FAQ - Frequently asked questions
Who is Baikalplan e. V.?
Baikalplan e.V. is a registered non-profit organisation founded in 2002. Since 2004 it has helped to place volunteers in the framework of the GBT project and it's the only European partner of this project. It has more than 25 members. All of them work voluntarily, that means in their free time. That's why we ask you to look up all information you need on our Internet sites www.baikalinfo.com or www.baikalplan.de or in the GBT information book (only in German language available) which we will send to you if desired. If there are any questions left, please write us an e-mail to info@baikalplan.de.
Who can apply?
Actually, everyone aged 18 years and older can apply for a camp. Furthermore, you should speak some English or Russian, be physically fit and be able to live in a tent 14 days long without having a flush lavatory or a shower.
Is there an age limit?
Not really. The previous participants were aged 18-70! The age limit depends on several things. In case of doubt, please ask the GBT team in Russia.
Can I participate in a camp together with my family/my children?
Of course, it's possible. Families, children and teenagers are welcome to participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult person. Many local teenagers and pupils usually participate in most of the camps.
How to apply?
Please get in contact with the GBT organisation in Russia.
Can I apply for several camps?
YIn general, it's possible. But therefore you'll have to get a more expensive long-term visa since a usual tourist visa is only valid for up to 30 days. Furthermore, we recommend you to take a holiday at Lake Baikal before or after the camp time.
Is it possible to get an internship certificate after the camp?
This is generally possible. However, it depends on the project you participated in and the requirements for the internship.
Do I have to organise the journey to Lake Baikal on my own?
Yes!
But you'll get all the necessary information from us. In addition, we'll give you the addresses of the other camp participants in order to help each other and arrange things.
Where can I get my visa?
For entering Russia you need a visa. The necessary invitation for the visa application you get from the GBT team in Russia. Furthermore, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after the intended departure date from Russia. For the visa you need a passport-size photo and a complete Russian visa application form. You'll get further important information from the GBT organisation in Russia. Also have a look on the homepage of the Russian Embassy in your home country.
Where is the meeting point in Russia?
If you participate in camp situated at the west coast or south of lake Baikal, we recommend you to travel to Irkutsk at first. If the camp is situated at the east coast (Zabaikalsky National Park, Ust-Barguzin, Alla, Turka, Tankhoi) it's recommended to travel to Ulan-Ude and if it's situated north of Lake Baikal or in the Barguzinsky Biosphere Reserve (Davsha) you should go to Severobaikalsk.
When being in one of the named towns you should schedule at least two days for the visa registration.
Where can I stay after my arrival?
In Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude there are several hotels and hostels. Staying at a hostel costs 10 euros (approx. £8) per night. Of course, staying at a hotel is more expensive.
Where will I sleep during the camp time?
On every camp you have to sleep in tents. The tents are provided at each place, that means, you don't need to bring one.
Can I travel on my own before or after the camp?
Yes!
The tourist visa is valid up to 30 days. So you will have enough time to visit other places and sights or just to relax at Lake Baikal. Since the camps are situated in very remote areas where you can experience nature's beauty, we really recommend you to travel before or after the camp time.
