Things To Do
in Maykop

A mild, slightly salty white cheese that’s a regional specialty — widely available at markets and used in salads, khychin fillings or simply eaten with bread.

Must-Try!

A stuffed flatbread usually filled with cheese, potatoes or meat; found in local cafes and market stalls and perfect as a quick, filling meal.

Skewered grilled meat (lamb or pork) popular across the Caucasus; best at small grill houses and summer street stalls.

Regional sweets and halva-style confections appear at markets and bakeries; served with tea in family tea-houses.

The main market where local farmers sell Adyghe cheese, fresh produce, baked goods and prepared snacks — a great place to taste regional specialties.

Seasonal stalls near popular outdoor areas offering grilled meats, flatbreads, tea and quick snacks for hikers and picnickers.

A handshake is the common greeting between men; address people with polite forms and use formal greetings (‘‘Здравствуйте’’) with elders or officials.

Show respect toward older people and local traditions. When visiting rural or religious sites, dress modestly and ask before photographing people inside homes or small villages.

Avoid contentious political topics, and be sensitive when discussing ethnic or regional issues — locals appreciate discretion and polite curiosity instead of debate.

If invited to a local home, bringing a small gift (sweets, fruit or flowers) is appreciated; remove shoes if asked and accept tea or snacks as a sign of hospitality.

Tipping is customary but not mandatory: leave around 5–10% in restaurants if service is good, round up taxi fares, and give small change to guides or porters. Cash tips are preferred in smaller establishments.

Credit and debit cards are accepted at many hotels, larger restaurants and shops, but small markets, rural vendors and some taxis may be cash-only. ATMs and banks are available in the city — carry some Russian rubles for convenience.

Late spring (May–June) brings blooming meadows, moderate temperatures and muddy trails at higher elevations — excellent for hiking and seeing wildflowers but bring layers for chilly mornings.

Warm to hot days in the city with cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor activities, river swimming and exploring higher-altitude areas to escape heat — expect more tourists on weekends.

Crisp, clear weather with vivid fall colors in surrounding hills; comfortable temperatures for hiking and photography, though rain becomes more likely later in the season.

Cold winters with snow in the foothills and nearby higher terrain; some mountain roads may be restricted but the city remains accessible — good for winter landscapes and nearby ski areas when conditions permit.

A rugged massif near Lago-Naki offering alpine routes, glacial cirques and high-mountain views suitable for experienced hikers and photographers.

High grassy plateaus with relatively easy trails, panoramic vistas and alpine flora — popular for day trips and gentle trekking.

Scenic riverside trails and canyons along the Belaya River, suitable for shorter hikes, picnics and seasonal water activities.

Numerous shorter routes through forested slopes and rural villages ideal for morning walks and birdwatching.

Football is widely followed and played locally, with community teams and youth leagues popular among residents.

Combat sports, including wrestling and various martial arts, are traditional and enjoy strong local interest, especially in rural communities.

Horse riding and equestrian traditions are part of regional culture, with opportunities for recreational riding in rural areas and foothills.

Skiing and snowboarding are pursued in nearby higher-altitude resorts when conditions permit, drawing locals and visitors in winter.