Эҕэрдэ! Welcome to Yakutsk, city of over 300,000, capital (and only city) of Sakha Republic. We arrive in the morning, and transfer by group taxi to our accommodations, a guesthouse built according to the traditional principles of Sakha indigenous architecture, which emphasize harmony with nature, the elements, and the directions. Our guesthouse contains a collection of historical items documenting the culture and traditions of the Sakha people, as well as a cafe and garden. Accommodations will be single-sex dormitories with shared bathrooms (there is indoor plumbing). We’ll have a restful day after our red-eye flight and many time zone changes. Those who have the energy this afternoon will have the opportunity to take a short hike up Chochur Muran, a sacred hill outside the city which is a popular place to greet the sun during the summer months. Our festive welcome dinner tonight will include an orientation to Sakha Republic and introductions of indigenous community members who are supporting this trip.

Accommodations: guesthouse, dorm style beds

Meals Included: breakfast (on the airplane) lunch, dinner

Included Activities: hike and opening ritual at Chochur Muran