Tuva Travel Guide


  Day 1 Arrival in Kyzyl, Explore the city and visit the National Museum
  Day 2 Hike the Kongur Mountain Trail and Visit Kongur Lake
  Day 3 Visit Aldyn-Bulak Burial Ground and Museum
  Day 4 Take a Horseback Riding Tour
  Day 5 Explore the Scenic Valleys of Western Tuva
  Day 6 Participate in a Shamanic Ceremony
  Day 7 Departure from Kyzyl

Food and Drink Scene of Tuva

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khuurshuur: Fried meat or vegetable pies.
  • Buuz: Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
  • Shorpo: Traditional soup with meat and vegetables.
  • Airan: A sour-tasting yogurt beverage.

Local Beverages

  • Kumys: Fermented mare’s milk.
  • Araka: A strong alcoholic drink made from cow’s milk.

Where to Stay in Tuva: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors to Tuva can choose from a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Sut-Haat: A comfortable hotel located in the center of Kyzyl.
  • Tuvinian Guest House: A guesthouse that offers a traditional Tuvan experience.
  • Erzin Yurt Camp: A yurt camp located near the Aldyn-Bulak Burial Ground.

What to Buy in Tuva: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Tuva can buy unique souvenirs and local products such as:

  • Traditional Tuvan clothing and accessories.
  • Handmade crafts such as pottery, embroidery, and wood-carvings.
  • Tuvan musical instruments such as the igil and the khomus.
  • Specialty teas and herbs from Tuvan forests and fields.

Local Culture and Customs of Tuva

Tuvans have a unique culture and customs that visitors should be aware of, such as:

  • Throat Singing: Throat singing is a traditional Tuvan musical art that is deeply embedded in their culture.
  • Shamanism: Shamanism is a traditional Tuvan spiritual practice. Visitors can participate in a shamanic ceremony to learn more about it.
  • Traditional Dress: Traditional Tuvan dress is colorful and intricate, and visitors can see it at local festivals and performances.

Best Time to Visit Tuva

The best time to visit Tuva is between June and September when the weather is warm and dry. The winter season from November to April is cold, but it offers opportunities for winter sports and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tuva

Do:

  • Learn about the Tuvan culture and history.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the traditional Tuvan dishes.
  • Participate in local activities and tours.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect Tuvan religious practices or beliefs.
  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing while visiting religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tuva

Tuva is generally a safe region for travelers, but visitors should be aware of the following:

  • Take precautions while hiking and exploring remote areas.
  • Watch out for wild animals such as bears and wolves.
  • Follow the instructions of local guides while participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Tuva

Visitors to Tuva should be up-to-date with routine vaccinations and consult with their physicians about any additional vaccines. It is also recommended to bring any necessary medications as the availability of medical facilities and supplies may be limited, especially in remote areas.

Getting to Tuva: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Tuva can reach the region by air or land.

Airports Near Tuva

The nearest airport is Kyzyl Airport, which offers flights to Moscow.

Bus Stations Near Tuva

The nearest bus stations are in Abakan and Krasnoyarsk, and visitors can take a bus to Kyzyl from these stations.

Other Options

  • Train: Visitors can take a train to the nearby city of Abakan and then take a bus to Kyzyl.
  • Car: Visitors can rent a car and drive to Tuva, but it can be challenging due to the region’s remote location and rugged terrain.

How to Get Around in Tuva

The best way to get around in Tuva is by car or hiring a local driver or guide. Public transportation such as buses and taxis are also available but can be infrequent and unreliable.

Where to Go Next from Tuva: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore nearby destinations such as:

  • Mongolia: Tuva shares a border with Mongolia, and visitors can explore the beautiful landscapes and traditional culture.
  • Altai Mountains: Altai Mountains offer stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rivers, and lakes.

Conclusion

Tuva is a beautiful and unique region that offers visitors a chance to explore its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. This guide aimed to provide comprehensive information for planning a trip to Tuva, including places to visit, things to do, cultural and culinary experiences, safety and health tips, and nearby destinations.

A map of Tuva A map of Tuva A Tuvan Shaman dancing outside Kyzyl A Tuvan Shaman dancing outside Kyzyl A traditional way of getting around (in the picture is presented Tuvans from China) A traditional way of getting around (in the picture is presented Tuvans from China) Ethno-cultural complex Ethno-cultural complex "Aldyn-Bulak" Uvs Nuur Hollow from space Uvs Nuur Hollow from space


    Kyzyl