Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person

Please note: Due to international sanctions, we are currently unable to accept bookings for Russia.

Get off the beaten track on this eight-night adventure into the Siberian Altais, where the Mongolian and Turkic worlds meet. See the dramatic mountain scenery from above, via helicopter and get immersed in it as you drive along some of the most beautiful roads in the world. Hike, sail, fish and camp in the wildly varied countryside and visit sacred and mysterious historic sites before flying back to the big city and taking a fascinating sightseeing tour of Novosibirsk. Please note the pricing for this trip is based on a minimum group size of 4 people. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Ultimate Road Trip: The Chuysky Tract winds for 621 miles from Novosibirsk to the Altai Territory and Russia’s border with Mongolia. On this road trip, travelers will navigate the hairpin bends of Katu-Yaryk Pass, the panoramic vistas of Chike-Taman and Seminsky Pass, and the Red Gate mountains of Ulagan.
  • Lake Teletskoye Adventures: Boat fishing, ATVs, and horseback riding, the largest lake of the Altai is a playground for adventure travelers. The “Golden Lake” is known to have actual gold in the surrounding hills, but the real treasure is in the taiga forest and nearby waterfalls.
  • Stone Mushrooms: Follow a rocky, off-road path to the Stone Mushrooms, unusual rock formations measuring up to seven meters tall that look as though they are tall, capped mushrooms - one of the stranger sights in the Altai.
  • Culture of the Altai: The people of the Altai have roamed these lands since the Iron Age, and along this road trip travelers will eat like the Altai, experience throat singing, and camp under the Altai sky.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Lake Teletskoye

Catch your domestic flight from Moscow to Gorno-Altaisk, the starting point of your Altai adventure. Here you’ll transfer to Lake Teletskoye, the largest lake in the Altai Mountains (and the second-largest in Russia after Baikal), sitting at an elevation of 436 meters with a depth of 325 meters. Locals call this lake Altyn-Kel, the Golden Lake, and there are many legends that lie under its surface. On arrival here, you have the option to walk through the forest along the riverside to reach nearby waterfalls.

Hotel Options
About

Chalet Teletskoye is a collection of eco-style wooden chalets on the shores of Lake Teletskoye. Made of pure cedar wood, the chalets are cozy and warm, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with views out over the lake.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Lake Teletskoye

After a hearty breakfast, spend the day as you choose, getting acclimatized to your Altai surroundings. Options include ATV rides in the taiga forest, boat fishing on the lake, horseback riding, or hiking up to an observation deck with panoramic views of the lake. Sample some local food and bed down in your chalet once again for the night.

Lake Teletskoye
Lake Teletskoye

Day 3

Ulagan

Wake up for an early breakfast - an exciting day lies ahead of you. First, you'll pay a visit to Korbu Falls, located on the eastern shore of the lake. Next, you'll take a boat ride to the south as you transfer to your next destination, following a rocky, off-road (but incredibly scenic) route to the Stone Mushrooms, stopping for a picnic along the way. The Stone Mushrooms are unusual mushroom-like rock formations caused by weathering and water erosion, with some measuring up to seven meters tall. You'll camp overnight in this region (in a wooden chalet with a WC) and truly immerse yourself in the magical landscape.

Hotel Options
About

In a remote parts of Siberia, comprised of vast flat plains, fortress-like mountains tops and winding rivers that cut through the landscape, there are few accommodation options available, so one of the best ways to spend the night is under the stars in a tent. Things can get quite cool at night, so tent facilities include warm, comfy bedding to make for a good night’s rest.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 4

Valley of the Chuya River & Katu-Yaryk Pass

Driving along the valley of the Chuya River, you'll pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Altai Mountains. Ascend to the thrilling Katu-Yaryk Pass, known for its hairpin bends up to an elevation of 1,188 meters (if you can bear to look down, the views of the Chulyshman Valley are spectacular). You'll also visit ancient Pazyryk burial mounds, which date back to the Iron Age (500 BC – 332 BC) and the Scythian nomads who once inhabited the Altai. Rise to the Ulagan Pass, the highest in the Altai region at a height of 2,080 meters; then drive through the Red Gate, created by multi-colored igneous rocks with a reddish color, formed as a result of lava hardening.

Hotel Options
About

In a remote parts of Siberia, comprised of vast flat plains, fortress-like mountains tops and winding rivers that cut through the landscape, there are few accommodation options available, so one of the best ways to spend the night is under the stars in a tent. Things can get quite cool at night, so tent facilities include warm, comfy bedding to make for a good night’s rest.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 5

Kosh-agach

Today, you'll continue your road trip along the Chuysky Tract Highway, listed as one of the top 10 most beautiful roads in the world according to National Geographic. Traveling along the Chuysky Tract is like traversing across the whole Russia because of the constantly changing landscapes and climatic zones. En route, visit the multi-colored mountains of Kyzyl-Chin natural boundary (locals refer to it as the "Altaian Mars"). Then, stop by a brilliantly blue geyser lake; an unusual water reservoir secluded in a swampy forest, famous for its unique turquoise waters.

Hotel Options
About

In a remote parts of Siberia, comprised of vast flat plains, fortress-like mountains tops and winding rivers that cut through the landscape, there are few accommodation options available, so one of the best ways to spend the night is under the stars in a tent. Things can get quite cool at night, so tent facilities include warm, comfy bedding to make for a good night’s rest.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 6

Chemal

Head further north, crossing over scenic Chike-Taman Pass and Seminsky Pass, which both boast impressive panoramic views. On the way, you'll pop in to see some ancient cave paintings (petroglyphs), which really put into perspective the rich and varied history of human settlers in the remote Altai. Stop for lunch at a local ethnic cafe to enjoy a meal of Altaian cuisine, as well as a performance of throat singing. This style of performance is a historical hallmark of Turkic tribes.

Hotel Options
About

This elegant and modern eco-hotel is perched on the banks of the Katun River. Built using natural materials and advanced engineering techniques to ensure silence and solitude of the pine forest (creating the perfect night's sleep), the property offers guest rooms in the main building, as well as suites and cottages on the river's edge.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Chemal
Chemal

Day 7

Chemal

Today, you will ride across Chemal district to visit the village of Chemal, known for its Orthodox chapel on the island of Patmos and Chemal hydroelectric station located in a beautiful setting. You'll drop into an ail (traditional Altaian hut) and the gallery of local craftsmen at the village of Askat to learn more about arts and heritage. Your guide will also offer some other options to choose from on spot, depending on weather.

Day 8

Departure

After breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to bid farewell to stunning Siberia. You’ll be transferred to the airport ready for your onward flight to your next exciting destination.

Suggested Hotel For Days 1–2

Chalet Teletskoye

Chalet Teletskoye

Chalet Teletskoye is a collection of eco-style wooden chalets on the shores of Lake Teletskoye. Made of pure cedar wood, the chalets are cozy and warm, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with views out over the lake. There's also a "coffee house" onsite, which serves excellent food.

Suggested Hotel For Day 3

Camping

Camping

In a remote parts of Siberia, comprised of vast flat plains, fortress-like mountains tops and winding rivers that cut through the landscape, there are few accommodation options available, so one of the best ways to spend the night is under the stars in a tent. Things can get quite cool at night, so tent facilities include warm, comfy bedding to make for a good night’s rest. There’s no better way to wake in the Siberian wilderness than surrounded by nature. 

Suggested Hotel For Day 4

Camping

Camping

In a remote parts of Siberia, comprised of vast flat plains, fortress-like mountains tops and winding rivers that cut through the landscape, there are few accommodation options available, so one of the best ways to spend the night is under the stars in a tent. Things can get quite cool at night, so tent facilities include warm, comfy bedding to make for a good night’s rest. There’s no better way to wake in the Siberian wilderness than surrounded by nature. 

Suggested Hotel For Day 5

Camping

Camping

In a remote parts of Siberia, comprised of vast flat plains, fortress-like mountains tops and winding rivers that cut through the landscape, there are few accommodation options available, so one of the best ways to spend the night is under the stars in a tent. Things can get quite cool at night, so tent facilities include warm, comfy bedding to make for a good night’s rest. There’s no better way to wake in the Siberian wilderness than surrounded by nature. 

Suggested Hotel For Days 6–7

Altika Eco-Hotel

Altika Eco-Hotel

This elegant and modern eco-hotel is perched on the banks of the Katun River. Built using natural materials and advanced engineering techniques to ensure silence and solitude of the pine forest (creating the perfect night's sleep), the property offers guest rooms in the main building, as well as suites and cottages on the river's edge. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, a gym, a kids' playground and a leisure complex, featuring a Finnish bath and a pool with a cascading shower.

Similar Itineraries

All Itineraries
Multi Country
Intrepid
Classic Siberia

Classic Siberia

An extraordinary trip across an extraordinary part of the world takes you around Siberia's stunning Lake Baikal, the largest of its type in the world. Circumnavigate the lake whilst visiting isolated beaches, peering down jaw-dropping cliffs and tackling challenging off-road terrain.

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,800
See Itinerary
The Kamchatka Skies: Where Ice Meets Fire

The Kamchatka Skies: Where Ice Meets Fire

Ten memorable days of exploring Russia’s Kamchatka region will see you fly over volcanoes in a helicopter, scale summits at over 6,000 feet, dip in hot springs and venture on a breathtaking trip along the Avacha Bay to Starichkov Island - all while using your hotel in the city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky as a base. 

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $10,800
See Itinerary
Eastern Trans-Siberian: Lake Baikal to Vladivostok

Eastern Trans-Siberian: Lake Baikal to Vladivostok

This trip focuses on the eastern part of the Trans-Siberian, less well-known and therefore less crowded. Starting from the blue jewel of Lake Baikal, you'll stop over in cities such as Ulan-Ude and Khabarovsk before reaching the Pacific Ocean.

Duration
9 days / 8 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,600
See Itinerary
Gemstones & Glaciers: The Treasures of Yakutsk

Gemstones & Glaciers: The Treasures of Yakutsk

Discover the treasures of Yakutsk, Russia, on this five-day tour of marvels. Be dazzled by the city’s precious stones, fascinating history and warmhearted hospitality, then sail to see spectacular rock formations.

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
From $4,700
See Itinerary
Golden Eagle Festival & the Altai Mountains

Golden Eagle Festival & the Altai Mountains

It is said that Mongolia is the last true nomadic society left on the planet and what better way to immerse yourself in centuries-old pastoralist tradition than by attending the Golden Eagle Festival?

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,900
See Itinerary
Journey to the East: Moscow to Vladivostok on the Trans-Siberian Railway

Journey to the East: Moscow to Vladivostok on the Trans-Siberian Railway

Ride the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway across beautifully picturesque and dreamlike landscapes over 16 days, stopping off at exquisite destinations en route. From Moscow to Vladivostok, enjoy a boundless experience while catching a glimpse of striking scenes as they sail past your window.

Duration
16 days / 15 nights
Price Per Person
From $12,000
See Itinerary
Kamchatka: Russia's Ring of Fire

Kamchatka: Russia's Ring of Fire

Discover Russia's Ring of Fire on a two-week Kamchatka adventure, traversing the peninsula's volcanic peaks and steaming geysers both on foot and via helicopter. Trek calderas, bathe in thermal waters and encounter families of brown bears splashing in the rivers, catching sockeye salmon.

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $34,700
See Itinerary
Lake Baikal Winter Adventures

Lake Baikal Winter Adventures

As the waters of Lake Baikal sparkle with ice, the cooler months in this region reveal a true Siberian winter wonderland. Enjoy every comfort, delicacy and delight in a whirlwind of authentic cuisine, steaming drinks, stunning scenery and cultural experiences against a backdrop of glittering snow and ice.

Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,300
See Itinerary
Lake Baikal: Cruising the Blue Heart of Siberia

Lake Baikal: Cruising the Blue Heart of Siberia

Spend an unforgettable eight days sailing around the stunning Lake Baikal, the sparkling sapphire in the heart of Siberia. Aboard the Galsan, your own private catamaran, you'll cruise from sweeping bay to mountainous valley at your own pace.

Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Price Per Person
From $38,100
See Itinerary
Moscow to Beijing on the Trans-Siberian Railway

Moscow to Beijing on the Trans-Siberian Railway

Embark on the world’s most famous overland journey from Moscow to Beijing, delving deep into the Siberian wilderness along the way. Cross three countries and two continents - accumulating almost 3,500 miles, all whilst bunking down for the night in the train, waking up to an ever-evolving landscape each morning.

Duration
17 days / 16 nights
Price Per Person
From $16,700
See Itinerary
Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

Breaking the Ice: Discovering Siberia’s Lake Baikal

Author
Jay Tindall
Baikal is the deepest and purest lake on the planet, a frozen sea in the heart of Siberia and an adventurer's icy paradise of driving, helicopters, and dog sleds. From the Old Believers to the Buryat bone crushers, its shores and islands are sacred to those who call Baikal home.
Read Article

What Others Say

Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.

A family from Houston

A family from Houston

The trip was smooth and seamless throughout; there were no glitches at all. We had a wonderful time.

Myanmar, Indonesia

A couple from Texas

A couple from Texas

My wife and I traveled to Nepal with Remote Lands, and had an incredible time. This was our fourth trip with Remote Lands and the trip was planned perfectly with every detail accounted for.

Nepal

A Couple from California

A Couple from California

Everything was perfect. Everything.

Indonesia

More Testimonials
Press
Travel + Leisure
Financial Times
The Wall Street Journal
The New York Times
Departures magazine
Condé Nast Traveler