Altaisky Zapovednik (cont.)

Wildlife The diverse natural and climatic conditions of the Altai region make Altaisky zapovednik one of the most valuable treasures of global biodiversity. It is integral part of the ‘Global 200’ priority conservation regions identified by World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF). It ranks second regarding the plant species diversity in Russia, after the Caucasus Zapovednik. The number of identified plant species is 3101, with 2,050 species of higher plants and more than 1,000 species of mosses, lichens, ferns and fungi. A very interesting group is represented by aquatic plants, numbering up to 500 different species. Many species, which became rare elsewhere, are still common here and their populations thrive. 34% of the zapovednik are forested, mostly with spruce, larch, fir, pine and birch. The very valuable ancient woodlands of Siberian pine (Pinus sibirica), growing especially in the river valleys, include 450-600 years old trees with phenomenal diameters up to 2 m. The area harbours 70 species of mammals, over 300 of birds, 17 fish, 6 reptiles and 2 amphibians. The zapovednik is one of main refuges for snow leopard in Russia. Of special interest are fish living in the Teletskoye Lake. Top Things to do The most famous site of the zapovednik is Lake Teletskoye, comparable in many respects with Lake Baikal in Eastern Siberia. Like Baikal it has a prolong shape, it is very deep and has bays and small islands. There are almost 300 rivers and streams emptying into the lake, however only one river called Bia drains the lake. The lake developed 40,000 years ago as a typical glacial lake. The tectonic and further geological processes led to changes of its depth and form. It is the largest lake in Altai, located at the altitude of 436 m. It is surrounded by spectacular high mountains such as Teletskiy (2493 m), Korbu (1059 m) or Monargy (1688 m). There are well-developed tourist facilities near the Teletskoye Lake outside the strictly protected zone of the zapovednik. Several resorts offer accommodation for all types of budgets, delicious food, Russian banyas, and there are also several ski slopes for snow lovers. Alongside a very popular cruise on the Lake Teletskoye, several hiking tours are available in the zapovednik. The fast-flowing mountain rivers are characterized by many waterfalls and cascades falling directly into the Teletskoye Lake. The most spectacular and famous are Korbu, Kokshi and Boskon. For those who decide to venture into this exhilarating part of Siberia, it pays off to call at Yaylo village on the shores of the Teletskoye Lake. It hosts an interesting visitor centre of the zapovednik named ‘Altai Ail’. The centre specializes in ethno-ecological education. Alongside the friendly personnel ready to give a fascinating talk about the zapovednik and the entire Altai region, you can also see attractive exhibits of local culture (including a permanent exhibition of paintings), buy authentic ornate souvenirs made by local masters, taste delicious fruits from the orchard or just enjoy a cup of aromatic Altai tea when encircled by the beautiful mountain scenery around the visitor centre. A music concert or Altai-styled dinner (prepared by a chef from the local ethnic Tubular community) can be booked in advance. Top Information for visitors The zapovednik’s administration provides detailed information about the zapovednik and can help with the organization of your trip. Please note the zapovednik is a true wilderness environment, therefore we advise you to read the Visitors safety section on our webpage as well as getting an updated weather forecast before the start of your trip. A serious risk is posed by ticks - common during the spring and early summer. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing which offers some degree of protection and to check for ticks on your body and clothing after hiking. Tick bites can cause serious illness. See also the Instructions and rules section to find out more about restrictions in the zapovednik. Altaisky Zapovednik Administration 649000 Gorno-Altaisk, Kommunisticheskiy pr. 1, Altai Republic, Russia Tel./fax: 7 388 22 66944 E-mail: agpzmain@rambler.ru   See also other protected areas in Central Siberia.