The Yenisei stretches for almost three and a half thousand kilometers - one of the greatest rivers not only in Russia, but also on the planet. The border between Eastern and Western Siberia runs along the channel of the seventh river in the world in terms of river basin area, and the Yenisei itself crosses practically all Russian territory from south to north and flows into the Kara Sea. About five hundred tributaries of various sizes and lengths flow into the great Russian river. For lovers of nature and landscapes of their native land, the best way to see Siberia in all its glory is to take a cruise along the Yenisei.
Natural masterpieces
The main attraction on the banks of the Yenisei is the unique Siberian nature. Travelers admire the passing landscapes and visit the famous national parks and reserves. By far the most memorable among them are:
- The geographical center of Asia, located at the confluence of the Big and Small Yenisei. The obelisk "Center of Asia" is installed near the city of Kyzyl on the embankment of the river. In the capital of the Republic of Tuva, you can visit an old Buddhist monastery.
- Historical and Ethnographic Museum-Reserve in the village of Shushenskoye. Every summer, the international festival of crafts and ethnic music "World of Siberia" is held here, where you can hear performances by famous world-class folk musicians. The pride of the festival is only live sound at all large and small concert venues.
- Reserve "Stolby" in the Eastern Sayan Mountains, claiming a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is home to many animals and birds listed in the Red Book. The unique rocks in "Stolby" are an object of mountaineering, and the hiking trails become the route for the participants of the cruise along the Yenisei.
Ancient city, glorious city
Regardless of the cruise route chosen, travelers will certainly find themselves in the capital of Central and Eastern Siberia, the city of Krasnoyarsk. It is from here that the snow-white liners start, taking their passengers towards adventure and vivid impressions.
In Krasnoyarsk, tourists get acquainted with the old city, where the Russian painter Vasily Surikov was born, lived and wrote his magnificent canvases. In his House-Museum in Krasnoyarsk you can see the artist's earliest work of all known and dated - "Rafts on the Yenisei".
An excursion to the Krasnoyarsk hydroelectric power station and the view of its dam from the water arouses no less interest during a cruise on the Yenisei.
