103. Kamchatka Winter Safari 2004

Come experience the true essence of winter Kamchatka , traveling to a remote wilderness lodge by dog sled and spending days exploring the Beringia Trail. You will fly by helicopter to the nomadic camp of the Even reindeer herders that is inaccessible by road through the long winter months. After you've gained a new appreciation for this defining way of life and travel, the "Beringia Sled dog race" from Esso to Ossora, will start in Esso . After attending the Race start, we will fly by helicopter along the Beringia Trail and see the dog mushers challenge over 950 km of frozen wilderness. This very special tour is for those that long to experience the real Kamchatka, and the reasons so many have chosen to call it home year around --from those that came for the adventure and decided not to leave, to those that still spurn the comforts of modern civilization for the adventure of frontier living. Offered only once a year, this incomparable tour by "Beringia Land" guarantees experiences that most will only read about . . .

ITINERARY

Day 1. Arrive in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. Transfer from the airport to your hotel, then explore the fine galleries and gift shops of Petropavlovsk. Overnight in Petropavlovsk

Day 2. After breakfast you will travel to the Moroznaya ("Frozen") hill which is your practice site in mounting skiing for the day. Instead of this you can go to Paratunka resort and bathing in Verkhne-Paratunskie thermal springs. Lunch at restaurant After lunch we continue skiing enjoyment. Overnight in Petropavlovsk.

Day3. After breakfast we will have all day trip to the old village Esso by bus . We call it Kamchatka's Switzerland. You will be accommodated in a small private hotel. Overnight in Esso.

Day 4. After breakfast, acquaintance with Esso village and its surroundings. Visit its museum and learn about the history and culture of the Evens, one of the four indigenous tribes of Kamchatka. Relax in the geothermal pool in the center of the settlement. Overnight in Esso.

Day 5. Breakfast. Experience a dogsled ride with a veteran Beringia musher as he prepares his team for the 950 km dogsled race to Ossora Enjoy a sled ride behind the dogs in training and learn about the mushing techniques and tactics necessary to compete in " Beringia Sled dog race ". Then you will have opportunity to skiing. Bathing in a hot thermal springs. Overnight in Esso.

Day 6. After breakfast, depart by helicopter to the nomadic camp of the Even reindeer herders by helicopter to the nomadic camp of the Even reindeer herders. The flight is about one half-hour. However, it varies depending on the time of year and on the progress the herd has made through the valley. The camp is relocated ahead of the herd every few days. Sample Even cuisine and listen to ancient stories as the herd catches up to the camp. Spend a day at camp to experience as much as is possible of this fascinated culture. Return by helicopter and overnight in Esso.

Day 7. After breakfast you will see the start of "Beringia 2004" on a short distance - 10 km. Opening ceremony of the Races. The prime trial for 10 km. The cultural program, devoted to the International Decade of the Native Peoples of the World There you will see a fascinating traditional dance performance. Overnight in Esso.

Day 8. After breakfast you will see the main start of "Beringia Sled dog race 2004" distance - 950 km. Then you move to Anavgai settlement- small native village with a traditional way of life- where the first stage will be finished . Dance performance. Fly by helicopter along the Beringia Trail Overnight in Esso.

Day 9. After breakfast, travel back to Paratunka resort. Relax in the geothermal pool in Paratunka resort .Overnight in Paratunka.

Day 10. After breakfast transfer from your hotel to the airport. Depart for home.

INCLUDED:

• Full board
• Double accommodation in hotels in city and Paratunka resort
• Transfers by coach, bus and helicopters MI-8
• City tour and museum entrances
• Guide, interpreter and cook services
• Permits
• Visa invitation and visa registration

NOT INCLUDED : Alcoholic beverages.

With space available for six persons, early reservation for this unique experience is highly recommended. Weather and conditions can necessitate last minute changes in the above itinerary.