The Oymyakon Plateau, also spelt Oymyakon, is part of the more oversized Verkhoyansk-Chukotka collision belt in Siberia, Russia. The geological history of this region is complex and spans several stages, with the most significant events occurring during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras.
The Verkhoyansk-Chukotka collision belt, which includes the Oymyakon Plateau, results from tectonic events that began around 250 million years ago. The formation of the plateau itself is a result of orogenic (mountain-building) processes, with its geology marked by several periods of folding, faulting, and magmatic activity. The plateau rocks are primarily sedimentary and metamorphic, including sandstones, shales, limestones, and schists. Additionally, intrusions of igneous rocks, such as granites, formed during various stages of the region's geological history.
The Oymyakon Plateau is also known for its extreme cold, and the region has been repeatedly subjected to glaciations throughout the Quaternary Period (the last 2.6 million years). These glaciations have left their mark on the landscape, with erosional features such as glacial valleys, moraines, and other landforms that witness the plateau's dynamic geological past.
To summarize, the Oymyakon Plateau is part of a larger geological region with a complex history that spans millions of years. Orogenic processes, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, igneous intrusions, and the lasting effects of glaciations characterize the plateau's age and geology.
Rafting and fishing on the Indigirka River offer thrilling and memorable outdoor experiences in the heart of Siberia. The river's cold, clear waters, varying currents, and rugged, pristine surroundings create an ideal setting for adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Rafting down the Indigirka provides a unique opportunity to explore the remote wilderness and witness the breathtaking landscapes of the Sakha Republic. The river's course presents various challenges, from calmer stretches to exhilarating rapids, catering to beginners and experienced rafters. The journey can take several days or even weeks, depending on the chosen route and level of difficulty, with stops at various campsites or settlements along the way.
Fishing in the Indigirka River is equally rewarding, with the chance to catch various fish species, such as Arctic cisco, broad whitefish, Siberian white salmon, and Northern pike. In addition, anglers can hone their skills by casting from the shore or fishing from a boat while marvelling at the region's natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
The name "Indigirka" originates from the native Even language. The word "Indigir" or "Indigirk" translates to "small" or "narrow river." The name likely refers to the river's initial narrow stretches before it expands and meanders through the vast Siberian landscape.
In conclusion, rafting and fishing on the Indigirka River offer incredible adventures in a breathtaking, remote environment. The driver's name, rooted in the Even indigenous language, reflects its humble beginnings before transforming into a vital waterway in the Siberian wilderness.
