is owed to the place and the people who have upheld it. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without the support of dedicated staff, enthusiastic customers and the vibrant community of the Outer Banks.”

In honor of its 50th anniversary, Kitty Hawk Kites has planned a series of special events and promotions throughout the year, including:

• A season of events in recognition of 50 years of Kitty Hawk Kites including: KHK Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular- May 16 through 19.
• Rogallo Kite Festival- June 14th through 15 th
• Wright Memorial Kite Festival- July 19th through 20 th
• Outer Banks Kite Festival- September 13th-14 th
• Kites with Lights- November 30th

“We’re really excited to celebrate this milestone with the community” said James Kahle, Marketing Director of Kitty Hawk Kites. “Our 50th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past achievements but also a testament to our ongoing commitment to providing uplifting experiences for generations to come.”

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Moscow: City Sightseeing by Car/Bus

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Visiting a new city is akin to going on a first date, it is something you will never forget. Many people imagine Moscow as just a bunch of sporadic landmarks: Red Square, the Kremlin, Lenin’s Mausoleum and GUM. There is so much more to this wonderful city than that and even though we only have a few hours, we will do all we can to show you everything we know and love about our capital in one fell swoop. We will take you on a journey through the ages, from centuries ago, right up to the modern day, soaking in the sights of this vast and bustling metropolis. Bright, luxurious and both ancient and modern at the same time, Moscow invites you on a date you’ll never forget!

On our sightseeing bus tour of the city, you will see:

• The wonderfully historic city centre and its unique museums, magnificent cathedrals, the exquisite Chambers of the Romanov Boyars and of course, the famous towering red brick walls of the Kremlin, The charming beauty of the Alexander Garden awaits the capital's guests - a lush green oasis in the midst of the glass and concrete clad metropolis, basking in the etherial aura emanating from the whitewashed stone walls of the restored Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the world- renowned fairytale onion domes of St. Basil's Cathedral and other impressive monumental buildings such as the library built in Lenin's honour - the Russian State Library - and the State Duma.
• The Lubyanka KGB headquarters is notorious to members of older generations and although nowadays, the face of the secret police has changed dramatically, the looming enigmatic building on the waterfront maintains its aura of mystery, shrouded in a variety of murky rumours and dark myths. Then, there’s another of Moscow's main attractions - the marvellous Bolshoi Theatre, yew simply cant leave Moscow without taking in its breathtaking architecture. Engrained in the fabric of Russia's cultural heritage, virtuoso performers such as prima ballerina Galina Ulanova, opera singer Feodor Chaliapin and pianist, composer and conductor Sergei Rachmaninoff once stood centre stage of this vaunted institution.
• The memorial complex on Poklonnaya Hill was constructed in the glory and honour of our heroes who defended our nation in the many crucial battles of the Great Patriotic War (WWII). This is a place that embodies a particularly acute and inextricable link between older ancf younger generations. Moving on to the Moscow International Business Centre, not dubbed ‘Moscow City' for nothing, a true glimpse of the future in the present. This incredible, rather jaw-dropping project in the capital has shown that Moscow has come to accept the age of the skyscraper. Finally, the stunning views from the observation deck at Sparrow Hills will leave professional and amateur photographers alike itching to capture them. How could one resist?

The most beautiful of all the world's cities - lady Moscow invites you out on a date!

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Meeting point We'll pick you up at your hotel

St. Basil's Cathedral

House on the Embankment

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Vorobyovy Hills

Poklonnaya Hill Poklonnaya Gora

Moscow-City

Alexander garden

Russian State Library

Bolshoi Theatre

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• Excursion Moscow: City Sightseeing by Car/Bus
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City Street Guides by f.d. walker: A Street Photography Guide to Moscow, Russia

*A series of guides on shooting Street Photography in cities around the world. Find the best spots to shoot, things to capture, street walks, street tips, safety concerns, and more for cities around the world. I have personally researched, explored and shot Street Photography in every city that I create a guide for. So you can be ready to capture the streets as soon as you step outside with your camera!

At over 12 million people, Moscow is the largest city in Russia and second largest in Europe by population ( Istanbul is #1). An urban, cosmopolitan metropolis with more than enough glitz and glam to cater to the elite, but without losing its fair share of Soviet era roughness around the edges. It can be fast paced, brash, busy, and trendy like other big cities, but it has its blend of West meets Russia atmosphere and beauty that provides plenty of unique interest. The Red Square is as famous as it gets, but there’s so much more to this city, including the most beautiful subway system you’ve ever seen. It would take years to capture all of Moscow, but that means you have an endless amount of areas to discover.

So here’s a Street Photography guide so you can be ready to capture all that Moscow has to offer before you even arrive!

• Patriarch’s Pond
• Old Arbat Street
• Maroseyka Street
• Tverskoy Boulevard

Top 5 Street Spots:

1. red square.

The Red Square is the most famous square in not just Russia, but all of Eastern Europe. The name actually doesn’t come from the color of the bricks or communism, but from the name in Russian, Krásnaya, once meaning “beautiful” before its meaning changed to “red.” This large plaza is what you see on the cover of guide books and magazines for Moscow, with St. Basil’s Cathedral being the center piece next to Lenin’s Mausoleum surrounded by the Kremlin Wall. Of course, the Red Square attracts hordes of tourist due to the main attractions, but all that activity around an interesting atmosphere does provide street photo opportunities. It’s also the central square connecting to the city’s major streets, providing a good starting point to explore outward.

You’ll also find the popular pedestrian only Nikolskaya Street connecting the Red Square to Lubyanka Square. This line of expensive shops includes plenty of activity, while also leading you to another popular square. Filled with history rivaling any city, the Red Square and surrounding areas are the heart and soul of Russia.

2. Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch’s Ponds is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Moscow. Despite the name being plural, there’s only one large pond, but it’s worth a visit with your camera. It’s a popular spot for locals and expats to come relax or take a stroll around the pond. You get an interesting mix of young and old too, from young love to “babushkas” feeding pigeons. It’s a very peaceful park atmosphere in one of the nicer areas within the city center, while bringing enough activity for street photography. 

The pond is shallow and in the winter becomes a popular spot for ice-skating too. The area is also well-known for the location in the famous Russian novel, The Master and Margarita. 

3. Old Arbat (Stary Arbat)

Old Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow, and dating back to the 15th century, also one of its oldest. Originally, it was an area of trade, but soon became the most prestigious residential area in Moscow. During the 18th century, Arbat started attracting the city’s scholars and artists, including Alexander Pushkin. Cafes lined the streets and impressive homes filled the neighborhood. Since then, New Arbat street was created as a highway in the area, while Old Arbat was paved for a 1km pedestrian only walkway.

Due to the historic buildings, famous artists that lived here, and the bohemian atmosphere, Old Arbat has become a big attraction for tourists today. Now, there’s a mix of cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, street merchants and other attractions for visitors, and some locals, to come enjoy. It can get really busy here and there’s usually something interesting going on so it’s a good street to come walk with your camera for guaranteed life.

4. Gorky Park

One of the most famous places in Moscow is Gorky Park. The official name is Maxim Gorky’s Central Park of Culture & Leisure, which gives you an idea of what goes on here. When built, it was the first of its kind in the Soviet Union. Divided into two parts, it stretches along Moscow River. One end contains fair rides, foods stands, tennis courts, a sports club, a lake for boat rides, and more. This end brings more active life due to its number of attractions, while the other end is more relaxed, where you’ll find gardens, trees, older buildings, and an outdoor amphitheater.

Gorky Park attracts mostly locals so it’s a good spot to capture the non-tourist side of Moscow life. Muscovites come here to escape the city and unwind in a picturesque setting. The park remains alive outside of the warmer months too, especially when the lake turns into the city’s largest outdoor skating rink. I’d recommend taking the metro out here to spend at least half a day exploring the massive park’s life with your camera.

5. Maroseyka Street

Maroseyka Street is a popular area not too far from the Red Square. The long, winding street turns into Pokrovka and is lined with restaurants, cafes, bars and places to stay. It’s actually where I like to stay when I’m in Moscow due to its location and solid street photography opportunities itself. You have Kitay-gorod station near and if you keep walking southwest, you’ll get to the Red Square. But if you walk northwest, as it changes to Pokrovka, you can find a long street of activity for photography with its own interesting atmosphere.

6. Tverskoy Boulevard

Tverskoy Boulevard is the oldest and longest boulevard in Moscow, beginning at the end of Nikitsky Boulevard, and finishing at Pushkin Square, a spot to come for activity itself. The boulevard is made up of two avenues, with pedestrian walkways in-between. You’ll find grass, shrubbery, trees, benches and more walking it’s almost kilometer length. Many people come here to enjoy some relaxation, walk their dog, or just to use it to walk wherever they’re going. Its center location also provides a nice place to walk with your camera near plenty of other spots you’ll want to check out anyway.

Sample Street Walk:

For a full day of Street Photography, covering some of the best spots, you can follow this sample street walk for Moscow:

• Start your morning walking around the Red Square (1), while exploring the surrounding area, including Nikolskaya Street
• Then walk northwest to Patriarch’s Ponds (2) and slowly walk the pond and surrounding area with your camera
• Next, walk east to the Pushkin Monument and stroll down Tverskoy Boulevard (6)
• Once Tverskoy Boulevard (6) ends, it will turn into Nikitsky Boulevard. Follow this down until you get to the start of Old Arbat Street (3), across from Arbatskaya station
• After you’re done walking down Old Arbat Street (3) for more street photography, spend some time checking out Moscow’s beautiful metro stations
• To finish off the day with more street photography, get off the metro near Red Square (1) again, Maroseyka Street (5) or wherever you’re staying for the night.

3 Things I’ll Remember about Shooting in Moscow:

1. museum metro.

The Moscow metro system was the first underground railway system in the Soviet Union and today includes 203 stations across 340km of routes. The elaborate system has some of the deepest stations in the world too, with escalators that seem to go on forever. None of this is what makes it so special, though. Many of its stations feel like stepping inside a museum, making it without a doubt the most interesting and beautiful metro system I’ve been in.

When built, Stalin wanted to make the metro stations “palaces for the people” with marble, chandeliers, and grand architecture. The best part is the variety of architecture and styles used, making many of the stations a completely different experience visually. You could easily spend a whole day traveling the stations and there are even tours available for people who wish to do just that. My advice, though, would be just to buy a ticket and hop on and off at different stations, while exploring different lines. The museum-like surrounding mixed with the crowds of characters can make for a great photography experience.

Since there are so many stations, here are some of my favorites to check out:

• Novoslobodskaya
• Mayakovskaya
• Elektrozavodskaya
• Komsomolskaya
• Ploschad Revolyutsii
• Dostoyevskaya
• Prospekt Mira

2. Moscow is Big

It’s no secret that Moscow is a big city, but it can feel even bigger with how spread out much of it is. This is especially true if you compare it to cities outside of Asia. If I compared it to cities in Europe, I’d probably say only Istanbul would warrant more time to really discover the depths of this city. Most only explore around the Red Square and surrounding area, but that is such a small part of the city. Although, that central area does give you plenty to see on its own.

Fortunately, I had a good friend living in the city to show me around, but it opened up my eyes even more to how much there is to discover in Moscow. It’s a big city with a variety of atmosphere that can take you from “east” to “west” and trendy to rugged depending on where you go. I’d imagine you’d have to live here a while to really know the city.

3. Cosmopolitan Mix of East meets West

Modern skyscrapers mixed with amazing architecture, a world-class metro system with museum-like beauty, trendy fashion and chic clubs, Moscow is a rich mix of Russian culture and history in a more western cosmopolitan package. There is a push to keep the Russian culture, while also pushing forward with a modern metropolis the whole world will envy. This comes with an impressive skyline, that continues to grow, and endless modernities, but with soviet nostalgia and atmosphere mixed in for good measure.

Mixed in with this grand western cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a strong national pride in Russia. This includes their famous leader, Vladimir Putin. Maybe no other place will you see a country’s leader more often. All over, from the pricey tourist shops to the underground walkway stalls, you’ll find goods with Putin’s likeness covering them. From t-shirts to magnets to Matryoshka dolls. There’s a strong national pride that can be seen around the city, which also extends to their leader. Moscow is many things. It’s East meets West, modernizations meets Soviet era, and a whole lot more.

What To Do For a Street Photography Break?:

Eat at a stolovaya.

Stolovayas are Russian cafeterias that became popular in the Soviet days. You grab a tray and walk down the line of freshly prepared local dishes, and select whatever you want from the chefs. They’re usually inexpensive and a much better value than restaurants, while giving you the opportunity to try from a wide selection of everyday Russian food. They’re also very tasty. I always include some borsch on my tray and go from there. The places themselves are all over Moscow and usually come with Soviet-era aesthetics to complete the experience.

Street Safety Score: 7

*As always, no place is completely safe! So when I talk about safety, I’m speaking in general comparison to other places. Always take precaution, be smart, observe your surroundings and trust your instincts anywhere you go!

Being the 2nd largest city in Europe with over 12 million people, you’re going to have your dangerous areas, but for the most part, it feels safe walking around. Russia is statistically higher in crime compared to most of Europe, but this generally doesn’t apply to tourists and visitors. Around the Red Square and surrounding city center, you should feel completely safe walking around. Pick pocketing can happen, but no more than other touristic places. I always explore Moscow freely without coming across too much to worry about. It’s a spread out city, though, so of course it matters where you are. Just use basic street smarts, know where you are and Moscow shouldn’t give you a problem. 

People’s Reaction Score: 7

Moscow is fast paced, big city life, which usually means people aren’t too concerned with you, or your camera. I don’t find people notice or pay much attention to me when I’m out taking photos in Moscow. For the most part, people just go about their day. You shouldn’t get too many looks or concern. But it can depend on the area you are in. The more you stick out, the more you might get noticed with suspicions. I’ve never had any problems in Moscow, or Russia, but just be careful who you’re taking a photo of if you get out of the city center. Other than that, it’s about average for reactions. 

Street Tips:

Learn the alphabet .

Much of Moscow, including the metro system, doesn’t use english. The Russian alphabet uses letters from the Cyrillic script, which if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know the sounds, can be hard to decipher the words. This is most important for street names and metro stops when trying to get around. It can save confusion and make it easier getting around if you learn the basic alphabet. At the very least then, you can sound out the words to see which are similar in the english conversion, which can help matching them to maps. When out shooting street photography, getting around is as important as anything. So save yourself some time and frustration by learning the Russian Alphabet.

Use the metro

While Saint-Petersburg feels very walkable for a city its size, Moscow can feel very spread out, even for its bigger size. Outside of the Red Square area, you can have plenty of walking before getting anywhere very interesting, so you’ll need to take the metro a lot if you really want to explore the city. Maps are deceiving here too, it will always be further than it looks.

Another reason it’s less walkable than Saint-Petersburg is its completely different set-up. Moscow’s streets are mostly contstructed in rings with narrow, winding streets in-between. This is common with medieval city cities that used to be confined by walls, but you usually don’t have it in a city this massive. Saint-Petersburg has a more grid-like pattern that also uses the canals to help you know your way around. When it comes to navigating on foot in Moscow, it can be more difficult, so bring a map and take the metro when needed. It’s why Moscow’s metro carries more passengers per day than the London and Paris subways combined.

Explore other areas if you have time

Moscow is really big. While most people stay around the Red Square within the Boulevard Ring, there’s so much more to the city. I covered some other spots outside of this circle, but if you really want to see the city, you’ll need time. If you do have time, some other areas I’d check out first are Zamoskvarechye, along some of the south and western Moscow.

Inspiration:

For some more inspiration, you can look through the Street Photography of Moscow photographer Artem Zhitenev  and check out 33 of my photos taken in Moscow .

Conclusion:

Moscow’s name brings a certain mystique, but once you’re there it might bring a different atmosphere than you expect. It’s big and sprawling, but beautiful in many ways. It can feel like a European capital on a grand scale, but you can definitely find its Russian side in there.

The urban sprawl of Moscow can be intimidating, but give it enough time and you’ll be rewarded with plenty to discover. All with the world’s best metro system to take you around.

I hope this guide can help you start to experience some of what Moscow contains. So grab your camera and capture all that Moscow has to offer for Street Photography!

If you still have any questions about shooting in Moscow, feel free to comment below or email me!

(I want to make these guides as valuable as possible for all of you so add any ideas on improvements, including addition requests, in the comment section!)

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