A ~328 m cascade in Tofolaria mountains — among Russia’s highest waterfalls, nature monument since 2020.
Kinzelyuk Waterfall
Kinzelyuk Waterfall lies in Kuraginsky District on the north-east slopes of the Kinzelyuk Range (western Agul Belki, Eastern Sayan) near the Irkutsk Oblast border. Coordinates 54°09′30″N 95°49′53″E; total cascade height ~328 m (free fall to ~90 m). It starts from a cirque lake on Kinzelyuk (Twin-Peak); ranked third among Russia’s highest falls in reference lists after Talnikovy and Zeygalan. Since 2020 the fall and 8,724 ha surroundings are a regional nature monument. Access is organised only: base camp on the Kinzelyuk River (“Letny Agul”) via GAZ-66 from Stepanovka in Irbeysky District (~6 h) or helicopter/boat with an operator. No drive-up from a highway. Routes suit prepared hikers with overnight camp. Mountain weather shifts fast — pack for a multi-day trek, not a day stroll.
How to get there
Kuraginsky District, Tofolaria. Base camp “Letny Agul” — GAZ-66 from Stepanovka (Irbeysky District) ~6 h or with an operator.
Best season
July to early September; off-season roads closed
Travel tips & stories
Nature monument since 2020 — stay on trails and pack out litter.
Guided or base-camp route only — easy to get lost alone.
Cascade ~328 m — bring telephoto lens and spare batteries.
GAZ-66 ride is rough — protect camera and back.
Combine with Agul Belki routes — do not underestimate timing.
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Local guides
- TR
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