Tourist Altai: 7 Must-Do Experiences in Altai

Tourism in Altai is breaking records—many travelers are eager to visit this remarkable region in the near future. The focus is primarily on Gorno-Altaysk and the Altai Republic!

Good to know! According to an online flight-booking service, demand for this destination has risen by 200% compared with the previous season!

What Makes Altai So Captivating

Even people who have fallen in love with Altai cannot agree on a single, complete “portrait” of the republic—it is simply too diverse:

• mysterious and authentic, with ancient beliefs and traditions;
• boundless opportunities for outdoor adventures and relaxing in nature;
• delicious farm produce and artisan delicacies;
• highly photogenic landscapes for scenic photography and photoshoots in beautiful settings.

Altai welcomes everyone: believers in local legends and skeptics alike, active travelers and those who prefer a quieter break, food lovers, curious explorers, people tired from work, and anyone searching for themselves.

That is its charm—everyone can find the kind of getaway they love and discover something fascinating!

Top 7 Things to Do in Altai

A trip to Altai would not be complete without trying at least a few essential experiences. Here is a quick list of the highlights to enjoy during your journey!

See the Local Wonders

Altai has countless natural and man-made attractions, but it is possible to see at least some of them:

• lakes—the famous Lake Teletskoye, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Golden Mountains of Altai; the unique Geyser Lake; the turquoise Shavla Lakes; and the mountain lakes of Multa;
• mountains and natural sites—Belukha Mountain, Denisova Cave, the “Stone Mushrooms,” Katu-Yaryk Pass, the Pazyryk burial mounds, and Uchar Waterfall;
• valleys and plateaus—the Karakol Valley and Ukok Plateau;
• museums and archaeological sites—the Vasily Shukshin Museum, the Nicholas Roerich Museum, the Kalbak-Tash petroglyphs, and the “Altai Princess” mummy.

Also worth seeing are the Chuysky Trakt, Patmos Island with its chapel, the Katun River with its Blue Eyes lakes and the suspension bridge at Inya, the mysterious “Altai Mars,” the Aktru glaciers, and dozens of other exceptional sights!

Did you know? The remains of ancient humans were discovered in Denisova Cave, including those of the Denisovans, who lived around 50,000 years ago. They were neither modern humans nor Neanderthals, but a distinct branch of human evolution!

Relax in a Wilderness Sauna

A wilderness sauna in Altai is a pleasure in every season, but it feels especially magical in snowy winter. After hiking to natural landmarks along forest trails and through narrow gorges between sheer boulders, there is nothing better than resting and stretching your legs. The best way to shake off fatigue is to enjoy a steam sauna followed by a dip in the Blue Eyes of the Katun or a hot spring. Then comes taiga herbal tea by the campfire, with honey and local delicacies, stories shared with fellow travelers, and complete relaxation. In Altai, a sauna takes on an entirely different meaning. It is not simply about washing and warming up—it is a ritual of renewal for body and soul.

Meet a Shaman

Shamans are an important part of many pagan religions. In Altai, they are treated with respect and reverence, so it is especially remarkable that visitors can gain an insight into this sacred world. A shaman may offer answers to troubling questions, empower an amulet or talisman, or guide a meditation. Shamans often conduct spiritual cleansing rituals, help people let go of their past, and offer advice on difficult situations. A visit to a shaman can serve as the starting point for a new chapter, a catalyst for change, an energizing experience, or simply an illuminating cultural encounter and colorful performance.

Taste Local Delicacies

Altai is a land of farm-fresh produce, artisan delicacies, and specialties made only here. It is a paradise for food lovers, connoisseurs of authentic flavors, and fans of wholesome eating. Expect sausages and meat delicacies inspired by nomadic traditions, cheeses, grains, pure and flavored honey, all kinds of dairy products, herbs, berries, mushrooms, and more.

Good to know! Some of Altai’s most authentic dishes are called kaymak, kan, kurt, chok-chok, chegen, and kocho. Their names are intriguing—and their ingredients are not always easy to guess!

Some products can be taken home, while for others you can only learn the recipes and try to recreate something similar in your own kitchen!

Test Your Courage and Endurance

Altai is made for horseback and hiking trips, rafting on the Katun River, rock climbing, and cave exploration.

Did you know? After visiting Altai, rafting, trekking, and caving may become familiar words—and new passions in your life!

Naturally, it is difficult for an untrained person to become an expert and tackle a challenging adventure with ease. But Altai is multifaceted: it offers calm stretches of river for leisurely rafting as well as true extremes, serious mountains, and attractions within easy walking distance. Even if the season is not ideal or time is short, set aside a day for outdoor activities and a full dose of adrenaline. These emotions are unforgettable!

Discover Local Cultures

Altai is home to indigenous peoples of Russia, including the Telengits and Kumandins. Travelers have an opportunity to learn about the lives, customs, crafts, and beliefs of these distinctive communities. Their traditions are so self-sufficient and independent of modern life that they inspire reflection on how little people truly need and what many things are really worth. These hospitable peoples do not simply show visitors how they live—they invite them to feel at home and immerse themselves in an unfamiliar way of life.

Buy Souvenirs

Altai is generous with gifts and souvenirs for appreciative travelers. Visitors most often take home honey, precious and semi-precious stones, teas and herbal blends, antler products, ceramic and cedarwood crafts, and various amulets and talismans. Everything is genuine and authentic, produced only here in small quantities—often by hand. And this is only the beginning of getting to know Altai, a must-have experience for every traveler! With every visit, this extraordinary region draws you deeper into its distinctive character, tempting you with the blue eyes of its lakes, sharp mountain peaks, and the incomparable colors of its rugged nature.

And this is only the beginning of getting to know Altai, must have for every traveler! With every visit, this extraordinary region draws you deeper into its distinctive character, tempting you with the blue eyes of its lakes, sharp mountain peaks, and the incomparable colors of its rugged nature!