DAY 1: ISTANBUL – MOSCOW
Flight Information:
09:10 → Istanbul Airport (IST)
13:00 → Moscow Vnukovo Airport (VKO)
At 06:30 in the morning, we meet with the Tourism team at the International Departures Terminal of Istanbul Airport. After our baggage and ticket procedures, we pass through passport control and depart for Moscow at 09:10 on Turkish Airlines’ scheduled flight.
After arriving in Moscow at 13:00, we are greeted at the airport and transferred to our hotel.
After checking into the hotel, we begin our half-day city tour to explore Moscow’s enchanting atmosphere. On our tour, we will see iconic landmarks such as the Red Square, Lenin’s Mausoleum, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Bolshoi Theatre, which have become symbols of the city. We will also enjoy a pleasant panoramic drive along Tverskaya Street and the banks of the Moscow River, where we will witness Russia’s historical and
cultural past.
We have dinner at a local restaurant, then return to our hotel to rest.
Overnight in Moscow, Plaza Hotel 4 or similar.
DAY 2: MOSCOW – NOVOSIBIRSK
Flight Information:
Thursday
Departure: 10:05 – Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) Arrival: 18:05 – Novosibirsk Tolmachevo Airport (OVB) Flight Duration: 4 hours (Direct flight)* Flight times may change*
After having breakfast at our hotel, we are transferred to the airport for our Novosibirsk flight. Upon arrival in Novosibirsk, the largest city in Siberia and Russia’s third-largest metropolis, we proceed to our hotel with our local guide and private vehicle.
After checking into the hotel, we will have dinner at a local restaurant serving authentic flavors of traditional Siberian cuisine.
Overnight in Novosibirsk, Hotel Novosibirsk 4 or similar.*
DAY 3: NOVOSIBIRSK CITY TOUR
This morning after breakfast, we begin our city tour to explore Novosibirsk, known as Russia’s third-largest city and the capital of Siberia.
Key places we will see during our city tour:
• Alexandre Nevsky Cathedral (Sobor Alexandra Nevskogo): Standing out with its golden domes and impressive architecture, this cathedral is one of Novosibirsk’s oldest stone buildings and an important symbol of the Orthodox faith.• Glory Monument: Built in memory of the Siberian soldiers who lost their lives in World War II, this monument holds great importance for the city’s historical and national memory.
• Glory Monument: Built in memory of the Siberian soldiers who lost their lives in World War II, this monument holds great importance for the city’s historical and national memory.
• Bugrinsky Bridge: This iconic red bridge over the Ob River is one of Novosibirsk’s most remarkable structures with its modern architecture and aesthetic design.
After our tour, we will have free time and the opportunity to shop.
We have dinner at a local restaurant where we can experience the region’s traditional cuisine.
At the end of the day, we return to our hotel to rest.
Overnight in Novosibirsk, Hotel Novosibirsk 4 or similar.*
DAY 4: NOVOSIBIRSK – YAKUTSK (YAKUTIA)
Flight Information:
• Departure: 23:40 – Novosibirsk Tolmachevo Airport (OVB)
• Arrival: 05:30+1 – Yakutsk Airport (YKS)
• Flight Duration: 3 hours 50 minutes (Direct flight)
• Overnight: On the plane
After breakfast, we continue exploring Novosibirsk’s important cultural and artistic highlights.
Places we will see on today’s excursions:
• Novosibirsk State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre: One of Russia’s largest opera and ballet venues, this building attracts attention with both its architecture and performances.• World Funeral Culture Museum: The only museum of its kind in the world, it houses interesting collections related to different cultures’ death and funeral rituals.
• World Funeral Culture Museum: The only museum of its kind in the world, it houses interesting collections related to different cultures’ death and funeral rituals.
We have lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we will have the opportunity for shopping and free time in the city center.
In the evening, we are transferred to the airport and board the scheduled S7 Airlines flight to Yakutsk, the capital of Yakutia.
Overnight on the plane
DAY 5: YAKUTSK (YAKUTIA) CITY TOUR
We arrive at Yakutsk Airport early in the morning and are transferred to our hotel. After arriving at the hotel and having breakfast, we begin exploring Yakutsk, one of Russia’s coldest regions.
Places we will see during our city tour:
• Mammoth Museum: Yakutia is a region famous for frozen mammoth fossils, and this museum is of great importance to the scientific world. Here, we will closely see frozen mammoth remains and unique prehistoric fossils.• Treasury of The Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Exhibition: Yakutia is famous for its diamonds and precious stones. At this exhibition, we will have the opportunity to examine the region’s underground treasures, diamonds, and natural riches.
• Treasury of The Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Exhibition: Yakutia is famous for its diamonds and precious stones. At this exhibition, we will have the opportunity to examine the region’s underground treasures, diamonds, and natural riches.
• Victory Stele: Erected in memory of the Yakutian soldiers who lost their lives in World War II, this monument sheds light on the region’s history.
• Russian State Drama Theater Named After Pushkin: Reflecting Yakutsk’s artistic spirit, this historic theater is regarded as one of the important representatives of Russian literature and cultural heritage.
We have dinner at a local restaurant where we can taste the traditional flavors of Yakutia.
At the end of the day, we return to our hotel to rest.
Overnight in Yakutsk, Hotel Yakutsk 4 or similar.*
DAY 6: YAKUTSK – LENA RIVER BOAT TOUR
Today, we set out on a full-day boat tour to discover the Lena River, one of Yakutia’s greatest natural wonders, and Lena Pillars Nature Park, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Boats to be used:
• Volzhanka Long Cabin (for 10-12 people)
• Lazurny 35 (15 people)
Standard Tour Program:
• 07:30 → Meeting at Yakutsk River Port and boarding the boat
• 08:00 – 12:00 → Speedboat journey on the Lena River (short photo breaks along sandy shores and islands)
• 12:00 → Arrival at Lena Pillars Nature Park
• 12:00 – 16:00 → Free time and nature walk
o Climb to the summit of the Lena Pillars (magnificent panoramic view)
o Lunch at the campsite (an area immersed in nature, equipped with tables and shelters)
• 16:00 – 20:00 → Return journey to Yakutsk (short stops at rest points along the way)
During this tour, we will discover the unique natural beauty of the Lena River, visit the famous rock formations of Lena Pillars, and enjoy nature with unforgettable views.
At the end of the day, we return to Yakutsk and are transferred to our hotel.
Overnight in Yakutsk, Hotel Yakutsk 4 or similar.*
DAY 7: YAKUTSK – IRKUTSK & LAKE BAIKAL TOUR
Flight Information:
• Departure: 06:00 – Yakutsk Airport (YKS)
• Arrival: 08:01 – Irkutsk Airport (IKT)
• Flight Duration: 3 hours 1 minute (Direct flight)*Flight times may change*
Early in the morning, we transfer to the airport and take our flight to Irkutsk. After arriving in Irkutsk,
we set off for the village of Listvyanka to explore Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest and oldest lake. After about a 1.5-hour journey, we reach this charming village on the shores of Lake Baikal.
Places we will see during today’s excursions:
• Taltsy Open-Air Museum: This museum, where we can explore Siberia’s traditional wooden architecture, showcases 17th-19th century Russian village life.
• Baikal Museum: In this museum, where we will get to know the lake’s rich ecosystem up close, there are 11 large aquariums where we can observe the flora and fauna of Lake Baikal.
• Chersky Hill Cable Car Ride: By taking the cable car up to Chersky Mountain, we will enjoy magnificent views of Lake Baikal and take great photos.
• Krestovaya Valley: We will explore this valley, which has one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Siberia.
• St. Nicholas Cathedral: One of the region’s most important religious buildings, this cathedral draws attention with its mystical atmosphere.
We have lunch at a local restaurant decorated with Lake Baikal’s famous freshwater fish.
After our tour, we return to Irkutsk, check into our hotel, and rest.
Overnight in Irkutsk, Irkutsk Central Hotel 4 or similar.*
DAY 8: IRKUTSK CITY TOUR
This morning after breakfast, we begin our Irkutsk city tour to explore Siberia’s historical and cultural heritage. Irkutsk, one of Russia’s oldest cities, is famous for its architectural beauty and historical texture.
Places we will see during today’s excursions:
• 130th Kvartal: Famous for its historic wooden houses and stylish cafes and restaurants, this area is one of the most popular spots in Irkutsk, bringing together the city’s modern and traditional character.
• Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God: With its golden domes and being one of the finest examples of Russian Orthodox architecture, this cathedral is among the city’s most impressive religious buildings.
• The Irkutsk Babr Statue: The city’s symbol, this large bronze statue represents the mystical “Babr” figure from the old Siberian coat of arms.
• Irkutsk Academic Drama Theatre: Shaping Irkutsk’s cultural life since the 19th century, this theater draws attention with its elegant architecture and artistic events.
We will have dinner at a local restaurant serving the region’s traditional flavors. At the end of the day, we return to our hotel to rest.
Overnight in Irkutsk, Irkutsk Central Hotel 4 or similar.*
DAY 9: IRKUTSK - FREE DAY
After breakfast, we will have free time all day to explore the city further or complete your last-minute shopping. At 19:00, we meet in the hotel lobby and have our farewell dinner at our hotel restaurant in Irkutsk.
Overnight: Irkutsk City Center Hotel 4*
DAY 10: IRKUTSK– ULAANBAATAR
After breakfast at the hotel, we complete our check-out procedures by 12:00. Then we are transferred to the airport by our private vehicle. Our Ulaanbaatar flight will depart at 16:10.
At 17:00, after our arrival in Ulaanbaatar, we are greeted by our transfer team and head to the city center. We visit Sukhbaatar Square, the city’s central landmark.
Then we transfer to the hotel and complete our check-in procedures.
Overnight: Ulaanbaatar Bayangol Hotel 4* or a similar hotel.
At midnight, after our arrival, we are transferred to our hotel in Ulaanbaatar and rest.
Rest in Ulaanbaatar, Bayangol Hotel 4 or similar.*
After resting at the hotel, ULAANBAATAR (MONGOLIA) CITY TOUR This morning after breakfast at our hotel, we begin our panoramic city tour to explore Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia.
Places we will see during our city tour:
• Sukhbaatar Square: One of Mongolia’s symbols of independence, this large square has hosted the country’s most important historical and political events. In the center of the square stands the statue of Damdin Sukhbaatar, Mongolia’s independence hero.
• National Museum of Mongolia: In this museum, where we can gain comprehensive information about Mongolian culture, history, and nomadic lifestyle, artifacts from the Genghis Khan period, traditional clothing, and archaeological remains are exhibited.
After our tour, we check into our hotel and will have free time to rest for the remainder of the day.
Overnight in Ulaanbaatar, Bayangol Hotel 4 or similar.*
DAY 11: KARAKORUM
Before leaving Ulaanbaatar, we will be picked up from our hotel by our transfer team. If time permits, we will visit the National Museum to get a closer look at Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage. Then we begin our overland journey to Kharkhorin (Karakorum), the former capital of the Mongol Empire (approximately 380 km). Along the way, we will enjoy an unforgettable experience by watching the endless landscapes of the Mongolian степpe.
Upon arrival, we visit the Karakorum Museum. In this museum, where we will examine the remains and archaeological artifacts from the capital of the Great Mongol Empire, important information is provided about the trade routes, cultural structure, and military strategies of the era. The stone tablets, maps, and ancient objects on display here clearly reveal Karakorum’s importance in Mongolian history.
In the evening, we have dinner at the camp and stay overnight in a traditional Ger (yurt) camp.
Overnight: Ger (Yurt) Camp.
DAY 12: KARAKORUM EXPLORATION
After breakfast, we are picked up by our transfer team and set off to discover the Orkhon Inscriptions (approximately 100 km). Written in the Orkhon script by the Göktürks in the early 8th century, these inscriptions are among the most important written documents in Turkish history.
Erected in the names of Bilge Khagan, Kul Tigin, and Tonyukuk, these monuments offer very valuable information about early Turkic state administration, culture, and social life. Rising in the Mongolian steppes, these works are a unique opportunity to witness the heritage of Turkish history.
After lunch on the way, we return to Karakorum in the afternoon and continue exploring the city. By visiting the remaining historical structures and Buddhist temples, we discover Karakorum’s story from past to present.
In the evening, we have dinner at the camp and spend our second night in the traditional Ger (yurt) camp.
Overnight: Ger (Yurt) Camp.
DAY 13: KARAKORUM – ULAANBAATAR
After breakfast, we are picked up by our transfer team and begin our return journey to Ulaanbaatar (approximately 380 km). Along the way, we will once again have the chance to see the vast plains and natural beauty of the Mongolian steppes.
After arriving in Ulaanbaatar, we continue our city tour. We visit the Zaisan Memorial, which offers a panoramic view of the city and was built to commemorate the Soviet-Mongolian joint victories in World War II.
Then we tour Gandan Monastery, one of Mongolia’s most important Buddhist monasteries and famous for its giant golden Buddha statue. Free time will also be provided for you to explore local markets and souvenir shops.
In the evening, we have dinner at a traditional Mongolian restaurant.
Overnight: Ulaanbaatar Bayangol Hotel 4★ or a similar hotel.
DAY 14: ULAANBAATAR – ISTANBUL
After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the airport.
Departure: 09:05 – Ulaanbaatar Chinggis Khaan International Airport (UBN)
Arrival: 12:45 – Istanbul Airport (IST)
The end of our tour, until we meet again at the next Tourism organization.
MAIN AIR TICKET:
Turkish Airlines flights Istanbul → Moscow / Ulaanbaatar → Istanbul
• Outbound: Istanbul (IST) → Moscow (VKO) | 09:10 - 13:00
• Return: Ulaanbaatar (UBN) → Istanbul (IST) | 09:05 - 12:45
CONNECTING FLIGHTS:
Moscow (SVO) → Novosibirsk (OVB) | Aeroflot SU 1460 | 10:05 - 18:05 Novosibirsk (OVB) → Yakutsk (YKS) | S7 Airlines S7 5261 | 23:40 - 05:30+1 Yakutsk (YKS) → Irkutsk (IKT) | S7 Airlines S7 6402 | 06:00 - 08:01
Irkutsk (IKT) → Ulaanbaatar (UBN) | IrAero IO-230 | 00:05 - 01:00