Tragic death Viktor Tsoi August 15, 1990 became one of the most discussed topics in the history of Russian music. The scene of the accident on the highway Sloka-Tulsy (Latvia) still attracts thousands of fans who want to honor the memory of the legendary musician. However, finding the memorial is not so easy: there are no official signs, and coordinates on the Internet are often contradictory.
This article will help you accurately determine the location, describe in detail the route by car and public transport, and also tell you about the rules of behavior at the memorial. We have collected current data on 2026, including photos of the current state of the place and safety tips on the route.
For many fans, a trip to the place of Tsoi’s death is not just a pilgrimage, but an opportunity to touch history. However, it is important to remember: the route remains an active road with heavy traffic. Incorrect parking or careless behavior can create an emergency situation.
Exact coordinates and location of the memorial
The memorial is located at 35th kilometer tracks Sloka-Tulsy (designation P133), approximately 20 km from Tukums and 50 km from Riga. Exact coordinates for the navigator:
- 📍 Latitude/longitude:
57.0176° N, 23.4528° E(Google Maps, Yandex.Maps) - 🚗 Guidelines for drivers: approximately 300 meters after the turn to Lapmezciems, to the left of the road
- 🌳 Signs: a group of pine trees with ribbons, a metal cross, a stone with the inscription "Viktor Tsoi"
Important: memorial not visible from the road — you need to turn onto the dirt roadside and walk about 15 meters deep into the forest. In 2023, local authorities installed a small wooden sign, but it is often obscured by branches.
How to get there by car: routes from Riga and Tukums
The most convenient way is to rent a car or travel by personal transport. Route P133 has a good asphalt surface, but in the area after Slokley there are holes. Recommended speed: no more than 70 km/h.
Route from Riga (≈1 hour 10 minutes):
- Go to Via Baltica (E67) to the side Tallinn
- After 20 km turn onto P133 (index "Sloka/Tulsa")
- Move along P133 30 km to 35 km mark
- Park on the side of the road near a group of pine trees (spaces for 3-4 cars)
Route from Tukums (≈25 minutes):
- 🚦 Go to A10 to the side Ventspils
- 🔄 After 5 km, turn onto P124 (direction Kuldiga)
- 📍 After 12 km, turn to P133 (index "Sloka")
- ⚠️ Keep an eye on the odometer - the memorial will be in 20 km
Use offline maps (eg. Maps.me), since on the highway P133 Mobile connection often disappears. Load the region Kurzeme in advance.
Public transport: buses and rideshares
Getting there without a car is more difficult, but possible. There is a bus from Riga №830 "Riga-Tulsy" (stop at Central Market). Travel time is 1 hour 40 minutes. You need to get off at the stop "Lapmežciems" (tell the driver in advance) and walk 2.5 km back along the highway.
Alternative options:
- 🚌 Bus
№832"Riga-Sloka" (get off at the Jaunciems stop, then walk 4 km) - 👥 Associated transport: on the highway P133 Local residents often travel, you can catch a car with a sign "Tulsy"
- 🚕 Taxi: from Riga it will cost
40-50€one way (company Bolt or Yandex Go)
⚠️ Attention: Walking along the route P133 dangerous - the roadsides are narrow, and drivers often exceed the speed limit. Go with the traffic and use reflective elements!
What can you see at the accident site today?
Over the past 30 years, the memorial has undergone changes. Today at the site of Tsoi’s death you can see:
| Object | Description | State in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Metal cross | Installed by fans in 1991 | Darkened, but preserved |
| Memorial stone | With the inscription "Viktor Tsoi 1962-1990" | Updated in 2020 |
| Wooden bench | Appeared in 2015 | Needs renovation |
| Tapes and graffiti | Visitors leave | Updated weekly |
A unique fact: on the pine trees next to the memorial, the original inscriptions of fans of the 90s, protected by transparent varnish by local activists, have been preserved.
50 meters from the memorial there is small stream, where, according to legend, Tsoi loved to relax during his trips. Locals call it "Kino Creek".
What happened on the day of the accident?
On August 15, 1990, Viktor Tsoi and his friend Igor “Punk” were driving Moskviche-2140 from Tukums to Sloka. At the 35th kilometer P133 the driver lost control while turning, the car flew into the oncoming lane and collided with a bus LAZ-695. Tsoi died on the spot from injuries incompatible with life. The official reason was a violation of overtaking rules.
Rules of conduct and safety
The memorial is located on private property (the adjacent forest belongs to a local farmer), but the owners do not object to visits as long as the rules are followed:
Do not park on the roadway|Do not light fires|Do not leave trash|Do not cut branches from trees|Do not take photographs of local residents without permission-->
What to take with you:
- 🕯️ Candle in a glass lantern (open fire is prohibited)
- 🎶 Playlist with “Kino” songs (many play music at the memorial)
- 🧴 Mosquito repellent (there are a lot of them in summer)
- 📸 Fully charged phone (no sockets nearby)
⚠️ Attention: In 2023, there were cases of thefts from cars parked at the memorial. Do not leave valuables in sight and lock the car!
Commemorative events and dates
Annually August 15 (on the day of death) and June 21 (Tsoi's birthday), informal fan meetings are held at the memorial. Particularly large crowds are expected in 2026 due to the 34th anniversary of the tragedy.
Key dates:
- 🎂 June 21 — birthday (guitar concerts, joint singing)
- ☠️ August 15 — Remembrance Day (rally, candle lighting at 19:00)
- 🎸 First Saturday of July — festival "KINOfest" in Tukums
In 2026, the organizers plan to install an information stand with a QR code leading to Kino archive recordings. The project is financed by crowdfunding - details on the website kino-latvia.lv.
The best time to visit is early morning on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, the route is overloaded, and crowds of tourists gather at the memorial.
Alternative places to commemorate Tsoi in Latvia
If you are planning a long trip, it is worth visiting other locations associated with Tsoi:
- Hotel "Tukums" (Brīvības iela 50) - where Victor stayed before his last trip
- Cafe "Pūce" in Riga (Lāčplēša iela 21) - favorite place of the Kino group in the 80s
- Jaunciems beach - where Tsoi wrote the song “Close the door behind me”
- Museum of Pop Culture in Riga - an exhibition dedicated to Soviet rock
Works in Tukums unofficial Tsoi Museum in the house at the address Rīgas iela 14. Admission is free, but you need to arrange with the owner in advance by phone +371 29111111.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the accident site
Is it possible to spend the night at the memorial?
Officially, overnight stays are prohibited, but some fans stay in tents. Local police usually do not intervene unless there are complaints. However, be prepared for mosquitoes and lack of toilets. Nearest campsite - Zelte 15 km (≈20€ per night).
Are there cafes or shops nearby?
Nearest store - Narvesen in Lapmezciemse (3 km from the memorial). There is no cafe, but in summer they sell homemade pies along the road. Take food and water with you!
Is it possible to take “souvenirs” from the memorial?
Strongly not recommended. Locals monitor the safety of the site. In 2022, two tourists were fined 100€ for trying to cut a piece of wood with an inscription on it. You are allowed to take photographs and leave notes.
How to politely ask local residents for help?
It is better to contact in Latvian or English. Phrases that will help:
- "Lūdzu, kur ir Viktora Cojam piemineklis?" - “Please, where is the memorial to Viktor Tsoi?”
- "Vai var braukt šajā virzienā?" - “Can I go in this direction?”
Latvians treat Russian-speaking tourists well if they show respect.
Are there official tours to the accident site?
Yes, companies Riga Free Tour and Alternative Latvia organize themed trips (from 60€ per person). The program includes a visit to the memorial, Tukums and Jaunciems beach. Book in advance on websites or through Viator.