About Baikal Travel - F.A.Q. (Frequently Ask Question)

How can I request a tour?
You can make a tour request by e-mail, fax or telephone (see contacts) or by using the on-line request form under "Tour Request". Once you submit your request form, one of our mangers will get back to you with a response as quickly as possible. The client must submit a valid email address on the Request form. This email address will be used for all future correspondence relating to your booking. All care must be taken by the client to ensure that the information provided in the Request form is correct. Firn Travel takes no responsibility for any incorrect information submitted.

How can I pay my tour?
Deposit 20- 40% of the total payment in accordance with the length of your trip will be made in advance. The rest of the payment is only due upon your arrival. No fees and additional charges. Please note, that the booking may be charged in other currency (in rubles) to the one you chose on the website. The cost of your booking is converted using our bank's exchange rates on the day of the sending of your invoice. The Parties will inform each other of the amount and the date of every money transfer by telefax.

What is included in my trip?
This varies from trip to trip, and the details will be listed on the individual trip page, moreover it would be change according your wishes. Airfare is not included since people join these trips from all over the country.

How can I cancel my booking?
You must inform us by e-mail, fax or telephone (see contacts). One of our managers will get back to you with a response as quickly as possible.
By cancellation of an entry delay damage is:
- For 14 - 8 days before the beginning of the tour - 50% of tour price
- For 7 - 3 days before the beginning of the tour - 70% of tour price
- For 3 days before the beginning of the tour - 100% of tour price

What travel documents do I need to visit the Baikal region in Russia?
Every foreigner needs a visa to go to Russia. In order to get it, you need to get an invitation (visa support letter) from Russia first and then apply for the visa at the Russian consulate. Of course you will need a fully valid passport. For our customer we provide visa support and registration of visa upon arrival.

How to get to Baikal?
You can reach the cities Ulan-Ude or Irkutsk, ideal starting points to explore the Baikal region, either by train along the famous Trans-Siberian railway or by plane. The duration of flight is 6 hours, whereas traveling by train takes you three and a half or four days. There are several daily train connections and regular flights from Moscow to other Siberian cities.
We will be glad help you to book air- or train tickets.

Does my mobile phone work in the Baikal region?
There are mobile networks in all bigger cities and villages by now. The problem is sometimes missing rooming-contracts with Siberian network operators.

What must I take for the trip in the Baikal region?
We advise you to take these items with you on the road:
warm clothes appropriate for the season in which you travel
bathing accessories
cream for prevention and treatment of sunburn
sunglasses
light and warm headgear
convenient athletic footwear
raincoat or a waterproof jacket
toilet accessories
watch
field-glass
lantern or flashlight
film (10-20 rolls for non digital cameras, or as you see fit)
spare batteries and recharge for camera and electronic devices
means of protection against insects (repellents, heat nets, etc.)
any medicine or special equipment needed for you particular situations

I don`t have any experience of active Baikal tours (trekking, hiking, rafting, biking), can I do this?
Our tours are designed to give novices and advanced guests a great vacation. If you are an active person (average physical health is required) environments, we will offer an ideal option of a tour for you. If you have any health problems, let us know when you are making your reservation so that we will be able to accommodate your needs and abilities.

How much should I tip?
If you are satisfied with the service you receive, guides, private drivers, maids etc. would be glad to receive a tip. The amount would be totally up to you.