The main reason to visit the area is to see landscapes and people of the far north. The most interesting point here are excursions- along the Lena River, into the tundra, Yakuty and Evenki (aborigines of the far- eastern territory) villages.

Sakha is the land of picturesque ice shelves and arctic deserts. Vast landscapes of primeval taiga and forest-tundra together with untouched beauty of the northern nature create unforgettable sights. Yakutia has unique flora and fauna, which are very vulnerable to industrial activities and global weather changes. The region is hosting such endangered species as peregrine, erne, golden eagle, fish-hawk, lynx and roe (deer).

Population

Sakha Republic has a population of about 1 000 000. Representatives of more than 120 ethnic groups live here. The indigenous population, Sakha, number 382 (1989 estimate). According to the scientific data, there were some 28,2 thousands of the native Yakut people at the end of the XVII century. That means that for 300 years their population has decreased in more than 13 times. Some 35% of the republic population lives in the capital city, Yakutsk.

Tourist attractions

The major tourist attractions of the region are connected with its nature. Yakutia is a land of boundless taiga and never-ending rivers. Here situated numerous parks and museums devoted to the northern culture and weather. Yakutia has 2 large preserves, 4 national natural parks and an outstanding Botanical Garden.

A big interest represents a natural park situated on the River Lena and called “Leninskie Stolby”(1995). Among the most distinctive features of this park are old rock masses, which form picturesque natural arches, towers, colonnades and many other intricate structures. In the park visitors can also enjoy with plane meadows and rich local fauna. Another point of interest here is sandy dunes (tukkulany), which are fairly granted for representing the most exotic features of Yakutia’s nature. It seems unbelievable that in the middle of taiga rise natural formations typical for a dessert.

Museums

The most distinguishing museums situated in the region are: the Museum of History and Culture of the North, the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography, the Museum of Diamonds, and many, many others. For example, there is a special cultural and ethnographical complex (“SOTO”) in which the major patterns of indigenous Yakut people’s life are reconstructed, so that all local traditions, customs and holidays can be observed and even participated in. Unique ice sculptures depicting mammoths, deer, tigers, bears, and other animals can also be found here.

Yakutia is a perfect destination for those who have passion for unusual und exiting journeysMore about journeys.... Modern explores can find here vast possibilities for recreation activities, like for example ecological tourism or such sport pastimes as rafting, fishing or hunting. If a visitor is aimed at more relaxed holiday, comfortable river cruises along the Lena River may become the best variant. But whatever itinerary you may choose, untouched nature, unique landscape and bright impressions will undoubtedly accompany you on your travel through Yakutia.