Lake Baikal is a rift lake, situated in the south of the region of Siberia, between the Republic of Buryatiya to the southeast and the Irkutsk Oblast to the northwest.
Having its deepest point at 1642 m/5387 ft, Lake Baikal fairly claims the title of the deepest and one of the clearest freshwater lakes in the world. Experienced divers can enjoy a nice ice diving session, taking the plunge beneath the frozen surface of the lake.
Situated between Olkhon island and the western shore of the lake, The Little Sea or Maloye More as Lake Baikal is else known, Ol’Khon North is a place only privileged people ever lay eyes on.
Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lake Baikal is home to about 1.800 species including the endemic Baikal seal. Ice diving there is suitable from January through March and only divers who hold an internationally recognized ice diving certification should attempt diving.
The spot of Ol’Khon North is easy to find from shore and the access is instant. Diving takes place at an average depth of 5 m/16.4 ft and reaches up to 20 m/65.6 ft. At this time of year and at this depth, visibility is medium.
The bio interest of the place is poor, so if you are looking for that kind of dive, maybe dive somewhere else. There are countless places to dive in Lake Baikal!
Generally, it is a good dive site and if you are an experienced diver, you shouldn’t miss it!
