Unique beauty of Polesie Radiation and Ecological Reserve

The radiation and ecological reserve in the south of Belarus remained closed for almost three decades. It separated the territories located in the exclusion zone. It is only a few years ago that visitors began to be allowed here. This extraordinary place bears witness to the fact that nature has come to life and taken its course here whereas a person has been given the role of a careful observer of its wonders.

Visiting ghost villages

The first excursions to the Chernobyl exclusion zone were held in 2021        BELTA

Every year on April 26th, Belarus remembers the tragedy caused by the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. Although the destroyed reactor was located on the territory of a neighbouring country, it is the Belarusian regions that were exposed to radiation load the most. Everyone has heard about the abandoned city of Pripyat. But what about 450 resettled villages and dozens of enterprises?
The territory is strictly guarded, and it is impossible to get there on your own. However, now you can book a unique excursion in the Polesie Radiation and Ecological Reserve to see firsthand houses, schools and shops that have been swallowed up by the emerald fauna. Time seems to have stopped forever at the ‘spring of 1986’ mark. Textbooks and exercise books are still lying on school desks, letters and calendars keep gathering dust in the living rooms, children’s toys and favourite things left behind during the evacuation have remained on their places…

Recalling the liquidator’s fate 

A requiem rally takes place every April at the monument to the liquidators in Khoiniki      BELTA

Do you fancy learning the truth about what happened after the reactor explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant? Then it is not worth watching TV serials — go to the city of Khoiniki instead. It is located just a few dozen kilometres from the accident epicentre. It is here that one of the largest museum exhibitions dedicated to the 38 years ago events is placed. It features rare documents and photographs, personal belongings of the liquidators, heart-piercing stories of human destinies divided into before and after that April night.  
Chernobyl liquidator Vasily Ignatenko, whose story is often taken as a basis in films and works of fiction about the nuclear accident, was from Gomel Region. The section commander of the 6th independent paramilitary fire brigade for the protection of Pripyat, he participated in extinguishing the fire at the power plant that night. There is a unique monument in Khoiniki dedicated to the liquidators. At the end of April, the foot of the monument is traditionally buried in a sea of red carnations — Belarusians remember the feat of their saviours.  

Stroking the mane of Przewalski’s horse

The horse herd is getting bigger every year         belta

An interesting feature is that animals born in this nature reserve are absolutely not afraid of humans due to being not familiar with them. During the excursions, the chances are great to see not only a roe deer or a deer, but also a bear, a wolf, a lynx, and more. Amazing black storks have also taken up residence in these places. In the cold season, visitors can safely watch bisons as they come here in herds for additional feeding. Yet, the most unusual inhabitant is the infinitely adorable Przewalski’s horse, which is quite rare in nature. Photography is allowed!
During the excursion, it is important not to lose your vigilance and move along the permitted routes only. The radiation settled unevenly — three metres away from the path and the dosimeter will alert that the radiation level is elevated and it is dangerous. It is for a reason that the nature reserve staff have compiled a detailed map of the protected zone having taken into account every tree and hillock.  

Choosing a special souvenir

The President of Belarus personally tasted the local honey and gave it an excellent mark        belta

It will not be possible to take even a twig from the protected areas as a keepsake as it will be found at the checkpoint on the way back. Also, health comes first! Yet, you definitely will not go home without souvenirs. Thus, employees of the security zone have been engaged in beekeeping in experimental territories for several years. The hive inhabitants live and feed in strictly designated areas, and every gramme of honey is thoroughly checked for the presence of radionuclides. There are barrels with buckwheat, lime, acacia and raspberry delicacies. 
Another option is straw products. Craftswomen from Khoiniki are considered the best in the country for taming this Belarusian material. Their hats, trays and caskets, paintings and sculptures are in special demand. It is here that unique gifts are ordered for top officials who come on formal visits. 

 Taming a wayward wave 

About 120 bird species inhabit the territory of Polesie Radiation and Ecological Reserve         belta


You can travel around the nature reserve not only by car or on foot. Water routes are also available. A three-day rafting trip along the wayward Pripyat River ensures never-to-be-forgotten experience and incredible emotions. The programme includes a leisurely boat trip with a view of the pristine nature. When coming ashore, tourists get a chance to look into cultural centres and factories, see around high-rise buildings and traditional village houses abandoned by their owners with the hope of returning. And no silence around! There are dozens of bird species singing exuberantly, so the feeling of life does not leave these places. By the way, moving on water in the protected zone is even safer than on land as harmful elements go into the soil and do not linger on the surface.  

By Sofia Arsenyeva