We booked 1 night at the Baikaler hostel and after our experiences in our last place it was exactly what we needed. The hostel was actually full when we arrived and they asked us if we minded staying with one of their neighbors who helped out sometimes. We were cool with that and it proved to be a great decision... More

This hostel is great. English speaking staff on site at all times. Nice shower and bathroom. Take the two day excursion and stay on a farm on the shores of Lake Baikal and then an absolutely incredible hike along the lake to see ancient petroglyphs. Owner, Jack Shermetoff can organize a variety of trips. He is real resource for travel... More

We stayed in Baikaler for about 5 days in August 2010 during our Trans-Siberian trip. The hostel is located in old Soviet-style apartment building on the main street of Irkutsk. The building itself is nothing more than old place is need of renovation - but the hostel inside it is a real gem. There are three bedrooms, a kitchen, WC... More

After reading some very positive reviews, I decided on the two bed private rooms at the Baikaler. Unfortunately, I can't really recommend it and surely not the private room. Those two beds must be the worst in the hostel! First some good things: The location is central and easy to get to from the train station. Free wifi, plus a... More

Baikaler hostel has a weird entrance, but it gets better inside. Staff is friendly and the owner has good knowledge of the area and can help organizing things like trips to Lake Baikal. Rooms are a little bit noisy, but that more or less always in hostels. There is a big traffic all the time in the lobby. There is... More

Spent five nights here very nice, very pleasent! would recommend it here definatly. staff very friendly and helpful, the usual facilities all working! and no problems. wanted to stay longer!!!

This place is amazing. It's what you think a hostel should be. The staff was simply great, especially Oxsana (don't know if the spelling is correct)! They helped me going to Listvyanka and Olkhon island. The shower is amazing! It was a dream to get in it after 3 days on a train from Moscow. I found a lot of... More

Cozy place. Great staff in every ways. Good location. Private and good shower. Always filled with backpackers.

great english speaking staff, good dorms, friendly atmosphere, free internet, good showers, had lots of fun there. The very helpful staff helped us organise a trip to Olkhon island which was a highlight of our trip.