Bělověžský národní park (Białowieski Park Narodowy)

Bělověžský národní park protects the most valuable part of the Białowieża Forest, which is the last lowland primeval forest in Europe and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979. This unique ecosystem straddles the border of Poland and Belarus and is famous for the successful reintroduction of the European bison – it was here that the species was saved from extinction. The park offers several hiking trails, of which the most strictly protected area, Orłówka, is accessible only with a guide.

Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to the museum in Bělověž, where you can learn everything about the history of the forest, its flora and fauna. Also worth seeing is the demonstration enclosure with bison, deer, and other animals. The best way to get there from the Czech Republic is by car – from Ostrava the journey via Katowice and Warsaw takes about 8 hours. Accommodation is offered by agritourism farms directly in the vicinity of the park, which often also provide guiding services.

When planning your trip, remember that entry to the strictly protected zone requires a pre-booked ticket with a guide, especially during the peak season. The ideal time to visit is spring and autumn, when the forest is vibrant with colors and peaceful. Czech tourists should bring binoculars and a camera – besides bison, you can also spot wolves, lynxes, black storks, and rare insect species dependent on the decaying wood of centuries-old oaks and lindens.