Cost
830 $
hard
group
10 people
Date
august 17-27
Hiking Trip to Shumak
Difficulty Level
Cost
830 $
hard
group
10 people
Date
august 17-27
Hiking Trip
to Shumak
to Shumak
Tunka Range
Difficulty Level
Shumak Springs — a Hidden Treasure of Wild Siberia
Tucked away in the mountains of the Eastern Sayan range, the Shumak mineral springs are among the most remote and mysterious places in Russia. This sacred valley draws travelers not only for its breathtaking beauty and silence, but also for healing — both physical and spiritual. With over 100 natural springs, each with its own unique mineral composition, Shumak offers pure mountain air, untouched wilderness, and a powerful energy that makes you want to return again and again.
Program
- Day 1Early in the morning, we depart from Irkutsk and head toward Lake Baikal, continuing through the scenic Tunka Valley to the village of Nilova Pustyn. The drive will take about 5 hours. Along the way, we'll stop for lunch at a roadside café offering traditional Buryat cuisine. Later that day, we begin our hike — approximately 16 km on foot with an elevation gain of 750 m. The trail will take us mostly through dense coniferous forest.
- Day 2We start early — a long day lies ahead. Our goal is to reach the Shumak Pass at 2,760 m. As we gain elevation, the dense forest gives way to alpine meadows. From the top of the pass, we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the rocky peaks of the Eastern Sayan Mountains, the Shumak River Valley, and stunning glacial lakes. We’ll set up camp in a high alpine valley near a mountain lake. Distance: 17 km. Elevation gain: 1,000 m.
- Day 3The final stretch to the springs. Today’s route descends through the Shumak River valley. Along the way, we’ll stop at a beautiful waterfall on the forest’s edge — a perfect spot for photos. The trail mostly winds through forest, occasionally crossing rocky riverbeds and wet, marshy sections. By evening, we’ll arrive at Shumak. We’ll settle in and take our first dip in the sacred springs. In addition to the many drinkable mineral sources, the valley features warm radon pools and natural mud baths. Distance: 15 km. Elevation loss: 700 m.
- Day 4
Marble WaterfallWe begin the morning with the springs and a light stretch to energize the body. After breakfast, we set out on a short hike to the Marble Waterfall. If the weather permits, we’ll take a refreshing dip and enjoy the crisp mountain water. - Day 5
Three Captains Peak — 2,492 mToday we take a radial hike to a scenic summit offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Shumak River Valley and the Tunka Range. The trail leads us through a graphite ravine dotted with beautiful waterfalls and climbs up to the Three Captains Pass at 2,390 m before reaching the peak. - Day 6
Golden LakesA stunning mountain valley dotted with waterfalls and crystal-clear alpine lakes. We’ll set out on a half-day radial hike with the option to swim in one of the mountain lakes. Upon returning to camp, we’ll once again enjoy the healing mineral waters, soak in the warm radon pools, and relax in the natural mud baths. - Day 7
Khukhein-Khada PillarsThis is a sacred place of our ancestors, believed to be home to the spirit guardian of the land. Here, matter and energy intertwine in a special way — miracles happen, and hopes come true. The walk will be about 13 km through a forest rich with wildflowers and alpine herbs. Those who wish may make a personal wish and spend quiet time in reflection and solitude. - Day 8We rise early and set out on the trail — our journey home begins today. The route will lead us past a waterfall, over a mountain pass, and through some of the most beautiful valleys of the region. We'll spend the night in a tent camp among alpine meadows, right at the edge of the forest.
- Day 9Today we’ll cover the final stretch of our trek. We’ll take time to admire the surrounding beauty, reflect on our journey, and feel torn between the urge to return to the bustling stone jungle of the city or to stay longer amidst the alpine meadows and fresh mountain air.
830 $
The tour price includes:
+ Transfer from Irkutsk to Nilova Pustyn and back;
+ All meals during the trip;
+ Group camping equipment (campfire gear, tents);
+ Personal gear (backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles, tableware);
+ Services of experienced guides;
+ Entry permit to Tunkinsky National Park;
Not included in the price:
- Flights to and from Irkutsk;
- Lunch at a roadside café on the way there and back;
- Personal expenses;
+ Transfer from Irkutsk to Nilova Pustyn and back;
+ All meals during the trip;
+ Group camping equipment (campfire gear, tents);
+ Personal gear (backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles, tableware);
+ Services of experienced guides;
+ Entry permit to Tunkinsky National Park;
- Flights to and from Irkutsk;
- Lunch at a roadside café on the way there and back;
- Personal expenses;
The tour price includes:
830 $
Not included in the price:
Clothing List
-
Warm clothesThermal underwear, a fleece sweater, windproof pants, a warm jacket with a hood (preferably down-filled), and two pairs of wool-blend socks. -
Personal hygiene itemsDon’t forget your personal first aid kit, sunscreen, medium-sized towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap. -
Light clothingCap or bandana, shorts, T-shirt, swimsuit, long-sleeve shirt and lightweight pants —comfortable for hiking the route. Also bring a windbreaker or rain jacket, and 3–4 pairs of high trekking socks. -
GearTrekking poles, backpack with a capacity of 70+ liters for personal gear, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, thermos (1 liter or more), cookware set (mug, plate, spoon), headlamp, and a seat pad (camp cushion). -
AccessoriesA warm, windproof hat, a fleece balaclava, gloves, sunglasses, and a rain poncho or waterproof jacket. -
FootwearTrekking boots or sneakers with good tread, waterproof boots, rubber slippers.
Thermal underwear, a fleece sweater, windproof pants, a warm jacket with a hood (preferably down-filled), and two pairs of wool-blend socks.
Cap or bandana, shorts, T-shirt, swimsuit, long-sleeve shirt and lightweight pants —comfortable for hiking the route. Also bring a windbreaker or rain jacket, and 3–4 pairs of high trekking socks.
A warm, windproof hat, a fleece balaclava, gloves, sunglasses, and a rain poncho or waterproof jacket.
Warm clothes
Light clothing
Accessories
Personal hygiene items
Don’t forget your personal first aid kit, sunscreen, medium-sized towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap.
Gear
Trekking poles, backpack with a capacity of 70+ liters for personal gear, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, thermos (1 liter or more), cookware set (mug, plate, spoon), headlamp, and a seat pad (camp cushion).
Footwear
Trekking boots or sneakers with good tread, waterproof boots, rubber slippers.
Clothing List
Frequently Asked Questions
Fill out the application form on the tour page or call us at +60 189794486. We will contact you and answer all your questions. To reserve your spot on the tour, a 50% deposit is required. After that, we secure your place in the group.
You can find the list of recommended items in the «Clothing List» section above, in the tour description.
The trek takes place in a remote area without electricity or power outlets. We recommend bringing portable power banks to keep your devices charged.
You need to fly to Irkutsk city. Departure is scheduled for August 17th at 8:00 AM from Trud Stadium. The time is local (Moscow +5 hours). We recommend arriving a day before the tour starts to rest after your long flight.
Three meals a day are planned. We will cook over a campfire, and during long hikes, snacks will be provided. Before each route, we prepare a menu and agree on it with the group. If you have any dietary restrictions (vegetarianism/allergies), please inform us in advance about the foods you cannot eat.
You will be in a remote area without usual infrastructure. There is no mobile coverage along most of the route, so please inform your friends and family in advance. Mobile signal may be available only in certain parts of the route if your provider is Tele2 or MTS.
All our routes are well-studied and have been traveled many times. By following the instructions of the drivers, guides, and instructors, as well as safety rules, the risk of emergencies is minimized. All our groups are equipped with first aid kits, and our guides are trained in first aid skills. Before heading out, we always register the groups with the Russian Emergency Services (EMERCOM).
When booking your spot, you pay a 50% deposit. This deposit is used to secure transfers and accommodation. If you cancel for any reason, the deposit is non-refundable.
Fill out the application form on the tour page or call us at +60 189794486. We will contact you and answer all your questions. To reserve your spot on the tour, a 50% deposit is required. After that, we secure your place in the group.
You can find the list of recommended items in the «Clothing List» section above, in the tour description.
The trek takes place in a remote area without electricity or power outlets. We recommend bringing portable power banks to keep your devices charged.
You need to fly to Irkutsk city. Departure is scheduled for August 17th at 8:00 AM from Trud Stadium. The time is local (Moscow +5 hours). We recommend arriving a day before the tour starts to rest after your long flight.
Three meals a day are planned. We will cook over a campfire, and during long hikes, snacks will be provided. Before each route, we prepare a menu and agree on it with the group. If you have any dietary restrictions (vegetarianism/allergies), please inform us in advance about the foods you cannot eat.
You will be in a remote area without usual infrastructure. There is no mobile coverage along most of the route, so please inform your friends and family in advance. Mobile signal may be available only in certain parts of the route if your provider is Tele2 or MTS.
All our routes are well-studied and have been traveled many times. By following the instructions of the drivers, guides, and instructors, as well as safety rules, the risk of emergencies is minimized. All our groups are equipped with first aid kits, and our guides are trained in first aid skills. Before heading out, we always register the groups with the Russian Emergency Services (EMERCOM).
When booking your spot, you pay a 50% deposit. This deposit is used to secure transfers and accommodation. If you cancel for any reason, the deposit is non-refundable.
Still have questions? Fill out the form below and we’ll get in touch to tell you more about the tour.
By clicking Submit, you agree to our Privacy Policy
Book now
Book now
Still have questions? Fill out the form below and we’ll get in touch to tell you more about the tour.
By clicking Submit, you agree to our Privacy Policy