Pearls of Russia

Museums and memorial estates

Camp Kug, Highlights of Khakassia

The Yurt Camp Kug ('kug' means joy), is located in southern Siberia, in ancient Khakassia. The complex consists of 15 octagonal wooden yurts, each with a comfortable, cosy and exotic interior designed for two people. Every convenience is provided, including modern shower cabins, bio-toilets, and heating in the event of cool nights. In addition, there is a cafe-bar where delicious traditional Russian, European and Khakassian cuisine is served; a souvenir shop; a volleyball-site; and horse-riding availability. There is an archaeological reserve a few steps from the camp.

Here, in a few hours' walk, you will be able to discover Khakassia and its best-kept secrets: untouched steppe in a riot of bloom, mountains covered with deep forest, clean rivers and over a thousand valuable archaeological sites - burial mounds (some of which have been excavated), rock inscriptions, and sacred mountain temples. Ancient civilizations were living here from 4 to 5 thousand years ago. Our knowledgeable guide will offer you the option of exploring some of Khakassia's best treasures:

- An excursion to the Aar-Tag ('Revered Mountain') to learn about ancient cults and to decipher rock inscriptions. When climbing the mountain (906m high) you can gather herbs, learn their uses and how to brew them. As you reach the top, sit and enjoy the captivating view of the clouds over the peaks of the Sayan Mountains.
- An excursion to the Valley of Ancestors to see burial mounds, some of which have been excavated. Shaman and Bhuddist rock inscriptions are in abundance. Explore Siberian Scythe mounds and mountain temples ('sve').
- A car or bus excursion to Safronovo, a journey of 70 km from Camp Kug. Here, a unique burial mound is preserved with its entrance stones measuring a height of 6 meters. There are over four hundred inscriptions, dating back 5 - 6 thousand years; the history of shamanism can be explored here. After a picnic nearby, you will visit the resting place of ancient Khakassian nobles.

The surrounding landscape - mountainous steppe - is unique to this region. You will be enchanted by the great beauty and peaceful harmony of this region.