Mari El Travel Guide

Here's everything you need to know before visiting Mari El, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Mari El

Mari El is a small, landlocked republic situated in the heart of Russia’s Volga Region. Its capital city, Yoshkar-Ola, has an interesting blend of old and new architecture with the Volga River flowing near it. Mari El has a rich history and culture, and its natural beauty is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. The locals are hospitable, and you will have the opportunity to experience a unique culture and traditions of the Mari people.

List of Places to Visit in Mari El

Mari El has something for everyone, from historical monuments to museums, natural reserves, and cultural events. Below are some of the must-visit places in Mari El.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. National Art Gallery of Mari El Republic: This museum is located in a beautiful old building that houses various Mari artwork, ranging from traditional handicrafts to contemporary art.
  2. Museum of History and Regional Studies: This museum showcases the history and culture of Mari El from ancient times to present-day.
  3. Tsaryovokokshaysk Kremlin: This historical landmark is famous for its white walls and towers that have an excellent view of the nearby Kokshaga River.
  4. The Annunciation Cathedral: This stunning, Baroque-styled building was built in the 17th century and is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Natural Attractions of Mari El: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mari Chodra National Park: This national park is a nature reserve that covers an area of 51,500 hectares, including dense forests, plenty of wildlife, and lakes.
  2. Lake Yalchik: This tranquil lake is located in the Zvenigovo district and is a great place for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
  3. Mari El Republic Botanical Garden: This garden is bursting with different types of flora, and visitors can take a relaxing walk or engage in nature photography.
  4. Pugachev’s Oak Tree: This massive, ancient oak tree is around 300 years old and has a legendary backstory surrounding it.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mari El

Mari El’s natural beauty makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who like to get their heart pumping. Here are some of the top hiking and biking trails in Mari El:

  1. Yoshkar-Ola - Kokshaga river - Elshanka: This 36-kilometer trail is perfect for experienced hikers and cyclists as it can take around 6 hours to complete. It offers breathtaking views of the Kokshaga River and the surrounding forest.
  2. Prisurskiy Mountains Trail: This challenging trail offers some of the most magnificent views of the mountains, including the famous Mount Obas.
  3. Medveditsa Trail: This popular and easy trail is perfect for beginners and families with children.

Best Things to Do in Mari El: Activities and Tours

Mari El offers plenty of things to keep tourists entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Mari El:

  1. Attend Mari events and festivals: Mari El hosts many cultural events annually, including the Mari New Year and the summer festival, Mari Elic. Visitors can experience traditional Mari cuisine, music, and dances during these events.
  2. Boating: Mari El is home to many beautiful rivers and lakes, and visitors can rent boats or kayaks from the local vendors to paddle around and enjoy the natural scenery.
  3. Visit local markets: Mari El has many local markets where visitors can purchase souvenirs, Mari traditional costumes, and traditional Mari crafts.
  4. Horse Riding: Mari El’s landscape is perfect for horseback riding, and there are many horseback riding trails throughout the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mari El

Here is a week-long itinerary that covers some of the top attractions in Mari El:

Day 1: Arrive in Yoshkar-Ola, visit the Tsaryovokokshaysk Kremlin and the Museum of History and Regional Studies. Day 2: Visit the National Art Gallery of Mari El Republic and spend the afternoon at Lake Yalchik. Day 3: Hike to Medveditsa or Nikolay-Samovolka mountain. Day 4: Visit Mari Chodra National Park and explore its natural beauty. Day 5: Attend Mari cultural events or festivals. Day 6: Visit the Mari El Republic Botanical Garden and have a picnic. Day 7: Visit the Prisurskiy Mountains Trail, and don’t forget to sample some traditional Mari cuisine before returning home.

Food and Drink Scene of Mari El

Mari El has a unique food and drink culture that is heavily influenced by Mari traditions. Below are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in Mari El:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Posikunchiki: This traditional Mari dish is like dumplings stuffed with meat and potatoes.
  2. Chak-Chak: This sweet pastry dessert is made of dough balls, honey, and sugar.
  3. Kattama: This flatbread made of flour and eggs is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
  4. Mari Pirozhki: These small savory cakes are filled with meat or cabbage and are a traditional Mari snack.

Local Beverages

  1. Choch: This Mari traditional beer is made with malted barley and wheat, and has a slightly sour taste.
  2. Birch Juice: This refreshing drink is made from birch sap and is a perfect refreshment during summertime.

Where to Stay in Mari El: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mari El has various accommodation options to fit every budget, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in Mari El:

  1. Otel Golubaya Volga: This hotel is located near the Volga River and offers excellent views of the river from its rooftop terrace.
  2. Hostel Samovar: This budget-friendly hostel is located in Yoshkar-Ola city center and is perfect for solo travelers or backpackers.
  3. Guesthouse “Inn on Teatralnaya”: This cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of Yoshkar-Ola, and it offers comfortable lodging with traditional Mari decoration.

What to Buy in Mari El: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mari El has numerous souvenirs and local products for visitors to bring home as a memorable keepsake. Some of the best items to purchase include:

  1. Mari Traditional Costumes: These beautiful Mari traditional dresses and costumes are colorful with intricate embroidery and designs.
  2. Birch bark souvenirs: These souvenirs come in different sizes and shapes, ranging from baskets to bottles.
  3. Honey and Jam: Mari El is famous for its organic honey and jam.

Local Culture and Customs of Mari El

Mari El’s locals are proud of their unique and vibrant culture and traditions. Visitors can experience Mari El’s culture through the numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Mari people’s dress is decorated with beautiful embroidery, and almost every Mari brings with him his own national clothes to festive events. Photography is frowned upon during traditional events.

Best Time to Visit Mari El

The best time to visit Mari El is between May and September when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. The summer season (June to August) is the peak tourist season, and costs are higher during these months. The spring (April - May) and autumn (September - October) months are perfect for the budget travelers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mari El

Do:

  1. Respect Mari culture and traditions.
  2. Try Mari traditional food and drinks.
  3. Attend Mari festivals.
  4. Take stunning photographs of Mari’s natural beauty.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t take photographs of Mari people without permission.
  2. Don’t litter or pollute the environment.
  3. Don’t disrespect Mari culture or traditions.
  4. Don’t ignore local customs and etiquette.

Safety and Health

Mari El is a safe place to visit, but tourists should still take necessary precautions to stay protected and healthy while visiting. Below are some safety and health tips for tourists:

Safety in Mari El

  1. Beware of pickpockets.
  2. Keep an eye out for your belongings while in crowded areas or public transportation.
  3. Be cautious while traveling alone, especially during the night.

Health in Mari El

  1. Drink only bottled water.
  2. Be careful while trying unfamiliar foods or drinks.
  3. Wear sunscreen and a hat while out during the warmer months.

Getting to Mari El: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mari El is accessible via different modes of transport, including air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Mari El

The nearest airport to Mari El is the Kazan International Airport, which is about 140 km away from Yoshkar-Ola.

Bus Stations Near Mari El

Yoshkar-Ola has a central bus station that connects to the neighboring cities.

Other Options

The Russian Railways operate trains daily to and from Yoshkar-Ola.

How to Get Around in Mari El

Transportation options in Mari El include public transport, taxis, and car rentals.

Public Transport

Yoshkar-Ola city has a reliable public transport network, including buses, trolleybuses, and trams.

Taxis

Taxis are a popular means of transportation in Mari El, and many taxi services operate in Yoshkar-Ola.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is an excellent way to explore Mari El’s scenic beauty, and car rentals are available in Yoshkar-Ola.

Where to Go Next from Mari El: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mari El’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring other areas in Russia. Some of the nearby destinations include:

  1. Kazan: The capital of Tatarstan, which is famous for its ancient historical sites, a UNESCO world heritage site, and beautiful architecture.
  2. Nizhny Novgorod: This city is a cultural, educational, and economic center of the Volga region and is one of Russia’s largest cities.
  3. Moscow: One of the most iconic and famous international cities, known for its history, architecture, and palaces.

Conclusion

Mari El is a unique and beautiful place in Russia, home to a rich culture, traditions, and natural beauty. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, Mari El has something for everyone, from its museums to the scenic hiking and biking trails. So pack your bags, and get ready to experience Mari El’s hospitality and charm firsthand.