Trans-Siberian Odyssey (EXRTS)
Duration:
20 days (may vary)
Areas: China, Mongolia, Russia
Tour types: History & Culture, 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 affluent Muscovites spend their weekends. After crossing the Urals we visit Ekaterinburg, famous as a pilgrimage centre for members of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Siberian “Taiga” & Lake Baikal
We spend two nights on the 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 to a camp where we stay in traditional gers (nomadic felt tents) and have the opportunity for walks, horse riding 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
*:
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Day 1:
Fly London/Moscow.
Day 2:
In Moscow, city tour.
Day 3:
Overnight train Ekaterinburg.
Day 4:
Arrive Ekaterinburg.
Day 5:
City tour.
Day 6:
Walk in Taiga; overnight train to Irkutsk.
Day 7 & 8:
On the train.
Day 9:
Arrive Irkutsk, drive Lake Baikal.
Day 10:
Walks.
Day 11:
Boat to Listvyanka, visit Ecology Museum and Aquarium; drive Irkutsk; overnight train to Ulaan Baatar.
Day 12:
On the train.
*Nights 13 & 14:
- some departures stay at Jalman Meadows ger camp whilst others stay at Arburd Sands. See dates and prices supplement or trip dossier for details.
Day 13:
Arrive Ulaan Baatar, city tour; drive to Jalman Meadows/Arburd Sands
Day 14:
Optional horse riding and walks.
Day 15:
At ger camp, drive Ulaan Baatar.
Day 16:
Overnight train to Beijing.
Day 17:
Arrive Beijing.
Day 18:
Visit Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City.
Day 19:
Visit Great Wall.
Day 20:
Fly London.