Aaltje van Zoelen, Managing Partner
Pioneer in tourism development in East Russia and Siberia

In a few words:

East Russia, undoubtedly for us is one of the most fascinating places in the world, because of its exquisite nature and the generous souls of its people. It is a place where one can experience the utter silence of peace, watching a small curious red fox on the shoreline of one of the Kurile Islands. Or be intrigued by the lives of the Even reindeer people, in an isolated camp north of the city of Yakutsk. Enjoy a train ride passing through long stretches of dreamlike taiga while sharing a compartment with local Russians.

We’ve spent the last fifteen years traveling in many different ways from the far north of Chukotka and Yakutia to the most southern point of the Primorsky Krai, the Khasan area. We used every mode of transportation, spend our nights in airports, on trains, in tents and cabins in faraway places, with families, you name it. And never did we feel at any time a stranger.

These are authentic travel experiences, that always happen but each time are different. This is the real Russia, somewhat disorganized, some what chaotic, but always incredibly interesting and never, ever boring.

For the last ten years, we have been involved in numerous conservation projects, ranging from planning ecotourism routes in the protected areas from the Kuriles to Kamchatka and the Primorsky Krai. These protected areas represent the natural treasures of Russia and are an integral part of our journeys.

Our journeys are always one of a kind, irreplaceable adventures. We take you by the hand and immerse you in real Russia. Not the one you thought it was, but much more then you ever could imagine.

Aaltje van Zoelen

World Wise Expeditions

We call ourselves world wise for a reason. All of us at World Wise Expeditions are citizens of the world, most of us come from other countries and we bring with us a broad knowledge of the world. We are what you call culturally attuned. World Wise is a term that indicates a deep insight into issues of a global nature, such as conservation and sustainability of our joint natural resources, but also matters that pertain to the survival of our species. It also means that where we can we work on mutual education and contribution that is compassionate and wise.

Personal commitment and experience

When you talk to us or send us an e-mail about one of our upcoming trips or just want to chat about some ideas, you will know that we talk from experience. While on the trip there is always one of us along, together with a local tour manager who provides the local communication and local insights. Our local tour managers are knowledgeable professionals.

Local partnerships

We have worked with our partners for many years, learning together and working together. They are the ones that will introduce you to their neighborhood, their friends in a way that makes you feel part of the family. We always make sure revenue remains in in local communities, sometimes enhanced by our travelers buying local souvenirs or contributing to a specific nature preserve or park.

Comfort and Safety

You can be confident when you immerse yourself in the local culture and the vast natural expanse of Russia that we have your safety and comfort in mind.

Traveling in countries with limited infrastructure sometimes can be a bit frightening. We make sure that you are always up front advised about the level of accommodations and transportation. And you are assured that they are the best available.

Who are our world wise travelers?

They come from everywhere, some of them are young and some of them are older, but all of them have a yearning for knowledge. Most of them enjoy most of all the down to earth encounters they have while on the road.

More questions, we are always open to them, please contact us at info@traveleastrussia.com

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