Evenkia Travel Guide

Discover the charms of Evenkia, with its breathtaking natural attractions, rich culture, and unique experiences. Learn where to go, what to see, and how to get there in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Evenkia

Evenkia is a remote region located in the Krasnoyarsk Krai of Siberia, Russia. It is home to the Evenk people, one of the indigenous Siberian nomadic groups, who have inhabited the area for centuries. Evenkia is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, vast steppes, and taiga forests that are a haven for wildlife. The region is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking to explore one of the world’s last great wilderness areas.

List of Places to Visit in Evenkia

Here is a list of must-visit places in Evenkia, divided into culturally important attractions and natural attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Regional Local Museum: Located in Tura, the capital of Evenkia, the museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Evenks and other indigenous groups of the area. It has an impressive collection of traditional costumes, household items, and artifacts that depict the way of life of the region’s indigenous people.
  • Talchir Museum: This open-air museum is located in the village of Talchir and is dedicated to the history and culture of the Evenks. It features traditional yurts, fishing and hunting tools, and household items that provide insight into the daily life of the nomadic tribes.
  • Golden Mountains of Altai: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not located in Evenkia, but it is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the ancient rock paintings and petroglyphs that adorn the cliffs of the Altai Mountains. It is a day trip destination from Evenkia.

Natural Attractions of Evenkia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Putorana Plateau: This vast wilderness, located in the northwestern part of Evenkia, is a pristine landscape of waterfalls, canyons, and lakes that is home to a large population of reindeer and brown bears. A popular activity is hiking to the 164-feet high Kureika waterfall.
  • Yenisei River: This famous river is the longest in Russia and cuts through Evenkia. It is a great place to go fishing for salmon, pike, and sturgeon. River cruising is also a great way to explore the area and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Evenkia.
  • Mongun-Taiga Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is located near the border of Evenkia and Tuva and is home to one of the largest populations of wild reindeer in the world. Visitors can hike in the taiga, engage with locals and learn about their way of life, and witness the beauty of the region’s natural scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Evenkia

Evenkia offers a unique opportunity to explore its rich natural landscapes through hiking and biking. Here are some of the best trails in the region:

  • Putorana Plateau Trail: This 15-day trek takes hikers through the heart of the Putorana Plateau, showcasing breathtaking views of canyons, waterfalls, and glacial lakes.
  • Berelyokh Trail: This trail is a three-day hiking and camping experience that takes visitors to the top of Berelyokh mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Yenisei River Bike Trail: This bike trail runs alongside the Yenisei River and offers picturesque views of the taiga forests and wildlife that call the riverbed home.

Best Things to Do in Evenkia: Activities and Tours

Evenkia offers a unique set of activities and tours that can cater to everyone’s taste, such as:

  • Dog Sledding: This is a traditional mode of transportation that the Evenks have used for centuries to navigate the snowy landscape. Visitors can enjoy this experience by taking a dog-sledding tour through the Taiga with local guides.
  • Hot Springs: There are hot springs located throughout Evenkia that are perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking or exploring the taiga.
  • Fishing: The Yenisei River is a prime spot for fishing, with various kinds of fish available year-round, and many fishing tours are available.
  • Camping: The vast wilderness of Evenkia offers excellent camping opportunities, and visitors can choose between traditional tepee-style tents or modern camping amenities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Evenkia

If you have a week to explore Evenkia, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1-2: Tura

Spend two days exploring the capital of Evenkia and the Regional Local Museum. In the evenings, enjoy dinner at local restaurants and experience Evenkia’s nightlife.

Day 3-5: Putorana Plateau

Spend three days exploring the stunning landscapes of Putorana Plateau by hiking and camping, taking in the beautiful waterfalls and glacial lakes.

Day 6-7: Yenisei River

Spend your last days in Evenkia by fishing or river cruising along the Yenisei River. Stop by the Mongun-Taiga Nature Reserve and learn about the traditional ways of life of the Evenks.

Food and Drink Scene of Evenkia

Evenkia’s cuisine is heavily influenced by traditional Evenk culture and uses locally sourced ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kotlety Po-Sibirski: A meat patty made of ground beef and pork, seasoned with onions and spices, and fried.
  • Zharenaya Ryba: Fried fish from the Yenisei River like salmon and sturgeon.
  • Venison: The region is known for its wild reindeer, and deer meat is commonly served as a main dish.

Local Beverages

  • Chaga Tea: A mushroom tea made of chaga mushrooms that grow in the taiga forests.
  • Birch Sap: A refreshing drink made of the sap of birch trees harvested in the spring.

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

Evenkia offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some options:

  • Hotel Tura: A modern boutique hotel located in the center of Tura, the capital of Evenkia.
  • Guesthouse Taiga: A guesthouse that offers Soviet-era-style accommodation and meals.
  • Bolshaya Elga Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in Evenkia’s Putorana Plateau.

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

  • Fur and Leather Crafts: Evenkia is known for its traditional fur and leather craft, such as boots, mittens, and hats, which are perfect for cold winter nights.
  • Taste of Evenkia: Local delicacies like shamanic teas, herbal mixtures, and honey are great gifts for friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Evenkia

Evenkia has a rich cultural heritage, and the Evenks have preserved their identity, traditions, and lifestyle for centuries. Visitors should be respectful of the local culture and dress appropriately while visiting mosques and other places of worship located in the region.

Best Time to Visit Evenkia

The best time to visit Evenkia is from June to August when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are in full swing. December through February are ideal for winter sports and dog sledding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Evenkia

Do:

  • Check your winter gear and report any deficiencies before starting your outdoor activities.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Ignore local weather warnings.
  • Attempt to camp or hike alone in unfamiliar territory.
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health in Evenkia

Safety in Evenkia

Evenkia’s environment is wild and unpredictable, and visitors should be well-prepared when exploring the wilderness. Wildlife encounters are a risk in Evenkia, and visitors should be cautious while hiking, especially in remote areas.

Health in Evenkia

Visitors are advised to ensure their vaccinations against tetanus and diphtheria are up to date before traveling to Evenkia. Travelers are strongly advised to drink only boiled water or bottled water and avoid street foods that could cause food poisoning.

Getting to Evenkia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Evenkia can be challenging, given the remote location of the region. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Evenkia

  • Tura Airport: This is the only airport that serves Evenkia, and it’s located in the capital city of Tura.

Bus Stations Near Evenkia

  • Krasnoyarsk Bus Station: Buses from Krasnoyarsk run daily to Tura, but the journey can take up to 2-3 days.

Other Options

  • Train: Trains run from Krasnoyarsk to Tura but are less frequent and slower than bus services.
  • Car: Many people opt to rent a car in Krasnoyarsk and then explore Evenkia on their own.

How to Get Around in Evenkia

Getting around Evenkia can be challenging given the vast distances and the limited public transportation options available. Visitors can choose to travel by regional buses, hire a car, or go hiking or biking to explore the region.

Where to Go Next from Evenkia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Evenkia, visitors can consider the following nearby destinations:

  • Krasnoyarsk: This is the largest city in Krasnoyarsk Krai and offers a vibrant nightlife scene.
  • Siberian Taiga: Visitors can explore the largest forest and ecosystem on earth and visit other indigenous people, including the Khanty and Nenets.

Conclusion

Evenkia is a remarkable destination that offers a unique blend of culture, wildlife, and vast taiga landscapes to explore. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities ranging from hiking and biking to dog sledding and fishing. With our comprehensive guide, you will be able to experience this remote region of Siberia like a local.

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