Meeting
We met the tour leader at the train station without any problems. Transfer - in the rain. Arrival at the starting point - in a downpour and storm.
Rafting
The first day greeted us with rain and piercing wind. It seemed as if nature itself was testing our endurance.
The team leader made a strong decision to leave the group at the camp for a day and night until the storm subsided. The night was rainless, but in the morning it rained again. Packing up a wet tent is no fun.
The second day was a real challenge! Despite the planned 20 km, we had to cover 27 km because we had spent the first day in camp.
Well, okay, 27 is 7 times 3, with a stop at the shore — an achievable goal. But it later turned out that the bus could not reach the shore at the planned overnight stop.
So we had to row another 7 km. We thought about it, but agreed and got ready to row.
On the shore during lunch, when the leader was already approaching, Ruslan announced that we had to row another 7-10 km. It was a good time, because everyone had recharged with sandwiches and rested a little. Silence.
I evaluated the information and options. But there weren't any, so we accepted reality, got in the mood, and gathered our strength.
Our arms were buzzing, our shoulders were sore, but each stroke brought us closer to our goal. You no longer think about fatigue — you just swim because this is your path. I row — I rejoice!
Fatigue and admiration for the scenery — all in one bottle. It was hard, but so real. Around the bend, there will be a camp, a fire already lit, and dinner being prepared.
Around the bend. Another bend. And yet another bend. Now my eyes were twitching at the mention of bends.
And on the third day... It was a reward for everything! Bakota Bay is a place of power.
We visited two incredible locations: a hill offering breathtaking panoramic views and an ancient monastery carved into the rock — an atmosphere of peace, spirituality, and the grandeur of nature.
Recommendations
Bring raincoats. Bring dry sets of clothes. Bring warm clothes, even in summer. And don't forget KLMN.
