4 days
Fixed dates
8 people
from 8 years
Basic
Guest house or camp site, Hotel
Russian
Gastronomy, Trekking, Excursion tours
A journey along the southern ring of Lake Baikal is a recharge and a powerful boost of energy. Alone with nature, even your thoughts change, and your soul is harmonized. Stunning sunrises and sunsets await you on the shores of a magical lake, walks through the forests of Khabar-Daban, culinary discoveries, and an introduction to the myths and beliefs of these unique places.
Four days filled with pleasure, contemplation, and breathtaking natural vistas. You'll dive to the depths and climb to the peaks, swim in the world's clearest lake and an icy mountain river, see Lake Baikal from above, and ride its waves on a speedboat. The Southern Ring is a wonderfully balanced program, simultaneously intense and leisurely. There's time to learn about the region's history and culture during a visit to the Taltsy Ethnographic Museum and to experience its stunning natural beauty while walking the trails of the Baikal Nature Reserve. Here, surrounded by cedars and ferns, you'll breathe deeply, as the scents of resin and pine needles heal body, mind, and soul. You'll also visit the legendary Circum-Baikal Railway, one of the most scenic railways in Russia, and even stroll through its echoing tunnels.
We know how important the little things are, so even every meal will be amazingly beautiful: a picnic in a forest clearing, lunch in the "Valley of Dreamers," or at a panoramic mountaintop café. And in the evenings, you'll watch a magical sunset give way to a dark night sky scattered with the brightest stars, and fall asleep to the sound of Lake Baikal's waves, anticipating another exciting day. In short, the "Southern Ring" is a tour for those who appreciate aesthetics and want to remind themselves how wonderful and diverse life is.
This hotel offers modern, spacious Deluxe Twin rooms with views of Lake Baikal, decorated in subdued, calming tones, top-notch service, and stunning views. Situated on a hill, the panoramic views are truly spectacular.
The guest cottages are located right on the shore of Lake Baikal, with panoramic windows offering stunning views of the endless expanse of water. The bright and spacious rooms are decorated in natural colors and feature everything you need for your comfort: a tea and ironing station, a minibar, and toiletries. Each cottage has a cozy common room for friendly gatherings and conversations.
We'll meet in Irkutsk before 10:00 AM and head towards Listvyanka. En route, we'll stop at the unique Taltsy Ethnographic Museum, where you'll travel back in time and find yourself in a Siberian village of bygone centuries, learn about the locals' daily life and traditions, and begin immersing yourself in the region's atmosphere. To further immerse yourself in Lake Baikal's charms, upon arrival in Listvyanka, we'll have lunch in a unique, secluded spot—the "Valley of Dreamers"—and then explore the lake's rich flora and fauna at the Limnological Museum. You'll see one of Lake Baikal's living symbols, the adorable seal, and take a virtual dive to the bottom in a bathyscaphe. After diving into the depths, it's time to admire the lake from above, so we'll take a chairlift to the Chersky Stone observation deck to capture the breathtaking panorama. In the evening – check-in at the hotel and free time.
The Circum-Baikal Railway (CBZhD) is the most photogenic and atmospheric route along the lake's shore. And the experience is only enhanced when you enjoy these views not from a window, but up close, strolling through mysterious ancient tunnels... This amazing adventure awaits you on the second day of the tour. After breakfast, we'll board a speedboat and head to Polovinnaya Station, enjoying the cool breeze and sparkling waves. Upon arrival, we'll have lunch at a local café and take a tour of the CBZhD, visiting tunnels and listening to a fascinating guide explain the history of the area. Then, again by boat, we'll reach the eastern shore of Lake Baikal and check into a luxurious hotel room in a picturesque location. Enjoy the evening by the lake, relaxing in the rays of the sunset, and then fall asleep to the enchanting sound of the water—everyone who has been to Lake Baikal knows that sleep is especially sweet and deep here.
After a delicious breakfast, we'll head to the Baikal Nature Reserve. We'll spend this day immersed in nature, amid its delightful colors and aromas. You'll spot curious and amusing chipmunks, reach a hidden waterfall on the Osinovka River, and even take a dip in an icy mountain stream (if you dare, of course ;-)). We'll have a picnic surrounded by centuries-old cedars and emerald ferns, meet a local gamekeeper, and hear many fascinating stories. You'll see a variety of natural environments: not only coniferous forests with healing air, but also alpine meadows, high-mountain tundra, and even a swamp. Returning to the hotel, you'll have a delicious dinner and rest from a day filled with impressions, gazing at the sky strewn with billions of bright stars.
This is the last day of the program, but we still have plenty to surprise you with. After breakfast, we'll leave the hotel complex in Tankhoy. Our first stop is the Baikal Reserve Visitor Center, which is unlike any boring museum. Unique exhibits, enthusiastic guides, and modern interiors await you. We'll have lunch in another unusual place, a panoramic café at the top of Mount Sobolinaya, reached by chairlift. The fantastic views of Lake Baikal and delicious dishes will be unforgettable, and the stunning photos will fill your phone's memory. Then we'll stop at the legendary Garnet Beach for a stroll and a perfect moment to say goodbye to the beautiful lake. We'll arrive in Irkutsk by 7:00 PM. See you again!
The program is designed for children aged 8 years and older.
We travel in small groups of up to 8 people. You can go with your partner, family, or a friend, and if you complete your entire group, we'll give you a great discount!
Breakfasts at hotels, lunches on excursions and dinners on the second and third days.
In comfortable and modern Mercedes or Toyota Hiace minibuses with climate control, pleasant music, drinking water and stops on request.
Please allow for souvenirs and alcoholic beverages (if you plan to purchase them), as well as meals beyond those listed in the itinerary. Single occupancy is also subject to an additional charge.
Ask questions to the tour coordinator
Tour from an official tour operator from the Rostourism register
