- Visit Minsk: The capital city of Belarus offers a mix of Soviet-era architecture and modern attractions. Explore the historic Old Town, visit the impressive Independence Square, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
- Discover Brest Fortress: This World War II memorial complex is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The fortress played a significant role in the defense against the German invasion and now stands as a symbol of heroism and resilience.
- Explore the Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park: This ancient forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the European bison. Take a guided tour to spot wildlife, hike through pristine nature trails, and visit the famous residence of Ded Moroz (Father Frost).
- Marvel at the Mir Castle: This stunning medieval fortress is a perfect example of Gothic architecture in Belarus. Explore the well-preserved castle complex, admire the beautiful gardens, and learn about its rich history.
- Relax at Lake Naroch: Belarus’ largest lake is a popular destination for nature lovers. Enjoy swimming, fishing, or simply unwind amidst the picturesque surroundings. The lake also offers various recreational activities, such as boating and hiking.
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Backpacking Belarus in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Belarus with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Belarus
Step into Belarus, a hidden gem for backpackers seeking a blend of history and tranquility. Pros? Discover charming Soviet-era architecture, explore vast landscapes, and enjoy a cost-effective travel experience. Belarus offers affordability and a unique cultural immersion. However, limited English signage and bureaucratic challenges may pose obstacles. For the offbeat explorer, Belarus provides an opportunity to venture beyond the typical backpacker trail, offering a peaceful escape into a lesser-explored corner of Europe, where the past and present converge in a distinctive and authentic way.
💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Belarus
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Belarus
The best time to visit Belarus for backpacking is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20-25 °C (68-77 °F). This allows for comfortable outdoor activities and exploration of the country's natural beauty.
Additionally, summer is the peak tourist season in Belarus, which means that there will be more opportunities for socializing and meeting fellow travelers. Many festivals and cultural events also take place during this time, providing a chance to experience the local traditions and customs.
It is important to note that Belarus has a continental climate, so the weather can be unpredictable. It is advisable to pack layers and be prepared for occasional rain showers or cooler evenings.
Additionally, summer is the peak tourist season in Belarus, which means that there will be more opportunities for socializing and meeting fellow travelers. Many festivals and cultural events also take place during this time, providing a chance to experience the local traditions and customs.
It is important to note that Belarus has a continental climate, so the weather can be unpredictable. It is advisable to pack layers and be prepared for occasional rain showers or cooler evenings.
Risk level: high (100%)Safety advice for Belarus
- Do not travel to Belarus due to the volatile security environment caused by Russia's war in neighbouring Ukraine, Russia's military presence along Belarus' border with Ukraine and the arbitrary enforcement of laws by Belarusian authorities.
- Russia is conducting military operations from Belarus, and this has heightened tensions in the region. The security environment is volatile and could deteriorate at short notice. Do not attempt to travel to the Belarus-Ukraine border or cross into Ukraine from Belarus.
- If you're in Belarus, leave immediately using limited commercial options available or private means. Carefully consider the safest means and route to depart. Check the entry requirements of the destination you're entering. You're responsible for your safety and that of your family.
- If, despite our advice, you remain in Belarus, review your personal security plans. Expect restrictions on financial transactions and be aware you may be affected by shortages of essential products and services. For more information on what to do if you're caught in armed conflict, see our general advice ‘'There's an armed conflict’'.
- Large protests have occurred in Minsk and other cities in Belarus. Avoid demonstrations and follow the instructions of authorities. Harassment of foreigners is possible. You may not be able to trust the police and other local officials. People have reported harassment, mistreatment and extortion by officials. Do not travel near borders with Ukraine, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland due to volatile security environment and border closures/restrictions on movement.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
source: www.gov.uk
BelarusMy tips to get you on the way!Does Belarus sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Belarus. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Belarus may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Belarus. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Belarus may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Belarus, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Belarus, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 25 September 2024