Care for the shore
Don't break branches, trample the grass along the shore or move rocks at the water's edge. The shore of a big lake recovers slowly.
Local guide
Local Guide
Around big lakes, villages, open-air museums, protected shorelines and thousands of visitors all live side by side. That's why a traveler's habits are especially noticeable here: they affect how clean the shore stays, how you get along with local residents and your own safety. This section covers simple rules for behaving by the water, advice on cold water and ice, and what to do if something goes wrong.
A lakeshore remembers every guest by what they left behind. Let the only thing you leave be footprints in the sand.
This section collects good traveler habits by the water and quick tips in case of trouble. We don't recommend specific businesses, lodging or services.
Traveler etiquette
Six habits that protect the shore and keep relations with locals friendly.
Pack out your trash
Bring sturdy bags and take home everything you brought, including cigarette butts and food scraps. Anything left by the water gets scattered across the whole bay by the waves.
Fires only where allowed
Build a campfire only in designated spots and never in protected areas. Put it out completely with water instead of hastily kicking sand over it.
Keep it quiet
Sound carries a long way over water. Loud music disturbs residents, birds and everyone who came to the lake for some peace.
Ask before photographing people
Before taking pictures of locals, fishermen or private homes, ask permission. Respect photography bans in museums and churches.
Respect local residents
People in lakeside villages are going about their lives: don't walk into yards, don't park in front of someone's gate, and say hello when you pass.
Safety
Four rules worth memorizing before you go.
Emergency number 112
Dial 112 to reach emergency services. Save it in your phone and try to keep track of where you are so you can explain it to the dispatcher.
Cold water and life jackets
The water in big lakes is cold even in summer and saps your strength fast. Wear a life jacket in any boat or other watercraft, and never swim alone.
Ice: only by the rules
According to EMERCOM safety guidelines, ice is safe for one person at a thickness of at least 7 cm, and for a group at least 15 cm. Go out on the ice only where it's officially allowed.
Lake Baikal (in Russian)
Share your route
Before a shoreline hike or heading out on the water, tell family or friends where you're going and when you'll be back, and agree on what they'll do if they can't reach you.
If something goes wrong
- If someone's life or health is in danger, call 112 right away
- If someone falls into cold water, don't jump in after them without rescue gear: call 112 and pass them something to hold on to
- If the ice starts cracking beneath you, lie down and crawl back the way you came
- If the wind catches you out on the water, stay close to shore and don't try to cut across open water
- If you lose the shoreline trail, stop, go back to the last place you recognize and don't keep going in the dark
- If you miss the last boat off the island, talk to the museum or pier staff and let your family or friends know where you are
Read next
- Planning
A step-by-step plan for a trip to a big lake, with examples, common mistakes and a pre-departure checklist.
- Getting there
Train, car, local bus and passenger boat: how to reach the lake and why boat service depends on the weather.
- FAQ
Answers about planning, water and ice, islands and museums. You'll also find our article catalogue here.
Sources
- EMERCOM of Russia: water and ice safety guidelines
- Kizhi Museum-Reserve: visitor rules
- Encyclopedic sources on Lake Baikal and Lake Onega
This guide covers lake trips in general terms. Boat schedules, visitor rules at museum-reserves and protected shorelines, ice conditions and weather on the water all change, so check them against official sources shortly before you go.