26/07/2025
Lake Baikal, located in the southern part of Eastern Siberia, Russia, is the deepest lake in the world, reaching a maximum depth of 1,642 meters and extending 1,167 meters below sea level. Shaped like a crescent, the lake straddles the border between the Irkutsk region and the Republic of Buryatia. Its surface area is comparable to the size of Belgium or the Netherlands, and it holds 20% of the planet’s freshwater, making it the largest freshwater reservoir on Earth.
The lake’s ecosystem is extraordinary, home to countless endemic plant and animal species, surpassing even the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands and Madagascar. Its waters are uniquely pure, containing minimal mineral salts and high levels of oxygen, often described as distilled. Around 300 rivers and streams flow into Lake Baikal, but only the Angara River flows out, eventually joining the Yenisei River, one of the largest in the world.
Lake Baikal is a sacred place for locals, often referred to as “The Sacred Sea,” “The Blue Eye of Siberia,” or “The Diamond of the Planet.” Among its 20 islands, Olkhon Island stands out with its diverse landscapes, from steppes to sandy beaches, and its reputation for sunny weather year-round. Despite the sunshine, the lake’s waters remain cold even in August, its warmest month.
The best time to visit Lake Baikal is between May and October, offering activities like hiking, fishing, swimming, jeep tours, and yachting. Winter brings opportunities for skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice skating, and unique stays in traditional Mongolian yurts. The lake’s influence moderates the harsh Siberian climate, with mild winters and cool summers.
Travel to Lake Baikal starts with a six-and-a-half-hour flight from Moscow to Irkutsk, followed by a three-hour journey by shuttle or bus to nearby accommodations. Whether exploring its sacred beauty, unique biodiversity, or seasonal activities, Lake Baikal offers an unforgettable experience.