Travel Guide Parc National De Białowieża

Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and on the list of World Biosphere Reserves, this park covers the largest virgin lowland forest in Europe, covering an area of 1,200 km², and is home to Europe's last remaining bison. The bison, the largest living animal in Europe (500-900 kg), was hunted by the kings of Poland and later by the tsars. Although hunted, it was also protected. In the 16th century, buffalo hunters without royal permission were condemned to death. Unfortunately, during the First World War, poachers and soldiers exterminated the buffalo. In 1919, there is no longer a single one at Białowieźa. Beginning in the 1920s, scientists took on the task of reintroducing the bison and protecting the entire forest area. Today, the forest at Białowieźa, most of which is in Belarus, is strictly monitored. The park, which occupies part of the forest, is accessible only if accompanied by an official guide. There are about 700 bison in the forest of Białowieźa. The forest offers beautiful walks in the middle of the primeval forest to discover its fauna and flora. You can make excursions by bike, on foot or in a horse-drawn carriage. The village of Białowieźa, which lies in the middle, is the best starting point for excursions. Mostly Belarusian, this sleepy village is in itself a fascinating place.