Useful Information for Tourists about Baikal

1. Preparing for the Trip

Best Time to Visit

Baikal is beautiful at any time of the year, but each season offers unique experiences. Summer (June-August) provides pleasant weather, green forests, and opportunities for hiking, swimming, or kayaking. Autumn (September-October) is the season of golden foliage and peaceful rest without tourist crowds. Winter (December-March) transforms Baikal into an icy wonderland: skating on crystal-clear ice, hovercraft rides, and ice caves create unforgettable impressions. Spring (April-May) is the time when the ice melts, revealing incredible ice cracks and the awakening of nature.

Weather and Climate by Season

Baikal has a sharply continental climate. In summer, the average temperature ranges from +15 to +25°C, but the water remains cold (+8 to +12°C). In winter, temperatures can drop to -30°C, but due to the dry air, the cold is more bearable. The wind conditions at Baikal can be harsh, especially in winter and spring, so it is important to check the weather forecast.

What to Pack

The list of essential items depends on the season. In summer, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a raincoat are necessary. In winter, it is crucial to have warm layered clothing, thermal underwear, a down jacket, gloves, and waterproof boots. For ice trips, ice cleats are recommended. A first aid kit, a map, and a water supply are useful in any season.

How to Get to Baikal

The nearest major city is Irkutsk, which can be reached by plane or train. From Irkutsk, you can travel to popular tourist destinations such as Listvyanka or Olkhon by bus, minibus, or private transfer. In winter, there are ice routes for vehicles and hovercraft.

Banking and Currency

In all Russian cities, you can easily find ATMs. ATMs accept credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, etc. You can pay by card in most restaurants and hotels. Also, in all major cities, there are banks that offer money exchange services. The currency in Russia is Rubles.


2. Accommodation and Food

Where to Stay

Baikal offers various accommodation options, from budget hostels and guesthouses to comfortable hotels and eco-lodges. Listvyanka and Khuzhir have well-developed infrastructure, while remote lodges allow visitors to enjoy nature away from civilization.

Local Cuisine

Baikal’s cuisine combines Buryat, Siberian, and Russian traditions. Must-try dishes include:

  • Omul in different forms (smoked, salted, fish soup);
  • Buuz – Buryat meat dumplings;
  • Sagudai – marinated fresh fish;
  • Herbal teas made from local plants like thyme and black currant leaves.

Restaurants and Cafés

In popular tourist locations, restaurants serve traditional and European cuisine. In remote areas, small cafés offer home-cooked meals featuring local ingredients.


3. Attractions and Activities

What to See

Baikal is rich in natural and cultural attractions:

  • Olkhon Island – the largest island on Baikal, a sacred place for shamans;
  • Listvyanka – the nearest tourist hub to Irkutsk;
  • Tunka Valley – mountains, hot springs, and Buryat traditions;
  • Peschanaya Bay – a place with unique sand dunes and crystal-clear water.

Winter Activities

Winter is one of the best seasons to visit Baikal. Tourists can:

  • Skate on the mirror-like ice;
  • Ride on hovercrafts;
  • Experience dog sledding and snowmobiling;
  • Explore ice caves and grottoes.

Summer Activities

In summer, Baikal offers outdoor adventures:

  • Hiking and trekking on mountain trails;
  • Kayaking and SUP boarding;
  • Fishing and relaxing on the shore;
  • Diving in crystal-clear waters.

4. Important Information

Safety on Baikal

Baikal’s nature is beautiful but requires respect. Important tips:

  • The ice on Baikal is safest from February to March, but even then, precautions should be taken.
  • Wild animals can be encountered in forests, so traveling with a guide is recommended.
  • Swimming in Baikal is possible, but the water remains cold even in summer.

Mobile Connection and Internet

Mobile coverage at Baikal is not available everywhere. In settlements, operators such as MTS, Beeline, Megafon, and Tele2 provide service, but in remote areas, the signal may be weak or absent. Some lodges offer Wi-Fi.

Rules for Visiting Nature Reserves

Baikal has protected areas with specific regulations:

  • Campfires are prohibited outside designated areas;
  • Littering and harming nature are not allowed;
  • Some areas require special permits for entry.

Packing List Must Have:

  • Personal first aid kit (medications);
  • Sunglasses;
  • Camera and charged batteries;
  • A small thermos and a thermocup;
  • Hygienic lipstick;
  • Wet wipes;
  • Comfortable walking boots and sandals;
  • Waterproof jacket;
  • Swimsuit, cap, or hat (in summer);
  • A set of thermal underwear, several pairs of wool socks, a hat, mittens, scarves, warm sweaters (in winter).

Visa Support

Our company provides an invitation letter and a tour confirmation letter for free when booking a tour of 3 or more days. When booking a one-day tour, we can arrange these documents as an extra service (1000 rub. or $17).


5. Useful Contacts

Emergency Numbers

  • Rescue Service: 112
  • Medical Assistance: 103

Tourist Centers and Guides

Tourist agencies in Irkutsk and Listvyanka help organize tours and provide guides. On Olkhon and other locations, local guides can be found.

Pharmacies and Hospitals

Pharmacies and medical centers are available in major settlements. In remote areas, it is advisable to carry a personal first aid kit with essential medications.


This information will help you plan a comfortable and safe trip to Baikal. Regardless of the season, Baikal will leave unforgettable impressions and provide true harmony with nature!