Detailed Itinerary

DETAILED ITINERARY

TOUR NAME Krasnoyarsk, adventure in style

TOUR DURATION 8 days / 7 nights

MINIMUM TRAVELLERS 6 people

REGIONS VISITED Krasnoyarsk region

START CITY — END CITY Krasnoyarsk — Krasnoyarsk

SEASON February — March, Winter Season

TOUR CATEGORY Combination tour

PRICE from $ 4850*

SKIING SNOWMOBILING ADVANCED HIKING VODKA RUSSIAN PAINTBALL COOKING ICE LOG CABIN DRIVING TASTING SAUNA CLASSES SKATING ESCAPE

TOUR OVERVIEW

Krasnoyarsk has earned a closely-guarded reputation among the Russians as Siberia’s adventure sports capital. It’s home to some of the region’s most exhilarating ski slopes and its mountainous regions and National Parks offer pristine hiking year-round. In winter, favourite pastimes include snowmobiling and buggy racing. Still, Krasnoyarsk is equally suited to those who crave excitement of a different kind. City life in Krasnoyarsk is famously vibrant. Krasnoyarsk City is home to almost a million residents. The nightlife is banging, the restaurants are enticing and the city streets are remarkably beautiful – especially in winter! Even the keenest adrenaline junkies need time to relax. This tour gives you the opportunity to try your hand at a range of winter sports and adventure activities, while offering you the chance to slow things down and enjoy the simple yet fulfilling pleasures of a Russian cooking class, a soak in a spa and an evening at the theatre.

DAY 1

Welcome to Krasnoyarsk City. Meet your guide at the airport and transfer to your hotel for breakfast. The rest of the morning is set aside for you to rest up and relax. In the afternoon we go on a city sightseeing excursion. Russian author Anton Chekhov judged Krasnoyarsk to be the most beautiful city in Siberia, and most would agree. Surrounded by forest and mountain landscapes, Krasnoyarsk is the cultural and economic centre of Eastern Siberia. The city streets, parks and fountains are arguably even more beautiful winter than summer. We visit the historic city centre, the quay, the Chapel of St Paraskeva and the Krasnoyarsk Railway Bridge. Part of the Trans-Siberian Railway, it crosses the Yenisei River and was awarded a gold medal at the World Exhibition in Paris in 1900 (the same award has also been given to the Eiffel Tower). Dinner is served at Bistrot de Luxe Home. With its oak floorboards, fireplace, chic chandeliers and antique French books, this warmly sophisticated restaurant serves superb steaks imported from Australia, New Zealand and America.

MEALS INCLUDED _, _, D.

* price p/p, based on 6 people in the group and can very for less then 6 travellers Call our travel experts on 1300 742 374 (toll free from Australia) or +61 2 999 48 008 from the rest of the world or visit www.56thparallel.com DAY 2

This morning we travel a short distance to Bobrovy Log ski resort in the spectacular East Sayan Mountains. This is Siberia’s premier ski resort and one of the largest in Russia, featuring world-class facilities, superb service and ski runs for all levels of experience, including amazing deep powder slopes. Gear and instructors are available for hire if you need them. We spend a full day skiing and snowboarding, but if you need a break from the action there are cafés, bars and shops to keep you entertained. The ski resort is also home to Bobrovy Log Fun Park, an exciting theme park with a mix of rides from mild to wild. We wrap up a hard day of fun in the snow with a traditional Russian or Finnish sauna and a relaxing massage at the luxurious Kolodest spa – usually open only to VIP members of Bobrovy Log. Dinner is at Bobrovy’s sumptuous Hozyain Taigi restaurant, which serves Russian and European dishes in an elegant banquet hall.

MEALS INCLUDED B, _, _.

DAY 3

Get ready for another action-packed day as we engage in a game of paintball. The forest is eerily beautiful in winter and as you stalk silently through the forest you’ll get an insight into sensations experienced by real Russian soldiers in the war. Weave in and out of trees and dive into snow – this is without a doubt one of the most epic paintball battlegrounds on earth! Afterwards, we tuck into a hearty barbecue lunch in the forest. Next we head back to the city to relax and soothe any war wounds and bruised egos! We visit the Excelent spa and sports centre, Krasnoyarsk’s best equipped health complex. Chill out in the pool and spa, get a massage or take the opportunity for a workout. For dinner, we enjoy trendy «Bangkok», the city’s first Pan-Asian eatery.

As an option, to top off the evening we head to Play Poy (‘play sing’), Krasnoyarsk’s number one karaoke lounge – a night of hilarious fun is guaranteed! NOTE: Please, inform us if you would like to add this option, upon booking.

MEALS INCLUDED B, L, _.

DAY 4

Today we drive out to one of Krasnoyarsk’s most spectacular natural attractions, Stolby National Park. Stolby’s ancient rock formations back it a place of pilgrimage for rock climbers from around the world. Millions of years of rain, wind and snow have carved strange and beautiful natural sculptures out of stone, some up to 120 metres high. We trek through pristine forests to breathtaking viewpoints, stopping for lunch on the trail. It’s back to the city by early evening for a well- earned dinner at Chemodan. Every detail of the restaurant’s interior – its music, old books and menus, are reminiscent of the Soviet era of merchants and burghers. Sample the high society cuisine of Krasnoyarsk – dishes are prepared with north Yenisei fish and game from the north territory of the region.

MEALS INCLUDED B, L, _. * price p/p, based on 6 people in the group and can very for less then 6 travellers Call our travel experts on 1300 742 374 (toll free from Australia) or +61 2 999 48 008 from the rest of the world or visit www.56thparallel.com DAY 5

This big day of adrenaline and adventure starts with a scenic drive to Manskiy Ples on the Mana River. The frozen river sets the scene for a high speed snowmobiling session over snow and ice. Even if you’re a beginner, with a bit of guidance you’ll soon be flying over the river and burning up the taiga trails on your very own high powered Russian snowmobile. Next up is another highlight of our tour – a meet and greet session with a team of beautiful Siberian huskies, followed by a dog sled ride on the frozen Mana, surrounded by the extraordinary beauty of the mountains. Try your hand at mushing yourself – you’ll be amazed by the strength and intelligence of these magnificent animals. Tonight we stay in an authentic Siberian wood cabin, Mana Cottage. This wooden house is designed in the style of a rural princely estate – the striking handmade furniture made from whole tree trunks and the massive stone fireplace feel straight out of a Russian fairytale. Indulge in an authentic Siberian feast and a real Russian banya complete with bathing in the snow.

MEALS INCLUDED B, L, D.

DAY 6

After a leisurely late breakfast at the cottage we launch into an awesome half day of advanced driving on the Mana River ice. After a comprehensive safety briefing we take turns driving the wild and woolly Russian all-terrain buggy, known locally as the ‘Boogster’. Absolutely awesome fun for adrenaline junkies! If you’d prefer something a little more low key, you can choose to go for a walk in the woods along the river. In the afternoon we head back to the city for lunch and some free time. In the evening, we visit the kitchen of a famous Krasnoyarsk chef for a cooking workshop that will reveal the secrets of some of Russia’s classic dishes and of course a taste of everything.

As an option, after the workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a theatre or Russian ballet performance. NOTE: Please, inform us if you would like to add this option, upon booking.

MEALS INCLUDED B, _, D. DAY 7

This morning we visit the Konny Dvor horse riding centre. Meet the horses, get riding tips from the experts then embark on a picturesque ride through the snow blanketed forest. We return to Krasnoyarsk for lunch and a couple of hours at the city’s largest shopping centre, Planeta, a great place for fashionable clothes and good value souvenirs. Afterwards, we hit up the Arena Sever ice skating rink. The ‘ice hall’ serves as an arena for hockey matches and a training ground for some of Siberia’s top athletes. You’ll be ice skating alongside some of Krasnoyarsk’s world class figure skaters. We celebrate our last night together in Krasnoyarsk at Formaggi restaurant, where the chef prepares sublime Italian dishes right before your eyes.

MEALS INCLUDED B, _, _. * price p/p, based on 6 people in the group and can very for less then 6 travellers Call our travel experts on 1300 742 374 (toll free from Australia) or +61 2 999 48 008 from the rest of the world or visit www.56thparallel.com DAY 8

Our tour concludes with a final five hours of winter fun at Bobrovy Log ski resort. Spend your time skiing, snowboarding or tackling the wild rides at Bobrovy Log Fun Park. Enjoy lunch and drinks at a restaurant of your choosing and grab some last minute souvenirs. Late afternoon, we return to the hotel before our transfer to airport and our final farewells to Krasnoyarsk.

NOTE: This day program is optional, please, inform us if you would like to add this option, upon booking.

MEALS INCLUDED B, _, _.

ACCOMMODATION ON TOUR

HOTEL «DOM OTEL»

Located in the central business and cultural district of Krasnoyarsk, the Dom Otel Hotel aims to please with a high level of service and well equipped, contemporary rooms. Trendy rooms, a cosy lobby bar and a quiet lounge with comfy furniture and a real fireplace make the Dom one of those rare places where you feel instantly at home. Friendly hotel staff is at the ready to assist you with all your needs, helping you to make the most of your business trip and ensure your stay is as pleasant as it gets.

LOG CABIN RETREAT «MANA»

Just a 30 minute drive from the lively bustle of Krasnoyarsk City, Mana promises absolute peace and tranquility in one of the region's most scenic locales. This handsome country cottage offers guests the opportunity to relax in an atmosphere of comfort and chic. Striking handmade furniture made from whole tree trunks and a massive stone fireplace create an elegantly rustic retreat with a uniquely Russian ambience.

INCLUSIONS

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Highest quality selected accommodation • Most meals in selected restaurants • All experiences in the detailed itinerary • Private transport on tour • Group airport transfers • Entry fees to attractions and sightseeing • Ski lift passes • Russian banya experience • English speaking guide • Visa support letter • Registration fee

• International flights • Optional activities (day 8) • Ski gear hire • Visa fees • Insurance • Alcoholic drinks • Spa treatments • Night Life (optional) • Items of personal nature • Airport taxes • Souvenirs • Luggage porters • Visa fees • Tips

SUMMARY ACCOMODATION, TRANSPORT AND MEALS

TRANSPORT

• Privat car

ACCOMODATION

• 6 nights at the «Dom Ootel» hotel in Krasnoyarsk city • 1 night at the log cabin retreat «Mana» in Mana Village

MEALS

• 7 breakfasts • 3 lunches • 3 dinners

WHAT TO KNOW

VISAS AND PERMITS

All foreigners require a valid Russian visa to visit Russia for tourist purposes. For most travellers, a tourist visa (single or double entry and valid for a maximum of 30 days from date of entry) is sufficient. Getting a Russian visa involves 3 steps: Invitation, Application and Registration. The simplest, most comprehensive online guide to getting a Russian visa is here: http://www.56thparallel.com/russianvisa-support-letter This page will take you through the process step-by-step, and you’ll be able to purchase your Invitation letter and download the Russian visa application form from here. You’ll need to deliver your invitation letter, visa application form, passport (with six months or more validity) and two passport-sized photos sized (3.5*4.5) mm to your nearest Russian consulate, either by post or in person.

INSURANCE

You must have medical travel insurance to travel with 56th Parallel. You’ll need to supply details of your travel insurance policy to your tour group leader before embarking on your Siberian adventure. It’s extremely important that your chosen policy covers all aspects of the trip you’re undertaking. We recommend contacting your insurance provider for advice if you’re not sure which policy to take out.

LOCAL TOUR LEADERS

56th Parallel employ local Siberian tour leaders, guides and drivers. This way, we’re able to provide much-needed jobs within Siberia’s fledgling tourism industry, while our guests benefit from our guides’ intimate knowledge of the regions we visit. All our key staff are English speaking, and we absolutely encourage you to engage them with your questions and cultural comparisons. A great rapport with your tour leader goes a long way to making your holiday experience truly memorable.

Tipping of guides, drivers and hotel/restaurant staff is up to your discretion. While it’s not considered compulsory in Siberia, a tip of 5-10% is reasonable if you’re happy with the service provided. Tipping is common in restaurants and makes up a significant part of the take-home pay for wait staff.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

At 56th Parallel we are firm believers in sustainable tourism and responsible travel. Our tours and tour leaders are committed to an environmentally and culturally sensitive approach to visiting wilderness areas and local communities. Please visit our Sustainable Tourism page (http://www.56thparallel.com/we_travel/sustainable-tourism) for more information.

ABOUT THIS INFORMATION

All information here is provided in good faith and has been compiled with all reasonable care. However, our itineraries and accommodation sometimes have to be adjusted according to booking availabilities, weather conditions and other factors. We do our best to keep all the information on our website and information kits up-to-date, but please be aware that things can change at the last minute. We encourage you to contact our customer service team if there’s anything you need to be sure of – we’re always happy to help!