Thousands of Tourists Stuck at Lake Baikal as Ice Road Conditions Remain Hazardous - The Moscow Times
Moscow Times
February 25, 2026
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Thousands of tourists, including around 250 foreign visitors, are stranded on Olkhon Island in Lake Baikal, Russia's deepest freshwater lake. The region’s governor, Igor Kobzev, reported that the ice conditions remain hazardous, preventing safe travel via the traditional ice roads. While essential supplies like food and medicine are充足的, transportation is currently handled by hovercrafts until a safer route can be established within the next three days.
Lake Baikal typically freezes between January and April, forming thick, clear ice that attracts visitors worldwide. However, this year’s ice has been unstable, with many areas still too thin to support vehicles. The recent drowning of seven Chinese tourists and a Russian man, whose van fell through the ice, underscores the dangers. Kobzev has emphasized that driving on the ice is strictly prohibited until an official route is opened.
The situation highlights the risks associated with winter tourism in remote regions. Authorities are working to ensure passenger safety while managing supplies via hovercrafts. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the unpredictable nature of natural conditions and the importance of adhering to official guidelines. For travelers, it underscores the need for awareness and preparedness when visiting such destinations.
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Originally published on Moscow Times on 2/25/2026