South of Krasnoyarsk and bordering Mongolia, Tuva not surprisingly shares much of its culture and landscape with Mongolia. Consequently it is often overlooked by Trans-Siberian travellers who are likely to be heading to Mongolia as part of their trip. Those who do make the time for this remote and fascinating part of the world, a land of vast open spaces, forests, mountains, lakes, shamans and throat singers awaits you. For those who can’t make it at least have a read of Ralph Leighton’s Tuva or Bust!
BEST MONTHS TO VISIT TUVA
TUVA WEATHER AVERAGES
REASON TO VISIT TUVA
The culture and landscape of the Tuvan region inspires a passion for many and there is something magical about this area although it can be a costly side trip.
TUVA TRAVEL TIP
During the summer there are flights to Kyzyl from Krasnoyarsk or the option of the year round overnight train to Abakan. However, if you don’t have a particular interest in Tuva, Mongolia provides a similar experience that is more cost effective and accessible.
HIGHLIGHTS OF TUVA
Experience a Tuvan Throat Singing performance.
Watch a Tuvan wrestling match known locally as “Khuresh” where the loser is the one who touches the ground with any part of their body other than the feet.
Visit during the Nadym festival (similar to Mongolia’s Naadam festival) which is held at Tos-Bulak and includes wrestling, horse racing and archery. The festival is held around the 15th August each year.
Stay in a traditional Tuvan felt yurt.
Hike and camp in the stunning Ergaki National Reserve which is a pristine wilderness of mountains, lakes and forest.
Enjoy visiting a region that sees very few outsiders.
HAND PICKED TUVA ACCOMMODATION
During a trip to Tuva we aim to use Yurt Camps which are an authentic Tuvan experience with the one we prefer being the Biy-Khem Camp.
We hold ATOL license 10287 so booking with us gives you 100% financial protection. We are also members of the Association of British Travel Agents. ABTA has strict membership requirements and we are required to adhere to the associations high standards. Our ABTA number is Y1699.
