Trekking in Russia and Central Asia

Pristine mountains, blooming deserts, rolling steppe, wetlands and forests thick with wildlife. . . . This is Russia? Indeed it is, and this is the first book to expertly guide you through its once-forbidden wilderness. Whether you use this guide to hike through Silk Road villages, climb remote peaks, or just take an overnight trip out of the city, these treks are sure to shatter any preconceived notions you had about the former Soviet Union. For the latest wisdom on navigating this land of eleven time zones, dozens of ethnic groupps, and ever-changing bureaucracy, count on Frith Maier's ten years of experience pioneering foreign adventure travel. Includes: - 50 treks and adventures of various skill levels- Indispensible cultural background- Up-to-date information on travel conditions, finding accomodations and food- 61 authoratative maps unavailable anywhere else- How-to-do's on hiring guides and tour companies- Trip planning tips, environmental considerations, health & safety advice- Handy Russian phrases and terms for trekers