Example Itinerary

Gemstones & Glaciers: The Treasures of Yakutsk

Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Off the Grid, National Parks
Destinations
Siberia & Russian Far East

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

Celebrate the beauty of shiny stones and shining suns on this five-day adventure in the magic and mystic land of Russia’s Yakutsk. Get acquainted with one of the world’s largest producers of diamonds and, if precious stones aren’t enough, set sail for the Lena Pillars National Park. Climb the mysterious rock formations and experience the power of the shamanic rituals practiced there. Explore the city’s history in fascinating museums, one set in the glittering permafrost of a glacier cave. If you're traveling in June, welcome in the Yakutian New Year with celebrations at a pagan settlement. Eat, drink, dance, play and watch the sunrise with the locals for an unforgettable experience as the old is forgotten and the future is welcomed. 

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

  • Jewels: Browse the collection of sparkling Yakutsk diamonds at the Treasury of Yakutia, then learn how they're shaped at a diamond-cutting factory.
  • Nature: Lena Pillars National Park is known for its photogenic rock pillars, which stand up to 300 meters tall.
  • Spirituality: Witnessing a shamanic ceremony out in nature is a moving and spiritual experience you'll never forget.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Map

Yakutsk

Meet your driver at Yakutsk airport and head straight to the hotel. After a relaxing morning and lunch, discover the sparkling stones at the Treasury of Yakutia exhibition. Later, enjoy a tour of the charming old town and dine on traditional Yakutian cuisine with a modern twist.

Hotel Options
About

The AZIMUT Hotel Polar Star in Yakutsk is one of the most popular places to stay in the city. All rooms here a modern in design, and guests can choose between the standard double, twin, deluxe, deluxe jacuzzi, apartment or suite options.

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

Map

Lena Pillars National Park

After breakfast, enjoy a fascinating morning exploring the Mammoth Museum, and later a traditional Yakutian homestead. After a lunch of local cuisine and a relaxing afternoon, head to the pier and set sail for the Lena Pillars national park. Enjoy dinner with onboard entertainment.

Hotel Options
About

One of the best way to explore the UNESCO designated Lena Pillars National Park is by boat, whether cruise ship or private charter, enabling travelers to overnight close to the park. Boat the picturesque Bulgunnyakhtakh channel of the Lena River and the stretch of the Stone Pillars, getting up close to the stone monoliths, and stopping to explore the caves and ancient rock paintings.

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.

Lena Pillars National Park
Lena Pillars National Park

Day 3

Map

Lena Pillars National Park

After breakfast and an orientating film, disembark at Lena Pillars National Park to explore the stunning rock formations. Witness a shamanic ritual and climb the peak for amazing views. After lunch, enjoy watersports and swimming around a sandy island before heading back on board for the evening.

Day 4

Map

Yakutsk

Arrive back in Yakutsk and, after check-in at the hotel, enjoy a sparkling morning at the diamond-cutting factory or visit of a mammoth bone souvenir workshop. In the afternoon, delve into the Kingdom of Permafrost, a gallery within a glacier, followed by the Cossack fort. After a long day, relax back at the hotel.

Hotel Options
About

The AZIMUT Hotel Polar Star in Yakutsk is one of the most popular places to stay in the city. All rooms here a modern in design, and guests can choose between the standard double, twin, deluxe, deluxe jacuzzi, apartment or suite options.

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.

Yakutsk
Yakutsk

Day 5

Map

Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading for the airport. Bid farewell to Yakutsk and journey onward to your next destination with a head full of memories.

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.

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