In Pictures: Undiscovered Beauty in the Russian Wilderness

The world’s deepest and oldest freshwater lake, Baikal, also happens to be one of Russia’s most-visited World Heritage Sites. Apart from breathtaking views, it’s surrounded by a famous hiking trail and offers amazing opportunities for wildlife-spotting and sport-fishing.

Explore the Russian arctic Murmansk Oblast, mainly on the Kola Peninsula, which is almost entirely located inside the Arctic Circle. Here, you can explore tundra and taiga natural reserves, see fish in crystal-clear lakes and watch the Northern Lights.

The amazing Kamchatka enthrals, with its snow-capped volcanoes, pristine rivers and hot springs. If complete wilderness is what you’re searching for, this extraordinary peninsula is the place for you.

With some of the most spectacular views in Russia, the Altai Mountains boast all kinds of scenery, from mountainous taiga, to mountain meadows, to glaciers. A popular spot for rafting and trekking, the Altai Mountains are also known for abundant animal and plant life.

Located in the Northern Caucasus, this semi-autonomous Russian republic has some of the most magnificent scenery you’ll ever see. Whether you choose to ski in Dombai and Arkhyz mountains, explore natural reserves of Teberda or discover the region’s history in Cherkessk, this place will leave you wanting more.

This autonomous republic in the North Caucasus had been a tourist no-go zone for quite a while. Now, there might be new hope for the fascinating land, as more people are eager to discover its vibrant capital, breathtaking scenery, spectacular ancient ruins, rich history and friendly people.

A unique blend of nature’s beauty and impressive historical legacy, Karelia seems to have it all: plentiful wildlife, rushing rivers, stunning views and powerful history. Karelia is also home to the Kizhi open-air museum on the eponymous island in the center of Lake Onega, where you can see a 300-year-old wooden church built without a single nail.