Hi to all of you!
We (two persons) would like to visit the Altai area in early May, but I feel we lack of information, so we definitely need your experience. Our profile: nature lovers but not serious hikers (we enjoy moderate walking for 3-4 hours), mainly budget travelers (but we can make some exceptions from time to time!), no Russian spoken.
The main idea is to reach Gorno-Altaisk by public transport and visit around, eventually hiring private mean (car with driver).
Our questions:
1. Do we need some special permit to visit Gorno-Altaisk surroundings? If yes, how can we get it?
2. What do you advise as "must-sees"? (Mayma, Aya, lake Teletskoe, lake Manzherok, Chemal). For how many days?
3. Is it easy to find private transport? Can you recommend some person we may contact, eventually speaking basic English? Maybe some local tour operator?
4. Can we visit Chuysky Trakt up to Ust Kosha? Special permit needed?
Please note we are ready to discuss any other alternatives you may propose in the area.
Thank you in advance for your help!
Isabelle
Isabella, you don't need a special permit to visit Gorno-Altaysk, or to travel along the M52, the old Chuysky Trakt, from Gorno to Mongolia. You need permission and probably a guide to go off the M52 as you get near Mongolia. I don't think you need a permit to go to Lake Teletskoye, only when you near the border area do permits kick in. Good luck. You will love Siberia.
Chicagobest, thank you for quick answer!
In the LP, 6th edition (2012), at page 478 I read that we have to register our visa in Gorno-Altaisk. They say "It is tedious, and travelers have been known not to bother, but we recommend registering your visa in Gorno-Altaisk if you plan onward travel in the Altai Republic".
An then they add "Importantly you will need a khodataystsvo - a document from whoever sponsored your visa, listing where in Altai you'll be visiting. Get this BEFORE departing as having your sponsors fax it to Gorno Altaisk can cause days of delays..."
Are you aware of this procedure? Have you gone through it? Is it really compulsory?
We will apply for support letter for the visa without any hotel or train prebooking in order to remain flexible (I found this company on the internet http://www.gotorussia.com/visa_services_russia_support.htm)and Ι wonder what places to name in our application for the support letter. Any advise?
Thanks to share your experience
Isabelle
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I would also be interested in an answer to the questions that Isabelle raised above.
Is the khodataystsvo really required or recommended? Is that the same "hotel voucher" that is part of the invitation letter? And is it wise to mention a place in the Altai as one of the five places to visit in the invitation request? The LP says this might cause a longer visa process.
Thanks
Stefan
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