Valaam is accessible by boat only. In summer, regular hydrofoil and ferry services run from Sortavala (about 40 km by water, roughly an hour by hydrofoil) and from Priozersk (approximately 60 km, two hours). Both towns are on the Russian mainland in Karelia. Day trip boats depart in the morning and return in the afternoon; staying overnight requires booking a room in the monastery's guesthouse or in the small pilgrim accommodation. Bring enough cash for the island — there are no ATMs.