Siberia Route: Yakutsk to Lake Baikal, 15 Places to See

Explore Siberia's vast wilderness across 10,159 km, connecting major cities and natural landmarks. The route traverses from Yakutsk through Krasnoyarsk to Lake Baikal, showcasing the region's transition from urban centers to remote natural wonders.

Mode
Places
Start
Welcome to Siberia
End
Geyser Lake
Stops
15
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Welcome to Siberia
  2. Lena Pillars — Majestic rock formations carved by nature into breathtaking stone towers along the Lena River, stunning from both cliff-top and river-level perspectives.
  3. Olkhon Island
  4. Lake Baikal — World's deepest and oldest lake, holding 20% of Earth's unfrozen fresh water, surrounded by towering mountain ridges and frozen winter landscapes.
  5. Ogoy Island — Largest island in Lake Baikal's Mala More strait, home to the Buddhist Stupa of Enlightenment built in 2005, attracting pilgrims year-round.
  6. Altai Mountains — UNESCO World Heritage range renowned for snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine ecosystems spanning multiple countries.
  7. Akkem Lake — High-altitude glacial lake in the Altai with turquoise waters, surrounded by dramatic peaks and accessible only to experienced trekkers.
  8. Kurai Steppe — Expansive highland plateau offering sweeping vistas, wildflower meadows, and views of the Altai Mountains in the distance.
  9. Yenisei River — Siberia's mightiest river, flowing northward for 2,500 kilometers through diverse landscapes and serving as a crucial waterway.
  10. Bugrinsky Bridge — Architectural landmark spanning the Yenisei River, connecting Krasnoyarsk and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  11. Angara River
  12. West Siberian Taiga — Vast boreal forest ecosystem covering millions of hectares, home to unique wildlife and indigenous communities in pristine wilderness.
  13. Sayan Mountains*
  14. Chulyshman River — Scenic river in the Altai flowing through gorges and valleys, renowned for whitewater rafting and untouched natural beauty.
  15. Geyser Lake — Geothermal wonder featuring hydrothermal springs and mineral-rich waters, creating otherworldly colors and natural hot pools.

Useful for your trip

Timing
Siberia's coldest inhabited place reaches temperatures below -60°C (-76°F) where eyelashes freeze; plan winter visits with extreme cold preparation.
Transport
Lena Pillars now have easier access thanks to extended ice roads and nearby parking; most breathtaking views are from the river edge.
Tip
Olkhon Island has no public transport—only dirt roads; explore by foot, cycling, or kayak in summer, or on frozen lake in winter.
Timing
Lake Baikal transforms in winter into a frozen masterpiece with ice hummocks; conditions allow seeing deep into its crystal-clear waters.
Tip
Ogoy Island's Buddhist stupa of Enlightenment, built in 2005, attracts pilgrims year-round for meditation and prayers.
Timing
Akkem Lake sits at 2,000m elevation; its water appears cloudy due to glacial particles; best visited when calm for mirror-like reflections.
Where to stay
Sheregesh is a ski resort between Altai and Sayan mountains famous for Russia's finest powder; slopes suit beginners to professionals.
Timing
Kurai Steppe at 1,500-1,600m altitude has severe climate: short summers, frosty nights, and snow from late August to May.
Tip
Ergaki mountain range stretches 80km between Khakassia and Tuva; well-marked trails suit both beginners and experienced hikers; camping under stars recommended.
Transport
Bugrinsky Bridge spans the Ob River in Novosibirsk; it's the third automobile bridge in the city, opened by Putin on October 8, 2014.
Timing
Winter is popular in Kemerovo for outdoor sports and activities; region transforms into a snow wonderland.
Tip
Yakutsk was founded in 1661 along the Angara River; visit Monument to the Founders and Spasa Church to see the city's oldest structures.

Video on this route

Wonders of Siberia | The Most Amazing Places in Siberia | Travel Video 4K

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