Kristina Garmash
Tour Guide | Travel Experience Designer
a nomadic tour guide exploring Asia & Europe, I design experiences that bring you to life… and life to your explorations.
Work Experience
Strannik
⟜ Russia | Armenia | TurkeyTrekking Guide | Outdoor Instructor
May 2019 — Present- Conducting outdoor tours and leading groups in Turkey, Kamchatka (Russia), Armenia etc. since 2019.
- Appreciated by the Regional Director as one of the most experienced, responsible & adaptable guides in the Kamchatka & Lycian Way regions.
- Responsibilities: organising and conducting expeditions & trips, connecting with & managing group dynamics, setting up & maintaining equipment, risk management and safety (International WAFA certification), coordinating with contractors/vendors, as needed, acting as a local & cultural guide to the region, mentoring new guides in the region.
Strannik
⟜ RemoteProgram Manager | Travel Experience Designer
Aug 2020 — Present- Managing the entire lifecycle of programs for a season, from onboarding clients to creating & managing partnerships with local providers.
- Managing Clients: Onboarding and pre-sales communication; designing itineraries for custom needs; providing on-program support; maintaining long-term relationships for future sales.
- Managing Partnerships: finding, developing and maintaining partners (hotels, transport, activity providers, restaurants etc.) for tours in various regions; making bookings, negotiating agreements; building effective and long-term relationships.
Big Altai
⟜ Novosibirsk, RUOutdoor Guide
May 2018 — May 2019- Conducting sightseeing tours in the Altai Mountains: Leading groups for hiking, horseback riding and multi-activity adventure tours.
Macro Group
⟜ Saint Petersburg, RUPersonal Assistant to the Chairman
June 2011 — May 2018- Providing administrative and organisational support for the Chairman of the board.
- Managing all communication, scheduling & business correspondence in Russian & English.
- Arranging business & personal trips for the CEO, their family, & the leadership team.
Various Organizations
⟜ Sardinia, Italy | Armenia | Republic of TyvaINTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEERING EXPERIENCE
2018 — 2022- 2020-2022 - Volunteering for the non-profit organisation HIKEArmenia, which develops and designs trekking routes in Armenia and promotes ethical tourism.
- 2019 - Participation in an archaeological research expedition in the Republic of Tuva, RU.
- 2018 - Working in an equestrian club in Sardinia, Italy; conducting horseback riding excursions etc.
Education & Professional Development
2024
School of Tourism
Diploma in Outdoor Instruction & Guiding
2023
Hanifl Centre for Outdoor Education
Outdoor Leadership Course, Wilderness Advanced First Aid Certification (WAFA)
2019
Equestrian course
2018
Field Medical School
Providing first aid in remote areas
2017
Petrograd’s School of Mountain Tourism
Mountaineering Course
2017
Graduate School of Economics, St. Petersburg State University of Economics
Presidential Program, Project Management
2009
St. Petersburg University of Management and Economics
Masters in Social and Cultural Service and Tourism
Featured Tours
Turkey
Over the last few years, I have led more tours across the Lycian Way than I can count, and yet it never ceases to amaze me. Join me as we hike across sandy shores, ancient ruins, and natural springs, all while gazing at an endless blue sea.
Kamchatka
Volcanoes, lakes, bears, foxes, and an extra helping of challenge. Join me in one of the most unique, breathtaking parts of the world where I have been guiding travellers for over 6 years.
Nepal
A part of the world I always want to return to, Nepal is both the region and the reason that led me to a life in the great outdoors. From local bus journeys that last days on dusty roads, to solo treks in Langtang valley, to perhaps the greatest traditional beer in the world—Tongba—join me for an exhilarating ride!
Thailand & Laos
Every other winter finds me exploring new regions, foods, cultures and trails across South East Asia as I trek/camp/ride/hitchhike/snorkel to my heart's content. Whether you find yourself in Thailand every year or you've never been—I've something new in store for you as I guide you across some of my favorite regions.
Switzerland
Words fail me as I try to describe the beauty that awaits you as we hike across the Mountains & Lakes of Switzerland. Experience it with me, for it can only be brought to life, not to words.
Armenia
Each time I find myself in Armenia, I am overwhelmed with the kindness of women & elders who spoil me with indulgent food beyond their means. Hiking in the Armenian mountains has a special place in my heart.
Kazakhstan
In an alternate timeline, on a different dimension is a Kristina Garmash who gave up a life of travel… just for the pleasure of calling Almaty home. From the absurd wonder of submerged forests, to luxuriously gorging on cherries from random trees, to chalk white plains, to a drink of horse milk—this country never stops surprising you.
Macedonia
Come here for the stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, a local cuisine that blends Mediterranean and Balkan influences, and majestic mountains that offer excellent hiking opportunities. Rich in history and culture, my travels across Macedonia always had a lot to offer.
About Me
Hi! I'm Kristina Garmash, a passionate Travel Guide and Experience Designer with a knack for crafting meaningful travel experiences. Over the past 7 years, I have designed & led over 60 memorable travel experiences for over 1,500 clients—from active Volcanoes in the remotest reaches of Kamchatka, to the farthest shores of Turkey's Lycian Way, to Mountain ranges across Altai, Armenia, & beyond. I find joy in immersing myself into every aspect of my craft—from designing and onboarding clients to managing partnerships, negotiations and logistics; and ultimately— walking alongside you as I guide you through the unforgettable vacation you deserve! Since 2019, I have lived as a global nomad, engaging in slow, responsible travel around the world. I have travelled & lived in over 15 countries across Europe & Asia, an experience that continues to mould me as a person & a professional.
