Tour details

1^st Day: Arrival in Irkutsk

On Day 1 you arrive in the capital of East Siberia, but we will stay here only for a short while. After the long journey we suggest to relax in natural surroundings.

2^nd Day: Listvyanka and Taltsy

The group sets off with a guide to Listvyanka, 63 km from Irkutsk. This a very pleasant drive along a beautiful road surrounded by the Siberian taiga. On the way we suggest we call in at an interesting museum of Siberian wooden architecture, Taltsy, where you will learn about the peoples of Pribaikalye, their culture and traditions. A unique collection of wooden houses has been gathered here, amongst which the most interesting are thought to be the wooden Ilimsk stockade, Kazansk Church, the farmstead of the peasant Nepomiluev, and some others.

After arrival in Listvyanka, we will visit the Baikal Museum where you can learn about the interesting history of the formation of the lake, its geology, geography and animal kingdom. The aquarium with live exhibits of some of the lake’s inhabitants – Omul, gobies, sideswimmers, sponges and freshwater seal – the Baikal nerpa, is particularly interesting.  

After the museum we will set off to the viewing platform on Cherskii Rock from which a wonderful view of the lake, source of the Angara and Port Baikal, opens out.

The group will remain in Listvyanka overnight.

3^rd Day: Bolshie Koty

Going by boat to the small village of Bolshie Koty and enjoing day hikes around the village.

4^th Day: Bolshie Koty

Day hike around the village and piknik on the shore.

Returning to Irkutsk by boat

5^th Day: The Round-Baikal Railway

Today, it is planned to make an excursion along the Round-Baikal Railway – a unique architectural monument that stretches 84 km along the shore of Baikal. It includes over 400 artificial structures including 39 tunnels, numerous galleries, bridges, stone viaducts and supporting walls, all of which were built 100 years ago.

The train moves very slowly so that it’s possible to enjoy the beauty of the lake and striking beauty of Baikal’s western shore. It also makes stops at the most interesting places where one can stroll around and take a close look at the sights of the so-called golden buckle of the Trans-Siberian Railway.

In the evening the group returns to Irkutsk.

6^th Day: Trip to Khuzhir

First we will set off for Ust-Orda, where will visit the Museum of Buryat culture and mode of life.  At the museum a short shaman ritual awaits us performed by the local shaman. He will also tell us many interesting things about the traditions of his people. After the museum we will have lunch where you can try Buryat national dishes. In about four hours’ time we will be in Khuzhir, the main settlement on the Island of Olkhon.

Breakfast, Lunch, Supper

7^th Day: Khuzhir

Today it is planned to make a tour of the settlement not far from which is the famous Cape Burkan, also named Shamanka. The evening is free.

8^th Day: Cape Khoboi and Three Brothers Cliff

Today we set off in a small bus (UAZ) to the north of the island. The roads in these parts are ‘wild’ and often almost impassable, however, it’s worth it! Our first stop will be in a beautiful place called Kharantsy from where you will see the realm of the spirit of Baikal on the cliffs of the shore opposite. Driving over the steppe, forest and sandy dunes you will come to understand why Olkhon has been called the heart of Baikal! Our next stop will be at Cape Tri Brata, steeped in legend. Our main aim is Cape Khoboi, the northernmost point of the island, after which we turn south and back to Khuzhir.

Accommodation in a guesthouse in Khuzhir

9^th Day: Boat trip

Today we will go on an interesting journey to some islands in the Maloye Morye (Small Sea). First, we will call in at the Island of Ogoi where there is a Buddhist stupa of enlightenment. We may even see a freshwater seal, the Baikal nerpa, if we’re lucky.

10^th Day: return to Irkutsk

11^th Day: sightseeing tour of Irkutsk

The tour will last approximately 4 hours and will include the historical centre, 3-churches square, Karl Marx Street, the 130^th historical quarter and a few other interesting places. During the excursion you will get acquainted with the history of the city.

12^th Day: departure

Transport to Irkutsk airport