Altai Mountains

The vast string of mountains sprawling across southern Siberia, from Kazakhstan to the west and into Mongolia and China in the east and south, is sometimes known as the Golden Altais. Many parts of the Siberian Altais have been recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites including the areas around Lake Teletskoye, Mount Belukha, and the Ukok plateau.

The diverse terrain is home to a huge range of beautiful and fascinating flora and fauna. From the craggy, snowy peaks and plummeting gorges, to the glittering glacier lakes like glinting turquoise gems set into the foothills, to rich green meadows, thickets and taigas and sprawling steppes, it’s as if nature is showing off. A visit to this vast and beautiful untouched land is to truly get away from it all. The only inhabitants are the nomadic, yurt-dwelling tribes that navigate the terrain as they have done for centuries. The key to a fulfilling discovery of this unique destination is full immersion in nature, living and breathing in the gorgeous scenery like those who call it home.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Camping

One of the best ways to experience the Altais properly is to spend your days exploring its beautiful scenery and your night sleeping under the stars. With just a tent between you and the starry sky, it’s like living like a local.

Rafting

One of the most popular activities in this land of lakes and rivers is rafting. Take the scenic and varied waters of the Biya River from Lake Teletskoye or raft down the Katun, through lonely alpine villages dotted in the hills.

Skiing

Thanks to their glaciers and cold climate in winter, the Altais are a popular snow sport destination with a number of modern, well equipped pistes. Snezhny kom, Mount Veselaya and Gora Gorynya are popular.

Speleo

The labyrinthine caves within this seemingly endless mountain range make for great cave expeditions. Wriggle deep into Altayskaya and explore the deep dark depths as the peaks tower up above.

Trekking

An absolute must for walkers and hikers of all standards, the paths and climbs of the Altais offer something for everyone. Whether it’s the sparkling walk to the Aktru glacier or the three-day hike to the top of sacred Mount Belukha, the scenery won’t disappoint.

Siberia & Russian Far East Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Altai Mountains Itineraries

Really Remote Lands: Siberia, Western Mongolia & Northern China

Adventure-seekers looking to get off the beaten path are in for a real treat with this two-week journey through Siberia, Western Mongolia and Northern China. Starting in Russia, you’ll venture through the vast Altai Mountains - a range shared between Siberia, Mongolia, China and Kazakhstan.

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,900
See Itinerary

Altai Road Trip: A Siberian Mountain Adventure

Immerse yourself in Siberian natural beauty as you explore the storied Altais for more than a week. Spend nights beneath the stars and days on the roads, lakes and rivers that make up the stunning scenery of this majestic area.

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,000
See Itinerary
Lesotel Lodge

Lesotel Lodge

Altai Mountains, Siberia & Russian Far East

The Altai Mountains present some of the most stunning scenery in the whole of Russia, and this quaint wooden lodge-style hotel takes full advantage of the surrounding natural beauty, situated near the banks of the River Katun, 20 miles from Gorno-Altaisk city. There’s a flexible range of accommodation options here, from large shared cabins to private double and twin rooms. This unique hotel offers an excellent combination of modern facilities and nature. Each room is well-furnished, coming with large and comfy beds, heating, electricity, en-suite bathrooms and a range of other home comforts to make for a pleasant stay. The grounds, set around a delightful pine forest near the river, consist of several wooden lodges and a main restaurant building where breakfast is served every morning alongside a daily menu catering for local and foreign visitors. 

Nomad Eco-Hotel

Nomad Eco-Hotel

Altai Mountains, Siberia & Russian Far East

The Nomad Eco-Hotel is located in the Ulagan region of the Altai Republic, at the confluence of the Chuya and Chibitka rivers, close to the village of Chibit. There are both standard rooms and traditional huts available, such as Mongolian yurts or Altaian ail, depending on your preference.

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