4 days
Fixed dates
8 people
from 8 years
Basic
Guest house or camp site, Hotel
Russian
Gastronomy, Trekking, Excursion tours
Traveling along the southern ring of Lake Baikal is a reboot and a powerful charge of energy. Alone with nature, even thoughts flow differently, and harmony comes in the soul. Stunning sunrises and sunsets on the shores of a magical lake, walks through the forests of Khabar-Daban, gastronomic discoveries, and an introduction to the myths and beliefs of these unique places await you.
Four days full of pleasure, contemplation, fantastic natural views.
You will plunge into the depths and climb to the peaks, swim in the waters of the cleanest lake in the world and in an icy mountain river, see Baikal from above and ride along its waves on a speed boat. “Southern Ring” is a wonderfully balanced program, both rich and measured. There will be time to get acquainted with the history and culture of the region while visiting the Taltsy ethnographic museum, and to touch its fantastic nature while walking along the paths of the Baikal Nature Reserve. Here, surrounded by cedars and ferns, you will breathe deeply, because the aromas of resin and pine needles heal the body, mind and soul. You will also visit the legendary Circum-Baikal Railway, one of the most picturesque railways in Russia, and even walk 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 in a panoramic cafe on the top of a mountain.
And in the evenings, you will watch how a fabulously beautiful sunset gives way to a dark night sky with a scattering of the brightest stars, and fall asleep to the sound of the waves of Lake Baikal in anticipation of a new day full of impressions. In short, the “Southern Ring” is a tour for those who appreciate aesthetics and want to remind themselves how beautiful and varied life is.
This hotel offers modern, spacious Deluxe Twin rooms with views of Lake Baikal, decorated in discreet, calm colors, high-quality service and beautiful scenery. Since the hotel complex is located on a hill, the panorama here is truly impressive.
The guest cottages are located on the very shore of Lake Baikal: panoramic windows offer fantastic views of the endless water surface. The bright and spacious rooms are decorated in natural colors, they have everything you need for your comfort: tea and ironing stations, minibar, personal items. Each of the cottages has a cozy common guest room for friendly gatherings and conversations.
We meet in Irkutsk until 10:00 and depart towards Listvyanka. On the way, we will make a stop at the unique ethnographic museum “Taltsy”, where you will travel back in time and find yourself in a Siberian village of past centuries, learn about the life and traditions of the local residents, and begin to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the region. To further experience the flavor of Lake Baikal, upon arrival in Listvyanka we will have lunch in an unusual secluded corner - the “Valley of Dreamers”, and then we will touch the rich flora and fauna of the lake in the Limnological Museum. You will see one of the living symbols of Baikal, the sweetest seal, and take a virtual dive to the bottom in a bathyscaphe. After diving into the depths, it’s time to look at the lake from above, so after that we’ll take the chairlift to the Chersky Stone observation deck to capture a delightful panorama. In the evening, check into the hotel and free time.
The Circum-Baikal Railway (CBZD) is the most photogenic and atmospheric route along the lake shore. And the impressions of it only become brighter if you enjoy these views not from the window, but up close, walking through the mysterious ancient tunnels... It is this amazing adventure that awaits you on the second day of the tour. After breakfast, we will board a speedboat and head to Polovinnaya station, enjoying the cool breeze and the shine of the waves. Upon arrival, we will have lunch at a local cafe and take a tour of the Circum-Baikal Railway, going into the tunnels and listening to the guide’s fascinating story about the history of these places. Then, again on the boat, we will reach the eastern shore of Lake Baikal and check into a luxurious hotel room in a picturesque place. Meet the evening by the lake, relaxing in the rays of the sunset, and then fall asleep to the enchanting sound of water - everyone who has been to Baikal knows that sleep here is especially sweet and sound.
After a delicious breakfast, we leave for the Baikal Nature Reserve. We will spend this day alone with nature, among its delightful colors and aromas. You will be able to see curious and funny chipmunks, reach a waterfall hidden in the thicket of the forest on the Osinovka River, and even swim in an icy mountain river (of course, if you dare ;-)). We will have a picnic surrounded by centuries-old cedars and emerald ferns, meet the local huntsman and hear many fascinating stories from him. You will see many natural areas: not only coniferous forests with healing air, but also alpine meadows, alpine tundra and even a swamp. Returning to the hotel, you will have a delicious dinner and relax from a day full of impressions, contemplating the sky strewn with billions of bright stars.
This is the last day of the program, but we still have something to surprise you with. After breakfast we leave the hotel complex in Tankhoy. The first stop is the Baikal Reserve visitor center, which cannot even be compared to the usual boring museum. Expect unique exhibits, enthusiastic guides, and modern interiors. We will have lunch in another unusual place, in a panoramic cafe on the top of Mount Sobolinaya, where we will go up by chairlift. Fantastic views of Lake Baikal and delicious dishes will be remembered for a long time, and successful photographs will fill the memory of your phones. We will then make a stop at the legendary Pomegranate Beach to take a walk and say goodbye to the beautiful lake in an ideal setting. By 19.00 - arrival in Irkutsk. 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 significant other, family or friend, and if you complete the entire group, we will provide a good discount!
Breakfast in hotels, lunch on excursions and dinner on the second and third day.
On comfortable and modern Mercedes or Toyota Hiace minibuses with climate control, pleasant music, drinking water and stops on request.
Allow for expenses for souvenirs and alcoholic drinks (if you plan to purchase them), as well as meals beyond those indicated in the program. There is also an additional charge for single occupancy.
Ask questions to the tour coordinator
Tour from an official tour operator from the Rostourism register
