TOURISM

 

Belarusian forests are not only the national patrimony, but also its pride and adornment. The total area of forest resources (including forest bogs, ways, waters and other) is more than 9 million ha or 44,5% of the territory of republic. Nearby 8 million ha are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Forestry.

Forests are the basis of the unique natural landscapes of Belarus. The area of forest resources, occupied by waters, is 72 ths ha. It is the land of more than 10 thousands lakes with clear water. Many rivers spring from the lakes. In forests are found vivifying springs with healing power. Natural vegetation (forests, bushes, meadows, bogs) takes nearby 67% of the territory of Belarus. In our country in the center of Europe there are unique undrained bogs. They take nearby 6% of forest resources of the Republic and are of interest as objects for ecological tourism, hunting and berrying.

In forests grow nearby 12 thousands plant and mushroom species. Birds are presented mostly with forest and water species. The most part of them (227 species) nest on the territory of the republic. There are mammals of 6 classes (77 species), among them 4 acclimatized species such as raccoon dog, common raccoon, American mink and musk-rat. In forests of Belarus live bison, brown-bear, lynx, golden eagle, black stork, aquatic warbler and many other rare and endangered species. Most mammals live in forest, only a few of them prefer living near water or in open areas.

Rare and endangered wild plant and animal species were entered in The Red Book.

Strategic plan for development of forestry in the Republic of Belarus till 2015 foresees investments in the improvement of infrastructure and accomplishment of forests. In the framework of these activities recreation zones are created near water, along roads and in forests. Many hunting enterprises have built lodges and created all condition for good rest and hunt.

In spite of hunting tourism, in our forests there exist wide possibilities for such kinds of eco-tourism as hiking, cycling, riding, skiing and boating. The program of eco-tour can include visiting regional museums, historical places, observation and study of wild nature, hunting with a camera gun, picking berries, mushrooms and medicinal herbs.