The Sunny Island

  Russia

• All Other Areas: 
Irkutsk

Dates: inquire for specifc dates

Description: Exploring the biggest island of Lake Baikal - its geographic, historical and sacral center.

Highlights:
* Day 1
In the morning and departure from Irkutsk by bus to Olkhon island. The road goes over the splendid spurs of the Pribaikalskiy range covered with the Siberian taiga, which then change to Mongolian-type landscapes of the Tazheranskaya steppe (time en route to the ferry approx. 4 hours).

Boarding the ferry to cross the famous Olkhon Gate Straits separating Olkhon from the mainland. It will take you about 40 min. to get to the island; on the way you will see both the Maloye (Lesser) and the Bolshoye (Larger) Seas - two parts of Baikal split by Olkhon.

Arrival at Olkhon Island the biggest of the 26 Baikals isles; the lakes geographic, historical and sacral centre, which resembles it even by shape. Transfer to the tourist base (time en route 1 hour). Accommodation in log cabins. Lunch.

A walking sightseeing tour of the outskirts: Khuzhir settlement, sacred Burkhan cape (Shaman-Mount) 1 of the 9 Asian shrines, equally worshiped by Shamanists, Buddhists and Lamaists; excursion to the local lore museum with an interesting collection of objects representing the everyday life and culture of the islanders.   
Return to the tourist base. Optionally for extra charge Russian banya (steam bath). Dinner. Overnight. (meals incl.: lunch, dinner)

* Day 2
After breakfast departure for a whole-day trip to Khoboy Cape the islands northernmost point located at the widest place of Baikal. On the way you will see all the diversity of Baikal's natural landscapes concentrated on the island: steppes, warm bays jutting deep into the shore, sandy dunes, mixed deciduous forests interspersed with relict fir woods and magnificent marble rocks spotted with red lichens.

Arrival at the Cape; walking tour around the outskirts, during which the guide will tell you about the legends, traditions and customs connected with this place. Lunch - picnic in the open air. Return to the tourist base. Dinner. Overnight. (meals incl.: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

* Day 3
After breakfast transfer to the ferry, which will take you back to the mainland. Transfer to Irkutsk. (meals incl.: breakfast)

Cost in US$: 270

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Russia in Groups

Green Express Travel Company's Mission Statement: The key idea of Green Express activities is sustainable development of Baikal region (that brings no harm to the environment) and promoting wonders of Baikal worldwide.

Year Founded: 2001