Trans-Siberian Odyssey (EXRTS)
Duration:
20 days (may vary)
Areas: China, Mongolia, Russia
Tour types: History & Culture, Nature & Wildlife, Rail Journeys
Description
Across the Urals
Our adventure begins in Moscow, where we wander through the cavernous red-walled Kremlin, with its incredible complex of palaces, cathedrals and churches. Departing from Yaroslavski Station, the train soon passes by striking wooden dachas, where the affluent Muscovites spend their weekends. After crossing the Urals - the 2500 kilometre-long mountain range that separates Europe and Asia - we visit Ekaterinburg, famous as a pilgrimage centre for members of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Siberian Taiga & Lake Baikal
We spend two nights on our train enjoying life on board and the classic Siberian landscape of Silver Birch 'Taiga' Forest, pines, oaks, rolling steppe and salt lakes. Irkutsk is the base for our trip to Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world, exceptionally clear and rich in aquatic life. We take a boat across the lake and enjoy some walks in its majestic surroundings.
Steppes, Nomads & the Great Wall
The railroad takes us on through Siberia and into Mongolia. Arriving in Ulaan Baatar, we drive across the steppe, crossing ridges and dense forest to the Khan Khenti Protected Area. We stay in traditional gers (nomadic felt tents) and have the opportunity for walks, horse riding, rafting and relaxing. Making our way into China and its mighty capital Beijing, we explore the famous Tiananmen Square and maze of palaces and gardens that make up the adjoining Forbidden City. We also travel to Mutianyu to walk on one of the most impressive sections of the awe-inspiring Great Wall.
Tour itinerary
Day 1
Join Moscow.
Day 2
In Moscow, city tour.
Day 3
In Moscow, overnight train Ekaterinburg.
Day 4
Arrive Ekaterinburg.
Day 5
City tour, visit monument marking the border between Europe and Asia.
Day 6
Walks in Taiga Forest; overnight train to Irkutsk.
Day 7 & 8
On the train.
Day 9
Arrive Irkutsk, drive to Lake Baikal, walks by lake.
Day 10
Hike to Sukhoye Ozero 'Dry Lake'.
Day 11
Boat to Listvyanka, walk to Prince Kropotkin Caves, visit Ecology Museum and Aquarium; drive to Irkutsk; overnight train to Ulaan Bataar.
Day 12
On the train.
Day 13
Arrive Ulaan Baatar, city tour; drive to Jalman Meadows/Arburd Sands.
Day 14
Free day, optional horse riding, rafting on Tuul River (Jalman Meadows only) and walks.
Day 15
Free at ger camp, drive to Ulaan Baatar.
Day 16
Overnight train to Beijing.
Day 17
Arrive Beijing.
Day 18
Visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.
Day 19
Visit the Great Wall.
Day 20
End Beijing.