The fastest way is to get to Irkutsk by plane from Moscow. There are 6 direct flights per day, duration is 5h 40m.
Usually travellers to Russia visit Moscow for several days before a trip to Baikal. Moscow is the capital of Russia and transport hub for journeys to the rest of Russia. UVisitRussia recommends our partner Aeroflot Russian Airlines for your flight.

If you want to have a fun, memorable and completely unique Russian experience - we would recommend you to get to Irkutsk by train from Moscow. There are 3 to 6 direct trains per day, duration is 3 - 3.5 days. UVisitRussia recommends our partner Russian Train Schedule for your train travel.

If you need assistance in getting to Irkutsk, please contact us and our travel professionals will help you gladly.

Arrival in Irkutsk, the fabulous capital of Eastern Siberia, where you will be met by your private driver for the transfer to your hotel Mariott. After the time to relax, your knowledgeable and experienced guide will invite you for a glorious overview tour. Irkutsk, known as the "Paris of Siberia", is an unique old city, the ancient crossroads of trade routes. During this 3-hour walking city tour of Irkutsk (in case of bad/cold wheather it is possible to change to private car tour) the guide will show you the city's beautiful historical center, you will get acquainted with the history of Irkutsk and will see the city's main streets, amazing churches, traditional wooden buildings and incredible monuments. There are many great museums keeping historical and cultural heritage of the city. You will visit one of the most famous museums.
1 night in Courtyard Marriott hotel, Irkutsk

Morning transfer by private car to the amazing tiny village of  Bolshoe Goloustnoe, located 2 hours from Irkutsk on the shore of the world's oldest and deepest lake, Baikal. This is the place to come for the authentic Siberian experience in a stunning setting. Almost all the buildings in the village are built in the fabulous classic wooden style.  Trekking tour starts from Bolshoe Goloustnoe village and continue along the shore to Cape Kadilny, 18 km. This trip is really scenic. Kadilny Cape is situated between the village of Bolshiye Koty and the settlement of Bolshoye Goloustnoye on the western shore. Before they used to overfire (“thurify”) limestone which are nearby cliffs made of. To thurify means “Kadit” in Russian that is why the cape was called so.The cape itself is quite plain and formed with burden of the Bolshoya Kadilnaya river drift. Near the tourist centre there are caves which are worth visiting. Vast fields of Alpine edelweisses represent one more marvelous attraction of these places. There is a tourist centre with banya and souvenir shop on the cape.
1 night in tents
Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

The cape itself is quite plain and formed with burden of the Bolshaya Kadilnaya river drift. Near the tourist centre there are caves which are worth visiting (wherein aboriginal people of the Iron Age once lived). Vast fields of Alpine edelweisses represent one more marvelous attraction of these places. Also gold used to be extracted from there about 40 years ago. Trekking to Bolshie Koty village 15 km. Bolshie Koty is a remote and isolated village (reachable only by feet or by boat, no road) where one can relax and enjoy the beauty and serenity of this region. Overnight in a cozy Siberian chalet,  built in the traditional Russian wooden architecture style, packed full of gorgeous features which make the property truly unique. Great view to the lake from all rooms, spacious dining room, superb cuisine are the most remarkable advantages of the Koty Chalet. Peaceful atmosphere, bright colors, forests full of mushrooms and wild berries, sunsets over the great lake will take your heart forever. All rooms with balconies and view to the lake.
1 night in Baikal Chalet Koty
Meals: Breakfast

Sightseeing around Bolshie Koty - this part of the Great Baikal Trail offers a very scenic hike through Siberian forests and along the shores of Lake Baikal. Nowadays this tiny, picturesque village is home to less than 70 people, mostly retired, living from agriculture and fishing. Food, products and materials are brought by boats from Irkutsk or Listvyanka. Surrounded by woody hills and picturesque cliffs this solitude place has its own life rhythm measured not by hours and days but with the sunshine and seasons. Crime free and healthy microclimate, Bolshie Koty is ideal against stress, for getting in shape and having rest from the city noise and traffic. Quitness and the natural beauty of the area will charm you and leave the peace of mind and unity filling deep in your sole. Afternoon transfer to Irkutsk by shuttle minibus.  (Or in the evening, if needed).
1 night in Courtyard Marriott hotel, Irkutsk
Meals: Breakfast

This day is at your leisure. Following free time, You will be transferred to Irkutsk train station/airport to begin your journey home.
Meals: Breakfast