Realm of Amur Tiger (Siberian Tiger)

Highlights

The Amur Tiger is the King of the Russian Far East. Its numbers have been fluctuating over the past fifteen years, but due to the effort of WWF/Russia and other projects dedicated to the preservation of this magnificent animal, its numbers are increasing. Nevertheless, observing the Amur Tiger is nearly impossible, as it is elusive and requires long term dedication. However, it is possible to learn what is being done to protect the tiger from poachers and other hazards.

Logistical details

After a day of acquaintance with the great city of Vladivostok, you will transfer by car to the Sikhote Alyn Preserve. You will explore the area on foot and be accompanied by a naturalist who will explain the tiger protection efforts. You will be partly accommodated with families and in cabins with outdoor toilets. On the way back to Vladivostok, you will stop at Victor Yudin's small protected area where he cares for 4-6 Amur tigers abandoned in the woods.

Accommodation

Hotel Versailles
With its prime location on the Amursky Bay, this hotel is situated perfectly for both business as well as leisure clients. The hotel is close to the downtown business center, shopping, entertainment, and the railway station.

Airline connections

Most people prefer to arrive in Vladivostok via Seoul, Korea. There are a variety of international carriers operating from the US to Seoul including Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and Northwest Airlines. Flights out of Seoul to Vladivostok operate on Fridays, Saturdays, Mondays, and Tuesdays. Most international airlines require an overnight in Seoul.

Important Notes

This itinerary takes you to one of the most remote parts of the world. Although services have improved in the last few years, we will encounter delays, bureaucracy, bad road conditions, uneven surfaces, and the unavailability of public bathrooms. Please note that weather circumstances may change each day's activities.

This program requires flexibility and good humor. Every effort will be made to follow the itinerary, but there is always the possibility of changes

Our Ecotourism Guidelines

We work only with tour operators who adhere to the following basic ecotourism principles:

1. Make tourism and conservation compatible
2. Support the preservation of wilderness and biodiversity
3. Use natural resources in a sustainable way
4. Minimize consumption, waste, and pollution
5. Respect local cultures
6. Respect historic and scientific sites
7. Communities should benefit from tourism
8. Trained staff is the key to responsible tourism
9. Make your trip an opportunity to learn about the destination and its people
10. Follow safety rules

Weather

The best time to go to the Primorsky Krai is in late August and September and even the beginning of October. Winter is beautiful but heavy, though if that does not bother you, the scenery is spectacular.