You might ask 'why come to the lake Baikal and go trekking in the mountains, when you could do that else where?' Well… simply because the Sayans area has some of the most beautiful mountain ranges, and not just in Russia. Of course we recommend going to the lake and exploring its bottomless beauty, but we are also sure that you will love the mountains around it and this is one of the top treks to do in the region.

Probably the most exciting thing about it is that the setting changes all the time and during these days you will go through some untouched taiga forest, climb up through some mighty paths of the majestic Sayans, cross rapid mountain rivers, bathe in mineral thermal springs and camp out in the middle of Siberian wildness by the fire. By no means it is an easy route, as you would have to cross over two decent paths and trek for 140 km altogether. We recommend good fitness level as trekkers will have to share the weight of common equipment and food as well as carry their personal belongings.

DAY 1

Transfer from Irkutsk to Nilova Pustyn (250 km). Stops for lunch and some nice views on Baikal, Hamar-Daban and Eastern Sayan mountain range - our trekking destination. Start trekking. Excursion to a 150-year old Buddhist temple. First night in the tents out in the wild.

DAY 2

Continue trekking by the side of glorious Tunka mountain range followed by a long rise to Shumakskiy pass (2760 m.) from which you will see as far as Mongolia. Set up for the night camp near a beautiful waterfall.

DAY 3

Walk through the Shumak river gorge towards the mineral thermal springs.

DAY 4

Full day resting, chilling and bathing at the springs. Each one of 30 springs has different consistency of minerals and temperature having different healing capabilities. Also you are likely to see some rare wild animals in the area.

DAY 5-6

Trek continues along the side of an impressive canyon with high stone walls on and numerous beautiful waterfalls along the way.

DAY 7

Now the trek reaches the Kitoy River gorge and continues along the side of it.

DAY 8

Our route continues along the mountain river crossing a few smaller rivers by foot with suspension bridges. Then through the Siberian taiga forest which has some really weird stone formations and fine views.

DAY 9

Now comes the final test of our adventure - crossing over the Arshan path (2200m). However as a reward there are splendid views over the mountain ranges we have just explored and the breathtaking Hamar-Daban range. Last night in camp by the fire.

DAY 10

To top off the adventure, the final day is more relaxed walk through the canyons and waterfalls over to the village of Arshan, where we will celebrate over traditional lunch and a few beverages. Transfer to Irkutsk.

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• Transport: All transfers by minibus, travel by boat
• Meals: Full Board
• Accommodation: 9 nights - tents
• Services of a guide for the duration of the trip & all the camping equipment

All prices are stated in EURO per person and include all taxes and reservation fees.