A Guide to Off-Roading and Jeep Tours Near Novosibirsk - Wander Russia 2025 Guide

If you’re an adventure seeker, off-roading near Novosibirsk offers a thrilling way to explore Siberia’s wild and rugged terrain. From dense forests and remote mountain ranges to vast open plains, the area surrounding Novosibirsk is a paradise for off-roading enthusiasts and jeep tour lovers. Whether you’re looking for a heart-pounding adventure or a relaxing excursion through the wilderness, there’s something for everyone in this diverse region.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best off-roading and jeep tour experiences near Novosibirsk, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Siberia while navigating challenging and scenic landscapes.

1. Gornaya Shoria (Mountain Shoria)

What to Expect:

• Located in the Kemerovo Region, about 450 km from Novosibirsk, Gornaya Shoria is an off-roading haven, offering dramatic landscapes of mountains, rivers, and forests. This region is ideal for off-roading due to its rugged terrain and variety of challenging trails.
• Jeep tours here allow you to explore secluded mountain roads, cross streams, and climb up steep slopes, offering stunning views of the Shoria mountains and the surrounding wilderness.
• The terrain is suitable for beginner to advanced off-roaders, making it a great option for both newcomers and seasoned off-road drivers looking to take on more difficult paths.

Why Visit:

• Gornaya Shoria is known for its scenic landscapes and variety of off-road challenges, making it a fantastic destination for those who want to experience Siberia’s wild beauty from the comfort of a jeep.

Practical Tip:

• The area is remote, so it’s a good idea to book a guided jeep tour to make the most of your trip and ensure safety. Many tours also offer camping and wildlife viewing as part of the experience.

2. Altai Mountains

What to Expect:

• The Altai Mountains, located about 800-900 km from Novosibirsk, offer some of the most spectacular off-roading opportunities in Russia. With their dramatic high-altitude terrain, rocky paths, and scenic river crossings, the Altai region is a must-visit for serious off-road enthusiasts.
• Jeep tours here take you on an unforgettable journey through dense forests, past glacial lakes, and along rugged mountain trails. The diverse landscapes provide everything from fast-paced dirt tracks to rocky climbs, offering a variety of challenges for off-roading fans.
• These jeep tours can range from day trips to multi-day expeditions, where you can also enjoy camping under the stars in the heart of the mountains.

Why Visit:

• The Altai Mountains offer one of the most scenic and challenging off-roading experiences in Siberia, with jaw-dropping views and rugged landscapes that will leave any adventurer in awe.

Practical Tip:

• If you’re not familiar with the area, consider booking a guided tour. A local guide will ensure you navigate the rugged terrain safely and provide insights into the region’s natural and cultural wonders.

3. Zaeltsovsky Forest

What to Expect:

• Just on the outskirts of Novosibirsk, the Zaeltsovsky Forest provides a convenient yet exciting option for off-roading near the city. This forest area offers a variety of dirt tracks and woodland trails that can be explored in jeeps.
• Though not as rugged as some of the more distant areas, Zaeltsovsky Forest is perfect for a half-day or day trip if you’re looking for an off-roading adventure close to Novosibirsk. The trails take you through the forest, across small streams, and provide an opportunity to spot local wildlife.
• It’s also a great spot for beginners to get a feel for off-roading, as the trails offer a mix of easy paths and challenging tracks.

Why Visit:

• If you’re short on time and want an off-road adventure without venturing far from Novosibirsk, Zaeltsovsky Forest offers a variety of trails for a quick escape into nature.

Practical Tip:

• Since the forest is easily accessible from Novosibirsk, you can easily join local off-road clubs for a group tour, or arrange a private jeep tour if you prefer a more customized experience.

4. Teletskoye Lake (Altai Region)

What to Expect:

• Teletskoye Lake is one of Russia’s largest and most beautiful lakes, located in the Altai Republic. The surrounding area is perfect for off-roading, with forested hills, rocky cliffs, and mountain passes that provide a thrilling challenge for jeep tours.
• Off-roading here often takes you to the western shore of the lake, where rugged trails offer views of the lake’s crystal-clear waters and the towering Altai Mountains in the distance. The terrain varies from smooth dirt paths to rocky inclines and muddy trails, providing a dynamic off-roading experience.
• After a long day of adventure, there are plenty of opportunities to relax by the lake and enjoy the beauty of the Altai region.

Why Visit:

• Teletskoye Lake offers a unique off-roading adventure that combines the thrill of driving through mountains with stunning lake views. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers who also want to enjoy a high-energy adventure.

Practical Tip:

• If you plan on visiting Teletskoye Lake, it’s best to go with a guided jeep tour or a local off-road club. The area can be difficult to navigate without experience, and a guide will ensure you get the most out of your visit.

5. Chike-Taman Pass

What to Expect:

• The Chike-Taman Pass, located about 600 km from Novosibirsk, is known for its steep inclines and breathtaking views. The area offers some of the most challenging and rewarding off-roading terrain in Siberia, with narrow mountain roads that wind through the Altai Mountains.
• Jeep tours here take you to high-altitude passes, where you can experience rugged trails, snow-capped peaks, and remote wilderness. The pass is perfect for those who want to combine challenging off-road driving with scenic beauty and photographic opportunities.

Why Visit:

• The Chike-Taman Pass offers an exciting and rewarding experience for experienced off-roaders looking for a more technical challenge and stunning mountain views.

Practical Tip:

• The region can be tricky to navigate, especially in winter months when the roads may be icy or snow-covered. Make sure to go with a professional guide who is familiar with the area and its challenges.

6. Kuznetsky Alatau

What to Expect:

• Located about 500 km south of Novosibirsk, the Kuznetsky Alatau Mountains offer incredible off-roading opportunities, particularly for those who love mountain trails. The area is known for its rugged terrain, including deep forests, rocky ridges, and glacial lakes.
• Off-road tours in the Kuznetsky Alatau typically include multi-day expeditions, where you’ll drive through remote areas, cross rivers, and climb steep mountain paths. The region is also great for camping and enjoying the wilderness far from civilization.

Why Visit:

• For those seeking a truly remote and challenging off-roading experience, the Kuznetsky Alatau offers an unforgettable adventure amidst some of the most dramatic landscapes in Siberia.

Practical Tip:

• Due to the rough terrain and remote nature of the region, it’s best to book a guided tour with an experienced local company that can handle the logistical challenges and ensure your safety during the journey.

Conclusion: Off-Roading Adventures Near Novosibirsk

Whether you’re an experienced off-roader or a beginner looking for a fun adventure, the area around Novosibirsk offers some of the most exciting and varied off-roading experiences in Siberia. From the Kuznetsky Alatau Mountains to the Altai region and Gornaya Shoria, there are plenty of opportunities to explore rugged landscapes, challenging trails, and beautiful natural scenery.

For those seeking the thrill of jeep tours, these destinations provide a chance to immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of Siberia while experiencing the exhilaration of driving through some of the most stunning and remote terrain in Russia.

Make sure to prepare well, hire a local guide when needed, and enjoy the ride!