Olmanskie Swamps

Its uniqueness lies in the fact that this vast area of almost 100,000 hectares has been preserved in its natural state since ancient times. The swamp complex is located on the border of the Brest region, and its southwestern part is located in Ukraine.

In the mid-20th century, the Olmanskie swamps were used by the military as a testing ground, so several nearby settlements were relocated in their time. Being away from civilization has contributed to the preservation of the natural complex and the stability of hydrological conditions.

In 1998, with the aim of protecting the unique ecosystem and preserving biodiversity, the "Olmanskie Swamps" reserve was established in the Stolin region of the Brest region. Approximately half of the entire reserve area is occupied by swampy forests. Here you can also find sand dunes, floodplain oak groves, coniferous and deciduous forests.

The swamp complex of the protected area is represented by two extensive swamps - Krasnoe and Galo. The plant world of the reserve includes almost 700 species of vascular plants, 12 of which are listed in the Red Book. The animal world is represented by 26 species of mammals and more than 150 species of birds. Among the rare representatives of fauna in the reserve, you can find the black stork, dwarf eagle, badger, European lynx, and hazel dormouse. The Olmanskie swamps are also a nesting place for rare birds - the great bittern, bearded reedling, and common capercaillie.

The water system of the reserve is represented by the Goryn, Lvа, and Stviga rivers, as well as the Maloe and Bolshoe Zasominoye lakes. The reserve has the status of a Ramsar territory - this means that wetlands, which are inhabited by waterfowl, are protected by the international Ramsar Convention.

What Can a Tourist Do in the Olmanskie Swamps?

Belarusian and foreign tourists come to the Olmanskie Swamps to feel the ancient power of pristine nature and see with their own eyes the magnificence of the animal and plant world, which for a long time has been away from civilization. You can visit the reserve either independently or as part of guided tours.

The nature conservation complex offers visitors:

• Walks along the ecological trail that is one and a half kilometers long. Along the trail, there are gazebos for rest and observation towers from which you can admire scenic views. During the walk, an experienced guide will talk about the inhabitants and natural features of the Olmanskie reserve.
• Off-road vehicle trips through swampy terrain.
• Hunting or fishing activities.
• Birdwatching - observing birds in their natural habitat.
• Kayaking down the river. Less experienced tourists are offered rafting lasting several hours. Those who are not afraid of challenging routes can choose tours that last several days.

The Olmanskie forest-swamp complex is located southeast of the settlement of Olmany. To get to the reserve, you first need to get to Stolin by bus or train. From Stolin to Olmany, there are regular bus routes.