Русский
your private guide
at lake baikal

ALL STARTS WITH A GOOD MOOD AND
RELIABLE GUIDED TOURS

Private guided Baikal tours in Russian and English.
Comfort, attention to detail,
and the authentic atmosphere of Lake Baikal—
I'll make sure your trip is special.
Tatyana Tomitova, guide-interpreter and Baikal expert
See Baikal trips
your private guide
at lake baikal

ALL STARTS WITH A GOOD MOOD AND
RELIABLE GUIDED TOURS

Private guided Baikal tours in Russian and English.
Comfort, attention to detail,
and the authentic atmosphere of Lake Baikal—
I'll make sure your trip is special.
Tatyana Tomitova, guide-interpreter and Baikal expert
See Baikal trips

IN WHICH ISSUES I ASSIST

These are the most common difficulties that future visitors to Irkutsk and Lake Baikal face

TIME IS MONEY

There's a lot of information and conflicting reviews online about excursions in Irkutsk and Lake Baikal, which can be confusing and unclear about where to go and which places you should skip. Some attractions are a long way from here, and there's a risk of arriving at the wrong location, missing out Lake Baikal's full beauty, wasting money, and, most importantly, wasting precious and limited vacation time.

My approach is to carefully plan your route to fully meet the tour's goals and objectives.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

There's a stereotype that a tour guide's only job is to overload your brain with information, figures, and historical facts. In reality, when you're traveling without a guide, your brain is much more overloaded. The places are unfamiliar, and you have to solve many problems—from simple timings and finding ticket offices and museum prices to trying to find worthwhile locations. And all this while being asked by your family or friends you've brought along on your "vacation."

The guide will save you and your loved ones from the travelers' stress. There's no need to worry about logistics or searching for vacation spots. All you have to do is enjoy a pleasant vacation on Lake Baikal in good company, with a well-thought-out itinerary and interesting stories.

SPEECH IS SILVER

There's a stereotype that a tour guide should be a "gabby talker." But there are many important nuances to a guide's work. One crucial aspect is often overlooked when planning trips: choosing the right person to work closely with – someone who will consult, listen, express your opinions, and ask questions. A guide will accompany you through moments that will become lifelong memories.

I always adhere to the following: a guide should not only possess a broad range of knowledge in local history, culture, and contemporary life, but also be well-versed in human psychology, be sensitive to moods and the appropriateness of information, and maintain a balance between active speaking and engaging in conversation with quiet moments of contemplation of the beauty of nature.

В КАКИХ ВОПРОСАХ Я ПОМОГАЮ?

Планируете поездку в Иркутск и на Байкал?

Я помогу разобраться со всеми нюансами путешествия — от выбора маршрута и бронирования экскурсий до организации трансфера и проживания.

Вот с какими трудностями чаще всего сталкиваются гости региона — и которые мы решаем вместе.

  • ВРЕМЯ-ДЕНЬГИ

    Если опираться на теоретические советы из Интернет и соцсетей, хаотичные переезды на большие расстояния и трата времени обеспечены.

    ✨Четкий план в соответствии с вашими пожеланиями и моими рекомендациями сэкономит ваше время и позволит познакомиться за небольшой промежуток времени и с природой, и с культурой, и с историей Байкала

  • ЗНАНИЕ — СИЛА

    Вам не нужно думать о маршрутах, билетах и логистике.

    Я беру организацию на себя — вы просто наслаждаетесь Байкалом и его атмосферой с качественным экскурсионным сопровождением.

    ✨Все детали поездки, включая планирование маршрута, поиск транспорта, бронирование билетов, подбор локаций, музеев в соответствии с вашими желаниями я беру на себя.

  • СЛОВО — СЕРЕБРО

    Экскурсия — это не поток фактов, а живое общение и тонкое чувство момента.

    Я создаю баланс между рассказом и тишиной, знанием и эмоцией — чтобы вы чувствовали Байкал, а не просто слушали о нём. Большой опыт работы с людьми в разных сферах деятельности позволяет мне тонко чувствовать своих гостей, учитывать их интересы и создавать не односторонний монолог о Байкале, а живое искреннее и душевное взаимодействие.

    ✨ Каждая встреча оставляет тёплые воспоминания и вдохновение.

  • ЭНЕРГИЯ - ЖИЗНЬ

    О Байкале можно узнать теоретически, будто вы прочитали Википедию. А можно прожить все его особенности, красоты, особенности и даже характер.

    ✨ Байкал по-настоящему живой, и я создаю все условия, чтобы вы прочувствовали его энергию, зарядились этой свежестью, познали его приземленный и одновременно приподнимающий характер. И эту порцию энергии направили на воплощение своих намерений, увезли этот заряд бодрости с собой.

WHICH EXCURSION IS CONSIDERED SUCCESSFUL?

A tour of Lake Baikal with me isn't a chaotic drive from one attraction to another, but a well-thought-out itinerary that develops both a chronological and logical sequence. After the tour, you'll gain a holistic understanding of the region, knowledge of its historical, cultural, and climatic features, and a living knowledge of its traditions and customs, gained from a local who was born and raised in the national culture and can convey this knowledge both emotionally, with the experience of fully experiencing it, and objectively, without excessive fanaticism or superstition.

A complete picture is formed through various tour methods, including visual demonstrations, where you can compare the objects you see with images of how they looked before. The goal is achieved through storytelling techniques—from description to full participation, where you masterfully perform the "yokhor" - local Buryat dance and know exactly what each movement signifies. Not to mention the gastronomy on excursions, where you'll taste various national dishes and immerse yourself in the region's history in its colors and flavors.

This blend of knowledge, activities, emotions, sensations, and tastes will undoubtedly give you a comprehensive, not only theoretical, but also practical, picture of life at Baikal.

RECHARGING TOURS WITH TANYA TOMITOVA

One of the highlights of my tours is the opportunity to "recharge your batteries." City dwellers often suffer from stress, depression, lack of personal space, social pressure, and information overload. This reduces overall productivity and creativity, creates mental overload, leads to conflicts, and an inability to assess many situations clearly.

Trips in pleasant, understanding company help restore spiritual strength, bring new experiences to life, see things from a different perspective, and escape the daily grind.
Lake Baikal is a place where the very atmosphere invites renewal and relaxation for both body and soul. You have the opportunity to see this natural gem in a sophisticated excursion setting.

BAIKAL WINTER TOURS


Olkhon: A trip to the icy kingdom of Lake Baikal with grottoes and caves, an introduction to local culture, and tasting omul fish soup.

In just one day, you'll appreciate the diversity of Lake Baikal's natural landscapes, with its taiga forests, mountain forest-steppe, boundless icy expanses, intricate patterns and methane bubbles, and the astonishing snow-white splashes of grottoes and caves—a veritable kingdom of the Snow Queen. You'll experience the life and traditions of the local population firsthand and admire the sprawling white plains of the Ust-Orda District, and closer to Lake Baikal, the otherworldly views of the Tazheran steppes. Visit the sacred Cape Burkhan and Shamanka Rock with its 13 prayer pillars. See Cape Khoboy, the northernmost part of Olkhon Island, home to Deva Rock at Lake Baikal's widest point. Take photos among the hummocks—entire ice castles. Visit Ogoy Island, a landmark for Buddhists, with its snow-white Enlightenment Stupa at the summit and the island's famous Dragon's Tail rock.

Duration: 13 hours
Cost: from 20,000 rubles

Listvyanka: dog sledding, cable car with views of Lake Baikal, walk through the Siberian village, and real seals in aquariums

In just one day, you'll see Lake Baikal and the source of the Angara River from the bird's-eye view, enjoy the thrilling dog sledding ride, admire the adorable seals, dine with a view of Lake Baikal, and pick up some interesting traditional souvenirs and hot or cold-smoked omul. Visit the Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture with its authentic wooden houses. Swing on Russian swings, slide down the ice slide, and warm up with hot sbiten (a traditional Russian drink). Stop at the famous Shaman Rock at the source of the Angara River and learn the legend of Baikal and its naughty daughter. Ride the cable car to an observation deck overlooking the source of the Angara River and Lake Baikal. Enjoy omul soup and Siberian delicacies at a café overlooking Lake Baikal.

Duration: 7 hours
Cost: from 10,000 rubles

Bolshoye Goloustnoye: Ice with methane bubbles, skating and sledding with Malamutes, walk to Dry Lake, tea with pancakes, and lunch with Buryat buuzas

You will discover a little-known story about old Baikal water route, drink tea with pancakes in a Siberian hut, get acquainted with charming malamutes, do Malamute sledding and participate in the photo shoot with them. You will see the famous methane bubbles and it will be possible to skate on the ice of Baikal. Hike to Dry Lake with its famous Men's and Women's Stone. Climb the White or Wisdom Mount overlooking Baikal and the Idin-Gol River Delta. Dine with delicious Baikal buuzas.

Duration: 6 hours
Cost: from 10,000 rubles

ACTIVE WINTER TOURS


Port Baikal + the historic Seredina station on Khivus: an ancient port, the end station of the Circum-Baikal Railway, and the Baikal ice crossing

During this excursion, you'll travel back in time to the winter world of Lake Baikal in the early 20th century, visiting the ancient Port Baikal—once the largest station on the Trans-Siberian Railway—and see abandoned ships and the source of the Angara River. You'll cruise across the ice of Lake Baikal on a Khivus (hovercraft), stop in a picturesque bay, and see the nearest tunnel on one of the sections of the Circum-Baikal Railway. Then, you'll stop at Seredina Station and take part in an interactive tour. You'll learn about the development of Lake Baikal's shores and the operation of the ice crossing in the early 20th century. You'll see many household items, the tsar period coins, and tools, and participate in a master class on antique weapons. You'll also participate in a photo shoot with military equipment and costumes from the early 20th century, against the backdrop of a trackside shack reminiscent of the period. A pleasant addition to the immersion will be tea from a real wood-fired samovar with delicious pastries. A full lunch with Siberian dishes is also available upon request.


Duration: 3-4 hours

Price: from 10,000 rubles








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Snowmobiling through the taiga: Krestovaya Valley, active recharging, Siberian tea party

This amazing adventure will allow you to experience the true Siberian spirit. You'll travel through the Krestovaya Valley along the river of the same name. The views of the winter kingdom with its fluffy white trees will give you an incredible sense of drive and, at the same time, the power and tranquility of the Siberian taiga. This trip is a true recharge, with only the steering wheel of a snowmobile in your hands, a complete absence of thoughts, a speed that's fast yet safe, fresh frosty air, and a feeling of complete immersion in nature. At one of the stops, you'll have the opportunity to drink Siberian tea, and you can order lunch if you wish. After all, there's nothing more pleasant than a delicious rest in the lap of nature after an active day.


Duration: from 2 hours

Price: from 12,000 rubles per person

Dog sledding through the taiga with Baikal huskies: a family's estate, a blacksmith's workshop, and sleigh rides

You'll visit a sled dog kennel, meet and take photos with friendly huskies. This estate offers more than just dog sledding. It's a true immersion into the world of sled dog racing, an opportunity to hear firsthand the owner's stories about the races and their harsh conditions, learn more about the physical and mental endurance of both dogs and humans, and discover the feats they're capable of, even in harsh climates. The estate is home to many interesting people who introduce everyone to the intricacies of blacksmithing, hosting workshops where everyone can forge their own craft—a nail, a lucky horseshoe, and much more. You can even learn the secrets of wielding a genuine Cossack saber. There's even a pottery wheel and various clay items on display. And for the little ones, you can purchase beautiful illustrated books about dogs and their adventures.

You'll embark on a dog-sled and sleigh-driven excursion through the snowy taiga. There's nothing more wonderful than feeling like the first Cossack explorers, hurrying through the dense Siberian taiga on sleighs. Upon reaching the nearest stop, you can enjoy a delicious Siberian lunch, stroll through the surrounding area, and take unforgettable photos amidst the snowy beauty.


Duration: from 3 hours

Cost: from 10,000 rubles per person

IRKUTSK CITY TOURS

A sightseeing tour by car around the city: architecture, history of its founding, merchants, two Angara embankments, a monument to Kolchak, the Lace House, a modern wooden quarter, and a taiga-style lunch

Irkutsk is a city of contrasts: it combines modern architecture with beautiful wooden houses with stunning carvings and intricate shapes. This Siberian town is a place you'll fall in love with at first sight—it has its own distinct Siberian character and image. You'll visit the historic city center; the monument to the city's founder; streets lined with wooden merchant houses; the central Karl Marx Street with its stone buildings; the White House; and the 130th Quarter with its cozy restaurants and souvenir shops.

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: from 4000 rubles

Walking around Irkutsk: hidden corners of the city, the historic center, Karl Marx Street walk, local style shopping – nuts, pine nuts, and invigorating Siberian tea

What could be better than exploring a city on a leisurely and enriching walking tour through its most hidden corners? Irkutsk, like any other provincial town, holds its secrets and amazing stories connected to its people and ancient buildings. You'll learn about the history of the conquest of Siberia, discover the lives of local residents before the arrival of the first settlers, and see monuments and buildings associated with these events. You'll stroll along Lenin and Karl Marx Streets, and visit the local central market for pleasant and delicious purchases like local candies, pine nuts, and taiga tea. You can also book lunch at a local café, featuring the most famous and delicious local delicacies (choose from Buryat or Siberian cuisine).

Duration: 2.5 hours
Cost: from 3,000 rubles

SUMMER EXCURSIONS


Olkhon: A Journey Through Steppes, Coniferous Forests, Panoramic Cliffs, and Sandy Beaches


Majestic, energetically powerful places will allow you to breathe deeply with the fresh Baikal air. You'll visit Cape Burkhan (Shamanka Rock), Baikal's signature landmark, its breathtaking beauty that will leave you weak at the knees. You'll also see Cape Khoboy, the northernmost and widest point, where the gaze will be delighted by the vast expanses and colorful panorama. It's no coincidence that this route is so popular: in one day, you'll have the opportunity to appreciate the lake's vastness and all its diverse beaches, from the pebble beach of Uzur to the sandy shores of Saraisky Beach, hear captivating Buryat legends, and visit sacred sites. The excursion program includes an outdoor lunch – Baikal-style omul soup.

Duration: 13 hours
Cost: from 20,000 rubles

Listvyanka: A summer trip with views of the mountains and the endless expanse of Lake Baikal, the source of the Angara River, the bird's eye view of Lake Baikal, and boat trips.

You'll learn fascinating facts about the Pearl of Siberia, from why Lake Baikal is colder in summer than Irkutsk, and vice versa in winter, to stories about how seals overwinter and why the Angara River is called Baikal's naughty daughter. You'll stroll through the Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture, featuring preserved elements of the fortress built centuries ago by Siberian pioneers, as well as peasant huts and Buryat yurts. Swing on Russian swings, try balancing on stilts, and admire the stunning views of the Angara River. You can also try Baikal omul, buuzy (a Buryat dish), pine nuts, and many other local delicacies. Visit the fish and souvenir market to pick up some memorable souvenirs. At Baikal Museum, admire seals and other inhabitants of Lake Baikal in aquariums. You can complement your trip with an hour-long boat ride to the nearest ancient port and the Circum-Baikal Railway station.

Duration: 7 hours
Cost: from 10,000 rubles

Arshan: mountain air, healing springs, a mountain waterfall, protected areas, the "Siberian Alps," the Sacred Meadow, and mini Buddhist temple

An unforgettable day in Buryatia will allow you to immerse yourself in the world of Siberian nature, stroll along forest trails to magnificent waterfalls, try healing water from mountain springs, and gain a closer understanding of Buryat culture. The route goes along the serpentine mountain road. You'll reach an observation deck overlooking the southern part of Lake Baikal, where the smooth surface of the water merges with the endless blue sky, and the snow-capped peaks of Khamar-Daban mountains. Upon arrival in Arshan, you can try local cuisine—buuza, bukhler, and the legendary local chebureki—and stroll along the Kyngarga mountain river. Then, head to the most picturesque waterfall. Visit the Buddhist temple, where you can learn more about this philosophy, walk around the Stupa in tranquil atmosphere, and even meditate in the Sacred Meadow.

Duration: 13 hours
Cost: from 10,000 rubles

Let's get to know each other better

My name is Tanya Tomitova.
For over 18 years I've been a guide and an interpreter at Lake Baikal. Over these years, I've worked with guests from all over the world—with a wide variety of interests and goals. Some come to recharge, others for inspiration, and still others for adventure and new experiences. I've learned to understand each person's needs and create itineraries that truly resonate.
My personal journey is also inextricably linked to the search for harmony. I've undergone transformational practices, trained as a psychologist, and studied shamanism, Buddhism, and non-dual teachings. Therefore, I connect with travelers who come to Lake Baikal not just to see, but to feel—to recharge, to bring order within, to connect with themselves.
I incorporate everything I love into these itineraries: leisurely contemplation of nature in warm company, deep cultural immersion—through a firsthand acquaintance with Buryat traditions, participation in rituals, master classes, folk dances, and conversations with locals, vibrant leisure activities—snowmobiling, SUP riding, easy hikes, swimming in Lake Baikal, and tasting local cuisine.
These are trips where you don't want to scroll through your feed—there's too much of the present "here and now." I continue to learn—participated in the International Guide Conference in Budapest, learning from the experiences of colleagues from all over the world.
But my main source of inspiration remains Lake Baikal itself—living, powerful, and infinitely beautiful. And I happily share this power with anyone who is ready to discover more.

WORK EXPERIENCE

From 2006 to the present - tour guide on Lake Baikal, guide-translator from/into English, written and oral consecutive translation
From 2018 to the present, recharge tours on Lake Baikal.
Reviews
The goal of my work is to make people happy
  • Tanya arranged our once-in-lifetime 5 night/6 day stay in the Lake Baikal Region. From the moment you are picked up at the airport you are not just an client but immediately you feel like family. Tanya knows history, culture, art, nature …. she has the answers to all your questions. Tanya’s network of local providers from boat captain on the lake, to driver on Olkhon, to train on the famous Baikal route, to a Shaman ensured that all our adventures were planned ahead and met the highest standards. She is amazing from the moment the trip is planned until it breaks your heart that you have to leave at the end. Thank you Tanya and all of the wonderful people who made this an unforgettable trip.
    Tanya and Hart
    Listvianka and Olkhon tour
  • Her knowledge in all aspects like nature, wildlife, culture, history, myth, anthropology is truly commendable. We did 1day Arshan tour with her. We asked her thousands questions in diverse topics and surprised to see her immense knowledge as well as powerful insight. She is genuinely passionate about travelling and it reflects on her work. She is very caring, responsible and friendly person. Hope to do more trips with her in future.
    Reshmi
    Listvianka tour
  • I have just returned from a short visit to Lake Baikal, a very special place. I was interested in the scenery and history of the local Buryat people. One companion is an accomplished travel photographer and the other a retired science teacher. Each of us had plenty to enjoy. We were very impressed with the Baikal Museum and Taltsy museum. Our guide Tanya speaks excellent English, and was very helpful interpreting the science of the lake and history of the area. We went to Olkhon Island where her knowledge, Buryat heritage and personal relationship with the spirits of the place made for an amazing and unforgettable visit. We saw other tours rush by as we went "off road" to various points of interest. In our brief free time we enjoyed the village of Listvyanka with smoked fish and beer at the beach. Our only regret was that we did not arrange to stay longer in this remarkable region.
    Thomas
    Listvianka tour
  • Tanya is an superb guide. During our pre-trip discussions I made several very unique requests. Afterwards I realized she had accommodated all of my requests. She put a significant amount of time before the trip planning my special requests. She is personable and very friendly. We had great conversations throughout the trip. She is punctual and well organized. I highly recommend Tanya as a guide.
    Steven
    Arshan trip
BOOKING ORDER
Request processing
After receiving request from the site, I contact you at one of the Messengers
Personal consultation
Then I get in touch by phone and clarify all the important points
Tour approval
After that I make you a program and timing of the excursion
Booking
After agreeing on all the details of the excursion, I issue an invoice for prepayment and after receiving the prepayment, I make all the necessary reservations: tickets, transport, permits to national parks, pre-orders in cafes and restaurants
Full payment
2-7 days prior to the assigned excursion after final approvals, I invoice the surcharge and you pay the full excursion fee
Guided tour
On the appointed date, we meet and spend an inspiring excursion day on Lake Baikal

Contact me

Here you can book the date and time of the excursion, transfer, as well as ask any questions:)

BLOG

In the blog, I tell about interesting places and share life of tourism on Lake Baikal

TOP 10 Baikal Winter Activities

How to make all the dreams of your childhood durinf one trip
Learn more

Siberian gastronomy: what you definitely need to try on Lake Baikal

What you should definitely try, and where to find it
Learn more

Top 10 must-see spots
on Lake Baikal

Popular and unknown attractions
Learn more
+7 950 101 10 65
pocahontas_2003@mail.ru
Write to me on any questions related to a trip to Baikal, I will be happy to help.

Below is a link to my Telegram channel, where I publish useful information on the best sights, tips on the route
CREDITS:

Ekaterina Sandalkina | Treefort Music Fest | Takahiro Hayashi

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