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General information
The Sayano-Shushesky Zapovednik straddles both sides of the  main Sayan Ridge, as well as eastern spurs of Kantegir Range and northern slopes of the Chemchik Range. The steep-sided canyons and cirques, formed in the last glacial period, are flanked by rugged peaks averaging 1500 – 2600 m in height (the maximum height is 2772 m above sea level). The main Sayan Ridge constitutes a borderline between the wetter northern slopeinfluenced by colder Atlantic and Arctic air masses and the much drier southern slope impacted by the Central Asian anticyclone. Hence, the northern and southern parts of the zapovednik differ sharply in climate. The north is humid with an average annual precipitation of 1500 mm of rain and a snow cover of up to 2 meters deep. On the other hand, the climate of the southern part is dry continental, where precipitation reaches a maximum of 400 mm and the average snow cover is about 30 cm deep. 
The main Sayan Ridge acts as a wall separating Siberia from Central Asia. The northern side is lush and green, covered by coniferous taiga and very valuable groves of Siberian pine. The south is mostly grey and brown, covered by a blanket of mountain steppes with patches of Asian larch forests. There is a huge cleft; a deep canyon cut through by the Yenisey River, winding its way to the north from the steppes of Tuva. In the 1970s, after the Sayano-Shushensky Dam was completed, this canyon was flooded causing on one hand dramatic changes to the local scenery and microclimate and on the other hand it offered a navigable corridor through this otherwise inaccessible wilderness, allowing access by means of a comfortable ship.
Wildlife
The zapovednik’s territory is notable for its diverse flora and fauna; around 60% of the area is covered by forests. The most valuable ones are extensive virgin Siberian pine (Pinus sibirica) woodlands, which stretch over 100,000 ha. Furthermore, forest-steppe, steppe, sub-alpine and alpine tundra ecosystems are represented. The diverse habitats harbour exciting flora, including a wonderful display of high meadow flowers and alpines in the short mountain summer. The vegetation of the reserve amazes even specialists for its richness and variety - 1027 species of higher plants were identified here so far, including many local and regional endemic species such as Silene turgida, Aquilegia borodinii, Anemonoides jenisseensis, Poa altaica, Agropyron krylovianum and many others. In addition, there are hundreds of species of mosses, lichens, ferns and fungi – many not fully studied yet. 
The peculiar landscape and climate is well reflected in the mixed character of local flora with representatives of several floristic districts, including a large number of relict plants, Daurian Rhododendron (Rhododendron dauricum) and Baikal Meadow-rue (Thalictrum baikalense) among others. Especially valuable is the occurrence of rare, but eye-catching species as Ghost Orchid (Epipogium aphyllum), Lady's Slipper (Cypripedium calceolus), Large-flowered Cypripedium (C. macranthum), Siberian Fawn-lily (Erythronium sibiricum), Edelweiss (Leotopodium ochroleucum), Golden Root (Rhodiola rosea), Golden Rhododendron (Rhododendron aureum), to name a few. There are also several plant species, which were firstly recorded here, such as Upper Yenisey Locoweed (Oxytropis suprajenissejensis), small yellow-flowered poppy species (Papaver kuvajevii), and mysterious Microstigma sajanense.
Thanks to the varied land forms, vegetation types and ecological conditions, a unique and rich diversity of fauna has also evolved. Many species, which are rare elsewhere, thrive in this area. The flagship species for conservation and symbol of the Sayan Mountains is without doubt the elusive snow leopard (Uncia uncia), which finds here one of its last undisturbed refuges and sufficient prey. The steep, rocky slopes are home to a significant population of Siberian Mountain Goats (Capra sibirica), sometimes also called Siberian ibex. Other large mammals common in the zapovednik include the Brown Bear (Ursus arctos), Grey Wolf (Canis lupus), the Siberian Musk Deer (Moshus moschiferus), Siberian Roe Deer (Capreolus pygargus) and the Asian form of the Red Deer (Cervus elaphus). Small mammals include chipmunks, weasels, sables, shrews, jerboas, squirrels, polecats, etc. Interestingly, there are no marmots to be seen here, even though they are common in the neighbouring Altai and Eastern Sayans Mountains.
The area also supports an abundant variety of birdlife (312 recorded species). Species such as Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), White-tailed Sea-Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), Saker Falcon (Falco cherrung) and Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) are often observed from the boat circling above peoples’ heads. The forests are an important habitat for the Altai Snowcock (Tetraogallus altaicus), Willow Grouse (Lagopus lagopus), Black Stork (Cinonia nigra), Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus), Hazel Grouse (Tetrastes bonasia), Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes) and many other species. Unfortunately, the construction of the dam has negatively affected the spawning of native populations of fish, in particular the highly valued migrating salmonids as taimen (Hucho taimen) and lenok (Brachymystax lenok).
History
There is no evidence that the territory of the zapovednik was ever permanently inhabited. Only a few indigenous people (Tuvans) lived in the Yenisey Canyon, which, due to the construction of the dam were eventually forced to resettle. Important trade routes crossing the Sayan Mountains were developed in more accessible places, such as the Ergaki Mountains (called the Usinsky Tract).
The beginnings of protecting the area (the central part of the current Sayano-Shushensky zapovednik) is connected with a small carnivore known for its valuable fur – the sable (Martes zibellina). Like the first Russian zapovednik, Barguzinsky, on the shores of Lake Baikal, this remote inaccessible wilderness acted as an important refuge for this animal – which was almost hunted to extinction. The former Sayan Zapovednik was much smaller and lacking such a strict conservation regime as the one applied today.
The construction of the Sayano-Shushensky dam brought tremendous  changes to the area, however it was the major impetus for establishing the current conservation status of the reserve, justified by the need to conduct long-term research and to monitor the impact of the water reservoir on the surrounding natural environment. An important milestone in the history of the zapovednik was its inclusion in the UNESCO network of biosphere reserves in 1985. This helped to initiate a process of integrated conservation, where the zapovednik significantly contributed to the development and extension of protected areas in the whole region. Thanks to the active involvement of the zapovednik’s managers, a zone of cooperation ‘Grey Sayans’ was established. The process has led to the establishment of a few smaller conservation areas (zakazniks) and Nature Park Ergaki (the former part of the cooperation zone of the biosphere reserve).
The zapovednik has a long tradition of scientific research, playing an important role in accumulating information regarding the nature and wildlife of the region. It has a large zoological collection (embalmed animals, skulls, antlers, etc.), herbarium (over 18,000 mounts), and rich portfolio of publications, photos and films. It also has a specialised library with over 6,000 items. Traditionally, also volunteers help to conserve this unique territory.
Things to do
Even if one may not eventually reach the zapovednik itself (because of its remoteness and access restrictions), it is worthwhile visiting the zapovednik’s museum and visitor centre housed in the building of the zapovednik’s administration headquarters in Shushenskoe (Street: Zapovednaya 7). Among other interesting exhibits, the museum has several charming wildlife dioramas featuring different ecosystems represented on the territory of the zapovednik. It is a great place to learn about the fascinating natural world, to obtain further information such as; booklets, books and DVD’s as well as buying souvenirs. On request, the special laboratory and library of the zapovednik can also be seen, which include a few guest-rooms.
Furthermore in Shushenskoe, a large building on the right bank of the Yenisey river (Street: Vokzalnaya 3, formerly the building of the river port) has been converted into an environmental education centre, run by the zapovednik’s administration. Its huge main hall decorated with a fancy wall mosaic of Lenin and his comrades is suitable for a range of educational activities and events. It is the regular meeting place of the Association of Zapovedniks and National Parks of the Altai-Sayan Eco-region, and hosts a permanent exhibition about all its member protected areas. The building also houses a fitness studio and offices of the local tour operator ‘Juznaya Sibir’ (tel. 7 39 139 37276) associated with the zapovednik. The licensed company is the best choice for custom-made eco-tours related to the zapovednik and its surroundings.
Here is a selection of recommended activities to those interested in visiting the zapovednik:
- Boat trips in the Sayan Sea (Sayano-Shushensky reservoir)
The remoteness makes travelling to the Sayano-Shushensky Zapovednik a real adventure. What  better way is there to discover the very soul of the Sayan Mountains than to explore its treasures in the ultimate comfort and safety onboard a cabin-cruiser navigating the enchanted ‘Sayan Sea’. Wildlife lovers and photographers can encounter wild animals such as the Siberian Mountain Goats (Capra sibirica) which are regularly seen grazing on the banks, rarely scared by the passing ships. With every bend a new picture unfolds of majestic mountains, game-filled forests, and an incredibly peaceful atmosphere of this unique region just waiting to be discovered. There are also optional activities during the cruise such as Russian banya, swimming and fishing in the Sayan reservoir.
- Holiday in the taiga
Ideal for those lured by the thought of spending some time in the wild, there are opportunities to stay at one of the few zapovednik’s ranger stations. Initially, these stations were developed as base camps for rangers on patrol in the reserve however recently the zapovednik’s administration started adding visitor accommodation there. The wooden cottages are simple, but comfortable and clean furthermore, there is always a Russian banya nearby.
- Expeditions and excursions
The zapovednik can issue entry permits to the core area of the protected reserve to a very limited number of people per year. There are several excursion itineraries available (Martianov trail expedition, Sayan Canyon expedition, Sayan taiga expedition), which allow visitors to spend some time in the reserve and together with reserve rangers observe local wildlife and participate in scientific research. Such itineraries are true field expeditions. Accommodation is in simple log cabins and tents. Meals are cooked on fire.
- Ecological camps for youth
The zapovednik’s administration in cooperation with local municipal authorities also organizes summer eco-camp for youth aged 12 to 24 years near the zapovednik’s territory. Children stay in tents, are catered for and supervised by
Information for visitors
Visitors can obtain detailed information and mandatory entry permits to the reserve by contacting the zapovednik administration. The zapovednik is a true wilderness environment, therefore we advise you to read the Visitors safety and Instructions and rules sections on the ECOSIBERIA website.
Sayno-Shushensky State Nature Biosphere Zapovednik Administration
662710 Shushenskoe, Zapovednaya 7 (street), Russia, tel/fax: +7 39 139 32300
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