Specially protected natural objects are not only reserves, but also national parks. Russia, with its vast territory, boasts a list of 47 parks located mainly in the European part and in the south of Siberia and the Far East. The total area occupied by these nature conservation objects is more than ten million hectares.
History and modernity
The very first national parks in Russia were formed in 1983. These were Losiny Ostrov in Moscow and Sochi Park. By the end of the 80s of the last century, the list increased to 11 objects, and by the mid-90s their number reached almost three dozen. In 2015, the list of national parks in Russia included 47 objects, among which the "youngest" were Beringia in Chukotka, Onega Pomorie in the Arkhangelsk region and the Shantar Islands in the Sea of Okhotsk. The Chikoy Park in Transbaikalia closes the list.
Briefly about the best
In the rating of travel agencies and in the opinion of active tourists, the most popular and visited national parks in Russia are:
- Zabaikalsky in Buryatia. The main objects of observation are 300 species of animals and almost the same number of birds. Rookery of the Baikal seal. Many natural and historical monuments, Neolithic sites of ancient people and historical and cultural complexes. The nearest cities are Ulan-Ude and Severobaikalsk. The park's website is www.npzabaikalsky.ru.
- Curonian Spit in the Kaliningrad region. The area has the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 260 species of birds and fifty species of mammals are protected in the park. Unique natural objects - dunes, hills and coniferous forests are of particular value. The entrance fee is 300 rubles for one passenger car. Details on the website - www.park-kosa.ru.
- Lake Pleshcheyevo in the Yaroslavl Region is a popular park among residents of the capital and Central Russia. In addition to beautiful natural landscapes, it offers its rich fauna for observation and photography. Cranes and swans nest on the shores of the lake, and deer, roe deer and flying squirrels can be found in the surrounding forests. The nearest city is Pereslavl-Zalessky, details on the website - www.plesheevo-lake.ru.
Better than mountains can be …
The Elbrus National Park of Russia is a favorite vacation spot for active tourists who prefer mountains and everything connected with them. Established in 1986, this park includes part of the Main Caucasus Range and offers unique opportunities for mountaineering, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding, hiking and equestrian sports.
The infrastructure of the Elbrus Park makes it possible to organize a simultaneous rest of five thousand visitors on its territory. The nearest cities are Kislovodsk and Tyrnyauz. Guided tours in organized groups can be ordered at the local tourist centers, as well as in Cheget.
