🚂 Baikalway Travel Memo: Circum-Baikal Railway (CBR) Tour
To make your journey on our comfortable tourist train safe and unforgettable, please read this brief checklist before departure.
🧥 Clothing & Footwear
- The Layering Principle: Weather on Lake Baikal changes rapidly. Bring a warm sweater or fleece.
- Windproof Jacket: Even on hot summer days (+30°C in Irkutsk), a cold, strong wind blows from the lake.
- Sturdy Shoes: Sneakers or trekking boots are mandatory. You will walk on gravel, stones, and wooden sleepers. High heels, platforms, or open sandals are strictly prohibited for your safety.
- Sun Protection: Bring a cap/hat and sunglasses. The water acts as a giant mirror, reflecting intense sunlight.
🎒 What to Pack in Your Backpack
- Flashlight: Some historic stone tunnels are very long (up to 778 meters) and pitch-black inside. Your phone's flashlight will also work.
- Power Bank: Weak mobile signals in remote areas and constant photo-taking drain phone batteries very quickly.
- Cash (Russian Rubles): Local residents at the stations sell delicious smoked Baikal fish, homemade pastries, and souvenirs. Mobile internet for credit card terminals often fails there.
- Insect Repellent & Sunscreen: Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen before the tour.
🍏 Food & Water- Personal Snacks. There will be an onboard cafeteria where you can purchase water, drinks (tea, coffee), pastries, and snacks.The fresh Baikal air boosts your appetite instantly.
- Of course, you are also welcome to bring your own snacks from home.
⚠️ Crucial Safety Rules
- Stay Alert: The Circum-Baikal Railway is a living museum, but it is also an active railway line. Never jump onto a moving train.
- Follow Your Guide: Do not climb steep cliffs or wander into tunnels alone. Stay with your tour group during excursions.
- Documents: Always bring your original passport and tour ticket for boarding.