Emeralds of Altai. Walking tour with horse escort. The shortened program

After breakfast, the group departs by off—road vehicle to the bridge over the Chuya River, the starting point of the route, which is located 20 kilometers from the campsite.

There, a horse-drawn caravan awaits travelers, ready to take on the brunt of the baggage.

Hiking with a gradual climb along the taiga trail to the upper reaches of the Mazhoy River.

Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic glaciers of the North Chuya Range and its main peak, Mount Maashey-Bashi, 4,173 meters high.

A picnic in nature awaits the participants on the way.

In the evening, the group reaches a parking place on the banks of the Mazhoy River, where they set up a tent camp.

The day ends with a cozy dinner by the campfire, warm conversations and an exchange of impressions with new friends under the starry sky.

The difficulty of the day: the transition with rest and stops is about 14 km.

After breakfast, we head to the mysterious place where the waters of the majestic Lake Maashey once lapped.

In 2012, a powerful mudflow that destroyed a natural dam forever changed the appearance of these places, leaving behind unique traces.

Today, a special atmosphere reigns here: from the viewpoint, dizzying panoramas of sparkling glaciers and inaccessible peaks of Maashey-Bashi and Karagem-Bashi open up.

Numerous streams flow like silver threads along the former bottom of the lake — perhaps they will become the initiators of a new life in this amazing reservoir.

Lunch against the background of fantastic landscapes turns into a real feast for the soul and the camera.

Every frame here is a work of art, every minute is an occasion for admiration.

The return to the camp is marked by the aromas of the evening meal.

A cozy campfire, crackling logs, and a starry sky overhead are the perfect end to an eventful day in the company of like—minded people.

Difficulty of the day: Walking distance of about 8 km.

The morning greets us with the invigorating freshness of the mountains, and it's time to embark on new adventures.

Having gathered our tents and equipment, we rush to the pearls of the highlands — the Karakabak lakes.

The path leads through the enchanted valley of the Karakabak River, where centuries-old cedars and slender larches reign.

The Taiga symphony surrounds us from all sides: the rustle of pine needles, bird trills and the murmur of mountain rivers create a unique atmosphere of solitude with nature.

The route gives us one discovery after another.

The moment when the majestic sight of the confluence of the Maasha and Karakabak rivers appears before the eyes becomes especially impressive.

And against the background of this natural spectacle, the snow-white giants of the North Chuya Range rise, whose peaks seem to pierce the azure sky.

By lunch, we reach our destination and set up camp in the immediate vicinity of one of the Karakabak lakes.

The crystal clear water reflecting the mountain peaks becomes the perfect setting for our cozy retreat.

The afternoon belongs entirely to the magic of the Karakabak Lakes, the jewels hidden in the heart of the Altai Mountains.

Every moment here is filled with a special charm.

The lakes, like skillful artists, constantly change their shades: from pale blue to deep sapphire, from emerald to dark blue.

Their water surface becomes a real mirror, which reflects the majestic peaks of the North Chuya range, creating unique pictures of natural harmony.

The day ends with a dinner by the campfire and a well-deserved relaxation after an eventful hike.

At such moments, unity with nature and gratitude for the opportunity to touch its pristine beauty are especially keenly felt.

Difficulty of the day: Walking distance of about 10 km. The height difference on the way will be approximately 400 meters. The lakes are located at an altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level, and temperature fluctuations and cold winds are possible.

A new day begins at dawn, surrounded by the Karakabak lakes.

We go to the Upper Lake — it is very close to our camp, but each time it opens up new facets of its beauty.

A leisurely walk along the water surface will give us the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, observe the play of light on the surface of the lake and capture the unique moments of the journey.

Upon returning to the camp, we pack our things, it's time to say goodbye to the mountainous expanses and return to civilization.

Ahead is a descent into the picturesque Chuya River valley, where a reliable off-road vehicle is already waiting for us.

The road leads back to the village of Aktash, where our hospitable base is located.

This journey will be a great time to rethink all the travel experiences and share the highlights with fellow travelers.

Our adventure ends with a special evening — a hearty dinner, which will be a worthy finale to the unforgettable days spent in the embrace of Altai nature.

Under the starry sky, we will share stories, photos and those special feelings that unity with nature gives.

This is how our amazing journey ends, leaving indelible impressions in our hearts and a desire to return again.

Difficulty of the day: Walking distance of about 14 km. The lakes are located at an altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level, and temperature fluctuations and cold winds are possible.

*It is possible to order a sauna at the campsite: it is paid on the spot - from 2000 rubles per hour, at least 2 hours. Bath towels are not provided everywhere, we recommend taking them with you.

Early morning greets us with preparations for departure.

The final transfer is waiting to take the group to the final destination of our trip — the city of Gorno-Altaysk.

An organized morning check-out will allow you to enjoy the last moments in the mountains and smoothly move on to the end of our adventure.

The approximate arrival time is 14:00, when the city welcomes us with its welcoming atmosphere.