Things to Do in Altai Mountains

The Altai Mountains stretch across southern Siberia like a massive geological amphitheater, where Russia meets Mongolia, China, and Kazakhstan in one of the world's most pristine wilderness areas. This UNESCO World Heritage region feels genuinely untouched - you'll find snow-capped peaks rising above 4,000 meters, turquoise lakes that seem almost artificial in their brilliance, and vast steppes where traditional herding communities still follow ancient rhythms. The region tends to attract serious outdoor enthusiasts and travelers seeking something beyond the typical Russian experience, though it's worth noting that infrastructure here is deliberately minimal, which is both the appeal and the challenge.

The food scene reflects the region's cultural mix and harsh climate - expect hearty Russian staples alongside Altaian specialties like horse meat sausage and fermented mare's milk (an acquired taste, admittedly). Most guesthouses provide meals as part of their packages, which is convenient given the limited restaurant options outside main villages. You'll find decent Russian cuisine in Gorno-Altaysk and Artybash, but once you're in smaller villages or on multi-day treks, meals become more basic and functional. Local honey is exceptional here, and if you're lucky enough to be invited to share a meal with an Altaian family, you'll experience traditional dishes that haven't changed much over generations.

July and August offer the most reliable weather and full access to high-altitude areas, but they're also the busiest months with higher prices and crowded trails. June and September provide good compromises - decent weather with fewer crowds, though some high passes might still be snow-covered in early June. Winter transforms the region into a snow-covered wilderness perfect for cross-country skiing and cultural experiences, but many tourist services shut down and temperatures can drop below -30°C. Spring (April-May) and fall (October) can be unpredictable but offer the chance to see the region in transition, with fewer tourists and lower accommodation costs.