Welcome to majestic Altai, a land of snow-capped mountains, fascinating nomadic tribes, and heart-stopping wilderness adventures.
One of the most beautiful and pristine regions, the borders of this wild and untamed domain touch the semi-deserts of Mongolia and the vast Kazakh plains.
Still well off the mainstream travel radar, Altai supports a growing, community-based eco-tourism industry. A veritable paradise for hikers, climbers, rafters, and nature enthusiasts!
Why Travel to Altai: Sights to Explore
Spanning approximately 92,500 square kilometers, Altai sits at the intersection of the Siberian taiga, the steppes of Kazakhstan, and the semi-deserts of Mongolia. A quarter of the region is covered by dense forests, and its 20,000 tributaries flow through mountain valleys and gorges northward to the Arctic Ocean.
With so much to offer, experiencing even a fraction of Altai would take years of intense exploration. Much of the Altai region remains virtually inaccessible to the typical traveler, making it a rare and untouched destination. Here’s a list of Altai's top destinations and why they should be on every adventure seeker’s bucket list:
The Golden Mountains of Altai
Encompassing an area of 1.6 million hectares, the Golden Mountains of Altai include the Altai and Katun Natural Reserves, Lake Teletskoye, and Belukha Mountain. The range features a mix of steppe, mixed forests, and alpine vegetation, offering a stunning backdrop for hiking and wildlife spotting. Home to nearly 700 species of animals, including reindeer and the endangered snow leopard, it’s a paradise for nature lovers.
Belukha Mountain
The crown jewel of the Altai region, Mount Belukha is the highest with standing at 4,506 meters. The mountain’s dramatic glaciers, covering 70 square kilometers, are a major attraction for trekkers and mountaineers.
Aktru Glacier
Altai is home to nearly 1,500 glaciers, remnants of five glacial periods, and Aktru Glacier is one of the most accessible. A truly remarkable spot, Aktru offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and pristine natural beauty.
What to Do in Altai
Hiking and Trekking
The Altai Mountains are a hiker's paradise, offering some of the most pristine and untouched wilderness on the planet. With dramatic landscapes ranging from evergreen forests, sparkling lakes, and waterfalls to snow-capped peaks and rushing rivers, Altai offers an unparalleled experience for avid trekkers.
Horseback Riding
In Altai, the horse holds a special place in local culture. Many indigenous tribes raise and ride horses from a very young age, and the region's horses are known for their strength and reliability.
Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking
Altai is a haven for whitewater rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. The Katun River and its tributaries, including the Chuya River, offer some of the most exciting and varied whitewater experiences in the world.
Skiing and Winter Sports
Belokurikha, a picturesque settlement in the Belokurikha River Valley, has become a top winter sports destination in Siberia. With more than 260 days of sunshine each year, it defies the cold, dark image you might have of Siberian winters.
When to Visit Altai
Altai boasts three main climatic zones: warm and humid continental, subarctic, and cold semi-arid, making it an ideal destination throughout the year. The peak tourist season typically occurs during the summer months, which is the best time for a variety of outdoor activities. If you're looking to explore Altai's stunning landscapes, hike its trails, or try adventure sports, summer offers the perfect conditions for these experiences.
