A joint ethnographic expedition journey with Mzungu, together with Russian Geographical Society expert and researcher ethnographer, to explore the Old Believer hermit Agafia Lykova, the Valley of the Kings, Lake Teletskoye, and the natural wonders of the Khakassky Nature Reserve
KHAKASSIA + ALTAI
May 11 - 18, 2026
турRepublic of Khakassia – Altai Republic – Krasnoyarsk Krai
tour to Altai, tour to Khakassia
*In partnership with the Russian geographical society
May 11 - 18, 2026
турRepublic of Khakassia – Altai Republic – Krasnoyarsk Krai
tour to Altai, tour to Khakassia
*In partnership with the Russian geographical society
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tour to Yamal, expedition to Nenets, Far North of Russia, explore Russia Yamal expedition Tour to Salekhard Nenets tribe people Aurora Borealis Russian Geografical Society expedition
Before us lies Siberia — a living archive of nature and history. Altai and Khakassia are two faces of the great Northern land.
Lake Teletskoye, often called the Altai Sea, with its waterfalls Korbu, Choodor, and Estyuba; the Altai taiga and the life of the Old Believer Lykov family; the petroglyphs of Oglakhty and the Borodinskaya Cave — this is a land seen not by tourists, but by researchers.
We travel along rare routes, move by boats and helicopters, visit museum-reserves and traditional Khakass yurts, take part in shamanic rituals, and taste national cuisine.
This is an expedition for those who want to see, hear, and truly feel Siberia in all its dimensions — from the icy waters of mountain lakes to the whisper of the taiga and the traces of millennia-old history.
The joint expedition of MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS and the Russian Geographical Society is led by Alex Mzungu, an RGS expert and a scholar-ethnographer.
Participants of the expedition will have the opportunity to observe ethnographers working in the field, collect ethnographic materials (field notes, photographs, sketches, and interviews), and attend a series of lectures by scholars from the Kunstkamera (Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography).
The lectures will cover topics including nomadic cultures, transformations of the material world, and methods of ethnographic research.
All participants will learn to perceive culture both from the outside and from within, combining the perspective of a member of the local community with that of an external observer.
The results of the research and participants’ impressions are planned to be presented at a seminar at the Headquarters of the Russian Geographical Society in St. Petersburg, as well as in academic publications.
Tour to Yamal Nenets. Have you ever dreamed of going to the world's edge? But every nation has its own one. Nenets nomad tribe calls it Yamal peninsula, where they migrate year in year out with their countless reindeer herds, and where further there is only cold Kara Sea and ice of the Arctic Ocean. Here, at the world's edge, you will experience fascinating "chum life" of Nenets people, who live their life practicing reindeer breeding and fishing despite the weather, migrating to new pasture areas and setting their chums as easy as if it was a tourist tent.
SCHEDULE & COST:
Travel dates: May 11 – 18, 2026
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Number of participants: 9 – 13
Participation cost per person:
10% early booking discount for reservations made before January 11, 2026
All-inclusive, except for:
Estimated airfare costs (usually purchased independently):
Moscow – Gorno-Altaysk and Abakan – Moscow: from 32,000 RUB
Gorno-Altaysk – Krasnoyarsk: from 6,000 RUB
Abakan – Kyzyl: from 15,000 RUB
Single supplement: 18,000 RUB (single accommodation provided throughout the entire route)
TRAVEL PROGRAM: Tour to Khakassia and Altai
Day 1. May 11, 2026 (Monday) – Arrival in Gorno-Altaysk (Altai) – Artybash – Lake Teletskoye (160 km)
Morning arrival at Gorno-Altaysk Airport. Meeting with the guide and transfer to the city for a short rest and breakfast.
After breakfast, we depart for the village of Artybash (approx. 160 km). The route passes through scenic mountain valleys and coniferous forests, revealing the first views of Altai.
Accommodation at the Gornoe Ozero Tourist Complex, located on the picturesque shore of Lake Teletskoye, one of the largest and most scenic lakes of the Altai Mountains. The lake, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding dense coniferous forests, lies in a narrow mountain basin and reaches a depth of 325 meters. Lake Teletskoye is often called the Altai Sea for its scale and beauty.
In the afternoon — a boat trip on Lake Teletskoye to visit the waterfalls:
Accommodation included: Gornoe Ozero Tourist Complex https://gornoe-ozero.com/info
Meals included: breakfast
Recommended flights Moscow – Gorno-Altaysk:
S7 Airlines, flight S7-2629, departs Moscow (Domodedovo) May 10 at 22:50, arrives Gorno-Altaysk May 11 at 07:10
Aeroflot, flight SU-1524, departs Moscow (Sheremetyevo) May 11 at 00:10, arrives Gorno-Altaysk May 11 at 08:35
Or any other flight from any city arriving in Gorno-Altaysk no later than 08:40 on May 11
Day 2. May 12, 2026 (Tuesday) – Lake Teletskoye – Yogach Village – Lykov Old Believers’ Homestead in Khakassky Nature Reserve (Khakassia) – Karasuk Village (Altai) – Gorno-Altaysk (190 km)
The day begins with breakfast at Gornoe Ozero, after which we check out and prepare for a unique day of the expedition.
Next, transfer to the helicopter pad in Yogach Village and a flight to the Lykov family homestead, where Old Believer traditions have been preserved in the untouched Khakass taiga. This is a true encounter with living history: here, time flows differently, and every tree and path holds the memory of generations.
At the homestead, we will meet Agafia Karpovna Lykova, the last representative of this legendary family. We will learn about the daily life of the Old Believers, their household practices, and spiritual traditions.
Agafia’s story is one of resilience, faith, and harmony with nature. Her family retreated to these remote areas to escape religious persecution and Soviet authorities. For decades, the Lykovs had no contact with the outside world, managing their lives and survival entirely independently in extremely harsh conditions. In the 1980s, a scientific expedition discovered the family, drawing wide public attention. Despite being offered the chance to leave, Agafia chose to remain in the taiga, continuing the traditional way of life. She has become a symbol of steadfastness, devotion, and harmony with nature, inspiring researchers and writers alike. Agafia Karpovna continues to live in the taiga, preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Old Believers under modern conditions.
With the blessing of Metropolitan Korniliy of the Russian Old Believer Orthodox Church and in collaboration with the Russian Geographical Society, we have the unique opportunity to spend several hours alone with this living legend.
After the remarkable visit with Agafia Karpovna, we take a helicopter back to Karasuk Village, Altai, followed by a transfer to Gorno-Altaysk.
Accommodation at Grand Hotel Altay https://grandhotelaltai.ru
Meals included: breakfast, lunch (lunch boxes)
Day 3. May 13, 2026 (Wednesday) – Gorno-Altaysk – Krasnoyarsk (Krasnoyarsk Krai) – Krasnoyarsk Stolby National Park (80 km)
The day begins with breakfast at the hotel. Today, we leave the mountainous landscapes of Altai for the urban and natural harmony of Krasnoyarsk — a combination of cultural experiences and living nature.
After transfer to the airport, we fly Gorno-Altaysk – Krasnoyarsk. Upon arrival, transfer to the city (approx. 40 km) and lunch at a Siberian cuisine restaurant, where you can taste authentic local dishes and experience the flavors of Siberia.
Next, we explore Krasnoyarsk Stolby National Park, the heart and “lungs” of the city. This is not just a nature visit: to save energy and time, transport will take us directly to the top of the First Stolb. The hiking trail is only 3 km, and experienced guides will share fascinating stories about the flora, geology, and mysteries of these rocky formations.
This route is suitable for everyone: lovers of gentle walks, those seeking communion with nature, and active travelers craving new experiences. Every step opens up new vistas, fresh air, and the unique atmosphere of the Krasnoyarsk taiga.
After the walk, return to the city and check in at Ibis 3*. Evening free for city strolls and dinner at one of the local restaurants — Krasnoyarsk is rightly considered the gastronomic capital of Siberia.
Accommodation included: Ibis 3* https://accor.ru/krasnoyarsk/ibis-krasnoyarsk-center/
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Recommended direct flight Gorno-Altaysk – Krasnoyarsk: KrasAvia, flight KV108, departs Gorno-Altaysk May 13 at 10:40 (or 11:25), arrives in Krasnoyarsk at 12:15 (or 13:25).
Attention: During the spring–summer schedule of KrasAvia, flight days and/or times may change. This may require adjusting the itinerary by 1–2 days or, in the case of a connecting flight, modifying the activities planned for Day 3.
Day 4. May 14, 2026 (Thursday) – Krasnoyarsk – Sliznevo Village – Divnogorsk – Krasnoyarsk Hydroelectric Power Station – Valley of the Kings (Khakassia) – Abakan (530 km)
After breakfast, we depart toward Khakassia. Along the way, we stop at the Tsar-Fish viewpoint in Sliznevo Village. Here, a monument dedicated to the famous work by V.P. Astafyev symbolizes the grandeur of the Yenisei River and the power of Siberian nature.
Next, a short stop in the town of Divnogorsk along the Yenisei embankment, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee with views of the mountains and the full-flowing river. Divnogorsk Embankment, recognized as one of the best public spaces in Russia, reflects the spirit of Siberian towns and the harmony between nature and human settlement.
The next stop is the Krasnoyarsk Hydroelectric Power Station, one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world and a key source of electricity in Siberia. Here, breathtaking panoramas of the Yenisei open up, and the guide will tell the story of the dam’s construction and its significance for the region.
After lunch, we head to the Valley of the Kings, home to over 50 ancient burial mounds. The main focus is the Bolshoy Salbyk Mound, one of the most significant cultural monuments of Southern Siberia, associated with the Scythian-Siberian civilization.
Following the “road of the spirits,” according to ancient legends, we see how burial structures for the leaders of the Tagar tribes were constructed. The mound contained the graves of warriors with rich weapons, ornaments, and ritual objects — a majestic testimony to the supreme power of ancient rulers. An elderly man and several others, meant to accompany him in the afterlife, were buried here. Such a grand structure reflects the strong authority of the chieftain for whom this Siberian pyramid was built.
After an eventful day, transfer to Abakan and check-in at the Asia Business Hotel 4*. Evening free for strolls or dinner in the city.
Accommodation included: Asia Business Hotel 4* https://asia-hotel.ru
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Day 5. May 15, 2026 (Friday) – Abakan – Ulug Khurtuyakh Tas – Kyug Valley (255 km)
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart from Abakan, gradually immersing ourselves in the Siberian nature and historical landscapes of Khakassia.
Along the way, we stop at the Samokhval viewpoint, offering panoramic views of valleys and mountain ridges. This is a perfect spot for the first impressive photographs and to feel the vastness of Khakassian nature.
Next, we visit the L.R. Kyzlasov Khakass National Museum of Local History, which houses a unique collection of archaeological finds, including the Hall of Stone Sculptures and the central stele, standing 6 meters high — a symbol of motherhood, strength, and the ancient history of the region.
After lunch, we explore the Ulug Khurtuyakh Tas Museum (“Great Stone Mother”). The menhir is approximately 4,500 years old, dating back to the Okunev culture. It represents a female figure with a carved head wearing a conical hat, clearly showing a “pregnant” belly.
Here, the secrets of the Scythian-Siberian civilization unfold: menhirs, Tagar-era burial mounds (7th–3rd centuries BCE), a Khakass yurt with traditional household items, and the eco-ethno-laboratory “Im Tom”, dedicated to folk medicine.
Next, transfer to the Kyug Yurt Complex and check-in to the yurts. In the evening, dinner is followed by a meeting with a shaman to witness a kamlanie ritual.
Shamanism is one of the ancient belief systems based on communication with spirits. According to some scholars, it intersects with totemism, animism, and other traditions. In Khakassia, elements of shamanism coexist alongside Orthodoxy.
Acting as an intermediary between the human and spiritual worlds, the shaman interacts with spirits through rituals (songs, dances, drum use, and sacred objects to enter an altered state of consciousness), providing healing and divination. Shamanism helps the Khakas maintain their connection to nature and history, transmit spiritual values, and strengthen national identity.
Accommodation included: Kyug Yurt Complex https://vk.com/kug.glamping
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6. May 16, 2026 (Saturday) – Kyug Valley – Kazanovka Museum-Reserve – Abakan (140 km)
The day begins with breakfast at the Kyug Yurt Complex, still imbued with the spirit of the valley and shamanic traditions. Today we head to the next important stop on our journey — the Kazanovka Archaeological Museum-Reserve.
The largest museum in the region, covering over 18,000 hectares, the area is rich in historical monuments and features a unique landscape, combining steppe and taiga zones. This makes Kazanovka an extraordinary cultural and natural site.
At Kazanovka, the national interior and Khakas traditions have been carefully restored, preserving centuries-old heritage. Guided tours of the reserve, including the ancient rock art of the Khakas people, will leave a lasting impression. Visitors can touch exquisite stone miniatures that are about 4,000 years old. The site also includes menhirs, stone sculptures with carved faces, ancient fortresses, and a traditional Khakas yurt.
After exploring the history, enjoy lunch featuring elements of Khakas national cuisine.
Khakas cuisine has its unique features and traditions. The diet of the Khakas, like other pastoral peoples of Southern Siberia, is based on dairy products and plant foods in summer, and meat from livestock, poultry, fish, and game in winter. During the cold season, each household would preserve meat for the months ahead.
Today, Khakas national cuisine continues to preserve the cultural and historical heritage of the people. Recipes and traditions are passed down through generations. Every festival is celebrated with a lavishly prepared table featuring the finest dishes. In addition to their nutritional value, many traditional dishes have healing properties, containing exactly the nutrients needed for healthy life in the harsh Siberian environment.
In the afternoon, enjoy a performance by a Khakas musical ensemble, allowing participants to experience the rich musical culture of the region.
Afterward, transfer to Abakan and check in at the Asia Business Hotel 4*. Evening free for dinner and rest after a full day.
Accommodation included: Asia Business Hotel 4* https://asia-hotel.ru
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Day 7. May 17, 2026 (Sunday) – Abakan – Khakassky Nature Reserve – Oglakhty – Borodinskaya Cave – Abakan (170 km)
The day begins with breakfast at the hotel, followed by departure to the Khakassky Nature Reserve to visit the Oglakhty Mountain Range (in Khakas, “Goat Mountain”), located in the picturesque area where the Yenisei and Tuba rivers converge.
Our day in the reserve starts at the visitor center, where we will learn about unique archaeological discoveries made in the Oglakhty region, the styles of Khakas rock art, and the most significant events in the ancient history of Khakassia.
We will explore the “Ancestor Village,” where the dwellings of ancient peoples, household items, weapons, and armor are reconstructed — all of which can be seen and touched firsthand.
The highlight of the day is the ascent to Soroka Zubyev (“Forty Teeth”) Mountain via a wooden staircase of 967 steps (height difference 150 m). The climb is long but not difficult, offering breathtaking views of the Krasnoyarsk Reservoir, and at the top, we will see petroglyphs dating from 6,000 to 1,000 years ago.
Lunch will be served in a tea yurt within the reserve.
In the afternoon, we transfer to Borodinskaya Cave, located on the southern slope of the Tegir-Tyz Ridge in Khakassia. The cave is considered the largest in Siberia, and its scale is impressive: passages extend 1,500–2,000 meters, with a depth of approximately 86 meters.
Walking along equipped trails and stairways immerses visitors in a magical atmosphere: a well leading to an inclined grotto, majestic stalactites and stalagmites. Special attention is given to the Upper Pagoda, which reaches 5 m in height and 1.5 m in diameter — one of the largest stalagmites in Siberia.
In the evening, return to Abakan, dinner at the hotel restaurant, and rest after a full day of discoveries and impressions.
Accommodation included: Asia Business Hotel 4* https://asia-hotel.ru
Meals included: breakfast, lunch (lunch box)
Day 8. May 18, 2026 (Monday) – Abakan – Return Flight
The day begins with breakfast at the hotel. Today we say farewell to Khakassia, its mountains, valleys, ancient burial mounds, and unique culture.
Transfer to Abakan Airport for a flight back to Moscow or another city.
Accommodation included: none
Meals included: breakfast
Recommended flights Abakan – Moscow:
Aeroflot, flight SU-1479, departs Abakan May 18 at 10:00, arrives Moscow (Sheremetyevo) May 18 at 10:55
S7 Airlines, flight S7-2594, departs Abakan May 18 at 07:20, arrives Moscow (Domodedovo) May 18 at 08:20
Or any other flight departing Abakan at any time on May 18
Recommended flight Abakan – Kyzyl (for those joining the joint RGS expedition to Tuva):
S7 Airlines, with a transfer in Novosibirsk, total travel time 21 h 25 min, departs Abakan May 18 at 07:50, arrives Kyzyl May 19 at 08:05
* Due to the remoteness of some locations, program dates may shift. The itinerary sequence may be adjusted while retaining all planned activities. In particular, during the spring–summer schedule of KrasAvia, flight days and/or times from Gorno-Altaysk to Krasnoyarsk may change. This may require adjusting the trip dates by 1–2 days or, in the case of connecting flights, modifying the Day 3 of the program.
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Number of participants: 9 – 13
Participation cost per person:
- 499,000 RUB for 13 participants
- 529,000 RUB for 12 participants
- 559,000 RUB for 11 participants
- 589,000 RUB for 10 participants
- 609,000 RUB for 9 participants
10% early booking discount for reservations made before January 11, 2026
All-inclusive, except for:
- Airfare to and from Gorno-Altaysk and Abakan
- One-way flight from Gorno-Altaysk to Krasnoyarsk
- Medical insurance
- Russian visa (if required)
- Some lunches and dinners
Estimated airfare costs (usually purchased independently):
Moscow – Gorno-Altaysk and Abakan – Moscow: from 32,000 RUB
Gorno-Altaysk – Krasnoyarsk: from 6,000 RUB
Abakan – Kyzyl: from 15,000 RUB
Single supplement: 18,000 RUB (single accommodation provided throughout the entire route)
TRAVEL PROGRAM: Tour to Khakassia and Altai
Day 1. May 11, 2026 (Monday) – Arrival in Gorno-Altaysk (Altai) – Artybash – Lake Teletskoye (160 km)
Morning arrival at Gorno-Altaysk Airport. Meeting with the guide and transfer to the city for a short rest and breakfast.
After breakfast, we depart for the village of Artybash (approx. 160 km). The route passes through scenic mountain valleys and coniferous forests, revealing the first views of Altai.
Accommodation at the Gornoe Ozero Tourist Complex, located on the picturesque shore of Lake Teletskoye, one of the largest and most scenic lakes of the Altai Mountains. The lake, with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding dense coniferous forests, lies in a narrow mountain basin and reaches a depth of 325 meters. Lake Teletskoye is often called the Altai Sea for its scale and beauty.
In the afternoon — a boat trip on Lake Teletskoye to visit the waterfalls:
- Korbu Waterfall — the tallest waterfall in Altai (160 m), impressive in scale.
- Choodor Waterfall — a turbulent stream dropping 8 meters among rocks.
- Estyuba Waterfall — a river bursting from rocky confines and jumping over rapids, showcasing the power and dynamism of Altai nature.
Accommodation included: Gornoe Ozero Tourist Complex https://gornoe-ozero.com/info
Meals included: breakfast
Recommended flights Moscow – Gorno-Altaysk:
S7 Airlines, flight S7-2629, departs Moscow (Domodedovo) May 10 at 22:50, arrives Gorno-Altaysk May 11 at 07:10
Aeroflot, flight SU-1524, departs Moscow (Sheremetyevo) May 11 at 00:10, arrives Gorno-Altaysk May 11 at 08:35
Or any other flight from any city arriving in Gorno-Altaysk no later than 08:40 on May 11
Day 2. May 12, 2026 (Tuesday) – Lake Teletskoye – Yogach Village – Lykov Old Believers’ Homestead in Khakassky Nature Reserve (Khakassia) – Karasuk Village (Altai) – Gorno-Altaysk (190 km)
The day begins with breakfast at Gornoe Ozero, after which we check out and prepare for a unique day of the expedition.
Next, transfer to the helicopter pad in Yogach Village and a flight to the Lykov family homestead, where Old Believer traditions have been preserved in the untouched Khakass taiga. This is a true encounter with living history: here, time flows differently, and every tree and path holds the memory of generations.
At the homestead, we will meet Agafia Karpovna Lykova, the last representative of this legendary family. We will learn about the daily life of the Old Believers, their household practices, and spiritual traditions.
Agafia’s story is one of resilience, faith, and harmony with nature. Her family retreated to these remote areas to escape religious persecution and Soviet authorities. For decades, the Lykovs had no contact with the outside world, managing their lives and survival entirely independently in extremely harsh conditions. In the 1980s, a scientific expedition discovered the family, drawing wide public attention. Despite being offered the chance to leave, Agafia chose to remain in the taiga, continuing the traditional way of life. She has become a symbol of steadfastness, devotion, and harmony with nature, inspiring researchers and writers alike. Agafia Karpovna continues to live in the taiga, preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Old Believers under modern conditions.
With the blessing of Metropolitan Korniliy of the Russian Old Believer Orthodox Church and in collaboration with the Russian Geographical Society, we have the unique opportunity to spend several hours alone with this living legend.
After the remarkable visit with Agafia Karpovna, we take a helicopter back to Karasuk Village, Altai, followed by a transfer to Gorno-Altaysk.
Accommodation at Grand Hotel Altay https://grandhotelaltai.ru
Meals included: breakfast, lunch (lunch boxes)
Day 3. May 13, 2026 (Wednesday) – Gorno-Altaysk – Krasnoyarsk (Krasnoyarsk Krai) – Krasnoyarsk Stolby National Park (80 km)
The day begins with breakfast at the hotel. Today, we leave the mountainous landscapes of Altai for the urban and natural harmony of Krasnoyarsk — a combination of cultural experiences and living nature.
After transfer to the airport, we fly Gorno-Altaysk – Krasnoyarsk. Upon arrival, transfer to the city (approx. 40 km) and lunch at a Siberian cuisine restaurant, where you can taste authentic local dishes and experience the flavors of Siberia.
Next, we explore Krasnoyarsk Stolby National Park, the heart and “lungs” of the city. This is not just a nature visit: to save energy and time, transport will take us directly to the top of the First Stolb. The hiking trail is only 3 km, and experienced guides will share fascinating stories about the flora, geology, and mysteries of these rocky formations.
This route is suitable for everyone: lovers of gentle walks, those seeking communion with nature, and active travelers craving new experiences. Every step opens up new vistas, fresh air, and the unique atmosphere of the Krasnoyarsk taiga.
After the walk, return to the city and check in at Ibis 3*. Evening free for city strolls and dinner at one of the local restaurants — Krasnoyarsk is rightly considered the gastronomic capital of Siberia.
Accommodation included: Ibis 3* https://accor.ru/krasnoyarsk/ibis-krasnoyarsk-center/
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Recommended direct flight Gorno-Altaysk – Krasnoyarsk: KrasAvia, flight KV108, departs Gorno-Altaysk May 13 at 10:40 (or 11:25), arrives in Krasnoyarsk at 12:15 (or 13:25).
Attention: During the spring–summer schedule of KrasAvia, flight days and/or times may change. This may require adjusting the itinerary by 1–2 days or, in the case of a connecting flight, modifying the activities planned for Day 3.
Day 4. May 14, 2026 (Thursday) – Krasnoyarsk – Sliznevo Village – Divnogorsk – Krasnoyarsk Hydroelectric Power Station – Valley of the Kings (Khakassia) – Abakan (530 km)
After breakfast, we depart toward Khakassia. Along the way, we stop at the Tsar-Fish viewpoint in Sliznevo Village. Here, a monument dedicated to the famous work by V.P. Astafyev symbolizes the grandeur of the Yenisei River and the power of Siberian nature.
Next, a short stop in the town of Divnogorsk along the Yenisei embankment, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee with views of the mountains and the full-flowing river. Divnogorsk Embankment, recognized as one of the best public spaces in Russia, reflects the spirit of Siberian towns and the harmony between nature and human settlement.
The next stop is the Krasnoyarsk Hydroelectric Power Station, one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world and a key source of electricity in Siberia. Here, breathtaking panoramas of the Yenisei open up, and the guide will tell the story of the dam’s construction and its significance for the region.
After lunch, we head to the Valley of the Kings, home to over 50 ancient burial mounds. The main focus is the Bolshoy Salbyk Mound, one of the most significant cultural monuments of Southern Siberia, associated with the Scythian-Siberian civilization.
Following the “road of the spirits,” according to ancient legends, we see how burial structures for the leaders of the Tagar tribes were constructed. The mound contained the graves of warriors with rich weapons, ornaments, and ritual objects — a majestic testimony to the supreme power of ancient rulers. An elderly man and several others, meant to accompany him in the afterlife, were buried here. Such a grand structure reflects the strong authority of the chieftain for whom this Siberian pyramid was built.
After an eventful day, transfer to Abakan and check-in at the Asia Business Hotel 4*. Evening free for strolls or dinner in the city.
Accommodation included: Asia Business Hotel 4* https://asia-hotel.ru
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Day 5. May 15, 2026 (Friday) – Abakan – Ulug Khurtuyakh Tas – Kyug Valley (255 km)
After breakfast at the hotel, we depart from Abakan, gradually immersing ourselves in the Siberian nature and historical landscapes of Khakassia.
Along the way, we stop at the Samokhval viewpoint, offering panoramic views of valleys and mountain ridges. This is a perfect spot for the first impressive photographs and to feel the vastness of Khakassian nature.
Next, we visit the L.R. Kyzlasov Khakass National Museum of Local History, which houses a unique collection of archaeological finds, including the Hall of Stone Sculptures and the central stele, standing 6 meters high — a symbol of motherhood, strength, and the ancient history of the region.
After lunch, we explore the Ulug Khurtuyakh Tas Museum (“Great Stone Mother”). The menhir is approximately 4,500 years old, dating back to the Okunev culture. It represents a female figure with a carved head wearing a conical hat, clearly showing a “pregnant” belly.
Here, the secrets of the Scythian-Siberian civilization unfold: menhirs, Tagar-era burial mounds (7th–3rd centuries BCE), a Khakass yurt with traditional household items, and the eco-ethno-laboratory “Im Tom”, dedicated to folk medicine.
Next, transfer to the Kyug Yurt Complex and check-in to the yurts. In the evening, dinner is followed by a meeting with a shaman to witness a kamlanie ritual.
Shamanism is one of the ancient belief systems based on communication with spirits. According to some scholars, it intersects with totemism, animism, and other traditions. In Khakassia, elements of shamanism coexist alongside Orthodoxy.
Acting as an intermediary between the human and spiritual worlds, the shaman interacts with spirits through rituals (songs, dances, drum use, and sacred objects to enter an altered state of consciousness), providing healing and divination. Shamanism helps the Khakas maintain their connection to nature and history, transmit spiritual values, and strengthen national identity.
Accommodation included: Kyug Yurt Complex https://vk.com/kug.glamping
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6. May 16, 2026 (Saturday) – Kyug Valley – Kazanovka Museum-Reserve – Abakan (140 km)
The day begins with breakfast at the Kyug Yurt Complex, still imbued with the spirit of the valley and shamanic traditions. Today we head to the next important stop on our journey — the Kazanovka Archaeological Museum-Reserve.
The largest museum in the region, covering over 18,000 hectares, the area is rich in historical monuments and features a unique landscape, combining steppe and taiga zones. This makes Kazanovka an extraordinary cultural and natural site.
At Kazanovka, the national interior and Khakas traditions have been carefully restored, preserving centuries-old heritage. Guided tours of the reserve, including the ancient rock art of the Khakas people, will leave a lasting impression. Visitors can touch exquisite stone miniatures that are about 4,000 years old. The site also includes menhirs, stone sculptures with carved faces, ancient fortresses, and a traditional Khakas yurt.
After exploring the history, enjoy lunch featuring elements of Khakas national cuisine.
Khakas cuisine has its unique features and traditions. The diet of the Khakas, like other pastoral peoples of Southern Siberia, is based on dairy products and plant foods in summer, and meat from livestock, poultry, fish, and game in winter. During the cold season, each household would preserve meat for the months ahead.
Today, Khakas national cuisine continues to preserve the cultural and historical heritage of the people. Recipes and traditions are passed down through generations. Every festival is celebrated with a lavishly prepared table featuring the finest dishes. In addition to their nutritional value, many traditional dishes have healing properties, containing exactly the nutrients needed for healthy life in the harsh Siberian environment.
In the afternoon, enjoy a performance by a Khakas musical ensemble, allowing participants to experience the rich musical culture of the region.
Afterward, transfer to Abakan and check in at the Asia Business Hotel 4*. Evening free for dinner and rest after a full day.
Accommodation included: Asia Business Hotel 4* https://asia-hotel.ru
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Day 7. May 17, 2026 (Sunday) – Abakan – Khakassky Nature Reserve – Oglakhty – Borodinskaya Cave – Abakan (170 km)
The day begins with breakfast at the hotel, followed by departure to the Khakassky Nature Reserve to visit the Oglakhty Mountain Range (in Khakas, “Goat Mountain”), located in the picturesque area where the Yenisei and Tuba rivers converge.
Our day in the reserve starts at the visitor center, where we will learn about unique archaeological discoveries made in the Oglakhty region, the styles of Khakas rock art, and the most significant events in the ancient history of Khakassia.
We will explore the “Ancestor Village,” where the dwellings of ancient peoples, household items, weapons, and armor are reconstructed — all of which can be seen and touched firsthand.
The highlight of the day is the ascent to Soroka Zubyev (“Forty Teeth”) Mountain via a wooden staircase of 967 steps (height difference 150 m). The climb is long but not difficult, offering breathtaking views of the Krasnoyarsk Reservoir, and at the top, we will see petroglyphs dating from 6,000 to 1,000 years ago.
Lunch will be served in a tea yurt within the reserve.
In the afternoon, we transfer to Borodinskaya Cave, located on the southern slope of the Tegir-Tyz Ridge in Khakassia. The cave is considered the largest in Siberia, and its scale is impressive: passages extend 1,500–2,000 meters, with a depth of approximately 86 meters.
Walking along equipped trails and stairways immerses visitors in a magical atmosphere: a well leading to an inclined grotto, majestic stalactites and stalagmites. Special attention is given to the Upper Pagoda, which reaches 5 m in height and 1.5 m in diameter — one of the largest stalagmites in Siberia.
In the evening, return to Abakan, dinner at the hotel restaurant, and rest after a full day of discoveries and impressions.
Accommodation included: Asia Business Hotel 4* https://asia-hotel.ru
Meals included: breakfast, lunch (lunch box)
Day 8. May 18, 2026 (Monday) – Abakan – Return Flight
The day begins with breakfast at the hotel. Today we say farewell to Khakassia, its mountains, valleys, ancient burial mounds, and unique culture.
Transfer to Abakan Airport for a flight back to Moscow or another city.
Accommodation included: none
Meals included: breakfast
Recommended flights Abakan – Moscow:
Aeroflot, flight SU-1479, departs Abakan May 18 at 10:00, arrives Moscow (Sheremetyevo) May 18 at 10:55
S7 Airlines, flight S7-2594, departs Abakan May 18 at 07:20, arrives Moscow (Domodedovo) May 18 at 08:20
Or any other flight departing Abakan at any time on May 18
Recommended flight Abakan – Kyzyl (for those joining the joint RGS expedition to Tuva):
S7 Airlines, with a transfer in Novosibirsk, total travel time 21 h 25 min, departs Abakan May 18 at 07:50, arrives Kyzyl May 19 at 08:05
* Due to the remoteness of some locations, program dates may shift. The itinerary sequence may be adjusted while retaining all planned activities. In particular, during the spring–summer schedule of KrasAvia, flight days and/or times from Gorno-Altaysk to Krasnoyarsk may change. This may require adjusting the trip dates by 1–2 days or, in the case of connecting flights, modifying the Day 3 of the program.
Cost includes:
- MI‑8 helicopter rental (flight time + 3 hours of standby included)
- All transportation along the route by Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
- Boat trip on Lake Teletskoye (2 boats)
- Accommodation in hotels and yurts on a double occupancy basis (TWIN / DBL)
- Meals according to the program: all breakfasts, some lunches and dinners
- Drinking water along the route
- National park access permits
- Guide services in national parks
- All entrance fees to museums and sites included in the program, with guided tours
- All fees in national parks and reserves, including recreational fees
- Folk program
- Organization of a meeting with a shaman
- Accident and tick-borne encephalitis insurance
- Visa support
- Accompaniment by an experienced Russian-speaking guide
- Accompaniment and services of a Russian- and English-speaking team leader, Alex Mzungu
- Expert from the Russian Geographical Society throughout the route
- Professional ethnographer and scientist, practicing specialist, accompanying the group throughout the route
- Lectures by scientists during the entire trip
- Participation in scientific work: introduction to the "anthropological kitchen," field studies, collection of ethnographic materials (diaries, photos, sketches, interviews, etc.)
Cost excludes (additionally paid):
- Airfare to Gorno-Altaysk (Altai) and return from Abakan (Khakassia)
- One-way flight from Gorno-Altaysk to Krasnoyarsk
- Medical insurance
- Russian visa (if required)
- Some lunches and dinners
- Alcoholic beverages
- Souvenirs, personal purchases, and gifts
- Additional services at accommodations (mini-bar, laundry, paid hotel/yurt services)
- Single supplement
To take with:
- Clothing suitable for the weather (fleece or wool sweater, cotton T-shirts, light trousers, shorts, warm hat, sun hat)
- Warm and windproof layers, thermal underwear
- Headlamp
- Rain jacket
- Long-sleeved clothing
- Mosquito net (optional)
- Comfortable closed trekking shoes and light footwear
- Sun and wind protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
- Insect repellent
- Personal hygiene items (soap, towel, toothpaste, wet wipes)
- Personal first-aid kit (painkillers, antiseptics, antibiotics, any necessary medications)
- Large backpack or duffel bag for main belongings
- Small backpack for day trips
- Copy of medical insurance
- Photo and video equipment
- Spare batteries, power bank
OUR TEAM
EXPEDITIONAL LEADER
Ideologist and team leader of many expeditions, including the first Russian expedition in Niger for Cure Salée festival, the first Russian dog sleds expedition to Cape Dezhnev.
Photographer, author of numerous publications in Discovery and Vokrug Sveta, member of the Russian Geographical Society.
The invincible optimist and tireless heart and brain of MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS!
Ideologist and team leader of many expeditions, including the first Russian expedition in Niger for Cure Salée festival, the first Russian dog sleds expedition to Cape Dezhnev.
Photographer, author of numerous publications in Discovery and Vokrug Sveta, member of the Russian Geographical Society.
The invincible optimist and tireless heart and brain of MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS!
EXPERT OF RUSSIAN GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY
PhD candidate in Historical Sciences, Associate Professor at the Higher School of Economics.
Specializing in the phenomenon of the "Other," the history of tourism, and cultural appropriations.
Research interests: cultural anthropology and semiotics of travel, marketing, and medialandscape of destinations.
A member of the Council for Sustainable Development of the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Also, a part of the Union of Scientists of St. Petersburg.
PhD candidate in Historical Sciences, Associate Professor at the Higher School of Economics.
Specializing in the phenomenon of the "Other," the history of tourism, and cultural appropriations.
Research interests: cultural anthropology and semiotics of travel, marketing, and medialandscape of destinations.
A member of the Council for Sustainable Development of the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Also, a part of the Union of Scientists of St. Petersburg.
RESEARCHER ETHNOGRAPHER
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbs are tested by Mzungu himself and guided by seasoned team-leaders, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - REASONABLE PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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