eastories
I’m Ilja, founder of Eastories. With Buryat-Russian roots and a life shaped across Poland, Germany, and now Italy, I’ve always felt a deep connection to Lake Baikal – where my family still lives in a remote wooden village.
In 2015, I launched Eastories to promote sustainable tourism around Baikal. My goal is to support local communities by offering travelers authentic stays with host families, while reinvesting profits into restoring traditional Buryat homes and building eco-friendly cabins in the local style.
What inspired me? The raw beauty of the region – and its challenges: poverty, ecological neglect, and cultural isolation. I believe responsible tourism can help change that.
Since we began, we’ve welcomed hundreds of guests and volunteers, supported agriculture with new technologies, and expanded a network of guides and hosts. Join us in shaping a more sustainable future for Baikal.
In 2015, I launched Eastories to promote sustainable tourism around Baikal. My goal is to support local communities by offering travelers authentic stays with host families, while reinvesting profits into restoring traditional Buryat homes and building eco-friendly cabins in the local style.
What inspired me? The raw beauty of the region – and its challenges: poverty, ecological neglect, and cultural isolation. I believe responsible tourism can help change that.
Since we began, we’ve welcomed hundreds of guests and volunteers, supported agriculture with new technologies, and expanded a network of guides and hosts. Join us in shaping a more sustainable future for Baikal.
Our Values
At Eastories, I focus on creating real, immersive travel experiences. With strong local connections and hands-on support, I help travelers dive deep into Siberian culture – where every trip feels like an adventure, not just a vacation.
What We Offer
Traveling in Russia can be complicated – language barriers, tricky logistics, and unexpected costs. I’ve been through it all, and that’s why Eastories exists: to make your journey smooth, personal, and unforgettable.
I offer fully customized trips around Siberia and Lake Baikal, plus full assistance with flights, trains, car rentals, stays in Moscow or Saint Petersburg, and travel connections from Irkutsk to Baikal and beyond.