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How to Travel the Trans-Siberian Railway

I’ve always wanted to travel on the Trans-Siberian railway. It seems like an amazing adventure that literally spans the width of an entire continent. Until I make the journey myself, Katie Aune is here to share her experiences on the Trans-Siberian Railway.

In this guest post, Katie shares everything you need to know for the journey. She is a frequent traveler to Russia and knows this journey well. She’s here to share her wisdom with you to help you make the most out of your trip across Russia!

The Trans-Siberian Railway is one of the most famous train journeys in the world. For me, it was the highlight of the three months I spent in Russia. I traveled in reverse, going from Vladivostok to Moscow (most people start in Moscow) and went slowly, taking nearly a month to complete the journey and stopping in five cities along the way.

In this post, I’ll go over everything you need to know to plan your trip. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

• Planning Your Route
• Booking Your Tickets
• How Much Should You Budget?

What to Expect on the Train

Step one: planning your route.

The traditional Trans-Siberian route stretches 9,288 kilometers between Moscow and Vladivostok. Two variations are also popular: the Trans-Mongolian (between Moscow and Beijing via Mongolia) and the Trans-Manchurian (between Moscow and Beijing, bypassing Mongolia). All three routes take 6–7 days if going non-stop.

Most travelers start their journeys in Moscow and go east. If you are anxious to interact with locals or improve your Russian skills, consider starting in Vladivostok or Beijing and heading west. You will likely encounter fewer tourists and more locals who are simply taking the train as a means of transportation, not as an adventure.

Beijing is probably a more attractive bookend to the journey than Vladivostok and likely provides easier onward connections — the best options from Vladivostok are to either fly back to Moscow (about $250 USD) or take a ferry to Japan or South Korea ($400 USD and up).

Chances are you will need to get a visa to travel to Russia, Mongolia, and China , so that may factor into which route makes the most sense for you. Rules vary by nationality, so I encourage you to visit the consulate website for your home country several months in advance to learn what is required.

Where to Stop Along the Way?

Unless you love the idea of spending a week straight on a train, I recommend making a couple of stops along the way. One of the best things about the Trans-Siberian is the opportunity it affords you to see more of Russia than just Moscow and/or St. Petersburg. The most interesting people I met and the best experiences I had along the way came not on the train, but during my stops, which included the following:

Kazan’s Kremlin is a UNESCO World Heritage site and in my opinion, has much more character than the Kremlin in Moscow. A large mosque dominates the scene, the main drag is lined with pine trees, and vendors gather along the Kremlin walls, selling mostly Islamic and Tatar-themed souvenirs. I spent several hours there, including a visit to the Museum of Islam, the Russian Orthodox church, and the natural history museum.

Now considered holy ground, seven chapels have been constructed on the site, one for each member of the royal family. I was most touched by a photo display showing the family in their daily lives — it really personalized the tragedy of their deaths.

My guide, Vitaly, provided sometimes inappropriate stories about the rocks, a much-needed hand as we climbed a few for incredible views, and some cognac for warmth before we started!

If you have at least 3 days, Olkhon Island, the largest island in the lake, is a must-see. Its main town, Khuzhir, takes you back decades, with sandy dirt roads and cows roaming the streets. The ride there is half the fun — I shared the six-hour marshrutka (mini-van) trip to the island with a cute Belgian couple, a couple of babushkas, and a large Russian man chugging vodka out of a bottle stashed in his jacket pocket.

Once in Khuzhir, the couple and I split the cost of hiring a van and driver to take us around the island for an afternoon. Dipping my hand in the near-frozen lake, sliding on the ice that formed on its shores, and playing in the fresh snow on the north end of the island provided some of my best memories from my entire time in Russia.

Ulan Ude is also a center of Buddhism in Russia. I hired a guide (about $12 USD/hour) to accompany me to the Buddhist monastery in Ivolga, about 40 minutes outside of the city. She taught me the basics of Buddhism and, being a Buryat, she gave me insight into their culture. It was well worth the price!  

Step Two: Booking Your Tickets

If you are on a tight schedule, it makes sense to book your tickets ahead of time. Tickets can be issued up to 45 days in advance and many travel agencies can do this for you. I used Real Russia and highly recommend them — they can also help with obtaining a letter of invitation for visa purposes. It is also possible to book online yourself at www.poezda.net if you can read a little Russian.

For more flexible travelers, you can purchase your tickets at the stations as you go along. However, be prepared for the possibility that the train you want may already be sold out, and don’t be surprised if none of the cashiers speak any English. And schedules posted at the stations will be on Moscow, not local, time.

Most trains offer three classes of sleeper service:  spalny vagon (1st class), kupe (2nd class), and platskartny (3rd class). Spalny vagon compartments have just two berths, with both beds at the lower level. Kupe are four-berth compartments consisting of two upper and two lower bunks. Finally, platskartny are open six-berth compartments with both upper and lower bunks.

Both spalny vagon and kupe have doors that lock, while platskartny compartments are open — this makes third class a little more social, but a little less secure.  

Step Three: How Much Should You Budget?

How much you spend on your train journey will depend on all of the factors mentioned above, but I would say around $1,000 for tickets, accommodations, and food is a good starting point.

For example, booking through Real Russia, a kupe ticket from Moscow to Vladivostok might run about $900, while platskartny would be less than half, at just $360. On the other hand, splurging on first-class would cost you nearly $1,800. Prices for the nonstop trip to Beijing are similar. You can save up to 33% by taking one of the lower-quality passenger trains instead of the cosmetically nicer firmenny  trains.

Note that breaking up the journey into separate legs may add some additional cost to your trip. For example, making stops in both Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk en route to Vladivostok would increase the total to $1,130 for kupe .

Price can also vary by day and time of departure, so if you are on a tight budget, be sure to play around with the schedules and note that not all types of trains are available on all routes or run on all days. Russian Railways offered a sale this fall that offered up to 50% off fares booked at least 30 days in advance but also imposed a 5% penalty on tickets purchased less than 10 days before departure. Keep an eye out for similar deals in the future.

When I boarded my first train, I felt a bit lost. Everyone around me seemed to have their routines down, from the clothes they changed into and the food they neatly set out on the small table, to the way they effortlessly made up their bed. I just tried to watch and follow their lead, and by the time I departed on my second leg, I felt like an old pro.

Toilets Each carriage has a toilet on each end, and they will be locked shortly before, during, and shortly after most station stops (and border crossings if you’re heading into China or Mongolia). The toilet doors usually have a schedule showing these closures. Despite my fears, they were kept quite clean and well stocked with toilet paper (though this is not always the case, so be prepared with your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer).

Food and water: You will find a samovar with boiling water on one end of the car, usually opposite the attendant’s compartment. If you bring your own water bottle, you can also refill it with drinkable water from the attendant. While food is available for purchase in the dining car and from vendors roaming the halls, it can be overpriced and the selection may be limited. You may be better off bringing your own provisions, especially for a multi-day journey.

Electronics: Outlets for charging cell phones and the like are available in the hallways, though some of the newer cars have their own plugs. Most carriages have fold-down seats so you can sit with your device as it charges, although it was not uncommon for people to leave theirs hanging unattended.

During my time on the train, I shared my kupe compartment with Russians ranging from businessmen and babushkas to members of a girls’ volleyball team. Some of my “roommates” boarded and went straight to sleep; others were traveling with people in other compartments and spent most of their time elsewhere. One guy stood in the hallway staring out at the passing landscape for hours at a time. Just a few really wanted to talk.

A babushka flashed her gold teeth as she rambled nonstop to anyone who would listen. An orphanage teacher was wonderfully patient as I practiced my Russian with her over our two days together, while an engineer was anxious to try out his English, paging through my dictionary and asking me carefully formulated questions. None were looking to party — the drink of choice for most was tea, not vodka, which is contrary to many of the stories you hear about the Trans-Siberian.

By the end of my journey, I was exhausted, relieved, satisfied, and immensely grateful. My fears prior to the trip were unfounded, the people I met were some of the friendliest in my three months in Russia, and the experiences were unforgettable.

And back in Moscow, sharing my stories with friends there, I began to really appreciate the fact that I had just seen more of Russia in one month than most Russians will ever see in a lifetime.

Traveling on the Trans-Siberian Railway is truly a magical experience and I hope this guide helps you in your planning!

Katie Aune is a Minnesota native and former attorney who recently quit her job in nonprofit fundraising to spend a year volunteering and traveling through the 15 countries of the former Soviet Union. You can follow her adventures on Katie Aune  or on Twitter @katieaune .

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner or Momondo to find a cheap flight. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. Start with Skyscanner first though because they have the biggest reach!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Total Guide to plan & book a great Trans-Siberian Railway Trip

31. December 2020

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It’s slow travel at its best, taking you from one continent to another, through big cities, over the Siberian steppes and along the largest lake in the world. Without a doubt, a Trans-Siberian Railway trip will take you on the greatest railway journey in the world. This legendary adventure stretching over eight time zones is one of the best travel experiences you can have, and no other rail journey can compare to the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Travelling the Trans-Siberian Railway is a dream for many people, and for one of us, this ultimate adventure was a lifelong dream. Doing this trip independent can seem like a bit of a challenge, and it also did for us in the start. The questions can be many but read on. This blog post has all the answers on how to travel the Trans-Siberian Railway independently. We will also shortly present the stops we had en route and give you some suggestions on what to see there, as an idea, while you start planning your journey.

1. Planning your Trans-Siberian Railway trip

We chose the classic, original route, starting in Moscow, before ending in Vladivostok, and we had our Trans-Siberian Railway trip in winter. That is just one way of doing it, but the options are many.

There are many things to consider when you start planning your journey, but first things first. A trip with the Trans-Siberian is perfectly safe, both for families, solo and female travellers. It is the way Russians have travelled for years, and very few reported incidents. Take precautions, choose your berth wisely, and take care of your belongings.

A journey like this requires some planning. But if you are like us, then you also find planning your trip half the fun.

Checklist for planning your Trans-Siberian Railway trip:

• When do you prefer to travel? Which season?
• Do you want to travel eastbound or westbound?
• Which visas will you need to organise? Check visa requirements
• Make sure that your passport is valid six months after you return
• What should be your final destination?
• Which route should you choose?
• How much will it cost?
• Do you want to stop along the route? Where?
• Organise travel insurance

The above list gives you a brief overview of things to take into consideration when planning your trip. What you choose will mostly depend on your wishes, budget and the time you have on hand.

2. Best time to travel the Trans-Siberian Railway

If there is one best time to travel on the Trans-Siberian Railway or not, is really up to you and what you prefer. The train runs all year round, and each season has something to offer. Some periods are busy or warm while others are freezing cold.

Trans-Siberian in summer

Summer is the most popular time of the year for a Trans-Siberian Railway trip. With the summer holiday in the western world, lots of travellers find themselves onboard the train. It can get busy and harder to find tickets for some routes. The summer months are great if you travel solo and want to meet other fellow travellers.

The climate in Russia is mild, but July and August can get very hot. The same goes for Mongolia. Even the summer is shorter in Mongolia it really can get warm also there. China is hot and humid in the summer months.

Trans-Siberian in autumn

Autumn is by many considered the best time to travel the Trans-Siberian. It is less crowded, the worst heat is gone, and the foliage let you catch the autumn colours along the route. The weather can still be nice the whole route. In China, the humidity from the summer is gone.

Trans-Siberian in winter

A Trans-Siberian trip in the winter is spectacular. Yes, it can get freezing cold, like in really Siberian cold, and you will see that Siberia looks like yes, Siberia. The trains are heated and, you can expect to sweat even in winter. But to snug up inside while watching the Siberian winter pass by outside the windows is a magical feeling.

It is much fewer passengers in the winter, so it never gets crowded, and finding tickets is rarely a problem. Bring lots of warm clothes (think layers of clothes) for exploring the places you choose to stop.

Winter is considered the best time to visit Lake Baikal with its clear thick ice perfect for winter activities. The lake usually freezes from mid or end of February and last at least throughout March.

Trans-Siberian in spring

The spring is maybe the least recommended time for a Trans-Siberian Railway trip. It is no longer winter and also not summer. In late spring when the snow has melted, and nature starts to wake up is also very pretty. China has pleasant weather in the spring.

Spring is also not the busiest time on the train. It’s great for avoiding crowds and, tickets are available.

TIP: Read our post on the Harz Mountain Railway or the Zittauer Schmalspurbahn in Germany if you would like a nostalgic journey with a steam train

3. Choose your Trans-Siberian Railway route

The Trans-Siberian Railway is not one train route, but it’s a network of railways connecting Moscow with the Russian Far East. The building of the railway started in 1891 and finished in 1916. Train services ran along the route much before its completion. Today, the expansion of the railway system continues, with connecting routes to China, Mongolia, Japan and North Korea.

You can choose from three main routes, but the Trans-Siberian Railway also has several other options for connections along with its extended network. You don’t have to follow the same route the whole time, and you can combine more routes in one journey.

Eastbound or Westbound?

You can make your Trans-Siberian Railway trip in both directions. The choice is up to you and what you prefer. The eastbound route tends to be more popular among western travellers, so westbound is recommended if you are looking to avoid too many other travellers.

Usually, you will have to book one long-haul flight. Either to start the journey or when you have finished. Check airfares before you decide, it can be a big difference in costs depending on where and when you fly.

BUDGET TIP: In case you end your journey in Vladivostok, you save big bucks on flying domestic back to Moscow, and then have your international flight out from there, instead of flying out from Vladivostok

We chose eastbound from Moscow for two reasons. Firstly we found it kind of more romantic to start our adventure with the long train journey first, instead of with a long haul flight. Secondly, starting our winter trip with the Trans-Siberian in Moscow, also gave us the chance to celebrate New Year’s Eve there before we boarded the train the next day.

TIP: Read our post with tips and attractions in Moscow for a Moscow city break

Trans-Siberian line: Moscow to Vladivostok

The legendary and original mainline from Moscow to Vladivostok is mostly following the historic path over the continent. Trains leave Moscow daily for this 9,259 km long journey. Depending on the train number, this route takes at least 143 hours, or around six full days. It can take longer. Some of the trains have slightly different routes or more stops en route.

The prime choice for this route is train number 1/2, the Rossiya. Train 1 is westbound and, train 2 is eastbound. Rossiya is regarded as the best train along this route, with the best comfort, service and food. It is also the most expensive one, so if you’re on a budget, consider doing only shorter legs with this train, and combine it with other trains, e.g. train number 62.

• Train number 1/2 has daily departures, in both directions
• Train number 61/62 departs Mon, Thurs, Sat, both directions
• If you plan to stop on your way, it is also possible to travel by trains that follow the same route but doesn’t go all the way to Vladivostok. It is still the Trans-Siberian Railway.
• Train number 70 will take you from Moscow to cities like Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk or Irkutsk. In any of these cities, you can catch up with train number 2 or 62.
• For stops before Irkutsk, you can travel with the trains going to China and Mongolia and later change to trains for Vladivostok.

Trans-Manchurian line: Moscow to Beijing via Manchuria

This route takes just over six days for travelling 8,986 km. Train number 19/20 has weekly departures to or from Beijing via Manchuria (train 19 is westbound and train 20 is eastbound). This train follows the mainline on the Trans-Siberian Railway between Moscow and Chita. Also here you can combine it with stops and other trains. This route is operated by Russian trains.

• Train number 19/20 departs Saturday nights from both cities
• This train does not go via Mongolia. You will need visas for Russia and China only
• Take this train if you wish to visit the Harbin International Ice Snow Sculpture Festival in China

Trans-Mongolian line: Moscow to Beijing via Ulaanbaatar

This is the most popular route for western travellers on a Trans-Siberian Railway trip. This route is 7,621 km and takes 6 nights. With this train, you will have the chance to experience three different countries with their unique cultures. After travelling over Siberia, this train cuts across Mongolia and the Gobi desert before entering China.

TIP: Read our post on the Oslo to Bergen train an incredible beautiful train journey

The major train on this route is the weekly train number 3/4 (train 3 is westbound and train 4 is eastbound). This route is operated with Chinese trains, but when in Russia, a Russian restaurant car is attached, then later a Mongolian before a Chinese restaurant car for the last part of the trip is attached.

• Train 3 departs Beijing every Wednesday
• Train 4 departs Moscow every Tuesday
• Between Moscow and Ulan Ude you can combine this route with all other trains
• Most travellers on this train need a visa to Russia and China, and some also to Mongolia

Other routes

There are other alternative routes to take on your Trans-Siberian Railway trip as well, where you later can connect with the mainline to Vladivostok, or with the trains to China.

One route runs via Kazan, the capital and largest city of the Republic of Tatarstan in southwest Russia. Another option is the train via Yaroslavl, northeast of Moscow. Yaroslavl is part of the Golden Ring of ancient towns in Russia.

TIP: Read our post on the best places to visit in Russia’s Golden Ring

4. Choose your Trans-Siberian Railway stops

When you have chosen your preferred route for your Trans-Siberian Railway trip, it is time to choose your stops. It is possible to travel the whole journey in one go. But we do recommend stopping en route to your destination. Russia has so much to see, so it would be sad to miss out on a stop there.

Depending on the time you have, you can almost have unlimited stops. If you follow the mainline, there are several interesting places in Russia to visit. Perm, Yekaterinburg, Omsk, Novosibirsk, Irkutsk (Lake Baikal) and Ulan Ude are all recommended places to stop, among many others.

We chose two stops along the route, in Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk. If you have limited time, and can’t do too many stops, these two cities will give you many options to explore Russian culture, cities and nature.

Best things to do in Yekaterinburg

Yekaterinburg just west of the Ural mountains is the gateway between Europe and Asia. With a population of over 1,3 million, it is a major Russian city. The history goes long back but is maybe most famous for being the city where former president Boris Yeltsin came to rise, and also for being the city where Russia’s last monarchs, the Romanov family were executed.

The city centre is lively, with a mix of grand old and communist-era style buildings. The city has good cafes and restaurants. After some time on the train, a break here can be very welcome. If you visit Yekaterinburg in the winter, the city has a small ice sculpture festival in the city centre.

If you like opera or ballet (and think Bolshoi in Moscow is too expensive), Yekaterinburg has an excellent opera and ballet house showing first-class productions throughout the year. We were lucky and got good tickets for The Nutcracker for only €50.

If you’d like a detour out of the city, you can visit the Europe-Asia border, located 40km west of the city. Yekaterinburg For You can arrange the trip for you.

Our highlights in Yekaterinburg:

• Visit the Church upon the Blood. This is the death site of Tsar Nicholas II and his family
• See the mansion house of Sevastyanov
• Watch an opera or ballet at Ural Opera & Ballet . Book tickets in advance
• Eat excellent Uzbek food at the restaurant Nigora
• Visit the Ascension Church
• Enjoy the mix of architectural styles

Best things to do in Irkutsk

This Siberian city is such a hidden treasure. Irkutsk is beautiful. One of the best things to do there is simply to wander around its streets and take in the beauty of the city.

From streets full of beautifully crafted wooden houses to spectacular churches and monasteries, Irkutsk really was a pleasant surprise. The food scene in the city is also great. Cute cafes serve delicious breakfasts, trendy cafes have excellent coffee and restaurants serve mouth-watering Asian food.

TIP: Read our post on Flamsbana Railway in Norway . It is said to be one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world

Irkutsk is the gateway to the famous Lake Baikal. You can visit the lake on a day trip from Irkutsk, or better spend a night or two. Most hotels and hostels in Irkutsk can help arrange trips to Baikal. The nearby, lakeside village of Listvyanka is a good starting point for exploring Lake Baikal. You can reach the village by hourly bus from outside the tourist office in Irkutsk.

Our highlights in Irkutsk:

• Wandering along the river and the streets to look at all the cute wooden houses and churches
• Visit the amazing Kazan Church of Irkutsk
• Visit Znamensky Monastery
• Eat excellent Asian food and Russian dumplings
• See the Epiphany Monastery

5. Classes on the Trans-Siberian Railway

Of the regular trains, train number 1/2, the Rossiya , has the best standard. It is very comfortable, but don’t expect luxury even when travelling on this train.

There are usually two or three classes to choose from when booking your ticket, but this may vary from train to train, season and demand. The berths (rooms) don’t vary that much. It is more about the space, and how many you will share the berth with.

Which class you should choose depends on your wishes and your budget. If you value privacy, choose the first class. If you travel on a budget, choose the third class. On the other hand, if you want to meet the locals as they travel, choose this class as well. Choose the second class for anything in between.

To get the best experience of a Trans-Siberian railway trip, we would recommend a mix of the classes (if you have stops along the route). It will give you unforgettable memories with locals, and ensure some privacy and calmness on the trip.

First class

1st class berths, known as Spainy Vagon or SV , on Russian trains are usually the same as 2nd class, but only the lower beds as used, meaning you only share the berth with one other person. On Chinese trains, known as deluxe sleeper , you normally sleep in the upper bed and can relax on a sofa during the day.

On trains without first class, it is possible to buy out the whole berth for single-use or to buy out the left-over beds in your berth if you are more people travelling.

The luggage is stored under the lower beds, and the berth is equipped with a reading light and electric socket. There are toilets and washrooms at each end of the wagon. Some trains have a shower available. Ask your train host if your train has showers for rent.

Second class

Usually, 2. class is known as Kupe, which are 4-bed berths with two upper and two lower beds. The lower beds function as a sitting area during the daytime. Expect to share your lower bed with passengers from the upper bed during the day, e.g. for meals. The second class on Chinese trains is called soft sleeper .

The luggage is stored under the lower beds, and the compartment is equipped with a reading light and electric socket. There are toilets and washrooms at each end of the wagon.

Third class

The third class, known as platskartny , has an open plan with 54 bunks per wagon, arranged in groups of 4 or 2. Here you will have a lack of privacy, but on the other hand, you are guaranteed nice encounters with your fellow passengers.

If you are travelling on a tight budget, the third class will be the best option. It is significantly cheaper than the higher classes.

Private luxury trains

If you have the money and are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one of the private luxury trains could be the option for you. Here you travel in a secluded world, with meals, excursions and the best comfort included. It is expensive, so only expect to meet other wealthy travellers on this train. The downside is that you won’t have many encounters with the locals if you choose one of these trains.

Check Golden Eagle or Imperial Russia for more information on private luxury trains.

6. How much does the Trans-Siberian cost?

It’s a myth that a Trans-Siberian Railway trip is very expensive. On the contrary, when thinking of the distance travelled, it comes out as very affordable indeed.

In addition to the Trans-Siberian-Railway ticket itself, there are some additional costs you need to add:

• Costs for the visa(s)
• Health insurance
• Flights (or other transport) to start and endpoint
• Accommodation before and after the train ride, plus at the stops you make
• Food and drinks
• Personal expenses

The price of the train tickets depends on the time of year you travel, and your preferred class. The high season is June to August when the ticket prices are at the highest. Also around Russian New Year and Christmas, the prices rise. The same goes for the Chinese train around Chinese New Year.

In general, it is cheaper to travel the whole Trans-Siberian without stops, as you then travel on the same ticket the whole way. Making stops will raise the ticket cost, but not that much. The more stops you make, the higher the total cost you will get (when you stop you have to buy several independent tickets).

Your travel class will affect the ticket price the most, and in general, a first-class ticket is around double of a second-class 4-berth ticket. The lower bed is more expensive than the upper bed. Some tickets on certain trains also include one or a few meals, but far from all the meals, you’ll need.

Price example (per person) from our Trans-Siberian Railway trip (January 2020):

• Train number 70 Moscow-Yekaterinburg, 2nd class, 4-bed berth, lower bed: €68/ $83
• Train number 2, the Rossiya , Yekaterinburg-Irkutsk, 2nd class 4-bed berth, upper bed:€129 / $158
• Train number 100 Irkutsk-Vladivostok, 2nd class, 4-bed berth, upper bed: €121/ $149/ lower bed: €157 / $193

Total price Moscow-Vladivostok with two stops: €672/ $825, or only €336/ $412 per person. With more stops, the price will go up, and without stops, it will go down, but the difference is really not that much.

Tickets from Moscow to Beijing can cost as little as €550/ $680, but the real bargain is on the classic route from Moscow to Vladivostok.

As seen above, it is possible to make a Trans-Siberian Railway trip quite cheap. If you travel only third class, you can save more, and first-class would cost around double. The total price for the whole trip will then more depend on your choice of accommodation before, during and after the trip, and how much the flights or other transport costs before and after the train itself. With budget accommodation and low-cost airlines, it is possible to do this whole trip for less than €1000/ $1230, food and activities not included, if you live in Europe.

Expect to pay much more if you use a travel agent. Should you prefer to book via a travel agency, you will get the best deal from local offices in China or Mongolia, while the western ones usually will be the most pricey option.

For private luxury trains, you should expect to pay more than €10,000 (up to €20,000). And that’s per person!

7. How to book Trans-Siberian Railway tickets?

When you have decided your route and planned which stops your Trans-Siberian railway trip should have, it is time to book your tickets.

Booking tickets to the Trans-Siberian Railway is surprisingly easy and straightforward. There is no need to ask a travel agent at home or in Russia to do this for you. Expect to pay much more if you use a travel agent.

Tickets are available for booking 60 days before departure. Especially in the high season, it is recommended to book in advance, but often it is possible to find tickets 2-3 days in advance online or at the train stations in Russia. The Trans-Mongolian line is popular and can sell out due to only one departure per week. Book way ahead unless you are very flexible on time.

During the booking process, you can choose between available berths and between upper or lower beds. You can also choose between mixed-gender or female berth only. Smoking is prohibited anywhere on the train, so you don’t have to fear smoking in your compartment.

TIP: There are toilets at each end of the wagons. If the toilet is full, it can stink really bad, also in the corridor and berths close by. Choose your berth in the middle of the wagon.

How to book tickets at the Trans-Siberian railway (for trains starting in Russia)

• Go to the official website of the Russian Railways (site in English)
• Click on log-in or registration to create a profile (mandatory before booking)
• Type in from/to and date and search
• Click on the from-price in the class you prefer, and see which berths are available
• Choose your berth, and if you want an upper or lower bed
• Fill in personal information, confirm, and pay (NB: you need to add your passport number)
• Voila! You have your ticket
• Tickets work electronic but, we recommend a print-out in case of battery issues

PLEASE NOTE: This way of booking is at the moment only available for trains starting in Russia. You can not book tickets online on this site for trains starting in China or Mongolia. Some US-issued credit cards may get rejected.

How to buy tickets on trains starting in China and Mongolia:

• You can not buy tickets for the Trans-Siberian Railway at Beijing stations
• The CITS international train booking office is recommended for purchasing tickets in China and Mongolia
• In Ulaanbaatar, you can buy tickets at the international ticket office next to the train station

8. Life onboard the Trans-Siberian Railway

A journey on the Trans-Siberian Railway is slow travel at its best. Prepare yourself for days on the tracks with many fellow passengers coming and going. The encounters with fellow passengers, tourists and locals, will be some of the most memorable moments of this trip. Keep in mind that the Trans-Siberian is not run for tourists. It is as it’s meant to be; a passenger train made for transporting many people over long distances. Don’t expect nightclubs and entertainment onboard.

Even though you will spend hours and days onboard the train, you hardly will have time to get bored. Somehow, the days pass by as the Siberian landscape slowly glides by outside your window. Relax, watch the scenery outside, read, play a game, listen to music or podcasts or watch a downloaded movie or series. Talk with your fellow passengers, stretch your legs at the stops, have a drink and enjoy your journey. That’s all that it’s about!

Please note that onboard the train, they always use Moscow time. Time tables show both Moscow and local time. Keep track of the time zone, and you will manage.

Before boarding the train

Essential items to pack

• Comfy clothes
• Slip-on footwear
• Electric adapter
• Toilet paper
• Bottled water
• Instant food

Arrival and boarding

• Trains in Russia are punctual
• Check the name of the station closely
• Arrive latest 30 min before departure
• Platform and track will be displayed in the departure hall
• Keep tickets and passports safe but available for inspection

Arrival on the train

Upon arrival, you will meet your train host, the provodnitsa. She is the boss, your best friend, and must be obeyed. Each wagon has its provodnitsa, and on long trains, they work in pairs (one works while the other rests). They only speak Russian and can seem very strict and fearsome, but mostly they are friendly and helpful.

On arrival, she will check your ticket and provide you with the bed linen. Her most important task is to keep her wagon clean, tidy and warm. She also makes sure that the samovar (water boiler) at the end of the corridor always contains hot water for your use.

At the beginning of the journey, they usually also offer some souvenirs or snacks they have for sale. Buy something, and you have a friend and helper for the rest of the journey. If you need something, like plates, cups or cutlery, you can often borrow it from her (for a small tip).

Your compartment

Depending on if you travel solo, as a couple or in a small group, usually, you share your compartment with other passengers, unless you have bought all beds. Be polite, greet fellow travellers and try to interact with them.

You can be lucky or not so lucky with your roommates, but that’s also a part of the experience. Put baggage under the seats, and keep personal belongings in your bed. Respect that people want to sleep in the night, and expect fellow passengers to come and go at all times as the train stops frequently.

If you have the lower bed, you are expected to make room for passengers in the upper bed to sit in your bed and share the table at meals. Not everyone is so happy with doing this, but all passengers have the right to use the table.

TIP: If you are two travelling together, book one lower and one upper bed on the same side. Then you can rest whenever you want, and sharing the lower bed as a daytime sofa and the table is never a problem.

Meals on board

Let’s be honest: don’t expect your Trans-Siberian Railway trip to be a culinary journey. In that case, you will get deeply disappointed. If your ticket includes some meals, you will get them brought to your compartment. Every train has a restaurant car, with various decorations. The food in the restaurant car is disappointing and nothing special. It is quite pricey for such low quality.

Try the food in the restaurant car as part of your experience. But don’t have all your meals here. Eat most meals in your compartment, and rather use the restaurant car for a drink or two during the day. It is a good place to meet other travellers.

Buy instant food, like noodles, soups and stews before you board the train. The samovar in your wagon always has hot water you can use. Stock up on fruits, crackers and other dry food items. When the train stops for more than just a few minutes you can buy more food at the stations along the route.

Short stops along the route

The many shortstops along the route are one of the highlights during the day onboard. Sometimes the train stops for just a few minutes and other times for anything between 30 minutes to an hour. Each wagon is equipped with a timetable showing the stops along the route. The timetable states arrival and departure times at each stop.

When the train only stops for a few minutes, it can be worth getting off to get some fresh air and stretch your legs. Don’t be late back. The train will not wait for you.

Life on the stations is some of the most fun and memorable moments of this journey. Passengers come and go, and everywhere it’s busy activities. Small stalls sell fresh or preserved food, drinks, fruits and sweets. Locals often also offer local products for sale. It can be handcrafted items, souvenirs, food and drinks. Often you can find fresh bread on the stations, and in some places, you can also find warm food. Try the smoked fish offered at the stations in Siberia. It’s delicious and a good supplement to all the instant food.

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2 thoughts on “Total Guide to plan & book a great Trans-Siberian Railway Trip”

Hello guys!! Just loved your blog on the transiberian. It cleared my mind and encourage us to a future trip. Have fun and enjoy life as you two always do and maybe our paths will cross some day on a post covid dream trip. Big hugs from Monterrey, Mexico.

Thank you very much for your feedback! Trans-Siberian is such a great adventure that we would recommend to everyone.

Comments are closed.

We are Matthias and Kent. With a strong desire to travel the world, we create articles and travel guides from our many trips. We aim to inspire you to explore the world, near and far. Maybe your next adventure is closer than you think?

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Why You Should Visit Siberia in the Winter (Seriously)

By Sophy Roberts

“Siberia is a wardrobe problem,” remarks Olga Rimaeva, a round-faced babushka descended from seventeenth-century Polish exiles: too hot in summer, too cold in winter. I meet her in the eastern Siberian village of Bolshoi Kunaley. She’s dressed in a full-length fur coat, possibly fox but definitely not sable, the booty that in the sixteenth century drew Russian Cossacks across the Ural Mountains dividing European Russia and Siberia and made the czars’ colonists of this remote territory outstandingly rich. With Siberia’s temperatures dipping below minus 13 degrees in March, I’ve gone with Canada Goose instead. So it’s not the cold that’s making me jittery when I step onto frozen Lake Baikal —the world’s oldest and deepest lake, with a surface area bigger than Belgium. (Under the ice, Baikal is a wildlife freak show of ghostly, transparent fish and bug-eyed seals shaped like footballs, whose predecessors allegedly got trapped in the lake some two to three million years ago when the continental plates had their last big shift.) Baikal’s ice may be at its thickest right now, but I’m still on edge: Every five years this region registers a major earthquake.

I’ve come to Siberia because I like frozen wildernesses. I’ve visited Antarctica twice—the interior and the coast—and I’ve traversed Arctic Lapland by both snowmobile and dogsled. Even if I’m a century too late to plant a flag, there’s still a mystique in the virginity of endless white, a power Siberia has held over me ever since I noticed it on a bedside lamp I had as a child. That same lamp—a globe, which showed Siberia glowing over nine percent of the world’s landmass—also fed my appetite for exotic names. When my mother switched off the light each evening, I dreamed of Timbuktu. Or Ouagadougou, even Brazzaville. Siberia was a name full of poetry, derived from the Cossack word Si-bir , meaning “sleeping land,” or Sumbyr , like “slumber”—or Wissibur , “whisper.”

Frozen waves on Lake Baikal.

But while the romance is alluring, the realities of Siberia are forbidding, and require expert guidance. I find my man in Douglas Grimes, founder of the U.S.-based travel company Mir Corporation , which has 30 years’ experience in Russia. In Siberia, Grimes tasks Vladimir Kvashnin to manage our logistics on the ground.

We begin our 300-mile trip across Siberia to Ulan-Ude in the city of Irkutsk—once a Cossack fort, with wide, French-style boulevards. When Anton Chekhov visited in 1890, he dubbed it the Paris of the East. Even if the peeling facades aren’t exactly the tidy Haussmann-era mansions lining the Seine, Irkutsk’s Monet café does a good fruit tart, and I catch a Bach recital on a concert grand piano that belonged to a nineteenth-century Russian princess exiled for her husband’s political crimes. I also get a whiff of the East in visits to Russian Orthodox churches with peacock-blue and golden domes and bearded priests.

From Irkutsk we drive to Baikal’s western shore on a wide, arrow-straight highway. (The 40-mile road, built in 1960 in anticipation of a U.S. presidential visit, proved premature; Eisenhower canceled after Francis Gary Powers’s CIA spy plane was shot down that same year.) En route, we stop for lunch at a wooden dacha—a country house with chickens and goats in the garden, where a friend of Kvashnin’s, Tatyana Shurantsev, cooks us blini with wild-berry jam and a hot fish pie served on Russian porcelain.

On reaching Baikal, the more sophisticated lures of Irkutsk are replaced with the pure adrenaline that lies at the heart of why I travel to these holes in the map. My eyelashes are rimmed in ice as I’m pulled on a sled along Baikal’s shoreline, my team of Siberian huskies flying across the lake’s frozen surface. I hide my face from the brutal Arctic wind. When it gets too hard, I switch my dogs for Kvashnin’s snowmobile, my head in a warm helmet crowned with snow. After a couple of hours, we stop to drink vodka with a local fisherman whose van is parked on the ice. Using a long line and heavy winch, he pulls up some omul—an oily fish not unlike mackerel—from a hole he has cut in the lake with a chain saw. We head to a cabin hidden in the birch and alder trees of Chernaya, or Black Creek Valley, where we eat more fish that has been grilled on a fire ahead of our arrival. And then we cross Baikal—a three-hour journey using a balletic, storm-bashed hovercraft. The boat glides across the ice on a fat belly of air, expertly handled by an old Baikal sea dog with fog-gray eyes. I feel as if I’m in a James Bond movie: the pilot’s hat, with its hammer and sickle; the snow cloud we create as we zip over the ice; the thundering noise of the vessel’s engines pushing us to 25 miles an hour.

The author (seated) and a musher riding on Lake Baikal.

Laura Kiniry

Stacey Lastoe

Jemima Sissons

If the ice does crack, at least the hovercraft will float. For the Trans-Siberian Railway , the dangers were somewhat more pronounced. A hundred years ago, the train made its first complete 5,772-mile journey from Moscow all the way to Vladivostok, on the Pacific. Before the Golden Buckle was built, its tracks curling around the southern shore of Baikal, the trains’ carriages were unloaded onto a steam-powered icebreaker that would cross Siberia’s great lake. Sometimes, however, the ice was too thick. In the particularly harsh winter of 1903–04, a 25-mile-long rail track was laid across Baikal’s ice. Kvashnin tells me this by way of reassurance when I get out and walk across the lake’s deepest part.

In such a remote place­—Siberia is accessible on a regular tourist visa, even if my satellite phone hasn’t been cleared for use by Russian authorities—it seems remarkable that each aspect of my adventure is linked in a perfect chain to the next event, with mushers, drivers, and Siberian guides coming out of the white expanse as if by accident, during a journey that runs as smoothly as a Swiss train timetable. Only in coming here do I start to understand why so many of Russia’s exiles—including the early-nineteenth-century aristocratic revolutionaries called the Decembrists, who rebelled against the autocracy of the czar—didn’t race home to Moscow when their sentence was up. Siberia in winter is overwhelmingly soulful, the snowflakes the size of leaves.

Is it wrong to have this response when Siberia—for 400 years a brutal penal colony, later used by Stalin for his gulag labor camps—gobbled up the lives of millions? Times change. Reputations also shift. Siberia is far larger than just its prison populations, past and present; it is bigger than its nickel deposits, factory chimneys, and gas reserves.

The view from a traditional troika

It is also more comfortable than one might expect. We sleep in small hotels serving pickled fish for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with overheated bedrooms that are so immaculate, the only fault I can find is in their aesthetic sterility. Yet the romance of Siberia is infectious—the sense of infinity in the vast landscapes, the warmth of the wooden cabin where we lunch as the snow falls soundlessly outside, the grandeur of Ulan-Ude’s opera house and its gilded swags announcing immense Soviet pride. I find it arresting—the enduring belief in the former USSR, which seems to linger in Siberia more than elsewhere I have traveled in Russia. It’s a nostalgia that somehow softens the scowl of the grumpy cabin attendant on another part of my Siberian adventure, when I ride the Trans-Siberian Express between Ulan-Ude and Khabarovsk, 1,230 miles to the west. Maybe the attendant doesn’t believe in the capitalist idea of first class, with its two beds (rather than the sardine can of bunks in third class) and crisp, pressed sheets. She certainly doesn’t care for a foreigner and her pot of black Baikal caviar, which I pick at with chips while I watch the taiga’s silver trees, as fragile as a million matchsticks, move swiftly past.

I could have taken the Golden Eagle, the fancy Trans-Siberian passenger train, along this same route. But what would be the point? To me, the ultimate luxury is having the freedom to travel widely in the first place, to parts of the world where one encounters no other tourists, where the feeling of otherness is as intense as the bite of a Siberian wind in March.

Travel specialists Mir Corporation list itineraries at mircorp.com .

More Adventures on Ice

Antarctica Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions has operated in the continent’s interior for 29 years. They look after scientists, explorers, and billionaires spending $50,000 on a seven-day trip. The luxuries are sparse (simple tents, basic wines), but the polar expertise is impeccable.

Greenland Wyoming-based glaciologist Sarah Aciego of Big Chill Adventures leads guests into the wilderness she’s scouted for 15 years. Her 12-night tour of west Greenland is the best I’ve found, taking in the Ilulissat Icefjord by foot, boat, and dogsled.

Svalbard I first bumped into expedition fixer Henry Cookson in Namibia, though his experience is focused on snow, not sand. His outfit specializes in remote logistics, including snow-machine journeys into Norway’s far Svalbard island chain to see polar bears. Highlights include ice caves and diving under the ice.

A cabin in the Chernaya Valley where guests can stop for an alfresco lunch.

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Ian Frazier’s Guide to Siberia: 6 must-see places

Em alguns locais russos chamados de "polos de frio", temperaturas de até -40°C Foto: Gazeta Russa

The first time, Ian Frazier came to be in Russia by accident, after he met the Russian artists Komar and Melamid. Having arrived in Moscow, he received an unexpected invitation to go further into Siberia, which captured his heart for many years.

In his introduction to the book, he writes that in America, and around the world, Siberia seems like a strange, cold, faraway place, where one can be "exiled." However, at the same time, this place is romantic and mysterious, which you can even hear ringing in its name "Si-ber-ia" – a place still seemingly unknown.

In his travelogue Ian Frazier refers to the history of Siberia, and the history of travel to Siberia – for example, Kennen George’s books, which explored the area in the 19th century, and compares them with the reality he encounters. Much attention is also paid to the people who helped him during his travel. As Frazier said at a meeting in Krasnoyarsk, Siberians surrounded him exclusively with care, attention and curiosity.

We asked Ian Frazier to advise us about which main places, in his opinion, are definitely worth visiting in Siberia and picked appropriate citations from his book.

Cities like Tynda are staggering. It is a city on the Amur River, founded for gold mining; it is all buried in the taiga hills - BAM’s extreme point.

The large town of Tynda is considered to be the capital of BAM, and the Tynda train station is another modernist fandango, its many bold architectural statements cramming themselves into one structure with an energy and incoherence difficult to summarize. Much clearer in my mind is the station’s interior, which was a sort of mall of empty shops along hallways to nowhere radiating from the station’s busy and relatively crowded central area. The interior’s focal point was an improbable and elaborate fountain.

Quotes from Ian Frazier’s book Travels in Siberia

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Siberia Travel Guide

Siberia is a vast snowy and wilderness region in  Russia . Historically, Siberia includes all Russian territory in north Asia , with the Urals, and the Far East region.

Only the extreme north of Siberia is a true tundra climate where temperatures can reach -68°C in winter. The central region is forested, the western region has swamps and the eastern region has big mountains.

The Siberian people, like most Asian Russians, are more closely related to the people of Kazakhstan or Mongolia or to the Inuit than to European Russians.

Fun fact: During the Soviet times the government spent money to attract Europeans to Siberia’s larger cities. Today Europeans form a majority in the urban areas while the rural areas remain largely populated by the indigenous Siberian people.

Things To Do In Siberia

Primarily natural attractions. With its vast areas of wilderness, Siberia is famous for its stunning scenery. That said, it is important to note that due to harsh climate, outdoor life can be challanging.

Visit Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal is known as the pearl of Siberia. It is the deepest and one of the purest lakes in the world.

Visit Mountainous Altai

Mountainous Altai region in Siberia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is very popular among ecotourists. Mountaineering and mountain river rafting are wide spread here.

You can enjoy the following activities:

• Mushroom picking
• Hiking and  Nature observation
• Downhill snow-sports
• Whitewater rafting
• Cross country skiing
• Dog sledding
• Reindeer herding

Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway

Road trip Trans-Siberian Highway

Siberia Regions

• Krasnoyarsk (Central) – heavily forested
• Taymyria (North) – extreme and tundra region
• Western Siberia – covered by a swampy plain
• Eastern Siberia – has mountains soaring to above 3,000 m

Major Cities in Siberia

• Novosibirsk
• Krasnoyarsk
• Novokuznetsk

How to Get to Siberia

The Trans-Siberian Railway, connecting Moscow to Vladivostok, is by far the most famous method of transportation in Siberia. Covering a distance of 9,289 km, making it one of the longest railways in the world. The full trip takes over 6 days and crosses 8 time zones.

Its branches the Trans-Manchurian and Trans-Mongolian connect to Beijing in China, the first directly, the second via Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia.

The Trans-Siberian Highway is an unofficial grouping of seven Russian federal highways making up a 11,000 km cross-country journey from St. Petersburg and Moscow to Vladivostok. That sounds like an epic road trip.

Siberia is divided into various ethnic groups. Each region may have their own language but Russian is spoken and understood universally anywhere in Siberia or Russia.

Eat at cafes, which are cheap and quite good. Cafes are common all around Russia, even in small villages. Tap water is considered unsafe for drinking, and should be avoided. Sanitize all water, and drink only water that is bottled.

May 12, 2018 9:35 pm Published by Salil Jha

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As all people know, Russia is the largest country in the world. If so, Siberia is the largest territory in Russia and divided into West Siberian Basin, Central Siberian Plateau and Eastern Siberia.

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Why Should You Visit Siberia?

You are here.

If I ever got tired of hustle and bustle of a big city and everyday routine, I would surely escape to a place with untouched genuine beauty of nature, vast landscapes, smoking volcanoes, green succulent forests, pure mountain lakes and ridges covered with snow.

One of such hidden virgin treasure troves is Siberia , a land that was explored and conquered by the Kazak warrior Ermak and which still manages to preserve its genuine purity of nature and diversity of cultural heritage of numerous ethnic groups.

This is a real off the beaten track destination for those who want to experience harmony with nature. And new hotels and transport links will make your visit most comfortable to one of the world's last great wildernesses.

Best Time to Visit Siberia

The area of Siberia is about 4 million square miles, it is nearly as big as Canada. It stretches from the Ural Mountains to the Lena River. It is unbearably cold in winter and boiling in summer, so the best time to visit Siberia is in March when the temperature varies from -5 to -25 C.

Best Places to Visit in Siberia

Lake baikal.

The real gem and Blue Eye of Siberia is Lake Baikal which is one of the most famous destinations for touring in Russia . It is the deepest lake in the world which contains 1/5 of all the world's fresh water. It was slashed out of rock millions of years ago by a shift of the Earth's crust. The lake is nearly as clear as the Sargasso Sea, and in spite of some recent environmental concerns, its water is pure enough to drink. The lake's size is unbelievably impressive: its length is 636 kilometers and the coastline stretches on 2000 kilometers. The waters of Baikal have experienced long isolation from the rest of the world, due to this it has become a habitat to over 2500 species of plants and animals, most of which can be found nowhere else in the world.

Lake Baikal Facts

• The volume is 23,013 cubic km (5,521 cubic mi) of water;
• The maximum depth is 1,632 meters (5,354 ft);
• The maximum width is 79.5 km (49 mi);
• The surface area is 31,722 square km (12,248 square mi).

Sayan Mountain Ring

Another Siberian gem is the Sayan Mountain Ring. The area not only boats a vast variety of ethnic cultures but also encompasses fabulous genuine beauty of nature: pure lakes and roaring mountain rivers, abundant forests and endless steppes. All this creates a unique atmosphere and a sense that time has gone backward when getting to know people who have preserved for centuries the legends, beliefs, and lifestyles of their ancestors. The famous nature wonder - the Sleeping Sayan is also an amusing sight. It is a unique mountain ridge which looks like a man lying on his back with his hands on his chest. According to the legend he had been guarding the reaches of the Siberian land and after his death, the gods turned him into the stone so that he could continue his deed.

Must See Cities in Siberia

Among the city highlights are Tyumen, which was the first Russian fort in Siberia; Tobolsk - once the capital of Siberia and that is still one of its most impressive cities; Novosibirsk with all the variety of activities it has to offer and many others. And apart from all that, the chance to get to know the rich Siberian history better and its role in the life and history of the Russian state like Ermak's conquest, the Decembrists (the noble rebels who were sent to Siberia after a failed attempt to cast down the Tsarist regime in 1825 and their loyal wives who followed their husbands to Siberia and endured the hard lot and severe conditions), the building of Trans-Siberian Railway, are worth the adventure.

All in all, a visit to one of the most picturesque corners of our planet is a "must" for all adventurous travelers. Among the greatest ways to travel to Siberia is by setting off on a Trans-Siberian tour along the longest railway in the world. Would you crave to see it for yourself?

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TOURS TO SIBERIA

Tours in Siberian part of the Russia

Tours rating: 5.0 Reviews: 14

Tour to Siberia «The Siberian nature from lake Baikal to Altai mountains»

Tour duration: 20 days/ 19 nights Learn the culture of different ethnicity living in Siberia, explore a part of the Trans Siberian railway from Irkutsk to Novosibirsk city and appreciate the beauty of Siberian nature: the famous Baikal lake and amazing Altai mountains.

Tour duration: 20 days/ 19 nights Learn the culture of different ethnicity living in Siberia, explore a part of the Trans Siberian railway from Irkutsk to Novosibirsk city and appreciate the beauty of Siberian nature: the famous Lake Baikal and the amazing Altai Mountains.

Tour to Siberia «Tomsk — Novosibirsk — Altai»

Tour duration: 13 days/ 12 nights There are three main points you'll see in this tour: Tomsk city - the old merchant city, where you'll find wooden architecture, and the history of Siberian Cossacks; Novosibirsk city - Russia's third-largest city, named the capital of Siberia; Altai mountains - there you'll enjoy the really amazing nature of Western Siberian.

Tour to Siberia «The capital of Siberia and Altai mountains »

Tour duration: 10 days/ 9 nights Novosibirsk (the capital of Siberia) is waiting for you in this tour. You'll see its main sights and after that you'll visit Altai mountains - the pearl of Siberian nature.

Winter tour «The ice of Baikal»

Tour duration: 6 days Lake Baikal is the best way to experience the real Russian winter. The lake's crystal ice is one of Russia's treasures. The best time to see this wonder with your own eyes is in February and March.

«Trans Siberia railway summer tour»

Tour duration: 21 days Travelling by TransSiberian Railway is the best way to explore the biggest country in the world. You'll get acquainted with Russians and visit the most interesting places of the country. It will become the greatest adventure of a lifetime. You'll see Russian life from different perspectives.

Destinations in Siberia

There are many interesting places in the vast territory of Siberia

Western Siberia

Group tours.

We have some group tours, that you could find in our calendar . Also, we have many requests on the different dates that we are trying to gather in one tour. So, if you haven't found a group tour in our calendar on dates you wish, please, don't upset and write to us on email and we will try to find an option for you.

Briefly about Siberia

Siberia is a wonderful place to get acquainted with the truly magnificent wild nature of Russia. This area is enormous (this is the biggest part of Russia). Despite the area size, the number of settlements in Siberia is small. The are only dozen big city there (the bigest one is the Novosibirsk city ). The main part of the region is occupied by taiga, tundra and steppe. That's why it is so interesting for travelers who are looking for calm and nature. There are many interesting places in the vast territory of Siberia: Baikal lake , Tuva, Khakassia, Altai mountains are in the Western Siberia, Putorana Plateau (the Central Siberian plateau), Yakutia (Sakha Republic) is on the North. And, also, amazing Kamchatka Peninsula And it was very hard for us to choose the list of most interesting of them. But after hundreds of tours, we were able to design several optimal sightseeing tours that will show the nature of Siberia in all its glory and reveal the culture of the Siberian peoples.

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"Freeze your moments to Russian temperatures"

Siberia tourism.

The Siberian Federal District covers 30% area of its country, Russia. Holding over a dozen cities, Siberia boasts of the deepest lake in the world, Lake Baikal . Siberia is an ideal location for travellers who want to encounter with the untouched beauty of nature, mighty mountains, and unexplored enigmas.

Known for its extremely harsh winters, Siberia has a lot to offer. From the crown of Siberia 'Lake Baikal' to the rides in Trans-Siberian railway; from the fascinating Altai mountains to picture-perfect cities- Siberia has its own ways to entice its visitors. Cities like Novosibirsk, Tomsk, Irkutsk, Ulan-Ude, Omsk and Krasnoyarsk take pride in their own beauties. Novosibirsk is not just the capital of Siberia, but also the most pulsating city with thriving cultural scenes. Tomsk is an architectural heaven absolutely one of its kind, offering you endless photographic spots. Irkutsk is not just the gateway to Lake Baikal, but also a great exemplar of contrasts of the new and old. Ulan-Ude is a tranquil Buddhist city you definitely can't miss to visit. Some breathtaking destinations to explore in Siberia other than the lake are Ulkok Plateau, Lena River, Sayan Mountains, Chara Sands and Ergaki National Park.

Things To Do In Siberia

Lake Baikal

Exploring the cities

Altai Mountains

Trans-Siberian Railway

More on Siberia Travel

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How to Reach Siberia

How to reach overview, how to reach siberia by flight, how to reach siberia by train, how to reach siberia by waterways, local transport in siberia, browse package collections, nearby destinations for packages.

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Siberia covers 70% of Russia and offers a wide variety of Travel Experiences, are you game?

Home / Russia Trip Styles / Siberia Tours

Seeking a genuine adventure? Here's why people travel to Siberia, Russia.

Within (and beyond) Russia’s vast borders are some of the international travels’ best-kept secrets. Still, well off the package tour trail, Siberia is shrouded in the myths of shamans, the legends of explorers and stories of exile and survival. A holiday in Siberia might seem like a fantasy, but an incredible guided tour of Siberia is very much a reality. Far from its image of being barren and inhospitable, Siberia is an astonishingly diverse region of forests and frozen lakes, snow-capped mountains, windswept coasts, isolated tribal villages and thriving cities.

Travel to Siberia is renowned among adventure travellers seeking a unique experience. Only on a trip to Siberia is it possible to immerse yourself in the traditions of the shamanic Buryats, the nomadic Arctic reindeer herders and the once-exiled Russian Old Believers.

Whether it’s the unspoiled cultures or unbridled adrenaline you crave, Siberia has it all. Join us on one of our Siberia tours for an adventure beyond the boundaries of ordinary travel.

Siberia Travel Highlights:

• Visit Russia’s premier natural tourist attraction, Lake Baikal . In summer, Baikal is a paradise for sailing, island hopping, and hiking. In winter, its ice-covered surface plays host to hovercraft and 4WD adventures, ice skating, ice fishing, ice rafting, and ice caving
• Our choice of Siberia tours will immerse you in the ancient cultures of Siberia’s many ethnic groups , from the Buddhists of Buryatia to the nomads of the Yamal Peninsula and the throat-singing shepherds of the Altai Mountains.
• Take one of the greatest train journeys on earth - the Trans-Siberian Railway, as it passes through vast, empty tundra, alpine forest and booming modern cities.
• Get closer than you ever imagined to giant Kamchatka brown bears as they congregate every spring to fish for salmon in peninsula's pristine streams
• Trek to the top of majestic mountains in the Kamchatkan summer, or in winter, experience heli-skiing on the slopes of active volcanoes
• Cruise Kamchatka’s rugged Pacific coast for epic wildlife encounters with orcas, walruses, otters, sea lions and seabird colonies

Siberia still remains in many respects, a frontier destination (with the understandably popular Lake Baikal an exception). Traveling long distances to remote parts of the region is no easy feat, which is why a well-planned package tour of Siberia is the best way to enjoy your Siberian vacation.

Siberia is a land of pristine wilderness and natural wonders, containing the world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lake, and 25% of the earth’s forest cover. For winter sports enthusiasts, a Siberian winter tour promises pristine powder runs in backcountry taiga forest, or speed runs down the slopes of still-steaming volcanoes. Despite its untamed reputation, our guided Siberia tours cater to travelers of all types. For the most intrepid traveler, we can arrange a homestay in a nomad camp with the reindeer-herding Nenets on the edge of the Arctic Circle. By contrast, a summer cruise on beautiful Lake Baikal is as relaxing as it gets. Wherever you wind up in Siberia, you’ll be astounded - both by its breathtaking natural beauty and the warmth and hospitality of its diverse inhabitants.

Northern lights in Murmansk - Quest for Aurora Borealis

Spend 3 full days in Arctic city of Murmansk on the Kola Peninsula, where you will enjoy snow activities such as husky dog sledding and snowmobiling during days and will get a chance to hunt Aurora Borealis at nights.

Kamchatka - Spring Awakening

The "Kamchatka - Spring Awakening" tour showcases the natural diversity of the Kamchatka Peninsula during its beautiful time when nature awakes from the harsh Siberian winter and showcases its first alpine flowers.

Yenisei River Cruise - Siberian Exploration

A one-of-a-kind cruise on the untouched wilderness of Siberia's Yenisey river. Discover untouched lands and sail unshared waters – the first and only river cruise to travel the spectacular Yenisei River to the edge of the world.

Altai Photo Tour, Shimmers of Siberia's Autumn

You’ll be given ample opportunity to snap stunning landscape photos of Altai at its very best. Contrasting colours are everywhere - red canyons, silver mountains, white glaciers, yellow grasslands, azure lakes, amber larch trees and evergreen cedar. Every day is more beautiful than the next! This Altai Photo tour was perfectly created for photographers - beginners up to pros are all welcome!

Kamchatka Discovery

Enjoy a variety of day excursions around Kamchatka, such as volcanoes trekking, marine trip, rafting and cultural experience, while staying in a comfortable hotel in the Paratunka area. The tour is suitable for any age and fitness level.

Kamchatka - Kingdom of the Brown Bears

Stay for three days on the shores of the iconic Kurilskoye Lake and take part in bear viewing, as the bears gorge themselves during the annual salmon run. After Kurilskoye Lake, spot marine life on pristine Avacha Bay, and get a glimpse into the thrilling world of volcanologists on the plateau of Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes.

Kamchatka's Critters and Craters

Take part in some of the best bear viewing on the peninsula, stay in the camp on a slope of active volcano Tolbachik and explore its lava fields. Immerse yourself in the semi-nomadic culture, visit the reindeer herders camp and the village of Esso. Spot marine life on pristine Avachinskaya Bay and opt to take an awe-inspiring helicopter flight to visit the famous Valley of Geysers.

Kamchatka - The Lost World

This 18-day expedition to Kamchatka takes place in late August, one of the best times to enjoy the spectacular scenery with the first signs of the autumn colours. We visit as many places as possible, including the central valley with the Kamchatka River, Tolbachik, Ksudach, Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes, Kurilskoye Lake and the hot Khodutka River in the southern tundra.

Kamchatka Photo Expedition - Bears and Volcanoes

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the explosive drama and raw beauty of Kamchatka’s volcanic landscapes on camera, this is the tour for you. We will stay for 3 days on Kuril Lake for brown bears photography. Afterward, we hike up the mighty Mutnovsky and Gorely volcanoes with its ice caves.

Giants of Kamchatka - Trekking Active Volcanoes

Enjoy easy and moderate hikes of Kamchatka’s active volcanoes: Mutovsky, Gorely and Avachinksy, for thrilling views of steaming vents and breathtaking panoramas of snow-capped mountain peaks. Opt to take an awe-inspiring helicopter flight to visit the famous Valley of Geysers - the second biggest geysers field in the world.

Kamchatka Winter Adventure

Enjoy skiing from Kamchatka’s fiery volcanic peaks, relax in thermal hot springs and experience the most popular winter activities - dog sledding and snowmobiling.

Sea Kayaking in Kamchatka

Explore the bays, islets and caves of Kamchatka by kayak and get closer to its wild inhabitants than you ever imagined.

Kamchatka Heli Ski

Fly high above the untamed peaks of Kamchatka in a Russian chopper, and carve down the untouched slopes of the peninsula.

Spirit of the Altai Nomads Tour

This 12-day Altai tour offers a combination of incredible sightseeing, undemanding adventure activities and culturally immersive experiences. You’ll be one of a few privileged outsiders to visit some of the most spiritually powerful places in Altai in Siberia, according to the legends of the indigenous Altayan people.

Golden Mountains of Altai Adventure Tour

This awe-inspiring circuit within the dramatic Altai Mountain range crosses vast distances to reach some of the most beautiful places in Siberia. Stretching from the capital, Gorno-Altaysk almost to the Mongolia and China borders and back, this Altai adventure takes you into the rugged heart of this untamed region.

Lake Baikal - Frozen beauty of Olkhon Island

Step foot on Siberia’s most famous attraction, Lake Baikal – see its clear-as-a-mirror waters which reflect Siberia’s wildness, vastness and natural beauty. Explore the ice grottoes, caves and ice bubbles of the iconic Olkhon island and Maloye More on hovercraft and jeeps.

Lake Baikal Photography Tour

Stay for 4 days on the famous Olkhon Island in Lake Baikal. Walk on the glass-clear ice and catch the perfect shots of this amazing frozen beauty! We will spend plenty of time on the ice, crossing the lake in vehicles and stopping at various spots such as ice grottos, huge ice blocks and beautiful ice mounds.

Lake Baikal Ice Adventure

Feel as though you have stepped into a fantasy novel as you experience a magical adventure, one that you will never forget. You'll explore the frozen beauty of Olkhon Island by crossing the lake by ice roads, and experience real Siberian fun - snowmobiling and ice skating.

Lake Baikal Cruise - 6 Days Exploring Islands of the Sacred Sea

Journey to the centre of the world’s deepest lake on this breathtaking 6-day cruise of Lake Baikal. Go beyond the reach of the day-trippers to the wildest corners of its majestic islands, hidden wildlife havens and sacred cultural sites.

Lake Baikal: Ice, Sun, Snow & Fun

Tour Russia's Lake Baikal in just four days, on a guided small group tour that offers the perfect combination of adventure, culture and relaxation. You will depart in mid-winter, when the sight of the world's deepest lake, transformed into an endless expanse of mirror-clear ice is nothing short of breathtaking.

Legend of Lake Baikal

Experience the main sites of Lake Baikal just in one week. Visit Irkutsk and Listvyanka village, explore the iconic Olkhon island, learn about a local Buryat people culture and enjoy a mini-cruise across the lake to enjoy the tranquillity of the greatest lake on Earth and its surroundings.

Lake Baikal: Two Shores, Four Cultures

Get acquainted with the fascinating history and different cultures of people inhabiting the shores of Lake Baikal. In just 9 days you will explore two shores of Baikal: see the wooden Irkutsk and sunny Ulan-Ude, and open the curtain of the spiritual world of Asia where you will learn the principles of Buddhism, the basics of Shamanism, the culture of the Buryats and immerse yourself in the Old Believers way of life.

Reindeer Herders Festival in Yamal 2023

Visit the Yamal region of Russia to witness the Reindeer Herder's festival and immerse yourself in the rich culture of local nomads - the Nenets people. On this tour you will enjoy this colourful event in Salekhard, and will spend a couple of days with the Nenets family, learn about their way of life, beliefs and traditions.

Reindeer Migration with the Nenets in Yamal

Be a part of the ancient nomadic culture of the Siberian Arctic on this immersive experience, participating in massive reindeer migration and staying in the winter camps of Nenets – nomad people of Yamal. Our tour starts in Salekhard and will drive to the Polar Ural Mountains, where we meet our hosts.

A custom tour made to order

We understand sometimes our set departure dates do not align with your ability to travel at that time, or you just want to travel bespoke. We got you covered.

Go custom — gives you the choice & flexibility of creating your own bespoke itinerary, using our tours for inspiration.

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Oymyakon: All Facts and How to Visit

In this post, you will find all the important facts about Oymyakon in Yakutia and you will learn how to visit this unique and stunning place!

Facts about Oymyakon

The coldest in inhabited place on earth.

Yakutsk is an extreme place. But in fact, there is another constantly inhabited place that is even colder than Yakutsk: the village of Oymyakon (in other languages translated as Oimjakon), some 500 kilometers east of Yakutsk. And again, it’s all relative. Compared to Oymyakon, winter in Yakutsk appears to look warm and pleasant. How cold does it get in Oymyakon? Well, the record temperature dropped to minus 78 degrees in 1933. This is a world record for an inhabited place.

If you are looking for something unique and extreme, traveling Oymyakon in Yakutia in winter will be a moving experience for you. In Yakutia, you will find the coldest inhabited places on earth. Nevertheless, once arrived you will soon realize that the climate is just one of the remarkable things about this place. You will find out that the hospitality of the indigenous population forms a sharp contrast to the harsh climate conditions.

You will also find out that the silence and beauty of the endless taiga make Yakutia in winter not just only extreme but also a stunning place with its energy. If you are ready for a true once in a lifetime experience please leave us a message or comment. We are always looking for travel mates to join us!

Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an Ein Beitrag geteilt von Josep Mèrida (@josep_merida)

What does Oymyakon mean?

Ironic enough, Oymyakon means in Evenki language something like ‘the unfrozen patch’ due to the hot springs close to Oymyakon. But why is Oymyakon that cold? Apart from its location in the far north, its attitude is almost 1,000 meters above sea level as well as its location in a basin making cold winds flowing into the village contribute to the extraordinary cold. The cold air flowing into the bottom of the basis and pushes the warmer air up out of the basin.

How is life in Oymyakon?

The roughly 500 inhabitants of Oymyakon have adapted to life in the extreme subarctic climate. This is also true for pupils, the local school only stops working at temperatures hitting the minus 55 degrees mark. But also else, the local population lives a quite normal life.

Want to learn more about the daily life in Oymyakon? Have a look at this awesome documentary:

Does Oymyakon have seasons? How warm does it get in Oymyakon?

Oymyakon does have seasons! While it is known for being the coldest inhabited place on earth, the summer is quite warm. If you are wondering how warm it does get in Oymyakon, you may be surprised that it can get very hot! During the summer months, in July and August, temperatures travel up to 20 to 30 degrees. Traveling Yakutia in these moths is an adventure on its own. One great idea is, for instance, kayaking the Lena and Sinaya rivers. Find more about that trip in our dedicated post .

How to visit Oymyakon

Road trip through yakutia’s endless taiga.

Can you visit Oymyakon? Yes, you can! In this post, we will tell you how to visit Oymyakon. The trip to Oymyakon and back will take five days and traveling there will be an adventure itself. To get to Oymyakon we will cross frozen rivers, we will travel hundreds of kilometers through the endless taiga east of Yakutsk and we will cross the Verkhoyansk mountain range. Hence, we will follow the P-504 route, a 2,000 kilometers federal ‘highway’ connecting Yakutsk with Magadan at the sea of Okhotsk, which is locally just called the Kolyma Trassa as it is the only sealed road in the entire region.

The Road of Bones

The road is also known as the Road of Bones as it was built in the 1930ies by forced labor in the Stalin era as part of the Gulag system. The conditions in the Gulag camps were terrible, many thousands of the workers died from hunger, cold, and exhaustion. The route is a mass grave. Though most of the camps have been destroyed since then, the Gulags is present in some things you will see along the road: crosses to remember those who died, a handful of unofficial museums and memorials, and even some abandoned camps which are still there after all the decades since the Gulag system came to an end.

Is Oymykon safe?

The answer is that Oymyakon is a safe place with nice and kind people. However, that does not mean, it is not dangerous. Oymyakon is one of the most remote and extreme places in the world. In addition, you need to travel one of the most remote routes in the world to get there. The extreme weather conditions and the remoteness bear their risks you need to be aware of. That’s why you should never travel there alone but should work with a travel company or should work with a local guide.

Travel companies offering trips to Oymyakon include:

• Schulz Aktiv Reisen
• Visit Yakutia (local guide)
• Russia Discovery

Accommodation and Hotel in Oymyakon and Yakutsk

Hotels in yakutsk.

During your stay in Yakutsk, if wished, you should organize a stay for you in the Tygyn Darkhan hotel which is located in the center of Yakutsk. Free wireless LAN and free access to the fitness center are available for every guest. You may also relax in the sauna and swimming pool. During the trip to Oymyakon, you will stay in smaller private hotels (one night way there and one night way back).

Are there any hotels in Oymyakon?

Despite that the village is increasingly visited by foreigners, there is no hotel in Oymyakon. Therefore, you will stay with locals in traditional housings. This will not only allow meeting locals but will also allow experiencing the traditions and lifestyle of Oymyakon’s people. I am sure, you will love it!

How to get there and when to travel

Given its remote location many are surprised that Yakutsk is not that difficult to reach. Yakutsk has a modern airport and is well connected for its size.

How to get to Yakutsk?

To get to Yakutsk you need usually to fly via Moscow. The flight from Moscow to Yakutsk takes around seven hours. Return tickets from the major European hubs with a stop in Moscow start from 700 euros but maybe also cheaper in some cases.

How to get to Oymyakon from Yakutsk?

In general, we are recommending staying for some days in Yakutsk to get to know this unique city. We are also recommending visiting the Lena and Sinaya pillars some 200 kilometers south of Yakutsk. During your stay in Yakutia, we would like to invite you to experience our indigenous culture, beliefs, and shamanism traditions.

Have you for instance ever eaten frozen fish? Well, we do that all the time. But no worry, there is a lot else to try. For experiencing the ‘true winter’ you should come to Yakutsk between November and February. As the trip to Oymyakon will take around five days you should plan to stay in Yakutsk for at least a week. You may also combine your trip with a stay in Moscow. We will assist you in getting an appropriate visa.

Oymyakon Documentary

For more on Oymyakon, have a look at this great tv show published by the TV show “60 Minutes”:

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Russia travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 3, 2024 08:33 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, russia - avoid all travel.

The armed conflict in Ukraine has led to armed incursions and shelling in areas close to the Russian-Ukrainian border. Drone strikes, explosions, and fires have occurred further into Russia’s interior. The impacts of the armed conflict with Ukraine could also include:

• partial military mobilization
• restrictions on financial transactions
• increasingly limited flight options

If you are in Russia, you should leave while commercial means are still available. If you remain in Russia, maintain a low profile. Canadians holding Russian citizenship may be subject to call-up for mandatory military service.

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Terrorist attack in Krasnogorsk, Moscow Oblast

On March 22, 2024, a terrorist attack occurred at the Crocus City Hall, a concert venue in Krasnogorsk, just outside central Moscow. There are reports of gunfire and explosions. The incident resulted in multiple casualties and fires continue to burn around the site of the attack.

Local authorities have cordoned off the affected area and have cancelled upcoming mass gatherings in Moscow. Further attacks could occur at any time.

If you are in Moscow Oblast:

• avoid the affected area
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• exercise extreme caution in public and avoid large gatherings
• contact the Embassy of Canada to Russia, in Moscow, if you require consular emergency assistance

Armed conflict with Ukraine

On June 24, 2023, there were reports of military tensions in the Rostov region.

Flight availability, already reduced following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, continues to be subject to unpredictable and significant limitations. If you are in Russia, you should leave while commercial means are still available.

Some financial transactions, including those with Canadian major credit and ATM cards, are not possible. As a result, you may not be able to use your credit card for purchases within Russia or to withdraw cash at an ATM. Availability of essential services may also be affected.

Communications related to the current situation are scrutinized by local authorities. You may face heavy consequences if you discuss, share or publish information related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Foreign journalists and other media workers in Russia may also face considerable risks.

Security conditions are unpredictable and could deteriorate without notice. The ability of our Embassy to provide consular services in Russia may become severely limited.

There have been armed incursions and shelling in areas close to the Russian-Ukrainian border, notably in Bryansk and Belgorod Oblasts. Drone strikes, explosions and fires have also occurred at key infrastructure sites and military installations further into Russia's interior and in cities, including in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

You may encounter an increased security presence with potential disruptions to transport and movement, especially in areas near Russian military installations.

Avoid all travel to Russia. If you decide to remain despite this advisory, be aware that:

• you may have to stay in Russia longer than expected
• you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services
• you may not be able to use your banking cards for payment or to withdraw funds
• you should not depend on the Government of Canada to help you leave the country

Additionally, while you remain in Russia, you should:

• review your personal security plans on a daily basis
• keep a low profile
• refrain from discussing political developments in public or online
• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• make sure you have an adequate supply of cash, essential items and medications
• avoid any area where there are military installations or activity
• monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
• make sure your travel documents are up-to-date, including those of your family
• contact your air company to check on flight availability
• communicate your travel plans to family and friends
• register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Russia to do so

Rostov Oblast

The Russian government has declared a state of emergency and maintains a significant military presence in Rostov Oblast. The situation along the Ukrainian border is unpredictable and could change quickly. Exercise extreme vigilance if you must travel to this region, as armed clashes and violence pose serious threats to your safety. If you are currently in this area, you should strongly consider leaving. The ability of the Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow to provide consular assistance in this district is extremely limited.

Republics of Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia, and Stavropol Krai

Terrorist attacks are frequent in the Chechnya, Dagestan and Ingushetia republics and Stavropol region. The security situation is unstable and dangerous. Suicide bombings occur on a regular basis and targeted assassinations have also taken place. Unexploded mines and munitions are widespread. Kidnapping for ransom is also common.

You must obtain special permission from the Ministry of the Interior to enter certain areas and regions.

Republics of Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Mount Elbrus region), Karachai-Cherkessia and North Ossetia

Tensions are high in Russia’s border regions with Georgia and may affect the security situation in Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachai-Cherkessia and North Ossetia republics. Military operations are carried out with little or no notice, and are accompanied by travel restrictions. The border crossings to Azerbaijan and Georgia are subject to frequent, sometimes lengthy closures.

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups have called for attacks on Russian soil. Incidents resulting in death and injury have occurred most frequently in the North Caucasus region, Moscow and St. Petersburg, but may happen throughout the country. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• cultural venues, including concert halls, nightclubs, and event centres
• places of worship
• Russian airlines, airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Russian authorities have increased general security measures in Moscow and other large cities.

Violent crime

Crime against foreigners is a serious problem. Harassment and assaults are prevalent, particularly against foreigners of Asian and African descent. Some victims have died as a result of assaults. Foreigners in the areas to which we advise against all travel are particularly vulnerable. Several journalists and foreign aid personnel working in Russia have been killed or kidnapped. Criminals have targeted and destroyed well-marked aid convoys. Exercise extreme caution in crowds and open markets.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently and is often committed by groups of children and teenagers. Criminals use various techniques to distract the victims, including requests for help. In such situations, walk away quickly. Preferred areas for criminals include:

• underground walkways
• public transportation and transportation hubs
• tourist sites
• restaurants and markets
• hotel rooms and residences (even when occupied and locked)

Reduce your risk of being targeted by travelling in groups with reputable tour agencies.

Avoid showing signs of affluence and ensure personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Replacing travel documents and visas is difficult, and could considerably delay your return to Canada.

Criminal strategies

Criminals may also pose as police officers, particularly in St. Petersburg. Real police officers wear a visible personal identification number on their uniforms. Bogus checkpoints may be set up in rural areas to commit robbery.

Demonstrations and elections

Demonstrations take place. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for the latest information

Due to heightened political tensions, be vigilant and don’t discuss political developments in public.

Useful links

• More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
• Laws regarding minors involved in demonstrations

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula

Tensions on the neighbouring Korean Peninsula could escalate with little notice and the security situation could deteriorate suddenly. Tensions may increase before, during and after North Korean nuclear and missile tests, military exercises or as the result of incidents or military activities at or near the inter-Korean border. Monitor developments, remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

There have been cases of foreigners developing friendships or romantic relationships over the Internet and becoming entangled in financial issues in Russia. Remain vigilant and be aware that we can’t help you recover lost funds or property in such cases.

Only exchange money at major banks. Foreigners have been scammed in the past when exchanging money on the street.

Traffic police may stop motorists to collect fraudulent cash fines on the spot.

Credit card and automated banking machine (ABM) fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Organized crime

Organized criminal groups are active throughout Russia, particularly in large cities. Extortion and corruption are common business practices, including among foreign businesses. Criminals demand protection money from their victims under threat of serious violence. Report extortion attempts to Russian authorities.

Surveillance

Authorities may place foreigners under surveillance. Hotel rooms, telephones, fax machines and e-mail messages may be monitored. Personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched.

Power outages

Power outages and shortages occur often throughout Russia.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ individuals is common.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers, as well as their friends and families, have been targets of harassment and violence, particularly outside of Moscow.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Road safety

Road conditions vary and are often poor outside major cities.

Drivers don’t respect traffic laws and often drive and park on pedestrian areas. Accidents are common. Pedestrians should be particularly careful. In the event of an accident, don’t move the vehicle until the police arrive, even if the car is obstructing traffic.

Drive only during the day.

In winter, road travel can be hazardous due to ice and snow.

Public transportation

When travelling by train, store valuables in a safe place and don’t leave the compartment unattended. Lock the door from the inside.

Most major cities have reliable public transportation including buses, subways or streetcars.

Use only registered taxis and don’t share a taxi with strangers. Foreigners have been victims of assault and robbery when using unregistered taxis.

Book taxis in advance either by phone or through taxi company apps. Avoid flagging down taxis on the street, but if you do, negotiate the price before getting into the taxi.

Marine transportation

Boat accidents are common due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels. Safety standards differ from those in Canada. Exercise caution and common sense when using marine transportation. Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Russian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

border_crossings_with_finland

Border crossings with Finland

Finnish authorities have closed border crossings along the land border with Russia. As of December 15, 2023, all land border crossings are closed.

Contact information and hours of operation – Finnish Border Guard

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Russia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required for stays in commercial accommodations (exceptions apply) Guest visa: required for stays in private accommodations Business visa: required Student visa: required Transit visa: required (exceptions apply) Exit visa: required

You must be submitted your visa request online to the Embassy of the Russian Federation.

Foreign visitors must leave Russia once the visa validity period has ended. To extend a visa, a foreign national must arrange with the territorial units of the migration service authorities prior to the validity end date to start the extension process.

Embassy of the Russian Federation

Tourist visa

You need a tourist visa if you are staying at a hotel or other commercial establishment. Ensure that the hotel registers your visa when you check in.

It is best if you book your travel through a travel agency, which will submit a tourist visa application on your behalf. Canadian travel agents work with Russian travel agencies or companies, which act as sponsors for tourist visas.

In cases of expired tourist visas or lost or stolen Canadian passports, only the visa-sponsoring travel agency is authorized to apply for a new tourist visa on your behalf. Extensions are not issued. Holders of expired visas face heavy fines or detention upon departure.

Guest visas

You need a guest visa if you intend to stay in private accommodations. The host must obtain an official invitation (priglashenie) from the nearest Russian visa and passport office (UFMS) and send it to you in Canada. You must then take the invitation, the visa application and your passport to a Russian embassy or consulate to apply for the visa.

Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada

Business visa

To get a business visa, you need to be sponsored by a Russian individual or organization (the host). It may take up to 3 months for the host to obtain approval for sponsorship from the Ministry of the Interior. Any subsequent change (replacement or extension) to the original visa must be made by the sponsor. A business visa is not a work permit.

You must have a valid visa to be allowed to leave Russia. If your visa expires, your sponsor must apply for an exit visa on your behalf. To avoid problems, including deportation, make sure your visa is valid beyond your intended departure date.

Visa exceptions

Contact your cruise company to find out if you need to apply for a Russian visa before your cruise starts. International cruise passengers may enter Russia at specific port cities without a visa for up to 72 hours. Your cruise ship tour guide must have all the authorizations required for your entry by the Russian authorities. While in Russia, make sure that you’re able to contact your cruise ship tour guide at any time, in case of emergency or any issue with local authorities.

Some Russian international airports have transit areas that allow for visa-free travel through Russia. If you plan to transit through Russia, check with your transportation carrier to see if transit visa exceptions apply to you.

Migration card

You must complete a migration card upon your arrival in Russia. These cards are usually distributed on flights and trains entering Russia or at points of entry, but sometimes they are not available, even at major international airports. Even if that’s the case, you are responsible to find a migration card and fill it out. You must keep and carry part B of the migration card throughout your stay. The card is required for hotel registration.

If the police request to see your migration card, you must comply. You must present it, your passport and your registered visa. You must also present the card to border officials upon departure.

If you hold a multiple-entry visa, you must fill out a new migration card every time you enter Russia.

Loss of this card can result in fines, serious delays or imprisonment at the time of departure.

Registration

All foreign visitors must register their arrival within 72 hours of entering the country (excluding weekends and national holidays). If you have made accommodation arrangements with a hotel for your entire trip, the hotel will take care of registering your stay with the authorities.

Visitors staying in private accommodations must register with the territorial office of the Federal Migration Service. Any Russian citizen with a resident registration (propiska) can register a foreigner staying at their home at a local police station or any post office. A small registration fee may apply. The visitor’s host must be present during the process.

Violation of the rules of migration registration may result in a fine. In some cases, visitors may face expulsion from Russia and a ban from re-entering of up to 5 years. 

Customs declaration form

Upon arrival in Russia, you must fill out a customs declaration form, then go through the red customs line and have the form stamped by a customs official. Without the stamp, any undeclared currency and valuables—including items that could be considered antique—may be confiscated upon departure.

You must declare amounts of currency exceeding US$10,000 at border crossings. You may also have to provide information on the origin of the money and its intended use. Currency exceeding the amount stated on the declaration form will be confiscated if you have not obtained an official bank receipt authorizing the clearance of these sums. The declaration form must be kept until departure.

Upon departure, you must fill out a second customs declaration form and present the two forms to a customs official. You must declare any amount greater than RUB3,000. If you fail to declare, in writing, the amount of currency in your possession, the undeclared currency and valuables may be confiscated and you may be detained and face criminal charges leading to imprisonment.

Special permits and restricted areas

Travel to and residency in several Russian cities and regions is restricted. You must obtain permission from local authorities prior to entering a restricted city or region. Failure to do so may result in arrest, fines and/or deportation. Attach an itinerary to your visa application to avoid delays. Some areas must be specifically indicated in the visa, and you may have to pay an extra fee to include them.

Passport requirements for individuals holding both Canadian and Russian citizenships

If you have dual citizenship, you must enter and leave Russia on a Russian passport.

If your Russian passport expires prior travelling to Russia, Russian authorities in Canada can extend it for entry into Russia only. If the passport expires during your stay in Russia, you must obtain a new one before leaving. Renewing a Russian passport may take several months.

If you enter Russia with a repatriation certificate issued by Russian authorities abroad, you may not be allowed to leave on a Canadian passport. This certificate is only valid for one-way travel into Russia.

Entry ban on vehicles with Russian license plates

In September 2023, the Baltic States (Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania) and Finland announced a ban on vehicles with Russian license plates entering their respective territories. The ban is enforced at the border as a result of existing European Union sanctions on the Russian Federation. Lithuania will allow an exception for travellers able to prove transit to the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.

Other countries from the EU or the Schengen area have introduced similar bans. You should confirm with local authorities before travelling to the EU or Schengen area.  

Land border with Belarus

Only local residents are allowed to travel by land from Russia to Belarus. This restriction applies to cars, tour buses and trains.

Health entry requirements

If you are planning to remain in Russia for more than 3 months, you must provide a medical certificate of a negative test for HIV infection. The certificate must be valid for 3 months from the date of testing and include:

• passport details (full name, date of birth, passport number and country of residence)
• HIV test information (date of test, test results and signatures of the doctor who performed the test and the person examined)
• the length of your intended stay in Russia

Other tests (such as for tuberculosis and leprosy) may be required for individuals staying in Russia for more than 3 months.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin.  In some cases, it can be fatal.  It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick.  Risk is generally low for most travellers.  Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock.  There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is only available in major cities. Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. A few quality facilities exist in larger cities and usually require cash payment upon admission. Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Identification

Authorities frequently perform random identity checks in public places.

You must carry the following identification documents at all times:

• a valid passport with 2 blank pages for stamps
• a valid Russian visa
• an migration card
• a stamped registration notification

You may be fined or detained for failing to provide proper documentation to Russian authorities.

Only the special police of the Federal Migration Bureau have the authority to arrest, detain and impose fines on improperly documented foreigners. If you are stopped in the street and requested to pay a fine, ask to see the officer’s name and identification and to contact the Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Minors participating in demonstrations

It is illegal for minors (those under 18) to participate in unauthorized protests. Adults who involve minors in such protests could face up to 15 days in jail and fines of up to RUB1 million.

Although the laws of Russia do not prohibit homosexual activity, Russian federal law prohibits public actions that are described as promoting homosexuality and “non-traditional sexual relations.”

Public actions that contravene or appear to contravene this law may lead to arrest, a fine and deportation. Examples of such actions include dissemination of information (for example, through public statements) and public displays of affection. Same sex marriage is not recognized in Russia. Homosexuality isn’t socially accepted.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Russia.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Russia, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

If you are also a Russian citizen and reside in Russia or hold permanent residency status in another country, you must declare this citizenship or residency status to your local migration office.

You may also be subject to certain legal obligations, including military service. You may be detained, imprisoned, or fined larges sums if you try to avoid military service. Seek advice from the nearest Russian embassy or consulate before travelling to Russia, or consult official sources from the Government of the Russian Federation.

• Official information - Government of the Russian Federation  ( may not be currently available depending on your location)
• Military mobilization - Government of the Russian Federation (may not be currently available depending on your location)
• Requirement and consequences of non-compliance with the declaration of foreign citizenship - Federal Migration Service of the Russian Federation (in Russian, may not be currently available depending on your location)
• General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Russia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Russia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Russia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Religious activity

Religious activity is heavily regulated in Russia. If you plan to engage in religious activity, such as missionary work, make sure you are not inadvertently violating local laws.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

You may drive with a Canadian driver’s licence if you carry it and a Russian translation. You must obtain a local permit if staying longer than 6 months.

The legal blood alcohol content limit is significantly lower than in Canada. Those found guilty of drinking and driving can expect heavy fines, suspension of their driving permit and immediate detention. Repeat offenders may face prison sentences.

The traffic police can impose fines on drivers for traffic violations. They can conduct identity checks on pedestrians, but they are not authorized to impose fines. The same is true of police in the underground metro systems.

Russia has very strict rules on the importation of medication. Certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs that are common in Canada may be prohibited, and large quantities of any medicine will be scrutinized.

If you are travelling with medication, even over-the-counter medication, you must have a doctor’s note translated to Russian confirming that you need the medication. Contact the Embassy of the Russian Federation for up-to-date information.

Imports and exports

The importation and use of electronic equipment are strictly controlled. Foreigners have faced charges of espionage for possessing improperly certified GPS devices, such as those used for geological mapping.

You must obtain a certificate from the Ministry of Culture to export items that appear old (prior to 1945) or may have cultural value. Customs officials may conduct thorough baggage searches and can arrest you if you don’t have the necessary certificate.

Contact the nearest Russian embassy or consulate, or consult the Federal Customs Service prior to departure for up-to-date information on customs requirements.

The currency of Russia is the Russian ruble (RUB).

It is illegal to pay for goods and services in foreign currency. You can exchange U.S. dollars at any exchange counter. Carry new, crisp bills; well-worn or used U.S. banknotes may not be accepted. ATMs are common in main cities. ATMs will accept cards with 4-digit pin numbers, but you may experience problems with cards with 5- or 6-digit pin codes. In major cities, you can usually exchange Euros and U.S. dollars at various banks.

Forest fires

Forest fires are common between July and September, particularly in Siberia. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Seismic activity

Parts of Russia, such as Chechnya, the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Kuril Islands, are prone to seismic or volcanic activity.

Spring flooding throughout Siberia and parts of western Russia.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 112 or:

• police: 102
• medical assistance: 103
• firefighters: 101

Consular assistance

Armenia (Consular and Trade Commissioner services)

For calls originating inside Russia the “7” should be replaced by an “8”.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Moscow and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Home » Travelling to Russia » Let’s Go to Siberia! Here Are Tips to Travelling Around Siberia Easily

Let’s Go to Siberia! Here Are Tips to Travelling Around Siberia Easily

• Post author By Anzilna Mubaroka
• Post date May 17, 2019
• No Comments on Let’s Go to Siberia! Here Are Tips to Travelling Around Siberia Easily

Do you want to visit a place for a vacation? Or are you thinking of going on vacation abroad? Let’s Go to Siberia!

For those of you who want to go on vacation abroad, maybe you can try visiting Siberia. The area in Russia has many interesting places that you can visit as your vacation location. Including Siberia.

When visiting Russia, tourists usually come to Moscow and St. Petersburg more often. If you want to try a new atmosphere, Siberia can be the right choice. As information for tourists, let’s look at tips to traveling around Siberia easily.

Siberia is a vast area with much of Eurasia and North Asia and has been part of Russia since the 17th century. Siberia is known to the whole world because winter in the region is long and extreme. Siberia has an area of around 13.1 million kilometers. But the populations that live there so little to Siberia became one of the areas with the rarest in the world.

Even so, Siberia has many tourist attractions that can be visited by tourists who come there. There, tourists can visit Lake Baikal and other places that are characteristic of Siberia. You as a tourist can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of Siberia and it’s a shame to miss it.

If you want to travel to Siberia, there are a number of things you should pay attention to. When you want to visit Siberia, you have to determine the season and the weather that is happening there so you can prepare what kind of clothes are suitable for traveling . Another thing that you should pay attention to is how you can get around Siberia easily.

To add to your information as a tourist before you come to Siberia, in this article I will discuss about Tips for Traveling Get around Siberia easily.

• Let’s Travel Around Siberia With the Trans-Siberian Railway

Siberia is a difficult area if taken by road or highway by cars, buses or others from the big cities around it. One of the transportations that you can use to reach Siberia is by using the Trans-Siberian Railway . The Trans-Siberian Railway is a train route from Moscow to Vladivostok. To get to Siberia and get around there, you can take this train from Moscow. This train will take you to enjoy the views of the cities that are traversed by this route.

Trans-Siberian Railway has become an important transport lines to connect several cities in Russia, including Siberia. This train route has become popular among foreign tourists. Besides being used by tourists, the train on this route is also used by local passengers. The operating hours of this lane follow the time zone in Moscow. So, if you plan to use this train route, you have to adjust the time so you don’t miss the train.

• You Could Also Try the Baikal-Amur Mainline to Go Around Siberia

Besides using trains on the Trans-Siberian Railway, you can also use the train route named Baikal-Amur Mainline. This train route crosses East Siberia and the Russian Far East. This route is parallel to the Trans-Siberian Railway route. Baikal-Amur Mainline is an alternative route that is also strategically headed to the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Baikal-Amur Mainline departs from the Trans-Siberian Railway which is in Tayshet. The train route will pass through the Lake Baikal, the Amur River and ended up in the Pacific Ocean. Baikal-Amur Mainline is called a strategic alternative route because it is close to the Chinese border. Tourists who use this train route will experience a different experience because they feel the train that runs on a special track where most of the lines are above the ice sheet.

The Baikal-Amur Mainline Line is indeed built with a special line that is durable even in extreme cold weather. Most of the track is built on permafrost. The cost of making such a line is certainly very expensive. If you have experienced the Trans-Siberian Railway, you can also try to experience the Baikal-Amur Mainline route.

• Travel Around Siberia By Airplane

Siberia is indeed a large area, but it is a little difficult to access by land except through the railway. The road that connects between Siberia and other major cities around it still does not yet exist, even though there are roads, the road is not yet feasible. So, another way to be able to enter the territory of Siberia is through the flight. Those of you who arrived in Russia via Moscow, can fly from Moscow to Siberia.

With a short trip, you as a tourist can enjoy the untouched, beautiful nature of Siberia, and the beautiful mountains and lakes that are there. Your experience of visiting Siberia will give you a special impression. The beauty of Siberia can make you as a tourist think of coming back to visit this region.

• Go Around Siberia By Public Transportation

For those of you who are already in Siberia and want to enjoy traveling around the city, you can use public transportation there. Keep in mind if this transportation can only be used on certain streets in Siberia. This public transportation is local transportation used by residents there for daily activities.

Public transportation that you can use as a tourist in Siberia is a bus. This bus will take you around and enjoy the places that are characteristic of Siberia. You can only ride this bus after you arrive in Siberia because this public transportation cannot take you to other big cities around Siberia.

You can travel around Siberia in two ways. The first way is to travel alone and the second way is to take a tour with other tourists. You can adjust the choice of this method to the destination and what type of transportation you use while in Siberia.

And maybe there are still some of tips for tourists and tips to traveling around Siberia easily that haven’t been listed above. I hope this article can really help you to find out tips for tourists and tips to traveling around Siberia easily.

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The Most Isolated Jobs in the World

Posted: December 15, 2023 | Last updated: December 15, 2023

In a world where remote employment has become the norm, there are some jobs where “remote” is taken to a whole new level—becoming complete isolation.

These roles provide a glimpse into a world of solitude—far different from a quiet office or the comfort of your own home.

The Pros and Cons of Solitary Employment

Solitary employment can be a double-edged sword.

Whether or not the pros outweigh the cons greatly depends on the individual and the specific job. Solitary employment is not for everyone—especially those who need social interaction in the workspace.

Here are ten of the most isolated jobs in the world.

Lighthouse Keeper

Location:  Coastal regions worldwide

A lighthouse keeper is responsible or maintaining the lighthouse machinery, making sure the light stays operations throughout the night. They also often conduct weather observations.

Most lighthouse keepers work alone given that most lighthouses are located in remote, isolated or inaccessible areas on islands and coastlines.

Salary:  $18,000 to $60,000 per year

Fire Lookout

Location:  Remote forest regions, particularly in the United States

Fire lookout employees, sometimes called a Fire Watcher, often spend months in isolation monitoring large wilderness areas for signs of wildfire.

They live and work in a large, high tower, usually on mountaintops with high elevation, to get a good view of surrounding areas. Anytime smoke or fire is seen, they call it in to appropriate emergency lines.

Due to the nature of the job, only one person is needed, which is why the employee lives alone.

Salary:  $15,000 to $35,000 per season

Research Station Personnel

Location:  Antarctica and other remote areas

Scientists and support staff live and work in research stations, conducting experiments and collecting data in extreme isolation.

Sometimes this includes a small team, but depending on the research being conducted, this can also mean that researchers work alone.

Salary:  $36,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on the role and qualifications

Pipeline Inspector

Location:  Remote stretches of oil and gas pipeline routes

Pipeline Inspectors travel along pipelines, often in remote and harsh environments. They’re responsible for ensuring the integrity and safety of the pipeline.

Salary:  $35,000 to $75,000 per year

Long-Distance Trucker

Location: Cross-country routes

Truckers spend long hours alone on the road, transporting goods over large distances. Not only do they make the trip alone making social interaction scarce, but they also struggle with adequate exercise and nourishing meals—especially during long trips in the middle of nowhere.

Salary:  $40,000 to $80,000 per year

Submarine Crew Member

Location:  Beneath the world's oceans

Submariners operate and maintain submarines, cut off from the world while underwater for months at a time.

Although there is often a crew aboard, these employees still face isolation challenges, especially considering they can’t even access fresh air for long periods of time.

Salary:  $30,000 to $70,000 per year, with additional hazard pay

Outback Station Farmer

Location: Australian outback

Running a station in the Australian outback can mean managing thousands of acres of land all on your own.

Given the dry and hot conditions of the outback, few people actually live there, however it is essential for breeding and raising livestock such as, cattle, sheep, goats and camel.

Salary:  $25,000 to $70,000 per year, not including income from the station's produce

Forest Ranger in Siberia

Location:  Siberian wilderness

Forest Rangers in Siberia patrol and protect huge, isolated areas of forest. They often work for long periods of time without contact with the outside world.

Salary:  $10,000 to $30,000 per year

Desert Prospector

Location:  Deserts around the world

Desert Prospectors are people who search for valuable minerals and gemstones (including gold) in some of the most forbidding lands on Earth. This work is usually performed alone considering the likelihood of finding profitable material.

Salary:  Highly variable, often dependent on what is found

Arctic Truck Driver

Location:  Arctic regions, like Alaska or Northern Canada

Arctic Truck drivers cross treacherous ice roads to deliver supplies to remote areas. Considering they’re traveling to remote destinations, there is often minimal human contact along the way.

Salary:  $20,000 to $75,000 per season

Final Thoughts

These jobs provide extreme solitude—which can be deafening for some. But for those who enjoy the quiet, these jobs can be seemingly perfect.

Whether the desire for this type of work is driven by passion, the desire for adventure, or simply the need for work, these jobs challenge the concept of a traditional workspace.

The people who take these jobs exhibit true human adaptability and independence.

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