Olkhon Island

Island Ol'khonskiy rayon, Siberian Federal District, Russia

What to expect

Olkhon Island is the third-largest lake island in the world, located in Lake Baikal, eastern Siberia. The island has a dramatic combination of terrain, with steep mountains lining its eastern shore and a highest point of 1,276 meters above sea level at Mount Zhima. The island is rich in archaeological landmarks and features a combination of taiga, steppe, and even a small desert. The population of the island is around 1,744, mostly consisting of Buryats, the island's aboriginal people. The island has several settlements and villages, with Khuzhir being the administrative capital. The island is considered a spiritual place by the indigenous Buryats, who believe it to be the home of various deities. Visitors can explore the island's natural beauty, learn about its history and culture, and experience the local way of life

Plan your family visit to the Olkhon Island with these blog insights 👇

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Russia with children: On the Shaman Island in Lake Baikal

Russia with children: On the Shaman Island in Lake Baikal
This family's experience:

Activities: We explored Olkhon Island, the largest on Lake Baikal. We spent a whole week there, mainly hiking and cycling, enjoying the fresh air. Erik could go out on the street unsupervised and play with other kids

Highlights: We loved the freedom and the beautiful nature. It's a paradise for nature lovers. Erik had a great time playing with other children, and we felt like we were back in time, away from the outside world ✨