A slower walk in Białowieża Forest

Give your attention to the forest around you

Białowieża interests us for its old trees and the chance to look at woodland closely. We like noticing the shapes of trunks and the way branches fill the space above a path. Choose a route with time to stop and listen, and let the park’s access rules guide where you go.

The forest crosses the Poland–Belarus border. On the Polish side, the national park protects part of it, including old-growth oak-linden-hornbeam stands and habitat for European bison. The forest itself is our reason to come. If you see wildlife during a walk, watch from a distance and give it plenty of room.

Choose a guided visit or an independent route

Entry to the Orłówka strict protection area requires a licensed guide and advance arrangements; the park limits guided groups to ten people. A guided walk appeals to us for the chance to ask questions about the forest while looking at it. For an independent visit, the Hwoźna area has marked routes, and the Palace Park in Białowieża is open for unguided walks.

Check the park’s current visitor rules, opening times and ticket requirements before settling on a plan. Carry water and insect protection, stay on marked paths and do not feed or approach wildlife. The forest continues across a state border; a visitor route must follow the access rules for the area you are in.

• Book a licensed guide before visiting the Orłówka strict protection area.
• Use marked routes in the Hwoźna area for independent walks.
• Check park notices before travel and follow posted access rules.