Trip Notes - World Expeditions

Central Asia
Asia Europe
trans siberian
explorer
trip highligh­­­ts
An epic train journey, traversing China, Mongolia & Russia
Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City and
Summer Palace visits in Beijing
Day trip to remote section of The Great Wall
Traditional Beijing Duck dinner in Beijing
Overnight with local nomadic family in Ger camps in Mongolia
National Park visits in Mongolia including Khustain
National Park home of the takhi (Mongolian wild horse)
Lake Baikal in Siberia
Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral & Kremlin visits in Moscow
Visit The Hermitage & Nevsky Prospect
Trip Duration23 days
Trip Code: TSM
GradeAdventure touring
ActivitiesAdventure Touring and Day Walking
Summary23 day trip, 12 nights hotel, 4
nights ger and 6 nights train
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in our Trans Siberian Explorer trip. At
World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track
experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming
face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions
of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our
unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the
enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/11/2016 1:02:39 PM
why travel with World Expeditions?
When planning travel to remote and challenging destinations, many
factors need to be considered. Our extra attention to detail and
operations on the ground ensure that you will have a memorable
experience. We take every precaution to ensure smooth logistics, our
vehicles and equipment are the best available on the market. Most
importantly, our adventures have always sought to benefit the local
peoples we interact with, safeguard the ecosystems we explore and
contribute to the sustainability of travel in the regions we experience.
You will be accompanied by local guides whose knowledge and passion
for this region will add a unique dimension to your trip. Their experience
and enthusiasm ensures that we maintain the leading edge in adventure
travel and therefore providing excellent value for money. Our group size
is always small. Given our local knowledge, experience and excellent
leadership, we are quite sure that this tour will be a trip of a lifetime.
trans siberian explorer
St Petersburg
Moscow
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
Russia
Ulaanbaatar
Irkutsk
Beijing
China
trip dates
2017
03Jun - 25Jun
17Jun - 09Jul
03Jul - 25Jul
05Aug - 27Aug
28Aug - 19Sep
important notes
Note: - Similar dates in 2018
Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2016. For trips departing
after this date, the price will likely increase subject to
local inflationary pressures on operational costs.
trip cost
Joining Beijing:£3990
All prices are per person
options & supplements
Train Upgrade Beijing to Ulaanbaatar to 2 berth cabin: £43
Train Upgrade Moscow to St Petersburg to 2 berth
£80
cabin:
Train Ulaanbaatar to Irkutsk 2pax to 4 berth excl
£110
use pp rate x 2:
Train Irkutsk to Moscow 2pax to 4 berth exclusive
£420
use pp rate x 2:
Single Supplement:
£700
World Expeditions does not require single travellers
to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will
arrange for you to share accommodation with
another traveller of the same gender and if we can
not match you up we will provide a single room at
no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single
supplement is payable to guarantee your own room.
The cost of the single supplement is listed above.
For competitive airfares and stopover ideas
to join this adventure, contact our expert staff
today to receive a detailed quote.
the trip
The Trans Siberian train journey has captured the imagination of travellers for decades. This
superb itinerary combines the classic route from Beijing, with stopovers at many of the unique
and exciting destinations en‑route to Moscow. We begin in Beijing, where there is ample time
to witness the iconic attractions of this great city, before continuing to the Mongolian capital
of Ulaanbaatar. Our time on the Mongolian Steppe provides us with a taste of nomadic life as
we stay in comfortable ger camps, travel across the vast grasslands and sample the warm
hospitality of the local people. The next stage of our journey enters the heart of Siberia to
Lake Baikal, the worlds deepest and largest freshwater lake. Finally, we head to the cities of
Moscow, to soak up the immense history through visits to Red Square and the Kremlin, and
then to beautiful St Petersburg to wander through the immense Hermitage.
at a glance
DAY 1ARRIVE BEIJING
DAY 2FORBIDDEN CITY & SUMMER PALACE
DAY 3THE GREAT WALL
DAY 4TRAIN TO ULAANBAATAR
DAY 5ARRIVE ULAANBAATAR
DAY 6TH KHUSTAIN NATIONAL PARK
DAY 7TO NOMADIC FAMILY
DAY 8TO TERELJ NATIONAL PARK
DAY 9IN TERELJ NATIONAL PARK
DAY 10RETURN TO ULAANBAATAR
DAY 11BOARD TRAIN TO IRKUSTK
DAY 12ARRIVE IRKUTSK TRANSFER TO LISTVYANKA
DAY 13IN AND AROUND LISTYVANKA
DAY 14IN LISTYVANKA, RETURN TO IRKUTSK IN THE AFTERNOON
DAY 15IN IRKUSTK, BOARD TRAIN TO MOSCOW
DAYS 16-17ON TRAIN
DAY 18ARRIVE MOSCOW
DAY 19IN MOSCOW
DAY 20IN MOSCOW. OVERNIGHT TRAIN TO ST PETERSBURG
DAY 21ARRIVE ST PETERSBURG
DAY 22IN ST PETERSBURG
DAY 23TRIP CONCLUDES IN ST PETERSBURG
what’s included
15 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 11 dinners
Twinshare comfortable hotel in Beijing, Ulaanbaatar, Listvyanka, Moscow & St
Petersburg
Ger accommodation on a multishare basis in Mongolia
2nd class sleeper train travel in 4 berth cabin (option to upgrade to first class)
Fully escorted from Beijing to St Petersburg and local guides in each region
Private transport and tours in Beijing, Mongolia, Siberia, Moscow & St Petersburg
Entrance fees to ans sightseeing as listed
Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the
adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the
local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of
cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have
chosen a policy not to ask for such payments.
2 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/11/2016 1:02:39 PM
trans siberian explorer
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
detailed itinerary
DAY 1Arrive Beijing
On arrival in Beijing you need to make your own way to the group hotel. This evening we have a
welcome dinner where you have a chance to get acquainted with your fellow travellers and to hear
from your guide about the following day’s schedule.
meals: D
DAY 2Forbidden City & Summer Palace
This morning we visit the beautiful Forbidden City, which is a masterpiece of 5000 years of Chinese
civilisation and still vividly displays the power and prestige of the former dynasties. Sprawling over
acres, the City is a magnificent group of palaces, pavilions, courtyards and deep terracotta walls.
Ornately furnished palace rooms, priceless artworks and treasures are all now open to the public
after 500 years of seclusion. In the afternoon we will also visit the Summer Palace and in the
evening we will attend an acrobatic show. For dinner there will be a chance to sample the delicious
Beijing dumplings and other local specialties.
meals: B,D
DAY 3The Great Wall
We will make an early morning start today to explore the Great Wall at the Mutianyu section. This
is approximately a 1.5 hour drive outside of Beijing, slightly further than the popular and very busy
Badaling Gate section. On arrival we will have the option to complete a 2 -3 hour walk along this
beautiful section of the wall. Mutianyu is renowned for its Ming Dynasty guard towers and superb
views. The scene here is as one would expect of one of the world’s great man made wonders, with
huge steep ramparts criss crossing this mountainous area. Those deciding not to undertake the walk
will be able to enjoy this section of the wall by cable car. The Great Wall of China is one of the Seven
Wonders of the World and is one of the world’s most unusual and awesome sites. Commenced 2000
years ago, it was built as a defence line to keep out invaders, along the course of several thousand
kilometres. The Emperor Qin Shihuang unified the various northern walls into the Great Wall we see
today. We return to Beijing in the evening for a traditional Peking Duck dinner.
meals: B,D
DAY 4Train to Ulaanbaatar
This morning we transfer to the train station for our overnight journey to Ulaanbaatar. The train
journey takes around 30 hours - two days and one night. This is an ideal way to see a changing
countryside from the frenetic pace of Beijing through the great expanse of the Gobi Desert and into
downtown Ulaanbaatar. The border crossing from China to Mongolia takes place late evening and
takes around 4 hours, due to the changing of the train’s bogies and the border formalities. Chinese
and Mongolian border officials will board the train so expect a couple of interruptions to your night’s
sleep! This is all part of the adventure. For purchases made on both the train and platforms in China,
you should keep some Yuan with you. There is no need to obtain Mongolian Togrog prior to arrival in
Mongolia as purchases made on the Mongolian train can only be paid in USD.
meals: B
DAY 5Arrive Ulaanbaatar
The train is expected into Mongolia’s capital city Ulaanbaatar by mid afternoon. On arrival we are
met by our Mongolian guide who will stay with us for the next 7 days. We will transfer to our hotel
in the city. Our afternoon program is a city tour including a visit to the National History Museum and
Sukhbaatar Square. This evening we will enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
meals: D
3 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/11/2016 1:02:39 PM
trans siberian explorer
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
DAY 6Th Khustain National Park
fast facts
Countries Visited:
China, Mongolia & Russia
Visas:
Please check visa requirements with
your reservations consultant*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Private Groups:
Private group options are
available for this trip*
Singles:
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Leader:
Expert local guides for each section
Brochure Reference:
Asia
*Ask our staff for more information
This morning we commence our drive to Khustain Nuruu National Park where the indigenous Takhi
(an Asian wild horse) are being re-introduced to its original territory. Known as Przewalski’s horses
(after the famed Polish explorer who first “discovered” them in the 1870’s), the Takhi are in fact
the last remaining wild horses in the world. Unlike the wild horses found in many other countries
(which are actually domestic animals which have gone feral), the Takhi are an altogether different
species from the modern horse. Many consider it the forerunner to the modern horse. For centuries,
the Takhi roamed the steppes of central Asia in great herds. However, as human populations grew,
hunting and competition with domestic livestock caused their numbers the decline drastically. The
last Takhi spotted in the wild was in 1969, in the western Gobi. Tonight we stay in the Ger camp.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 7To Nomadic family
After breakfast at the ger camp our journey continues to visit a local Nomadic Family. Our route
takes us through the wide, open steppe that Mongolia is most renowned for - past grazing
herds of sheep, horses and nomadic gers. We’ll be staying with our host family, which will allow
you to experience the daily life of nomadic people. During the day we can horse ride or hike in
the surrounding mountains and meadows. There will be ample opportunity to taste ‘Airag’, the
fermented mares milk, which is a favourite drink of Mongolians - and an acquired taste! Overnight
will be in the ger, which will be set up for you next to our host family.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 8To Terelj National Park
This morning will be spent with the family riding horses or hiking. After lunch, we will farewell our
nomadic hosts and we will head to Terelj National Park for where we will spend the next two nights.
We will have dinner and overnight at the ger camp within the National Park.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 9In Terelj National Park
Today we will spend a full day in Terelj National Park. There will be opportunities for hiking in the
surrounding mountains. There is a Buddhist Meditation Center nestled in hills that we can visit .
Meals and overnight at the ger camp.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 10Return to Ulaanbaatar
After breakfast at the ger camp, we will drive back to Ulaanbaatar. In the afternoon, we have some
time for shopping. This evening we will attend a concert featuring Mongolian music and dancing
followed by dinner at a local restaurant. We will overnight at our hotel in the city.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 11Board train to Irkustk
This morning we have some time for last minute purchases before lunch. We then transfer to the
train station where we farewell our Mongolian friends and board the train for the 24 hour journey
to Irkutsk. The border crossing from Mongolia to Russia commences around 9.00pm and takes
approximately 7 hours. Like in China, officials will board the train at both sides of the crossing and
we will be able to catch some rest in our cabins as this is completed, however again we should
expect some interruptions to our night’s sleep. You should keep a small amount of Togrog for small
purchases on the platforms prior to crossing the border as USD are not accepted by locals. The
dining car is not usually added to the train until we cross into Russia so you should buy something
for dinner in Ulaanbaatar before we depart. Breakfast and lunch is available in the dining car if you
wish and we recommend you take some snacks.
meals: B,L
4 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/11/2016 1:02:39 PM
trans siberian explorer
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are
fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to
minimise the impact of our presence. World
Expeditions were the proud recipients of
the inaugural Australian National Travel
Industry’s Environmental Achievement award
for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This
detailed guide to responsible and sustainable
travel is provided to all World Expeditions
clients before they travel. Please ask your
consultant if you have not received your copy
of our award winning book. Alternatively,
you may like to download a copy from our
website www.worldexpeditions.com
trip grading
Adventure touring
These are our least demanding trips. These
journeys of discovery and cruises involve
little or no extended activity and are suitable
for people with a basic level of fitness and
good health. The itinerary will take place
in remote areas (with basic facilities) and
will involve long travel days on various
types of transport. Sightseeing may be
conducted on foot and all participants
should be capable of carrying their own
luggage from vehicle to hotel rooms. At
train platforms you will need to carry your
own luggage over some distance, so
please bear this in mind when packing.
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves
an element of the unexpected. In remote
and developing countries do not expect
standards you are used to at home. Remote
areas are sometimes unpredictable and
itineraries may be altered. To get the most
out of your adventure it is important that
you are flexible, positive and eager to
take on all the challenges that arise. If you
are uncertain about your suitability for
this trip we recommend that you speak
with your consultant or travel agent.
DAY 12Arrive Irkutsk transfer to Listvyanka
We arrive into Irkutsk at around 3.00pm where we will be met by our Russian guide for the next
few days. We will start with a short sightseeing tour of Irkutsk before the hour drive brings us to the
small town of Listvyanka located 60 km’s south-east of Irkutsk. Listvyanka sits right at the edge of
Lake Baikal, where the Angara River reaches the shores of the Lake at Port Baikal. Located in the
southern part of Siberia, UNESCO heritage listed Lake Baikal is the oldest, largest and deepest lake
on earth, reaching a depth of more than one kilometer and holding one-fifth of all the fresh water
on the planet. Since times long past, the indigenous people living on its shores have revered this
beautiful body of water. The Buryat-Mongols tell of Baikal’s creation in stories and legends, of the
spirits and gods who inhabit its waters and of the mighty conqueror, Genghis Khan who roamed the
area. Russian writers, who came to the area more recently, celebrate the lake in poetry, fiction, and
song. National parks and nature reserves line the east and west shores of this sparsely populated
region, encompassing a landscape of dense forests, snow capped mountains, grassy steppes, lush
wetlands, harsh deserts, rocky islands and rugged cliffs. Upon arrival in Listvyanka we check-in to
our hotel which will be our base for the next two nights.
meals: D
DAY 13In and around Listyvanka
We commence our sightseeing by foot this morning with a visit to the colorful fish bazaar where you
can try local specialties including fish (salted, baked or smoked). From here we have a short walk to
visit the old wooden St. Nikolai Church. We continue on to the Limnological Institute of the Russian
Academy of Sciences, which has an interesting Limnology Museum, where there is a good exhibition
on the flora and flora of the lake, including an aquarium.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 14In Listyvanka, return to Irkutsk in the afternoon
This morning we leave the shores of Baikal and return to Irkutsk, visiting the museum of wood
carving in Taltsy village en-route. Irkutsk is located on the banks of the Angara River, which has
its source 80 km upstream at Lake Baikal. Irkutsk is easily one of the most attractive cities in
Siberia. Founded in 1651 as a Cossack garrison to keep the local Buryat’s in line. The Cossacks
were a rough lot sent as official representatives of the Tsar’s to establish remote outposts and
they included trappers, traders, criminals and vagabonds. Later, in the 19th century, Irkutsk was
used as an exile post and received some illustrious aristocratic exiles, giving the city a rich cultural
heritage. The city’s location, near Mongolia and China means that strong Asiatic influences abound.
The architecture of Irkutsk includes some of the classic wooden Siberian cottages with beautifully
painted and carved shutters. Other features are the onion-domed shaped churches. During the
Soviet-era planning Irkutsk suffered the same fate as many other Siberian cities with the building of
rows upon rows of ugly white, apartment blocks - still prevalent in the city today.
meals: B,L
DAY 15In Irkustk, board train to Moscow
Irkutsk was founded in 1651 as a Cossack garrison to keep the local Buryat’s in line. The Cossacks
were a rough lot sent as official representatives of the Tsar’s to establish remote outposts and
they included trappers, traders, criminals and vagabonds. Later, in the 19th century, Irkutsk was
used as an exile post and received some illustrious aristocratic exiles, giving the city a rich cultural
heritage. The city’s location, near Mongolia and China means that strong Asiatic influences abound.
The architecture of Irkutsk includes some of the classic wooden Siberian cottages with beautifully
painted and carved shutters. Other features are the onion-domed shaped churches. During the
5 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/11/2016 1:02:39 PM
trans siberian explorer
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
important note
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary, and
may supersede any information in the
current brochure, including but not limited
to the itinerary and price. The itinerary
should be seen as a guide only. This
itinerary may change at any time due to
inclement weather, forces of nature and
other circumstances beyond our control.
Soviet-era planning Irkutsk suffered the same fate as many other Siberian cities with the building of
rows upon rows of ugly white, apartment blocks - still prevalent in the city today. This morning we will
undertake at sightseeing tour in the city known as the ‘Paris of Siberia’. visiting the main sites of
interest include the Decembrist Houses and the historic churches and buildings. We will also have time
to go shopping for the supplies we will need on the train. We expect to board the train around 4pm and
begin our journey to Moscow.
meals: NIL
DAYS 16-17On train
During these few days spent on one of the greatest train journeys in the world, you will watch the
changing landscapes. Your travelling companions could be foreign tourists or locals alike and you
should make the most of your journey by absorbing the scenery, or relaxing and talking to your fellow
travellers. This section of the trip is all about the journey with the anticipation of our approach to
Moscow growing by the day. During these days we will have many stops, some from a short 5 minutes
others up to 30 minutes where we will have the opportunity to stretch our legs and replenish supplies
with purchases made on the platforms.
meals: NIL
DAY 18Arrive Moscow
This evening we arrive in Moscow! We are met on the railway station and taken to our hotel. The city
of Moscow needs little introduction. It has catapulted into post communism bringing with it a wealth
of improvements and problems. Whilst the essence of this great city is still evident, the shopping and
nightlife have brought an entirely new layer of complexity to the city.
meals: NIL
DAY 19In Moscow
Today has been set aside for a visit to Red Square and the Kremlin and its cathedrals. We start with
a walk through Red Square where we will be overwhelmed by the view of St. Basil’s Cathedral. For
those wishing to visit the Mausoleum of Lenin at the foot of the Kremlin wall, expect approximately
a two hour queue. Those wanting to go inside St Basil’s will also have the opportunity (a small fee
is applicable). During our sightseeing of the Kremlin, we’ll also view the Armoury, where there is an
opulent collection of state treasures. Overnight hotel.
meals: B
DAY 20In Moscow. Overnight train to St Petersburg
Today we begin our sightseeing with a morning sightseeing tour on our bus taking in many of the
sights of Moscow including a visit to Sparrow Hills were we can get a panoramic view of the city. We
will leave the bus and visit the Assumption Cathedral, near the Kremlin, before walking to Old Arabat
where we can have lunch and free time to stroll through the market stalls which line the pedestrian
street. A visit to Moscow would not be complete without going underground to the elaborate Metro with
its walls adorned with imagery depicting Russia’s historic and political rhetoric, of which we’ll select 3
or 4 of the most interesting stations en-route to our hotel. Following the Metro ride, the rest of the day
is free to enjoy Moscow before returning to our hotel for the transfer to the station for the train journey
to St Petersburg just before midnight.
meals: B
DAY 21Arrive St Petersburg
On arrival in St Petersburg we will be met by our guide who will take us for breakfast before we
commence a short orientation tour. We will include a visit to Peter & Paul Fortress, which is the oldest
building in the city and was built in 1703 to protect the city against the invading Swedes. It is however
most famous for being a political prison until 1917 and inmates such as Gorky and Trotsky spent time
here. We then head to our hotel for check in around midday. We will have this afternoon at leisure to
6 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Brett Taylor 4/11/2016 1:02:39 PM
trans siberian explorer
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
relax and get acquainted with this beautiful city. This city was founded by Peter the Great as a gateway
to Europe, and you will immediately feel that you have arrived in Europe with well planned avenues
and elegant buildings lining the Neva River and nearby canals. Late this afternoon we take a walk
along Nevsky Prospect, Russia’s most famous street, before returning to the hotel.
meals: NIL
DAY 22In St Petersburg
This morning we visit The Hermitage one of the world’s greatest museums. During our tour of the
winter palace and the Hermitage buildings we will be absorbed by the rich art work on display
including porcelain and tapestry, the amazing Peacock Clock and a collection of paintings from
throughout Europe. After our guided tour concludes, you may wish to spend extra time exploring further
the vast rooms of this magnificent gallery. Afternoon and evening at leisure.
meals: B
DAY 23Trip concludes in St Petersburg
The trip concludes this morning after breakfast.
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
suggested extensions
Terracotta Warriors & Xian Extension
country information
China never fails to conjure up a myriad of feelings, images and a sense of mystery. Its history
cannot be summed up here in a few paragraphs and to fully appreciate the currents that have
shaped the country and its people, you must take the time to read at least one of the many
excellent books available.
Within the almost four million square miles of China’s vast territory live more than 1.3 billion
people, which makes it the most populated nation on earth. As much as China is keen to display
its stunning scenery, historical sites and impressive cities, it is also dedicated to conveying
something about how its society works. Although its political system has set it apart from the
west, China is now moving forward in leaps and bounds, especially in the areas of trade and
commerce. The major cities are indicative of the burgeoning economy of modern China. In
Beijing there is a wealth of attractions on offer. Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City have
assumed the central position of the city, and are surrounded by the city gates, museums and
government buildings.
Mongolia is a vast country, dominated by the steppes to the north and the Gobi Desert to the
south. It is landlocked and with an average altitude of 1,580m (5,180 ft), it is one of the world’s
highest countries. Between the deserts are lakes, both salt and freshwater. The nomadic lifestyle
in Mongolia prevails even in the growing urban landscape around Ulaanbaatar, where gers (Yurt
is a Russian word for ger) are found between the crumbling Soviet style buildings. The ger is the
centrepiece of Mongolian traditions. The mobility of the tent suits the nomadic lifestyle.
Siberia is one of the world’s last true wilderness areas. There are vast tracts of land in Siberia
and the Russian Far East that have never seen a human foot. Siberia stretches east from the
Ural Mountains and encompasses Russia’s enormous central landmass from the Arctic Ocean
in the north to the border with Mongolia in the south, and from the Kazakhstan border in the
west to the mountainous region around Lake Baikal in the east. The dominant geographically
features of Siberia are the many lakes and rivers that cover the area and the vast tracts of tundra
forest. Lake Baikal, the stunning lake in the centre of Siberia is the oldest, deepest and most
voluminous lake on the planet, holding nearly one‑fifth of the world’s fresh water.
7 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 10/20/2016 10:49:55 PM
trans siberian explorer
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
The Russian Empire was established Under Peter I who ruled between 1682‑1725 when the
sphere of influence extended to the Baltic Sea. Following an expansionary period throughout the
19th Century in Europe and Asia, the Communist Revolution became the focus of the country
in 1917 when Lenin formed the USSR, following World War I. From Stalin’s reign of terror until
1953, the empire consolidated its power base within the USSR at the cost of millions of lives
until the economy stagnated. Gorbachev introduced glasnost (openness) and perestroika
(restructuring) in an attempt to modernise Communism. Rather than strengthening communism
this unleashed fractures in the system which resulted in the splintering of the USSR into 15
independent republics in 1991. Since then, Russia has been striving to develop a democratic
political system based on a market economy.
climate
The trip operates between June and September when the climate is at its best. Daytime
temperatures in this period are mild to warm and should not be less than 15 degrees Celsius
and may even range as high as 30 degrees Celsius on some occasions.
a typical day
Whilst on the train, days will be spent reading, enjoying the scenery or getting to know your
fellow travellers. When touring in cities we will meet our local guides early in the morning and full
days will be spent sightseeing.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
accommodation on the trip
In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star, twin share properties that are
centrally located, atmospheric and reliable. Enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two
person tents erected in scenic wilderness. A ger is a circular felt tent used by nomadic people.
Warm in winter and cool in summer offering you an awesome cultural experience.
pre and post tour accommodation
There are a multitude of things to do in both Beijing & St Petersburg. If you would like to add
additional time in either city please ask your reservations consultant who can arrange pre or
post tour accommodation, along with any additional tours required.
8 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 10/20/2016 10:49:55 PM
trans siberian explorer
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
what you carry
You will be required to carry all your luggage between hotels, transportation and the train
platforms. On sightseeing days you will be required to carry a day pack with your camera, water
proof clothing and any other personal items you may require during the day.
equipment required
Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is
provided in the pre‑departure information provided on booking).
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose
and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety
may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have
seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus
transfers or specialised transport such as ‘tuk‑tuk’s’ could be another. Where seat belts are not
provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times.
what’s not included
Any meals on trains or meals not listed in the itinerary
Bottled water or any aerated or alcoholic drinks
Tips
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry etc
International airfares and departure taxes
Visa costs
Travel Insurance (Compulsory)
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These
special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced
and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for
many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can
organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even
work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from
itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and
adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our
website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
social networking
Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WorldExpeditions
9 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 10/20/2016 10:49:55 PM
trans siberian explorer
Journey by rail from Beijing to St Petersburg via Mongolia
trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There
are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space
on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure
services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The
demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non
refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or
if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your
booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also
help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get
you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that
you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip.
10 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Automated Import 10/20/2016 10:49:55 PM