*This is a contributed post
Many of us have heard stories of the extreme cold of Siberia. However, if you travel there in the summer, you will need to make sure and bring bug spray! Your trip to Siberia is not only going to be an adventure but can also be a remarkable experience for anyone concerned about climate change.
Batagaika Crater
The Batagaika Crater is the largest crater created by the loss of permafrost in the world. While these craters began to form in the 1960s when the region was deforested, there has been rapid expansion as the average summer temperatures around the world have climbed.
Local residents are fearful of this crater; the noises coming from it have caused many to consider it a portal to the underworld. Current climate researchers are studying the expanding crater and the nearby thermokarst, or irregular terrain, for changes over time.
Your trip to the Batagaika Crater may include a helicopter tour over the crater. There are many educational organizations that are studying this stretch of the earth and you may be able to hitch a ride up to view this remarkable feature from the air.
Summer will be the safest time to visit the region and make it much easier to gear up for a hike or a trek near the crater. There are several hotels in the nearby cities, such as Hotel Aldan, and you can also enjoy a swim in a freshwater lake in Listvyanka Village. Consider bringing a personal mosquito hood, and make sure you bring plenty of bug spray.
Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal is the largest freshwater lake in the world when it comes to volume. It is also the deepest lake in the world and is remarkably clear for anyone who cares to canoe or kayak this gorgeous lake. Bring your binoculars and cameras; wildlife, such as Siberian Roe Deer, Nerpa, or Baikal seal, are remarkably varied on the shores of this lake and the islands offer even more variety.
If you have an interest in extreme cold travel, the ice formations on Lake Baikal are also lovely. The extremely clear water, of course, forms very clean ice. This ice reflects a lovely turquoise in the low sunlight of the Siberian winter.
While it is possible to rent a car and drive yourself in this part of the world, if you are planning on winter travel, consider hiring a driver as well. It’s well known that Siberia gets quite cold in the winter, but this cold can quickly damage tissue and even end your life if you get lost, have a wreck or suffer a breakdown. Hiring a driver will provide you with the support necessary to help you out if you hit a travel snag.
Altai Mountains
When headed up any mountain, there are many dichotomies to consider. For example, the higher you go, the colder the air gets. However, if it’s not cloudy the sun gets even more intense. Additionally, you may be at risk of altitude sickness on your hike in the Altai Mountains.
To stay healthy and strong, make sure you always have a quality water bottle. Even if you’re not warming up, take care to keep drinking every few hundred steps to avoid altitude sickness. Use a timer to make sure you also take a rest break and air your feet. A cold breeze on your feet is better than blisters!
Yakutsk
Yakutsk is the coldest city in the world. While it may not be an ideal spot for an ordinary camping trip, it is possible to get out and trek this region. Consider hiring a guide to help you make sure your gear is appropriate. By working with a professional guide, you may also be able to customize your gear purchases before you arrive.
Because your daylight window each day will be quite limited, be prepared to see many animals on your hike around Yakutsk. You may see many creatures getting out in the day, from foxes to the tundra wolf to bears. There are also moose in the area. A guide can help to keep you safe in these conditions; it’s important to note that, while a bear or wolf may avoid humans, a panicked moose can trample you pretty quickly.
Olkhon Island
Olkhon Island is one of the islands found in the huge expanse of Lake Baikal. It will take some effort to get to the island from the closest city of any size, Irkutsk. It’s quite common for vacationers in the region to hitchhike. If you’re not keen on this, you may want to hire a car or hire a driver to get you to the island.
There are several villages on Olkhon Island that offer hostel stays, or you can stay in Irkutsk if you prefer a bit more comfort in your hotel choice. If your budget is a bit slim, be aware that many of the hostels include breakfast and dinner in your daily fees. The region is quite popular with hunters, so expect simple but comfortable accommodations and hearty but basic foods.
Summer travelers to Olkhon Island enjoy time on the beach. It’s also a great place to do some fishing. You can hire a boat to help you find the best fishing spots and enjoy the lovely calm found on this deepest lake in the world.
Concluding Thoughts
Siberia isn’t just about snow. Carefully review your gear choices so you will be safe from the cold and the intense mosquito populations that thrive in the summer months.
If you can spend part of your trip in a hostel, your travel options will increase exponentially. Enjoy a bowl of sukha (fish stew) before finishing up with the sweet cheese pancake called syrniki.
