How to get to Ust-Ilimsk

Ust-Ilimsk is a young city in the Irkutsk region, situated amidst the endless taiga on the picturesque banks of the Angara River. When planning how to get to Ust-Ilimsk, travelers often choose combined routes to see the famous hydroelectric power station and the rugged beauty of Siberian nature with their own eyes. You can reach this remote corner by plane, train, or road transport, covering impressive distances.

The fastest way to reach the city is to use the local Ust-Ilimsk (UIK) airport. The air gateway receives regional flights, ensuring a reliable connection with the outside world and significantly saving travel time.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighboring transport hubs. The nearest major airport is located in Bratsk (about 198 km away); route options via Kodinsk or Ust-Kut also exist.

Rail connections link the city with the regional centre and other regions via a branch line. Ust-Ilimsk station accepts passenger trains, making this mode of transport popular among those who appreciate a measured pace of travel and views of the Siberian taiga outside the window.

As an alternative, tourists often buy a ticket to major junction stations in neighboring cities. A convenient option might be a trip to Bratsk or Lena station in Ust-Kut, from where the journey continues by ground transport.

Bus services play an important role in the transport accessibility of Ust-Ilimsk, connecting it with the nearest settlements and transport hubs. Regular services ply the taiga routes, allowing you to get to the city even without a personal vehicle.

Most often, buses depart from Bratsk and Ust-Kut, adjusting to the arrival of trains or planes. The trip along Siberian roads takes several hours, providing an opportunity to appreciate the scale of the region.

Traveling by car to Ust-Ilimsk is a real adventure through the taiga. The most popular route leads from Bratsk: drivers will have to cover about 266 km, which usually takes about 4 hours on the road.

The road from the Kodinsk side, with a length of 440 km, will require about 6.5–7 hours. The path from Ust-Kut is significantly longer — almost 600 km and more than 8.5 hours behind the wheel, so it is important to refuel the vehicle in advance and check its technical condition.

A trip to Siberia requires careful preparation so that the journey is comfortable and safe. Here are some practical recommendations for guests of Ust-Ilimsk:

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is sharply continental: in winter, high-quality warm clothing and thermal underwear are essential (frosts down to -40°C are not uncommon). In summer, be sure to bring strong mosquito and midge repellents.
2. Transport. The city has an elongated layout along the river, so distances between districts can be large. It is most convenient to get around by taxi or shuttle buses.
3. Finances. The main currency is the Russian Ruble. Bank cards are accepted in supermarkets and hotels, but it is better to have a reserve of cash for small purchases or transport fares.
4. Health and Safety. In the warm season (May-July), tick activity is high. It is recommended to wear modest, covered clothing when going out into nature and to conduct regular checks.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Russian. English is practically not used in daily life, so an offline translator app on your phone will be useful.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to remove shoes when entering a residential premise. Locals value sincerity and directness in communication.
7. What to Avoid. Do not go deep into the forest without an experienced guide — the taiga begins right outside the city limits, and it is easy to get lost or encounter wild animals.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to visit the observation decks overlooking the Ust-Ilimsk Hydroelectric Station — this grandiose structure looks particularly impressive against the backdrop of wild nature.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on exploring the unique atmosphere of this Siberian city.