Russia Discovery active, wildlife and ethnic tours to Russia – Summer 2015

1
RussiaDiscovery
ADVENTURE / NATURE / ETHNO-DISCOVERY
Summer season 2015
Prices are net for Tour Operators and Agencies

2
ABOUT RUSSIADISCOVERY
RussiaDiscovery – an Adventure & Discovery Tour Operator in Russia
We run own operations in the Russian regions that are most interesting for adventure travel. The operation
offices are based in the most attractive regions of Russia, and our sales&marketing office is located in Moscow.
Our Destinations
We runown operations and offices (own personnel, equipment, gear, outfit, etc) in:
- Baikal
- Karelia
We are official representatives of the local enterpreneurs (on exclusive conditions) in:
- Altai
- Kamchatka
- Siberia (Krasnoyarsk-Tuva-Khakassia)
- Far East (Commander islands, Sea of Okhotsk)
- Yamal
- Caucasus
- Northern Ural
- Arctica and Antarctica
- Svalbard (Spitsbergen)
Our Itineraries
We offer the widest range of quality travel Programmes from Adventure&Activity to Nature&Culture Discovery,
from soft tours for total beginners to expedition-style/hard-core tours, from weekend tours to long distance tours.
All our adventure itineraries run in pristine scenic areas and include cultural activities, meeting the local people,
discovery.
Additional support services such as visa support, transit Programmes in Moscow and St Petersburg and
accommodation in the cities, air/train tickets are provided by Moscow office.
Activities in our itineraries
Activities in our winter tours:
- Arctic Nature discovery
- Snowmobiling
- Skiing cross-country/downhill
- Dog sledging
- Ice-hovercraft
- Snow-shoeing
- Culture discovery
- Nature / wildlife discovery
- Trekking/ ascent
- Helicopter expedition to the North Pole
Activities in our summer tours:
- Culture discovery
- Nature / wildlife discovery
- Trekking/ ascent
- Kayaking/ whitewater rafting
- 4x4 (jeep)
- ATV (quad biking)
- Horse-riding
- Cruise
- Fishing
- Jeeping

3
Our Staff and Equipment
We are a team based in relevant regions of Russia and Moscow.
We are fond of adventure travel and our country, have long field and office experience, and are always happy to
share our knowledge of Russia with Adventure and Discovery Travellers.
Our technical equipment includes up-to-date units for activity and adventure travel: snowmobiles, Russian
trophy-type off-road cars, quad vehicles, motor-boats Zodiac-type, Time Trial rafts and catarafts, semi-plastic
skis, TSL snowshoes, as well as other quality gear and outfit for adventure travel.
Our Policy
- High quality service
We use all the resources available – our qualified staff and own equipment, original itineraries and reliable local
hosts - to offer Quality Adventure travel.
We attach importance to quality and comfort in adventure trips: we provide cooking and luggage transportation
services on biking and trekking itineraries, our guests are accommodated in cozy guest houses or heated huts
in winter or quality tents in summer.
- Safety
To ensure the safety of our tour participants, we study in detail new itineraries and have multiple tests before
offering a new tour, regularly run thorough gear and equipment checks, and train our activity guides. For
emergency cases, we established cooperation with the regional rescue teams of the RF Ministry of force-
majeure situations.
- Diversity
Our itinerary portfolio includes options for travelers of different age, fitness level, and interests. Some of our
itineraries are designed specially for experienced lovers of a specific type of activity, while others are suitable for
families or can be considered as nature add-ons to city culture tours. In financial terms, our offers range from
popular budget tours to exclusive expeditions at the higher end.
Set departures for International Groups,
Small Group Travel & Customised Adventure
We are proud to offer to our foreign clients and partners English-guided set departures (i.e. guaranteed
departures for international small groups formed by RussiaDiscovery, with guiding in English and Russian, on
the set dates) in a number of regions: Karelia, Caucasus, Northern Ural, Baikal, Kamchatka and the coast of
Okhotsk Sea coast, Altai, Yamal, Siberia, Chukotka, Commander islands, Spitsbergen/Svalbard, the Arctic and
Antarctica. Interpreters from other languages can be confirmed upon request.
We also make tailor-made offers to groups of clients and develop exclusive itineraries in all the regions of our
operations for the small adventure & discovery groups (6-15 pax) of our partners – foreign tour operators.
We collaborate with corporate clients and travel agencies.
Our contact details
RussiaDiscovery
3, Kholodilny lane, office 201, Moscow, Russia, 115191
Tel Moscow office: +7 495 125 28 08
Emergency contact phone (24 hrs) Moscow: +7 926 258 01 12
URL: www.russiadiscovery.ru
E-mail: go@russiadiscovery.ru, veronika.prokhorova@russiadiscovery.ru

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RUSSIA COUNTRY GENERAL INFO
Geography and nature
Russia occupies 11.5% of the world territory being the largest country in the world. With an area of 17 mln sq.
km, it is somewhat smaller than the areas of Canada (9.97 mln sq. km) and Australia (about 7.68 mln sq. km)
combined. Russia spreads for 10 000 kilometers from the west to the east and covers 11 time zones.
In the north-west, Russia borders Norway and Finland, in the south-west, it shares borders with the Baltic
states, Poland, Ukraine and Belarus; former USSR republics Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia lie to the south of
the country; finally, Russia is bounded to the Orient by the shores of the Pacific ocean and its land borders with
Mongolia and China in the south.
The Ural mountain range (up to 1600 m in the south and 1894 m in the north) is a natural border splitting Russia
into European and Asian parts. The former is mainly a plain, with the highlands of Khibiny on Kola Peninsula
(1200 m) and the Caucuses mountain ridge in the south. The Elbrus, with its 5642 m the highest peak of the
Caucasus and Russia, is also the highest peak of Europe.
East of the Urals, in western Siberia and eastern Siberian plateaus, the Altai mountains (up to 4506 m, Belukha
peak between Russia and Kazakhstan) and the Sayan mountains (up to 3494 m, Munku-Sardyk between Baikal
and Mongolia) are located.
Along the Far East shore of Russia stretch the Kamchatka mountains with the highest active volcano of Eurasia
(4750 m, Klyuchevskaya volcano).
In all the mountainous areas, trekking, alpinism, speleo-tourism, white-water rafting, downhill skiing and
mountain biking are available.
The greatest rivers of Russia are Lena, Yenissey, Irtysh and Ob’ that flow through Siberia into the Arctic Ocean.
Being only the 5th in length in Russia, Volga is the largest river on the European continent (3692 km).
The two largest (by surface area) lakes of Europe – Ladoga and Onego – are both situated in Karelia, a
Republic in the northwest part of Russia.
Russia’s and the world’s largest freshwater lake (volume) is Baikal that contains 1/5 of the total world’s
freshwater reserves and stretches for 600 km from north to south in Eastern Siberia.
Cruising, fishing, rafting, kayaking, boating and sailing are practiced on rivers and lakes.
Forests of the Caucasus, taiga of Siberia and the Far East preserve pristine nature and have a rich wildlife. Big
animals, however, cannot be easily spotted next to the settlements due to hunting. As opposed to many
European countries, when traveling across Russian wilderness one can see no people or villages.
With a population of 146 mln people and a land area of 17 125 407 sq km, Russia is one of the least populated
countries in the world. The overwhelming majority of the population is concentrated in the 15 biggest cities of
Russia - Moscow (over 12 mln people), St. Petersburg (around 5 mln people), Nizhniy Novgorod, Novosibirsk,
Yekaterinburg, Samara, Omsk, Tcheliabinsk, Kazan, Perm, Ufa, Rostov-on-Don, Volgograd, Krasnoyarsk,
Voronezh (each having more than 1 mln inhabitants). The areas off the cities largely remain uninhabited and
wild.
Time zone
There are 11 time zones in Russia (since the end of 2014). Most regions in Russia use permanent winter time
since 2014. This reduces the time difference between most European cities and Moscow to one hour in summer
and two hours in winter.
Kaliningrad time: GMT+2
Moscow/St Petersburg time: GMT+3
Samara time: GMT +4
Ural/Yamal time: GMT+5
Novosibirsk time: GMT+6
Krasnoyarsk time: GMT+7
Baikal time: GMT+8
Yakutia time: GMT+9
Vladivostok: GMT+10

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Magadan time: GMT +11
Kamchatka/Chukotka time: GMT+12
Climate
The greater part of Russia lies within the moderate climatic zone. The northern regions of the country next to the
Arctic Ocean lie in the arctic and sub-arctic belts (Kola Peninsula, Yamal/Nenets, Yakutia, Chukotka; tundra
climate), while the southern regions including the Caucasus and Crimea are in the sub-tropics (warm temperate
climate).
The climate is continental on the major territory of the country and has maritime influences in north-west and
extreme east. In the European part of Russia the climate is temperate. In Siberia and the Far East, it is sharply
continental with dramatic temperature gradients in the daytime and at nights, with hot summers and cold snow
winters. In the south of the Far East, the climate is moderately monsoon.
The average temperatures in January range from 0°C – 5°C near the northern spurs of the Caucasus Mountains
to -40°C – -50°C in Yakutia. Those in July vary from +1°C in the northern coast of Siberia to +30°C in the
European lowland.
The largest amount of precipitations falls in the mountains of the Caucasus and Altai (up to 2000 mm a year)
and in the south of the Far East (up to 1000 mm).
Due to a great variation of the climatic zones, for practical information it is recommended to look into
RussiaDiscovery infosheets on each particular region.
People and language
Population: 146 mln
Nationalities: over 100 incl Russians (81.5%), Tatars (3.8%), Ukranians (3%), Chuvashs (1.2%), Bashkirs
(0.9%), Belarussians (0.8%), Mordvinians (0.7%), Germans and Chechens (0.6% each), Avarians, Armenians,
Jews (0.4% each), etc.
Language: Russian (the Cyrillic alphabet) is the state language
All the population speaks Russian. In some regions, the local ethnic groups also have their languages and
dialects; media and school teaching might be in native languages.
Nowadays, most of the young generation of Russians from Moscow and St Petersburg speak English
(especially young professionals), but the knowledge of English remains very rare in the regions.
English is a common language in the country’s hotels, resorts and restaurants. Other languages are not widely
spoken. Only St Petersburg and Moscow (the latter to a limited degree) have information indicators in English
downtown. The signs in the Moscow subway and along the highways all around the country are partly in Cyrillic.
Religion: Orthodox for most population.
Common are Catholicism, Lutheranism (in the western parts of the country), Islam (with ethnic groups in the
south incl South Ural), Buddhism and Shamanism (rep.Kalmykia in European part, Buryatia and Tuva republics
in Asian part ).
Atheism after the Soviet period became common.
Getting to Russia
The gateway to Russia from Europe and US is Moscow, from where numerous flights by domestic carriers
continue to the Russian regions.
There are 3 main international airports in Moscow: Sheremetievo (Aeroflot, Air France and a few other
companies), Domodedovo (foreign carriers - Lufthansa, Swiss Air, etc; and majority of Russian airlines such as
Transaero, S7, etc) and Vnukovo (UTair, Transaero, Yakutia, Germanwings, Turkish Airlines).
Attention: remember to ensure that arrival/departure are from the same airport, as the transfer between them
takes 3-4+ hrs.
When booking the corresponding flights, please keep min 1,5 hrs (better 2 hrs) between the flights for luggage
receipt, passport control, check-in and security control, as the lines are frequent.

6
For north-west of the country, St Petersburg is a gateway. International terminal Pulkovo-II is located 20 min
away from the domestique terminal Pulkovo-1.
For a few cities, flights by the Russian carriers might be available from some European countries (e.g., Irkutsk
from Germany by Yakutia Airlines, etc).

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Visa and formalities
In order to visit Russia as a tourist, one needs a valid tourist visa, which can be issued for max 30 days and can
be single or double entry.
Visa application can be made either via a foreign travel agent or directly by the traveller to the Russian
consulate. To save your time and to avoid unpleasant emotions, we highly recommend you to pay a bit more but
get a visa without any problems via a foreign travel agent.
The package of documents required, cost and duration of visa issue are specific for every country and shall be
checked with the Russian Consulate in a particular country. Among the documents required at the moment of
visa application submission are visa support documents from a Russian tour operator or hotel, a passport valid
min 6 month after the date of return, a colour photo, an original of insurance certificate (medical + repatriation
coverage, with indication of name, dates and country of travel), an application form and some other documents.
Attention: apply for visa well in advance, as it’s processing by the Russian consulate might require some time,
especially in high summer season.
Visa support (an invitation + a voucher) are available free of charge from RussiaDiscovery when booking one of
our tours.
To issue visa support, we need the following data:
Date of arrival in Russia:
(bordercrossing date)
Date of departure from Russia:
(bordercrossing date)
Last name All first and middle
names
Date of birth Passport number Citizenship
Within 3 days upon arrival in Russia (excl weekends) a tourist shall obtain a registration of his visa in Russia.
Recently this period was increased to 7 days, excluding holidays and weekends. The registration is
automatically made by the hotel at check-in for the duration of stay there (a small registration fee of RUB 200
might be required). Independent travelers staying with friends or relatives or in small accommodation in the
region shall take care of the registration on their own.
Please note that to enter some frontier zones of Russia (all Chukotka, north of Kola Peninsula, Yamal, north of
Yakutia, parts of Kamchatka, the Kuril islands, areas next to the borders with the other countries) you need a
special borderzone permit. The application for this permit is done by the Russian tour operator. The travelers
data (last name, all first and middle names, date and place of birth, nationality/citizenship, residence address,
passport number, the dates of passport issue/expiration, authority who issued the passport and its location,
employer name and address, position, dates of stay in Russia and day-to-day itinerary in Russia, scan of the
passport) shall be submitted to the authorities min 60 days before the date of travel:
№ LAST NAME
and all first
and middle
names
Date
of
birth
Place of
birth
(town,
country)
Citizen
ship
Passport
series
and
number
Authority
that issued
the
passport
and its
location
Date of
issue and
date of the
passport
expiry
Full
residence
address
Employer,
company
address,
your
position
List of photo
and filming
equipment:
a) type
(photo/video
/etc)
b) number of
units
c) trademark
Documents
to enclose –
Passport
page 1 scan
1
2

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Vaccination and medical precautions
There is no required vaccination or other medical requirements for visiting Russia. You should visit the dentist
prior to taking the trip and consult your doctor if you are uncertain about the state of your health.
There is a small risk of tick-borne encephalitis throughout most forest areas in May-June. You may wish to be
vaccinated well in advance against such an eventuality.
Drinking water
The tap water will normally be safe to drink in the Russian regions but it is not recommended in Moscow and St
Petersburg as well as in north-western swampy areas. Bottled water is widely available.
Everywhere in Siberia the water of rivers and rivulets is potable; local people never buy still-bottled water.
Electricity
Electric supply: 220 V, 50 Hz
Plugs: the new standard plugs are European-type; old standard plugs are smaller than European ones and do
not allow the use of computers without a transformer.
Rechargeable batteries: bring own 220 rechargers.
Money
Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB)
The exchange rate is fluctuating. USD and EUR banknotes are not in use, payments are made in Ruble only.
Payment by credit cards Visa, Mastercard, American Express is accepted only in hotels, big shops, and
restaurants in the big cities. For adventure travel to any remote areas you need to have RUB cash. It is advised
to withdraw in Rubles from ATMs.
USD and EUR bills are accepted in the exchange offices in denomination of 10, 20, 50, 100 and higher, if in
good condition (not marked or torn) and issued after 1990. The exchange rate in different banks can vary
significantly; the exchange rate can be different depending on the amount exchanged in private exchange
kiosks; commission can be charged additionally on transaction. Please verify the amounts immediately upon
receipt.
ATMs are located at the airports, in local banks, hotels, shopping centers. There are no ATMs out of the
regional capitals in remote areas of Russia. It is highly recommended to have some RUB cash on hands when
travelling out of big cities. We do recommended that you check and raise the withdrawal ceiling on your bank
card for abroad (countries out of Europe) before leaving your home country, as cases of withdrawal refusal
because of the low ceiling are frequent among our foreign guests.
Tipping
There is no compulsory tipping on our tours. All tips are an entirely voluntary way for individuals to thank field
staff (interpreter/guide, driver) for good service.
Tipping in cafés and restaurants is usual if you do not wish to express dissatisfaction with the service (appr 10%
of the amount on the bill, but can be a little bit lower on big bills and higher on smaller amounts). There are
certain min levels below which it might better not to leave tips at all.
Things to buy
Wood carvings, folklore products, vodka and berry spirits, Orthodox icons, ceramics, CDs.
All regions have specialties (e.g. reindeer antler products, throat singing records, bone-made items, etc).

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ADVENTURE / DISCOVERY TOURS summer 2015
Page Illustration Tour Season Dur
a-
tion
Activities Net rates for
TOs / TAs
Notes
ALTAI
18-21 Akkem
breakthrough
27 June
– 26
Aug
5d
/4n
Rafting •
Di
stance: by
car –1250
km, rafting
~ 70 km
12 500 RUB
pp
English-
speaking
guide is not
included into
the price)
Upon request
for individuals
/ groups
22-26 Akkem
breakthrough
+ horse-
riding
27 June
– 19
Aug
12d
/11
n
Rafting +
horse-
riding
by car –
1140 km,
rafting ~
230 km,
horses ~
50 km
25 550 RUB English-
speaking
guide is not
included into
the price)
Upon request
for individuals
/ groups
27-31 On horses to
Belukha
mountain +
Akkem
breakthrough
20 June
– 26
Aug
12
d/
11
n
Rafting +
horse-
riding
. •
Di
stance: by
car –1250
km, horse
part ~ 130
km, rafting
~ 70 km.
35 000 RUB English-
speaking
guide is not
included into
the price)
Upon request
for individuals
/ groups
32-36 On horses to
Belukha
mountain
20 June
– 26
Aug
11d
/10
n
Kayaking,
horse-
riding and
nature&cul
ture
discovery
•
Di
stance: by
car –1500
km, on
horse ~
130 km.
33 000 RUB English-
speaking
guide is not
included into
the price)
Upon request
for individuals
/ groups

10
37-41 To the
Shavlinskie
Lakes» +
«Middle
Katun»
(Horse-riding
+ rafting)
28 June
– 30
Aug
15d
/14
n
Horse-
riding and
rafting
•
Di
stance: by
car –1020
km, horses
~ 120 km,
rafting ~
160 km.
34 000 RUB English-
speaking
guide is not
included into
the price)
Upon request
for individuals
/ groups
42-46 Shavlinskie
Lakes
28 June
– 26
Aug
11d
/10
n
Horse-
riding and
rafting
25 000 RUB English-
speaking
guide is not
included into
the price)
Upon request
for individuals
/ groups
ANTARCTICA REGION
47-55 Classic
Antarctica
07 Jan
– 28
January
12d
/
11n
Cruise Price from
8 885 USD
Join-in English
ARCTIC - 2016
56-62 North Pole
Icebreaker
Cruise
19 Jul –
23 Aug
14d
/13
n
Cruise PRICE from
25 995 EUR
Join-in English
63-65 Helicopter
expedition to
the North
Pole
and a night
at a drifting
Ice Camp
05 Apr
–
09.Apr
5d/
4n
Helicopter
expedition
17 500 EUR Join-in English

11
BAIKAL
Baikal summer 2015
66-69 Baikal
Voyage
15 June
– 10
Sept
11d
/
10n
Nature
discovery
and
sightseeing
covering all
the Central
and South
Baikal
6 pax –
69 540 RUB
8 pax –
63 000 RUB
Upon request
for groups of
6+ pax
Upon request
for individuals
from 2 pax
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request
70-74 Baikal in a
week
15 June
– 10
Sept
8 d/
7n
Non-
expensive
nature and
sightseeing
Programme
in Central
and South
Baikal
6 pax –
52 620 RUB
Upon request
for groups of
6-8 pax
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request
75-78 Baikal cruise 15 June
– 10
Sept
9d /
8n
Cruising
and nature
discovery
along
Baikal’s
western
coast, with
walks and
culture
visits
8 pax –
105 000
RUB;
Upon request
for groups of
8+ pax
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request
79-83 The spirit of
Baikal
15 June
– 10
Sept
9d /
8n
Nature and
culture
discovery
on the
island of
Olkhon
66 000 RUB Upon request
for groups of
6+ pax
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request

12
84-87 Baikal lake
and Tunka
valley
15 June
– 10
Sept
8d /
7n
Nature
discovery,
walking,
and
sightseeing
in the
South
Baikal –
Irkutsk,
Ust-Orda
and Tunka
valley
6 pax –
53 940 RUB
Upon request
for groups of
6-10 pax,
single
accommodatio
n
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request
88-90 The journey
to Siberia
and Buryatia
15 June
– 10
Sept
5d /
4n
Nature
discovery
and
sightseeing
in Irkutsk,
Ust-Orfa
and Ulan-
Ude side of
Baikal
6 pax –
32 100
RUB
8 pax –
30 300 RUB
10 pax –
29 880 RUB
Upon request
for groups of
6-30 pax
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request
91-95 To the valley
of Volkanoes
and Down
the wild Oka
Sayanskaya
River
20 June
– 30
Aug
13d
/
12n
Whitewater
rafting,
trekking
6 pax –
66 000 RUB;
Upon request
for groups of
6+ pax
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request
96-99 Kayaking at
Baikal
01 July
– 30
Aug
10d
/ 9n
Nature,
kayaking
(20-25
km/day, 2
pax/kayak),
horse-riding
(30-40
km/day)
6 pax –
65 400
RUB;
Upon request
for groups of
4+ pax
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request

13
100-
103 Around the
lake
26 June
– 30
Aug
14d
/
13n
Nature
discovery,
light activity
(trekking,
catarafting)
6 pax –
78 000 RUB
Upon request
for groups of
3+ pax
English,
German,
French,
Spanish,
Italian guides
are included,
Chinese and
Japanese
translators –
upon request
CAUCASUS
104-
107 Classic
ascent of
Elbrus from
the South-
2015
02 May
– 12
Sept
8d/
7n
Ascent,
trekking
49 900 RUB
per pax
Group size 6-
12 pax
Price for the
English
speaking
attendant
–120 EUR
Per person
108-
112 Elbrus
crossing
(5642m)
04 July
– 22
Aug
8d/
7n
Ascent,
trekking
59 500 RUB Group size 6-8
pax
English
speaking
attendant
113-
117 Great
trekking
around
Elbrus
27
June–
27 Aug
13d
/12
n
Trekking 73 440 RUB
per pax
Group size 6-
12 pax
English
speaking
attendant
118-
121 Sci-tour
12 Apr
– 3
June
11d
/10
n
Sci-tour,
ascent
59 500 RUB
per pax
Group size 6-8
pax

14
Commander islands
122-
125
Cruise to
Commander
islands
July -
Septem
ber
8d/
7n
cruise,
expedition
RUB 95 000.–
1 pax in the
cabin with 4
beds
RUB 120 000.
– 1 pax in the
cabin with 2
beds
English guide
– upon
request
Group size 17-
30 pax
Far East Voyages
126-
130
Across the
Top of the
World
20 July-
31
August
15
d /
14
n
Cruise,
expedition,
nature
discovery
From 11 200
USD
Join in
English, other
languages –
upon request
131-
134
Jewel of the
Russian Far
East
THE
CHUKOTKA,
KORYAK
AND
KAMCHATK
A
COASTLINE
(30) 31
Aug –
12.Sept
13d
/12
n
Cruise,
expedition,
nature
discovery
From 7 200
USD
Join in
English, other
languages –
upon request
135-
138
Russia’s
Ring Of Fire
Kamchatka,
The
Commander
& Kuril
Islands
27 May
– 08
June
13d
/12
n
Cruise,
expedition,
nature
discovery
From 7 300
USD
Join in
English, other
languages –
upon request
139-
143
Sea Of
Okhotsk
Seals,
Seabirds
And A
Legacy Of
Sorrow
09 June
– 20
June
12d
/11
n
Cruise,
expedition,
nature
discovery
From 6 700
USD
Join in
English, other
languages –
upon request
Kamchatka
144-
148
Classic
Kamchatka
14 June
– 26
Sept
13d
/12
n
Nature
discovery,
trekking,
rafting
104 400 RUB Join in English
Other
languages –
upon request
Group size –
up to 16 pax

15
149-
152
Fishing with
rafting on the
Opala river
06 Sept
– 15
Sent
11d
/10
n
Fishing&ra
fting
From 100 800
RUB
Join in English
Other
languages –
upon request
Group size 2-
10 pax
153-
136
In search of
adventures
05 July
– 13
Sept
8d/
7n
Nature
discovery,
comfort+
From 90 000
RUB
Join in English
Other
languages –
upon request
Group size –
up to 16 pax
Karelia* (rafting, quadrocycles – upon request)
157-
159
KARELIA
School of
jeepers
April -
Septem
3d/
2n
Jeeping From 34 800
RUB
Group size 2-
15 pax
English,
German,
Finnish-
speaking
guide
Spitsbergen/Svalbard
160-
164
Next to the
North Pole
23
March –
11 May
8d/
7n
Snowmobil
ing tour
From 1 900
EUR
Join-in English
Group size –
from 2 pax
165-
168
Svalbard in a
nutshell
23
March –
8 May
5d/
4n
Snowmobil
ing tour
From 1 300
EUR
Join-in English
Group size –
from 2 pax
Siberia
169-
173
Archeologica
l tour
"ANCIENT
GODS OF
SIBERIA"
1 June
– 9 Sept
7d/
6n
Culture
discovery
From 46 000
RUB
English,
German,
French -
included
Italian,
Spanish,
Chinese,
Japanese –
upon request

16
174-
178
Esoteric
tour-seminar
“Initiation
into
shamanism”
15 June
– 23
Aug
7d/
6n
Culture
discovery
From 45 000
RUB
English,
German,
French -
included
Italian,
Spanish,
Chinese,
Japanese –
upon request
Group size 6-
12 pax
179-
185
Great Sayan
Ring
20 May
– 11
Sept
10d
/9n
Culture
discovery,
excursion
From 76 500
RUB
English,
German,
French -
included
Italian,
Spanish,
Chinese,
Japanese –
upon request
186-
193
The
Mysteries Of
Sayan Ring
20 May
– 10
Sept
7d/
6n
Culture
discovery,
excursion
From 61 000
RUB p/pax
English,
German,
French -
included
Italian,
Spanish,
Chinese,
Japanese –
upon request
Group size –
up to 22 pax
194-
199
Sayan
expanses
10 July
– 3 Aug
10d
/9n
Trekking –
culture
discovery
From 46 000
RUB p/pax
English,
German,
French -
included
Italian,
Spanish,
Chinese,
Japanese –
upon request
Group size –
up to 18 pax
200-
204
Pearls Of
Tuva
08 July
– 27
July
8d/
7n
Culture
discovery,
excursion
From 46 000
RUB
English,
German,
French -
included
Italian,
Spanish,
Chinese,
Japanese –
upon request
Group size –
up to 12 pax

17
205-
210
Yenisey Is
The Heart Of
Siberia
16 – 23
July
8d/
7n
Cruise,
culture
discovery
From 125 000
RUB
English,
German,
French -
included
Italian,
Spanish,
Chinese,
Japanese –
upon request
Group size -11
pax
211-
217
Yenisey
River Cruise
25 July
– 2 Aug
9d/
8n
Cruise,
culture
discovery
From 82 000
RUB
English,
German,
French -
included
Italian,
Spanish,
Chinese,
Japanese –
upon request
Group size -12
pax
URAL
218-
220
Manpupuner
— Stone
Idols
The active
walking tour
12 June
– 11
Aug
8d/
7n
Trekking,
nature
discovery
From 34 700
RUB
English,
German,
French,
Italian,
Spanish –
upon request
Group size –
up to 9 pax
221-
223
Ust-
Tsilemsky
gorka on
Peter’s day
July 7d/
6n
Culture
discovery
From 30 000
RUB
English,
German,
French,
Italian,
Spanish –
upon request
224-
225
To the
mountain
peaks of the
Urals
July -
Aug
8-
10d
Trekking From 36 000
RUB
English,
German,
French,
Italian,
Spanish –
upon request
226-
229
North
villages
All-year-
round
6d/
5n
Culture
discovery
From 30 000
RUB
English,
G9rman,
French,
Italian,
Spanish

18
Yamal (rafting, trekking, fishing – upon request)
229-
232
Trekking To
The End Of
The World
Adventure
Tour In The
Polar Ural
Mountains,
Yamalia
April -
August
13d
/12
n
Trekking 3 300 EUR Join-in
English,
German

19
Dates of arrival - 2015
The first and the last days of the
tour
27.06 – 01.07
11.07 – 15.07
25.07 – 29.07
08.08 – 12.08
22.08 – 26.08
Tour type Rafting
Duration 5 days/4 nights (2 days
rafting)
Season June-September
Special
requirements
Age 18+

20
Itinerary
Time GMT + 8h
Day 1. Barnaul – Base Camp (300 km by car, the journey time ~5 hours)
Tourists are met at the airport (7 a.m., local time), at the railway station (9 a.m., local time) in Barnaul.
Departure to the base camp, where they receive the equipment. All things, which are not necessary during
mountain part of the journey, can be placed in storage. In spare time we suggest visiting souvenir market or
taking a dip in the warm and deep Katun Baths if weather is good enough. Hot Russian steam banya is waiting
for you in the evening.
Day 2 . Base Camp – Tyungur (450 km by car, ~6-7 hours)
The road gives a lot of impressions itself. The first part goes along the famous Chuya Highway (also known as
Chuysky Trakt), then along Uimon valley. The journey will not be boring: sometimes valley narrows, hills
become more and more steep, here and there appear rocky outcrops. Passing Ust-Kem you you can see
entrance to the cave on mountainside. After Kyrlykskiy spreads Abbay steppe. Bright floodplain meadows and
blue-coloured mountain river Koksa are pleasant to the eyes. After arrival we set up a camp and start to
prepare the crafts.
Day 3
At the beginning of the trip Katun flows through the wide Uimon valley. “Akkemskiy breakthrough” begins
downstream the Akkem river creek and lasts about 5 km, this part includes 9 powerful rapids. Big waves (up to
2,5 – 3 meters) are typical for these rapids. After the confluence of the Argut and Katun rivers, Katun becomes
even more intense. Overnight stay we will have next to a mouth of the Argut river.
Day 4
Rafting goes on as far as the mouth of the Bolshoy Yaloman river. After previous challendging day this day is
calm, only simple rapids and riffles are met on the way - it is a good time to look around and enjoy Altai’s
beauty.
Transition to the base camp (200 km by car, 3 hours). We will return the rented equipment,and go to banya
(optionally). Farewell dinner. Departure to Barnaul at 24.00 (300 km by car, ~5 hours).
Day 5
Arrival to the airport and the railway station of Barnaul city. Estimated arrival time ~ 5.00 a.m.
The Tour Operator reserves the right to change the itinerary due to weather conditions or other factors out of
Tour Operator control.

21
Budgeting for your tour
The price for the tour is 12500 RUB
The price includes: accommodation and meals at the base camp, transportation according to theschedule,
meeting and departure at the airport or railway station in Barnaul, meals, equipment rent, accompanying staff
services, banya, insurance
The price does not include: rent of neoprene suits, registration of foreigners at the migration service,
alcoholic drinks, any services offered by third parties, accommodation in hotel in Barnaul, English translator
Meals
During all trip meals are cooked on fire by accompanying staff.
Essential equipment
To take part in the tour one must have: Required personal equipment: comfortable shoes for rafting
(neoprene shoes, if you don't have one, you can take sport shoes or sandals); 2 sets of sport cloths: for rafting
and for rest in the end of the day, warm cloths (woolen hat, jacket, sweater, woolen socks); wind-resistant
suit, head-dress to protect head from sun (cap), water-resistant jacket or windjammer, swimsuit, sunglasses,
personal hygiene items, individual first-aid kit and medicine, flashlight, sunscreen.
We recommend you to take your own sleeping bag.
We provide groups with: water crafts – 6-8 place rafts; group is accompanied by safety catamaran; first-aid
kit; accommodation in 2-3 place camp tents; water-resistant bags; fire items; cookware; awning; steam baths.
We also provide individual equipment: helmets; oars; life jacket; drip-proof suits.
Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, plates and dishes are provided by company for free by due request.
Additional information
Requirements:
 Rafting experience along mountain rivers is desirable.
 Some endurance and communicative skills are a great plus for you.
 The very important point is to listen to experienced guide opinions in some extraordinary situations.
 Help during everyday camp activities is appreciated (fire-wood preparation, campfire, tent
installation).
 Everyone must follow safety measures and obey instructions of the guide.

22
 This tour is only for persons over 18 years old!
 It is very advisable to make vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis.
 Route goes through unsettled areas and areas with small population, which are absolutely without
scarcely populated.
Attention!
 The tour takes place closely to the state border and passes for foreigners is obligatory! For this reason
you have to apply for this tour no later than 60 days. Later applications can be considered
individually.

23

tour
27.06 – 08.07
11.07 – 22.07
25.07 – 05.08
08.08 – 19.08
Tour type Horse-riding and rafting
Duration 12 days/11 nights (rafting 6,
horse-riding 3)
Special
requirements
Age 18+

24
Itinerary
Time GMT + 8h
Departure to the base camp, where everyone receives the equipment for the tour. All things, which are not
necessary during the mountain part, can be placed in storage. In spare time we suggest visiting souvenir
market or taking a dip in the warm and deep Katun Baths if weather is good enough. Hot Russian steam banya
is waiting for you in the evening.
prepare the crafts.
Day 3
At the beginning of the trip Katun flows through the wide Uimon valley. “Akkemskiy breakthrough” begins
downstream the Akkem river creek and lasts about 5 km, this part includes 9 powerful rapids. Big waves (up to
2,5 – 3 meters) are typical for these rapids. After the confluence of the Argut and Katun rivers, Katun becomes
even more intense. Overnight stay we will have next to a mouth of the Argut river.
Day 4
Rafting goes on as far as the mouth of the Bolshoy Yaloman river. After previous challendging day this day is
calm, only simple rapids and riffles are met on the way - it is a good time to look around and enjoy Altai’s
beauty.
Day 5
On our way we will meet a lot of riffles with huge waves, the blue river is surrounded by colourful
mountains.The main obstacles that day are Ilgumen rapid with its big waves and Kadrinskaya tube, which is a
sequence of separate riffles and rapids. For the night we will stay in a picturesque place on the bank,
surrounded by tall pines.
Day 6
Rafting continues. Sabbath rapid is yet to come and it's name speaks for itself. We guarantee quite some
adrenaline in your blood! This day is also good for filming how you pass rapids and riffles. Overnight at the
place called Petroglyphs (petroglyph is an ancient cave painting, made by former inhabitants of the area).
Optionally you can order banya from a local resident.
Day 7
The river stream slows and you can enjoy Altai beauties, make pictures and videos. But it doesn't mean that
you can be absolutely relaxed, Katun likes making “surprises”. Here are a lot of rapids ahead: Kayancha I,

25
Kayancha II, Ayala and the most interesting:Teldekpen I and Teldekpen II – canyon-type rapids, where the
river bed cuts its pass through the rocks and narrows to 20-30 meters.
Day 8
The final rafting day up to Elikmanar. Katun becomes wider and slower, obstacles here are easier and local.
We will see the Chemal hydroelectric station.
Transition to Sugoynoe place, where the equestrian part of the tour starts. This “road” passed on an off-road
car can astonish you by its wilderness a little bit (25 km, ~3 hours). In the evening we will set up a camp and go
for banya.
Day 9
Transition to Muikhtinskiy broad gull. Trip goes through the Sugoynoe valley along the forest, then you rise
up to 1900 meters above the sea level; the view from there is great – it is a complete panorama to mountain
ridges. Next you descend to the station, which is located in a picturesque cedar forest, right on the border of
the forest and Alpine meadows. An excursion to a waterfall waits for you after setting up a camp.
Day 10
Horse-ride to Castles of Mountan Spirits, ascending the Ozernyj Belok mountain, there you can enjoy the
view to Karakolskie Lakes. In the eveninig you can order a private banya for additional payment.
Day 11
The final day of the horse part. It is time to say “Goodbye” to the cedar tayga and alpine meadows and come
back to Sugoynoe place along the Irmesh river.
Transition to the base camp (65 km by car, 3 hours). Return of the rented equipment. Farewell dinner.
Departure to Barnaul at 24.00 (300 km by car, ~5 hours).
Day 12

26
The price for the tour is 25 550 RUB
The price includes: accommodation and meals at the base camp, transportation according to the
schedule, meeting and farewell at the airport or railway station in Barnaul, meals, equipment rent, horse rent,
accompanying staff services, steam baths, insurance.
alcoholic drinks, any services offered by third parties, accommodation in hotel in Barnaul, English translator (the
cost depends on the size of the group).
Meals
Essential equipment
To take part in the tour one must have: high Rubber (water resistant) boots, long bootleg is preferred to avoid
RUBbing; warm jacket, wind and water resistant costume, warm clothes, gloves, head-dress, flashlight,
protection against rain, personal hygiene items, sunglasses, swimsuit, individual medicine if needed. For
rafting you need comfortable shoes (neoprene shoes, if you don't have one, you can take sport shoes or
sandals); 2 sets of sport cloths: for rafting and for rest in the end of the day.
We provide you: water crafts – 6-8-10 place rafts; group is accompanied by a safety catamaran; first-aid kit;
accommodation in 2-3 place camp tents; water-resistant bags (for rafting); archemaks (special bags for
carrying goods on horses); fire items; cookware; awning. We also provide individual equipment: helmets;
oars; life jacket; water-proof suits; sleeping bag, sleeping pad, plates and dishes, rain cloaks
Requirements:
 Some endurance and communicative skills are a great advantage for you.
 The very important point is to listen to experienced guide opinion in extraordinary situations.
installation).

27
 Route goes through unsettled areas and areas with small population
Attention!
The tour takes place closely to the state border and passes for foreigners is obligatory! For this reason you
have to apply for this tour no later than 60 days. Later applications can be considered individually.

28
tour
20.06 – 01.07
04.07 – 15.07
18.07 – 29.07
01.08 – 12.08
15.08 – 26.08
Duration 12 days/ 11 nights. Horse
part: 7 days. Rafting: 2 days
Special
requirements
Age 18+

29
Itinerary
Time GMT + 8h
prepare the crafts.
Day 3. Tyungur – The Kuzuyak Pass – The Akkem river – The Oroktoy river (~5-6
hours)
Today we mountain our horses and head to the Kuzuyak Pass (1513 meters above sea level), which is one of
the last points, where mobile service still exists.
“Akkem” is translated from Altai language as the“white water” – due to the rapids the water there enriches
with an oxygen, and looks white.
Day 4. The Oroktoy river – The Tukhman brook (~6-7 hours)
This day will be forever reflected in your memory because of unforgettable passes though fabulous taiga and
Alpine meadows. You will see snow peaks of Katun ridge, the Tukhman brook (which raises 2000 meters
above the sea level) and also the highest point of Siberia – Belukha mountain (4506 meters above sea leve) if
weather is clear
Day 5. The Tukhman brook – the small Araskan river – Aktash area –“Cedar forest
stop” (~7-8 hours).
All day long you will enjoy sights of high mountain plateau and flowering Alpine meadows.
Day 6. “Cedar forest stop” – the Tekeliu river – the Sarybel pass (2 300 m) – Akkem
lake (~6-7 hours)
This day is full of steep descents and ascends. The first obstacle is the descent to the Tekeliu river passing by
Skynchak breakaway. We will possibly reach the Tekeliu waterfall. Tekeliu in Altai language means “place
where wild goats live”. The next difficulty is the Sarybel pass rising and going through the swampy Sarybel
plateau. The view from there is marvelous!

30
Now you only need to cross the Akkem river before reaching the our goal of the day– the Akkem lake (1950
meters above sea level)!
For additional payment you can order a banya from a local resident.
Day 7. Outing to Ak-Oyuk gorge and Yarlu valley
Ak-Oyuk glacier, rising above “The valley of seven lakes”, is descending straight into one of the lakes. Valley is
a unique nature “collection” of small high mountain lakes, different by size and shades of colour. Lakes are
surrounded by amazing scenery, small rivers and brooks with waterfalls. Peaks, covered with snow, rounding
up the valley, underscore rough charming of this place.
The second name of the Yarlu valley is “edelweiss valley”. Here you can find blossoming honey edelweiss. This
small flower astonishes with its resistance to the harsh mountain climate. A rave of rock colour, “the hut of the
shaman”, “sun city” with “the growing stone”, the shrine of Roerich followers – all these things make you
believe in the unique and strong energy of this place.
Day 8. Akkem – the Karatiurek Pass – Izekeryu glade (~7-8 hours)
The Karatiurek Pass (3060 meters above sea level) has 1A complexity rank in sports tourism (1A is the simplest
rank, at the same time there are passes which are non-ranked. Rank depends on obstacles, sea level, slope
steepness, etc), there are many talus parts. The view from the pass is breathtaking: panoramic view of
Belukha, lake Kucherla, infinite peaks of Katun ridge. The ascend to the pass is the most important endurance
test both for tourists and horses.
Day 9. Izekeryu glade – Tyungur (~5-7 hours)
On the way you will see the rock grotto near the Kuylyu river, there you can find more than 100 ancient rock
paintings.
Day 10
The rafting part starts! At the beginning Katun flows through the wide Uimon valley. “Akkemskiy proryv”
begins downstream the Akkem river creek and lasts for about 5 km, including 9 powerful rapids. Big waves (up
to 2,5 – 3 meters) are typical for these rapids. After the confluence of the Argut and Katun rivers, Katun
becomes even more intense. Overnight stay in a mouth of the Argut river.
Day 11
Rafting goes on until the mouth of the Bolshoy Yaloman river. After previous day full of difficulties, this day is
calm with small rapids and riffles - it is a good time to look around and enjoy Altai’s beauty.
Transition to the base camp (200 km by car, 3 hours). Return of the rented equipment. Farewell dinner. Steam
baths. Departure to Barnaul at 24.00 (300 km by car, ~5 hours).
Day 12

31
schedule, meeting and farewell at the airport or railway station in Barnaul, meals, equipment rent, horse rent,
accompanying staff services, banya, insurance
alcoholic drinks, any services offered by third parties, accommodation in hotel in Barnaul
Meals
Essential equipment
To take part in the tour one must have: high rubber (water resistant) boots, long bootleg is preferred to avoid
We provide you with: water crafts – 6-8-10 place rafts; group is accompanied by safety catamaran; first-aid
kit; accommodation in 2-3 place camp tents; water-resistant bags (for rafting); archemaks (special bags for
oars; life jacket; drip-proof suits; sleeping bag, sleeping pad, plates and dishes, rain cloaks.
Requirements:
installation).

32
 Route goes through unsettled areas and areas with small population


Attention!
 The tour takes place closely to state border and passes for foreigners are obligatory! For this reason
you have to apply for this tour no later than 60 days. Later applications can be considered
individually.

33
tour
20.06 –30.07
04.07 – 14.07
18.07 – 28.07
01.08 – 11.08
15.08 – 25.08
Tour type Kayaking, horse-riding and
nature&culture discovery
Duration 11 days/10 nights
Special
requirements
Age 14+

34
Basic information
Belukha Mountain is equally far away from the three oceans – the Indian, the Pacific, the Arctic. This fact
allows us to say, that Belukha is the center of the Eurasia. Three peaks are copies of three stars in Orion's Belt
and this fact says about the connection with the outer space. Blindingly white peak of Belukha, which is always
covered with snow is a symbol of purity and holiness to many locals of the area.
For a long time Belukha is surrounded with dozens of myths, legends and secrets. Belukha is believed to be the
gateway to mysterious place Shambhala, the Heaven, where all inhabitants are enlightened. Umay – Turkic
goddess – is believed to inhabit Belukha. There exists even the point of view, that from this place great
Gautama Buddha is started his journey to India. Old believers consider that Belovodye – the country of
happiness – is there as well, but not every person can get there. According to other legends, there is an energy
bridge connecting Belukha and Everest. In Asia, cult of mountains is wide-spread
Itinerary
Time GMT + 8h
Day 1 Barnaul – Base Camp (300 km by car, the journey time ~5 hours)
prepare the crafts.
Day 3. Tyungur – The Kuzuyak Pass – The Akkem river – The Oroktoy river (~5-6
hours)
Today we mountain our horses and head to the Kuzuyak Pass (1513 meters above sea level), which is one of
the last points, where mobile service still exists.
“Akkem” is translated from Altai language as the“white water” – due to the rapids the water there enriches
with an oxygen, and looks white.
Day 4. The Oroktoy river – The Tukhman brook (~6-7 hours)
This day will be forever reflected in your memory because of unforgettable passes though fabulous taiga and
Alpine meadows. You will see snow peaks of Katun ridge, the Tukhman brook (which raises 2000 meters
above the sea level) and also the highest point of Siberia – Belukha mountain (4506 meters above sea leve) if
weather is clear.

35
Day 5. The Tukhman brook – the small Araskan river – Aktash area –“Cedar forest
stop” (~7-8 hours).
All day long you will enjoy sights of high mountain plateau and flowering Alpine meadows.
Day 6. “Cedar forest stop” – the Tekeliu river – the Sarybel pass (2 300 m) – Akkem
lake (~6-7 hours)
This day is full of steep descents and ascends. The first obstacle is the descent to the Tekeliu river passing by
Skynchak breakaway. We will possibly reach the Tekeliu waterfall. Tekeliu in Altai language means “place
where wild goats live”. The next difficulty is the Sarybel pass rising and going through the swampy Sarybel
plateau. The view from there is marvelous!
Now you only need to cross the Akkem river before reaching the our goal of the day– the Akkem lake (1950
meters above sea level)!
For additional payment you can order a banya from a local resident.
Day 7. Outing to Ak-Oyuk gorge and Yarlu valley
Ak-Oyuk glacier, rising above “The valley of seven lakes”, is descending straight into one of the lakes. Valley is a
unique nature “collection” of small high mountain lakes, different by size and shades of colour. Lakes are
surrounded by amazing scenery, small rivers and brooks with waterfalls. Peaks, covered with snow, rounding
up the valley, underscore rough charming of this place.
The second name of the Yarlu valley is “edelweiss valley”. Here you can find blossoming honey edelweiss. This
small flower astonishes with its resistance to the harsh mountain climate. A rave of rock colour, “the hut of the
shaman”, “sun city” with “the growing stone”, the shrine of Roerich followers – all these things make you
believe in the unique and strong energy of this place.
Day 8. Akkem – the Karatiurek Pass – Izekeryu glade (~7-8 hours)
The Karatiurek Pass (3060 meters above sea level) has 1A complexity rank in sports tourism (1A is the simplest
rank, at the same time there are passes which are non-ranked. Rank depends on obstacles, sea level, slope
steepness, etc), there are many talus parts. The view from the pass is breathtaking: panoramic view of
Belukha, lake Kucherla, infinite peaks of Katun ridge. The ascend to the pass is the most important endurance
test both for tourists and horses.
Day 9. Izekeryu glade – Tyungur (~5-7 hours)
On the way you will see the rock grotto near the Kuylyu river, there you can find more than 100 ancient rock
paintings.
Day 10. Tyungur – Base Camp (450 km by car, ~6-7 hours)
Return of the rented equipment. Banya. Farewell dinner.
Day 11
Arrival to the airport and railway station of Barnaul city. Estimated arrival time ~ 5.00 a.m.

36
The price includes: base camp services, transportation according to schedule, meeting and send-off at the
airport or railway station in Barnaul, meals, equipment rent, horse rent, accompanying staff services, steam
baths, insurance.
The price does not include: registration of foreigners at the migration service, alcoholic drinks, any
services offered by third parties, accommodation in hotel in Barnaul
Meals
Essential equipment
RUBbing. Warm jacket, wind and water resistant costume, warm clothes, gloves, head-dress, flashlight,
protection against rain, personal hygiene items, sunglasses, swimsuit, individual medicine if needed. Highly
recommended to have your own sleeping bag.
We provide you: accommodation in 2-3 place camp tents, archemaks (special bags for carrying goods on
horses), awning, fire items, cookware, first-aid kit, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, plates and dishes, rain cloaks.
 The tour is recommended for people with a horse-riding experience and in good health condition.
 Route goes through mountain and taiga area, elevation difference is from 600 to 3000 meters above the
sea level
 The route also goes through unsettled areas and areas with small population
 We strongly recommend to consult a doctor because the tour takes place in high mountain area.
 Some endurance and communicative skills will be a great advantage for you.
 Help during everyday camp activities is welcome (fire-wood preparation, starting campfire, tent
installation).
 Everyone must follow safety measures and carry out instructions of the guide.
 Children can participate from the age of 14 years accompanied by parents, from 18 years – independently.

37
Attention!
 The tour takes place closely to the state border and passes for foreigners are obligatory! For this
reason you have to apply for this tour no later than 60 days. Later applications can be considered
individually.

38
tour
28.06 – 12.07
05.07 – 19.07
12.07 – 26.07
19.07 – 02.08
26.07 – 09.08
02.08 – 16.08
09.08 – 23.08
16.08 – 30.08
part: 7 days, rafting: 4 days
Special
requirements
Age limit 18+

39
Basic information
“Mechta, Krasavitsa and Skazka”, these are the names of mountains, which surround the Shavlinskie
lakes. And it means “Dream, Beauty and Fairy Tale”. The horse-riding tour starts in Sargoldik (8 km
from the Belyj Bom settlement, Ongudaysky District, Altai Republic) and contains active equestrian
part and one rest day on the Shavlinskoe Lake bank. This trip is good both for tourists with horse-
riding experience and newbies.
The route goes in a high mountaineous part of Central Altai along north mountainsides of North-
Chuya ridge. Average altitude of the region, where the tour takes place, is 2500 meters above the sea
level.
Landscapes have a distinct alpine look – pinnacled, always covered with snow and ice peaks, steep
abrupt slopes, deep canyons with powerful rivers.
Itinerary
Time GMT + 8h
Day 1 Barnaul – Base Camp (300 km by car, the journey time ~5 hours)
Day 2 . Base Camp – Belyj Bom – Sargoldik (290 km by car, ~ 6-7 hours)
Travelling along the oldest road of Siberia – Chuya Highway (also known as Chuysky Trakt). During the trip you
will learn about the history of Mountaineous Altai and traditions of the local population. The road goes
through picturesque places: mountain passes, peaks, wide valleys and steppes, ancient burial places and
tumuluses. We stop at the most beautiful spots to take pictures and videos. Arrival to camping “U Egorycha”.
Lunch. Transition to Sargoldik – the start point of the horse trip – there we will set a camp.
Day 3 Sargoldik – the Tjan Shan Pass – Kara-Kjol Lake (horses ~4-5 hours)
The first pass is not very difficult. Steep rise to the Tjan Shan Pass – there, if weather is clear, you can see the
giant figure of Belukha mountain (4506 meters above sea level) – the highest point in Siberia. After
descending tourists can enjoy the view of the one of many lakes we will pass by –the Kara-Kjol Lake is one of
them. Our camp will be not far from the lake.
Day 4 Kara-Kjol Lake – the Ayrash Pass – the Shabaga river (horses ~8 hours)
This day will be more advanced. It starts with rising to the Bakhsyrga Pass, on the top you can find a pretty
lake with the same name, its water has a nice green color. Then the path goes on a high altitude and from
there you may admire panoramic views. Glaciers will be visible for the first time during this trip. At the end of
the day we will experience a long descending on foot (horses are lead on a rein) from the Ayrash Pass.

40
Day 5. the Shabaga river – Shavlinskoe lake (horses ~4 hours)
And now the path is ascending to the Lower Shavlinskoe lake (1983 meters above the sea level). From there
you can see snow-white peaks called Mechta (Dream), Krasavitsa (Beauty) and Skazka (Fairy-tale) (the
highest from them is 3764 meters). If weather is clear and windless they are reflected in the huge mirror of
lake and this sight is truly fabulous!
Day 6
Tour to the Middle and Upper Shavlinskie lakes. From the banks of Upper lake you can see glaciers of
Shavlinskaya Podkova (Shavlinskaya Horseshoe). For an additional payment you can order banyas and buy
grayling (typical Siberian fish) from local residents.
Day 7. Shavlinskoe lake – the Shabaga river (horses ~6-7 hours)
Now when you have gathered so many impressions, it's time to go back. The path goes along the Shavla river,
we will even pass the thrilling wade!
Day 8. The Shabaga river – Yeshtykel – Bakhsyrga – Kara-Kjol (horses ~8 hours)
A long pass. Other wades will be waiting for us this day! Before you reach Yeshtykel plateau, we will have a
pleasant stop near the warmest lake on this tour – Kazan-Kel. As for Yeshtykel plateau - it is a rather swampy
place and you have no chance to relax, but picturesque landscapes will be a good reward for all those
difficulties.
Day 9. Kara-Kjol – Sargoldik – Belyj Bom (horses ~5 hours, 10 km by car, ~1,5 hours)
The final horse-riding pass! At the end we will face one more difficulty – a steep descend from the Bakhsyrga
Pass. We will be transported to hospitable camping “U Egorycha”. Russian banya is the right choice after a
complicated tour. Cozy summer cabins will be hosting us that night.
Day 10. Belyj Bom – mouth of the Bolshoy Yaloman river (60 km by car, ~ 1 hour)
Transition to the water part of the tour. Rest.
Day 11
On our way we will meet a lot of riffles with huge waves, the blue river is surrounded by colourful
mountains.The main obstacles that day are Ilgumen rapid with its big waves and Kadrinskaya tube, which is a
sequence of separate riffles and rapids. For the night we will stay in a picturesque place on the bank,
surrounded by tall pines.
Day 12
Rafting continues. Sabbath rapid is yet to come and it's name speaks for itself. We guarantee quite some
adrenaline in your blood! This day is also good for filming how you pass rapids and riffles. Overnight at the
place called Petroglyphs (a petroglyph is an ancient cave painting).
For an additional payment you can order a steam bath from local resident.
Day 13
The river stream slows and you can enjoy Altai beauties, make pictures and videos. But it doesn't mean that
you can be absolutely relaxed, Katun likes making “surprises”. Here are a lot of rapids ahead: Kayancha I,

41
Kayancha II, Ayala and the most interesting Teldekpen I and Teldekpen II – canyon type rapids, where river
bed cuts its way through the rocks and narrows to 20-30 meters.
Day 14
The final rafting day up to Elikmanar. Katun becomes wider and slower, obstacles here are less difficult and
local. We will have a look at Chemal hydroelectric power station.
Transition to the base camp (60 km by car). Return of the rented equipment. Farewell dinner. Steam baths.
Day 15
schedule, meeting and send-off at the airport or railway station in Barnaul, meals, equipment rent, horse rent,
accompanying staff services, steam baths, insurance
alcoholic drinks, any services offered by third parties, accommodation in hotel in Barnaul, English-speaking
guide (the price depends on the size of the group)
Meals
Essential equipment
We recommend you to take your own sleeping bag
We provide you with: water crafts – 6-8-10 place rafts; group is accompanied by safety catamaran; first-aid
kit; accommodation in 2-3 place camp tents; water-resistant bags (for rafting); archemaks (special bags for
oars; life jacket; drip-proof suits; sleeping bag, sleeping pad, plates and dishes, rain cloaks

42
 The tour is recommended for people with a horse-riding and rafting experience in good health condition.
 The route goes through unsettled areas and areas with small population
 We strongly recommend to consult a doctor because the tour takes place in a high mountain area.
 Some endurance and communicative skills will be a great advantage for you.
installation).
 Everyone must follow safety measures and carry out instructions of the guide.
 Children can participate from the age of 14 years accompanied by parents, from 18 years – independently.
Attention!
 The tour takes place closely to the state border and passes for foreigners are obligatory! For this
reason you have to apply for this tour no later than 60 days. Later applications can be considered
individually.

43
tour
28.06 –08.07
05.07 – 15.07
12.07 – 22.07
19.07 – 29.07
26.07 – 05.08
02.08 – 12.08
09.08 – 19.08
16.08 – 26.08
part: 7 days

44
Basic information
“Mechta, Krasavitsa and Skazka”, these are the names of mountains, which surround the Shavlinskie
lakes. And it means “Dream, Beauty and Fairy Tale”. The horse-riding tour starts in Sargoldik (8 km
from the Belyj Bom settlement, Ongudaysky District, Altai Republic) and contains active equestrian
part and one rest day on the Shavlinskoe Lake bank. This trip is good both for tourists with horse-
riding experience and newbies.
The route goes in a high mountaineous part of Central Altai along north mountainsides of North-
Chuya ridge. Average altitude of the region, where the tour takes place, is 2500 meters above the sea
level.
Landscapes have a distinct alpine look – pinnacled, always covered with snow and ice peaks, steep
abrupt slopes, deep canyons with powerful rivers.
Itinerary
Time GMT + 8h
Day 2. Base Camp – Belyj Bom – Sargoldik (290 km by car, ~ 6-7 hours)
Travelling along the oldest road of Siberia – Chuya Highway (also known as Chuysky Trakt). During the trip you
will learn about the history of Mountaineous Altai and traditions of the local population. The road goes
through picturesque places: mountain passes, peaks, wide valleys and steppes, ancient burial places and
tumuluses. We stop at the most beautiful spots to take pictures and videos. Arrival to camping “U Egorycha”.
Lunch. Transition to Sargoldik – the start point of the horse trip – there we will set a camp.
Day 3. Sargoldik – the Tjan Shan Pass – Kara-Kjol Lake (horses ~4-5 hours)
The first pass is not very difficult. Steep rise to the Tjan Shan Pass – there, if weather is clear, you can see the
giant figure of Belukha mountain (4506 meters above sea level) – the highest point in Siberia. After
descending tourists can enjoy the view of the one of many lakes we will pass by –the Kara-Kjol Lake. Our camp
will be not far from the lake.
Day 4. Kara-Kjol Lake – the Ayrash Pass – the Shabaga river (horses ~8 hours)
This day will be more advanced. It starts with rising to the Bakhsyrga Pass, on the top you can find a pretty
lake with the same name, its water has a nice green color. Then the path goes on a high altitude and from

45
there you may admire panoramic views. Glaciers will be visible for the first time during this trip. At the end of
the day we will experience a long descending on foot (horses are lead on a rein) from the Ayrash Pass.
Day 5. The Shabaga river – Shavlinskoe lake (horses ~4 hours)
And now the path is ascending to the Lower Shavlinskoe lake (1983 meters above the sea level). From there
you can see snow-white peaks called Mechta (Dream), Krasavitsa (Beauty) and Skazka (Fairy-tale) (the
highest from them is 3764 meters). If weather is clear and windless they are reflected in the huge mirror of
lake and this sight is truly fabulous!
Day 6
Tour to the Middle and Upper Shavlinskie lakes. From the banks of Upper lake you can see glaciers of
Shavlinskaya Podkova (Shavlinskaya Horseshoe). For an additional payment you can order banyas and buy
grayling (typical Siberian fish) from local residents.
Day 7. Shavlinskoe lake – the Shabaga river (horses ~6-7 hours)
Now when you have gathered so many impressions, it's time to go back. The path goes along the Shavla river,
we will even pass the thrilling wade!
Day 8. The Shabaga river – Yeshtykel – Bakhsyrga – Kara-Kjol (horses ~8 hours)
A long pass. Other wades will be waiting for us this day! Before you reach Yeshtykel plateau, we will have a
pleasant stop near the warmest lake on this tour – Kazan-Kel. As for Yeshtykel plateau - it is a rather swampy
place and you have no chance to relax, but picturesque landscapes will be a good reward for all those
difficulties.
Day 9. Kara-Kjol – Sargoldik – Belyj Bom (horses ~5 hours, 10 km by car, ~1,5 hours)
The final horse-riding pass! At the end we will face one more difficulty – a steep descend from the Bakhsyrga
Pass. We will be transported to hospitable camping “U Egorycha”. Russian banya is the right choice after a
complicated tour. Cozy summer cabins will be hosting us that night.
Day 10. Belyj Bom – Base Camp (280 km by car, ~ 6 hours)
Return of the rented equipment. Banya. Farewell dinner. Departure to Barnaul at 24.00 (300 km by car, ~5
hours).
Day 11

46
The price includes: base camp services, transportation according to the schedule, meeting and farewell at
the airport or railway station in Barnaul, meals, equipment rent, horse rent, accompanying staff services, banya,
insurance.
The price does not include: registration of foreigners at the migration service (500 Rubles/person),
alcoholic drinks, any services offered by third parties, banyas in Shavlinskie lakes (300 Rubles/person),
accommodation in hotel in Barnaul (from 600 Rubles/person).
Meals
Essential equipment
RUBbing. Warm jacket, wind and water resistant costume, warm clothes, gloves, head-dress, flashlight,
protection against rain, personal hygiene items, sunglasses, swimsuit, individual medicine if needed.
Highly recommended to have your own sleeping bag.
We provide you with: accommodation in 2-3 place camp tents, archemaks (special bags for carrying goods on
horses), awning, fire items, cookware, first-aid kit, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, plates and dishes, rain cloaks.
 This tour does not require any special preparation or trainings.
 Route goes through mountain and taiga area, elevation difference is from 600 to 3000 meters above
sea level
 Route also goes through unsettled areas and scarcely populated areas, which are absolutely without
creature comforts.
 We strongly recommend to consult a doctor, because the tour takes place in a high mountain area.
 The very important point is to listen to the experienced guide opinion in extraordinary situations.
installation).

47
 Everyone must follow safety measures and carry out instructions of guide.
 Children are admitted from 12 years accompanied by parents, from 18 years – independently.
 The tour takes place closely to state border and passes for foreigners is a must! For this reason you
have to apply for this tour no later than 60 days. Later applications can be considered individually.

48
Antarctica
Tour type cruise
Duration 12 days / 11 nights
Season January
The first and the last days of the tour
07.01.2016 – 18.01.2016
17.01.2016 – 28.01.2016

49
Basic description
Explore the Polar Regions in style and comfort aboard our all-suite ship Sea Spirit. Providing spacious
suites for accommodation of maximum of 114 passengers (the smallest suit is 20 sq. meters) the Sea
Spirit at the same time features maneuverability and friendly atmosphere of small ships.
Length: 90.6 meters (297 ft.)
Beam: 15.3 meters (50 ft.)
Speed: 14.5 knots
Number of Passengers: 114
Crew: 94
Cabins and amenities
Library/Game Room
Hot tub on Deck 5 with seating area and Bistro
1 lounge
Satellite phone access in every cabin
Elevator
Internet access
Private facilities - sink, toilet and shower in every cabin.
Gymnasium
Multi-purpose presentation room with state-of-the-art equipment
Stabilizers for smooth sailing
Every suite has an exterior view
Flat screen TVs and DVD player in every cabin
Cabin Description
Super-spacious (40 square
metres/ 437 square feet)
elegant Suite on the Sun Deck.
Designed for entertaining, the
Owner's Suite has a separate
living room with game and
meeting area. The BOSE stereo
system provides background
music. An HD plasma TV with
video player amuses. Sliding
glass doors lead to a private
deck. Refresh in the jetted
bathtub. Slumber in a King Size
bed. A sofa bed can
accommodate a teenager.

50
Premium Suite is located
on the Sun Deck.
Averaging a generous 33
square metres/ 353
square feet, with 2 twin
beds or a King Size bed.
Access the private
balcony by a sliding glass
door. Store luggage in a
wardrobe. Facilities are
en suite for comfort.
Amenities include:
lounge area, in-room
safe, refrigerator,
satellite telephone
access, TV/VCR,
individual temperature
control, and hair dryer.
Deluxe Suite with
balcony on the Sports
Deck. Averaging 26
square metres/ 277
square feet means
plenty of room. Choose
from either 2 twin beds
or a King Size bed. A
sliding glass door leads
to a private balcony.
Walk-in closet or
wardrobe. The private
facilities are en suite.
Amenities include: in-
room safe, refrigerator,
satellite telephone
access, TV/VCR,
control, and a hair dryer.

51
Superior Suite on the
Club Deck. Averaging 22
square metres/ 235
square feet, this cabin
has 2 twin beds or a King
Size bed. The picture
window overlooks on
outside walkway on the
Club Deck. The private
facilities are ensuite.
Amenities include: walk-
in closet or wardrobe, in-
satellite telephone
access, TV/VCR,
control, hair dryer.
Averaging 23 square
metres/ 250 square feet,
this cabin located on the
Oceanus Deck has a
picture window, two
wardrobes and a choice
of either 2 twin beds or
a King Size bed. Private
facilities are en suite.
satellite telephone
access, TV/VCR,
control and hair dryer.
Averaging 20 square
a Main Deck cabin is
equipped with either
two twin or a King Size
bed. Located on the
Main Deck, with a
minimum of two
portholes for exterior
views, it has private
facilities. Amenities
include: in-room safe,
refrigerator, satellite
telephone access,
TV/VCR, individual
temperature control and
hair dryer.

52
Averaging 23 square
this cabin has 2 twins
and a sofa bed. The
twins convert to a King
(see illustration).
Located on Oceanus
Deck, this has a picture
window, 2 wardrobes
and private facilities.
satellite telephone
access, TV/VCR,
control, and hair dryer.
Deck Plan

53
Your tour itinerary
Day 1
Arrive into Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Make your way to your hotel and enjoy the evening at
leisure. You can visit the Argentinean leather markets and succulent lamb dishes that make Patagonia famous
as you explore the southernmost town in the world. Highlights of Ushuaia include an award-winning museum
and trips to nearby Tierra del Fuego National Park and its popular “Train at the End of the World”.
Day 2. Embarkation.
Arriving at the ship in the afternoon, you will be greeted by our Expedition Team and ship's officers at a safety
and orientation briefing followed by the Captain's welcome dinner. After dinner, relax and take in the
mountainous scenery on our early evening sail down the Beagle Channel past Magellanic Penguin, Rock
Cormorant, and Sea Lion colonies
Day 3-4. Crossing the Drake Passage.
The sea and weather conditions are hard to predict – the Drake Passage might be a real challenge
most of the time. These first days we are going to spend chatting with other travellers and listening
to the presentations given by our Expedition Team. As we are getting closer to the continent our
excitement reaches its peak.
Day 5-9. South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
We will experience some of the most unique wildlife viewing and inspiring scenery in the world – gentoo,
chinstrap and adelie penguin rookeries. Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals, and orca, humpback and minke
whales in the cold Antarctic waters are likely to be encountered. Landing sites vary depending on weather
conditions. We will have plenty of time to explore the amazing scenery, a pristine wilderness of snow, ice,
mountains and waterways, and an incredibly wide variety of wildlife. We are sure that we are going to see
many animals, historically significant sites and fascinating landscapes.
In fact watching penguins swimming and ambling over pebbled beaches, taking a Zodiac cruise around oddly
artistically shaped icebergs, or witnessing a leopard seal hunt in the frigid Antarctic waters are going to be our
main occupations in the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
Day 10-11. Drake Passage.
The journey back across the Drake Passage provides us with final opportunities for spotting seabirds and
looking for whales.
The Expedition Team run their last lectures and presentations, recapping the great Antarctic adventure that
we have gone through.

54
Day 12. Disembarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina.
The time to say goodbye has arrived. After breakfast, we will say goodbye to our Expedition Team, after which
we will have our transfers to the airport.
Price list:
Owner’s Suite 16,895 USD
Premium Suite 14,895 USD
Deluxe Suite 13,495 USD
Superior Suite 11,995 USD
Classic Suite 11,195 USD
Main Deck Suite 9,895 USD
Triple Suite 8,885 USD
The price includes: 1 pre-voyage hotel night in Ushuaia (only for Antarctica voyages);
Group transfer to the ship on day of embarkation;
Group transfer to airport or central location upon disembarkation;
Shipboard accommodation;
All scheduled landings/excursions;
Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Leader & Expedition Team;
All meals on board throughout the voyage;
Tea and coffee station 24 hours daily;
Expedition parka;
A pair of Rubber boots on loan for shore landings;
Welcome and Farewell cocktails;
All port fees;
Pre-departure materials;
Digital Voyage Log;
Emergency Evacuation Insurance to a maximum benefit of US 100,000 per person (applied for season 2015).
The price does not included:
Airfare;
Visa and passport fees (if applicable);
Luggage and trip cancellation insurance;
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages other than those for special events and celebrations;
Personal expenses such as laundry and telecommunication charges;
Staff gratuities;
Emergency Evacuation Insurance to a maximum benefit of US 100,000 per person - for Arctic voyages, US
150.000 per person - for Antarctica voyages.
Special conditions
In case fuel price increases significantly fuel surcharge may be applied for all bookings.

55
Meals
We provide our participants with 3 meals a day. We may supply you with vegetarian meals on request
Essential equipment
Our recommendation is to bring “arctic quality” clothes that will fit into a layered clothing scheme. For
example, packing “arctic quality”, light-weight long-sleeve t-shirts, turtlenecks, and a water-proof shell is
better than packing five big, cotton sweaters and two huge “winter-down” coats. Three to five pairs of active-
wear pants, and then a pair of waterproof pants such as ski or snowboard pants, which is designed to respond
to temperatures variations, is much better than seven pairs of jeans. Keep in mind that you may experience
anything from t-shirt weather to artic, sub-zero snow-squalls (if you are lucky), so, each day’s temperature
might change quickly without any time for you to change your clothes – layers are essential. Of course, your
dinner clothes are your decision. Please read the following article designed to give you an understanding of
how to dress. The tips and Packing List, below, will act as a guide in the packing process.
Why being layered is so important? Temperatures may be warmer in the day than you expect, which will cause
you to sweat. Your sweat will make for a cold feeling and once you get wet, your body will lose its natural
temperature at a higher rate than before. If you are dressed appropriately, you can remove a light-weight
layer and carry it with you. Second, your body works hard due the climate. The cold weather, snow, and
natural adjustment of your body require a significant output of physical energy other than just walking. You
will want to be able to take off and put on layers as needed. It can’t be stated enough here; layers are the key
to comfort in a Polar climate.
Being waterproof is also essential. Although summer temperatures are generally mild, you should expect wind,
clouds, and precipitation. It is also possible that water will spray up on passengers during Zodiac cruising. We
can say with certainty that if your clothes are not waterproof on the outer layer, you will get cold. In this
regard, we recommend being mindful of having waterproof shoes as well. Trust us, having a water-proofed
outer layer can make or break your travel experience.
Beware of tight clothing that doesn’t let your body “breathe”. Part of being insulated is a system of letting the
natural warm air of your body counteract the cold air you encounter. If your clothes are too tight, and don’t
allow for insulation, you can get cold easily. Also, remember that cotton isn’t really an insulator. So, we
recommend more modern artic designed clothing.
Finally, remember the “wind-chill factor” and plan accordingly. A stiff wind on a polar plain can sweep away
any generated body heat in a second, and it’s important that your clothes are windproof. A good, warm wind-
proofed shell will keep your chill to a minimum, so make sure any shell you bring is insulated, water- and
windproof.
The following tips will help you be comfortable in cold weather:
 Avoid overdressing and reduce perspiration.

56
 Wear water repellent outer layers that will keep you dry on the outside and still able to “breathe”
enough that moisture from your body can escape.
 Body heat is most likely to be lost from hands and feet. Keep them warm and dry.
 Mittens are better than gloves.
 If the rest of your body is covered, as much as 90% of the heat you lose will come from your head; be
sure to wear a cap.
 Dress in comfortable, loose layers. It is far better to wear layers of relatively light, loose clothing than
one thick, heavy item. Between each layer there is insular air that, when heated by your body, acts as
a natural insulator. It will also allow you to keep from overheating.
 Modern “arctic design” clothing is best – Polar fleece is a good example. Also, wool and silk are
superior to cotton because they trap warm air. When damp or wet, polyester is a better insulator than
goose or duck down.

57
Dates - 2015
The first and the last days
of the tour
19.07–01.08
30.07–12.08
10.08–23.08
Tour type cruise
Duration 14 days
Season July - August
North Pole Icebreaker Cruise

58
Basic information
Get the unique experience of travelling aboard the most powerful nuclear icebreaker. Explore High Arctic
spaces from various angles: shoot incredible airscape photos of the moving icebreaker from the helicopter;
feel the thickness of Arctic pack ice under your feet while walking on ice; meet polar bears who venture close
to the ship, observe Arctic birds and walruses; land and explore the remote and beautiful islands of Franz Josef
Land archipelago.
“Unique” and “one-of-a-kind” are words bandied about in the cruise industry, but rarely do the voyages or the
ships they’re associated with live up to these superlatives.
Here’s one that does: a North Pole expedition aboard 50 Years of Victory, a nuclear-powered icebreaker that
takes you to a spot inaccessible to all other commercial passenger vessels.
Since 2001, Poseidon Expeditions has been a leader in providing such an opportunity for intrepid, adventurous
travelers for whom geographic boundaries simply don’t exist. We’re the first to admit that there are many
excellent expedition ships in the market, taking their guests to remote spots all over the globe.
But only one vessel can deliver you to 90º North, the geographic top of the world. On your cruise to the North
Pole, watch in amazement from high above the surface as your vessel’s twin nuclear reactors generate 75,000
horsepower, powering the vessel to crush Arctic sea ice as thick as three meters.
Meet your fellow adventurers in Helsinki, and relax before an exclusive charter flight takes you to Murmansk,
Russia headquarters for the Arctic icebreaking fleet. 50 Years of Victory is a working ship; when it’s not offering
North Pole expeditions it is busy clearing ice for scientific exploration and transport in hard-to-reach areas of
the Arctic and Northeast Passage.
But you will find this workhorse very accommodating, providing comfortable cabins – all with outside views,
private facilities and lower beds – for 128 guests. Public spaces include a dining room, aft salon for lectures,
presentations and socializing, a bow-facing bar and lounge, and library. There’s even a gym, two saunas and a
swimming pool with heated seawater from the Arctic Ocean.
Enhancing your time aboard are presentations by our experienced expedition staff – historians, scientists,
naturalists and others – all of whom will bring your North Pole cruise alive with thoughtful insights and
fascinating perceptions of the region. On attaining the true geographic North Pole, celebrate on the ice this
spot that ostensibly belongs to no one, yet to everyone.
But your expedition to the North Pole is only half over, and there’s still much to see and do. Your return
journey to Murmansk takes you to Franz Josef Land, an archipelago of uninhabited islands, yet rich with
wildlife and startling scenery. From the safety of the ship’s towering superstructure, look for polar bears on
their daily prowl, or colonies of seabirds nesting on rocky cliff sides. Under the guidance of our expedition
team, head ashore in Zodiac landing craft at Tikhaya Bay on Hooker Island, where dilapidated buildings still
stand at the meteorological station abandoned 50 years ago.
On this North Pole expedition, you’ll have the opportunity to go aloft in the ship’s helicopter for an aerial tour.
Far below will be 50 Years of Victory, your home-away-from-home during your voyage to the top of the world.

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Your tour itinerary
Day 1. Welcome to Helsinki, the cozy Finnish Capital.
Following your arrival in Helsinki and transfer to your hotel, you will be greeted by our representative in the
lobby.
Day 2. Helsinki – Murmansk flight and embarkation.
After the group transfer from your hotel, you will board a chartered plane for the short two hour flight to
Murmansk. There, you will board 50 Years of Victory, the most powerful icebreakers in the world, after which
time you will depart Murmansk and start your journey north via Kola Bay.
Day 3. The Barents Sea.
While continuing your journey north across the Barents Sea, you will be introduced to the safety instructions
which have been put in place to ensure your complete protection
- while aboard the 50 years of Victory,
- during our expedition in the higher Arctic altitudes. You will likewise have the opportunity to become familiar
with the ship and learn all about its unique icebreaking capabilities and how ice fields are negotiated. One of
the highlights of this day will be a tour of the engine room - amazing! All this and more are on the day’s
agenda.
Day 4-6. Voyage to the North Pole.
As exciting as reaching the North Pole will be, the three days voyage there will leave you feeling no less so.
Adrenaline and awe await you as you go up on deck and witness first-hand the sheer power of our ship as it
battles its way through the mighty ice fields that separate you from your arrival at the top of the world. No less
inspiring will be the views and panoramas of the astonishing Arctic landscape.
Off-deck adventure also awaits you on your way north. Time, weather and/or ice conditions permitting, you
will experience breathtaking helicopter rides over the icebreaker as it plows its way through the ice. For those
wishing to take some time away from their new-found sea legs, a walk on the ice pack will do the trick.
Day 7. The North Pole.
Seven is more than just a lucky number; it’s the day we expect to reach the North Pole. With heart-pounding
anticipation, the "Victory" will be slowly maneuvered into position at exactly 90◦ N. Welcome to the
Geographical North Pole.
But this is only the start of your adventure. Disembarking from the ship, you will experience the once-in-a-
lifetime thrill of standing on the top of the world. To celebrate this victory, you will join hands with the other
passengers while everyone literally walks around the world during our special International Round Dance.
Topping off the day will be our North Pole barbecue and, for the more daring and adventurous, a plunge into
the Arctic Ocean.
Day 8-10. The Islands of the Russian Arctic.
During the many years that we have been operating in the Russian Arctic, we have gained a truly unique
experience exploring the many Arctic lands in this region, one of the most remote in the world. It is truly our
pleasure to share it and our love for these vast lands with you. 24 hours daylight gives us numerous
opportunities to explore the islands of the Russian Arctic during zodiac excursions and helicopter sightseeing
rides.

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Given favorable weather and ice conditions, exploration of the Franz Josef Land archipelago is in the offering.
The Franz Josef Land archipelago can be described as:
consisting of about 190 islands most of which are reminiscent of moon craters thus accounting for its more
common name the "Moon Archipelago",
home to polar bears, walruses and many species of Arctic birds,
the location of Champ Island with its mysterious round boulders found no where else on earth,
a unique and possibly never-to-be-had-again opportunity to explore this vast landscape and photograph its
natural beauty.
Day 11-13 Barents Sea.
During the three day journey back to Murmansk, you will have ample opportunity to relive your Arctic
adventure sharing your favorite memories of all that has befallen you while on this voyage. And if you didn’t
do so before, then take some time out to really enjoy the facilities and amenities that have been provided for
your onboard comfort - a game of volleyball, a visit to the gym, a dip in the pool and a sauna followed by a
massage. Or simply relax in the ship’s lounge, bar or library.
After disembarking in Murmansk, you will be returned to Helsinki where you will spend a last evening in the
Finnish capital.
Day 14 Farewell to Helsinki.
Following breakfast, you will depart for the airport and your journey home. Mission accomplished!
PRICE from 25 995 EUR
Standard Twin 14 m² $25,995
Mini Suite 22 m² $29,995
Junior Suite 24 m² $35,995
Grand Suite 26-27 m² $36,995
Victory Suite 28 m² $38,995
Arktika Suite 33 m² $39,995
The cost of single accommodation is 1,7 (Standard Cabins)
and 2 (Suites) times as much as the shared one.
The price includes:
 1 night pre- & 1 night post expedition hotel accommodation in Helsinki, Finland, with breakfast;
 Group transfers when embarking/disembarking your charter flight Helsinki - Murmansk - Helsinki;
 Shipboard accommodation with housekeeping;

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 Shipboard breakfasts, lunches and dinners;
 Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the clock;
 All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by helicopter;
 All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by zodiacs;
 Shore landings included in daily Programme;
 Programme of lectures and informal discussions by experienced Expedition Team and guest lecturers;
 Professional Expedition Leadership;
 An expedition parka to keep;
 Waterproof boots for the duration of the cruise;
 Hair dryer and bathrobes in each cabin;
 Informative pre-departure materials;
 Expedition log with picture album on DVD;
 All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the Programme;
 All shipboard luggage handling;
 Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation. Coverage EUR
100,000. Duration: cruise days only;
 Letter of Invitation. This document should be presented to the Russian Consulate in your area in order
to obtain a Russian Visa. Please, contact the Russian Consulate to learn more about the procedure for
obtaining a Russian Visa. Do not hesitate to contact Poseidon Expeditions if any questions arise. Let us
know if you have any difficulties in visa processing.
The price does not include:
 Airfare to and from your hometown;
 Mandatory charter flights Helsinki - Murmansk - Helsinki - cost per person USD 1,750;
 Helicopter flying time in excess of that offered for the group;
 Passport and visa expenses (if required); A RUSSIAN VISA IS REQUIRED FOR THE TRIP. THE VISA MUST
BE OBTAINED BY THE CUSTOMER AND IS AT HIS OR HER EXPENSE. Please, contact your local Russian
Consulate to learn more about the procedure for obtaining a Russian Visa. PLEASE, NOTE: FOR
CERTAIN NATIONALITIES SCHENGEN VISA IS REQUIRED;
 State arrival and departure taxes (if levied);
 Meals ashore and supplements in respect of single hotel accommodation (if required);
 Excess luggage charges on international and local flights;
 Telecommunication services; laundry, bar and beverage charges aboard the vessel;
 Luggage, cancellation insurance (strongly recommended);
 Tips for stewards and other service personnel aboard (at your discretion).
Meals
We provide our participants with 3 meals a day. In the base camps meals are served at a cafe. On the trek the
food is cooked on the open fire by a guide or a cook. We may supply you with vegetarian meals on request.
Essential equipment
Our recommendation is to bring “arctic quality” clothes that will fit into a layered clothing scheme. For
example, packing “arctic quality”, light-weight long-sleeve t-shirts, turtlenecks, and a water-proof shell is

Russia Discovery active, wildlife and ethnic tours to Russia – Summer 2015

Russia Discovery active, wildlife and ethnic tours to Russia – Summer 2015

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