Tour commences in Moscow, Russia on June 30 2009. 13 day fully inclusive program ending in Ulan Bator, Mongolia on Jul 13 2009.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1 - 01 July 2009: Moscow. Your 14-night epic journey begins at Moscow airport, where you will be transferred to a luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of this vibrant city for a one-night stay. We will enjoy a welcome reception and dinner at our hotel.
Day 2 - 02 July 2009: Moscow. Today our city tour includes Red Square; the largest and most famous of Moscow’s squares, which has witnessed many significant events of global importance. Here we see an eclectic mix of fascinating architecture, such as the ornate St Basil’s Cathedral and the grandeur of The Kremlin. Late afternoon sees us boarding the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express. After settling into our modern, stylish cabins, we enjoy dinner in one of the beautifully designed restaurant cars.
Day 3 - 03 July 2009: Kazan. We arrive at picturesque Kazan by mid-morning. Situated on the Volga, Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan. One of the highlights of this absorbing city tour is our exploration of the Kremlin Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within the walls of this ancient urban citadel we will explore its sublime mosque and magnificent Russian Orthodox cathedral. After enjoying a relaxing dinner on the Golden Eagle, you may wish to adjourn to our welcoming Bar Car where you can enjoy drinks with new friends whilst listening to our resident pianist.
Day 4 - 04 July 2009: Yekaterinburg. Today we cross the Europe/Asia divide before arriving in the historic city of Yekaterinburg. Founded in 1723 by Peter the Great, this third largest Russian city is also the capital of the Urals. Our city tour takes us to the execution site where the Romanov, Nicholas II of Russia was executed with his family by the Bolsheviks in 1918. Now a church dedicated to their memory, this site offers us a powerful insight into the turmoil of the Russian Revolution. Next, we head to the monument located at the point of the Europe/Asia divide where we can stand with a foot in both continents!
Day 5 - 05 July 2009: Novosibirsk. Novosibirsk is our destination for today. Truly a modern "Soviet" city, we experience its rich cultural character where the arts, science and literature predominate. We visit The Novosibirsk Opera House - an architectural marvel and the largest opera house in the world. In front of the Opera House, we visit an imposing statue of Lenin – a marvelous opportunity to have your photograph taken with this iconic political leader. Our tour is concluded with a fascinating tour of the Academgorodok mineral museum.
Day 6 - 06 July 2009: Onboard. Today is a day to unwind and reflect on the many sights and sounds we have experienced. Chat to your fellow passengers, perhaps learn a few words of Russian or simply absorb the ever changing landscape outside your window.
Day 7 - 07 July 2009: Irkutsk. Today we arrive in Irkutsk. Coined "Paris of Siberia", the accolade is apt and well earned. Our tour takes in the most significant sites and museums in this fascinating city, including an absorbing exploration of the classic wooden architecture that has given many of this region’s buildings such a distinctive appearance. Next, we visit the Decembrist House museum which is dedicated to the memory of the exiled aristocrats who were forced to flee to this remote outpost. Here we will enjoy a private concert before returning to our waiting train for dinner.
Day 8 - 08 July 2009: Lake Baikal. Few natural sights can surpass the astounding beauty and natural grandeur of Lake Baikal. As we wind our way through mountain tunnels and along vertiginous cliff hugging tracks, we pass through a vista of snow capped peaks and unspoilt grasslands. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and holds the largest volume of freshwater as well as a unique breed of seal and fifty species of fish. Weather permitting, we stop at one of Baikal’s picturesque and secluded bays to enjoy a delicious BBQ prepared by our own chefs. For the brave hearted, there is even time for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters. In the afternoon, we visit Listvyanka, a small Baikal settlement nestling at the base of the surrounding hills.
Day 9 - 09 July 2009: Ulan Ude: This morning we arrive in Ulan Ude, capital of the Buryat Republic. The fascinating ethnic and cultural diversity of this area offers a unique insight into its Mogul heritage. As we tour the area by coach you will notice the different faces and dress styles of these welcoming people. Our exploration of the Old Believers Village is intimate, informative and engaging. Here we have the privilege to learn about the cultural history of these unique people as we are treated to a traditional meal and enjoy a concert featuring local dancers and musicians.
Day 10 - 10 July 2009: Ulaan Bator. Today our Trans-Siberian adventure takes us to Ulaan Bator, the capital of Mongolia. Passing the central monument to Genghis Khan, undoubtedly the most feared and infamous Mongol, we visit the National Museum where we explore Mongolia’s fascinating history.
Day 11 - 11 July 2009: Ulan Bator. Today we visit Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Lunch is taken Mongol style, in a traditional Ger (Yurt) restaurant. Almost a third of Mongolia’s nomadic population live in these traditional tents. Here we experience an authentic meal, enjoying local dishes and entertainment. For those wishing to experience the true spirit of the Mongolia, you have the option of experiencing horse riding across this stunning landscape.
Day 12 - 12 July 2009: Ulan Bator. Today we spend the entire day at the Festival of Naadam. At Mongolia’s largest and most important festival, we experience the high drama and vibrant color of its elaborate opening ceremony. Archers, wrestlers and horse riders then compete in a series of breathtaking competitions of great skill and bravery. This ancient festival truly captures the wild and proud spirit of these independent people.
Day 13 - 13 July 2009: Ulan Bator. This morning is spent absorbing more of the sights and sounds of this Mongolian festival. As we wonder through the throngs, we have the opportunity to admire the local handicrafts, ancient traditions and dress of this remarkable civilization. Our final evening is spent saying our goodbyes to our fellow traveling companions at our Farewell Dinner.
Day 14 - 14 July 2009: Departures. Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport to begin your journey home.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- All accommodation as per the itinerary;
- On board the train and in hotels;
- All meals starting with dinner on the first day (on some tours this may differ slightly, so please refer to the specific itinerary);
- A generous allowance of wine, beer, soft drinks and tea and coffee with all lunches and dinners both on and off the train (except where stated otherwise);
- All arrival and departure transfers (providing you arrive/depart on the tour start/end date and except where stated otherwise);
- Guided off train sightseeing excursions;
- The services of experienced tour leaders;
- Complimentary tea, coffee, mineral water 24 hours a day, all gratuities;
- An on board doctor (except if stated otherwise).
Price does not include: Visas - please contact your consulate or visa agency.
Also see tour packages in:
Asia
Mongolia
Russia
Sightseeing
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