Jeeping banned on Mount Hymba in Zakarpattia: what tourists need to know

Restrictions on jeeping have been introduced in the Carpathians: climbing Mount Hymba in Pylypets has been temporarily banned. Find out why this decision was made, what risks jeeping poses, and what alternatives are available to tourists

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In the village of Pylypets in Zakarpattia, one of the most popular tourist centers in the Carpathians, a decision was made to temporarily ban traffic to the top of Mount Hymba. This refers to so-called jeeping — driving off-road vehicles and ATVs on rough terrain.

Ban on jeeping on Hymba: details

The restriction applies to forest land and covers the area above the upper chairlift station in the direction of the summit. Warning signs will be installed there in the near future so that tourists can plan their route in advance.

This decision was made by the regional commission on technological and environmental safety and emergencies. The regional military administration emphasized that the ban was due to two key factors:

● environmental damage: uncontrolled off-roading destroys the soil cover and harms the unique flora and fauna of the Borzhava mountain range;

● risks to tourist safety: off-road driving often leads to accidents and injuries to both drivers and passengers.

It is important to remember that the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine had previously decided to ban off-roading in national parks. However, in practice, tourists continued to report widespread violations of this rule. Therefore, the restrictions on Hymba were another attempt to regulate traffic in mountainous regions.

Read about other restrictions in the Carpathians and the penalties for violating them in our previous article.

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Borzhava Polonyna: a unique ecosystem under threat

Mount Gimb is part of the Borzhava Polonyna, one of the most famous mountain ranges in the Carpathians, attracting thousands of tourists every year. Borzhava is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich flora, and opportunities for active recreation, from hiking trails to winter skiing.

However, in recent years, this area has been subjected to excessive human impact. Massive off-road vehicle traffic leaves deep ruts, destroys the topsoil, contributes to erosion, and causes irreparable damage to natural ecosystems. For mountain landscapes, which recover very slowly, such losses are critical.

Therefore, banning jeeping on the Hymba is seen as an important step towards preserving the Carpathian Mountains for future generations.

In addition to the damage to the environment, the problem has another dimension – the human one. Jeeping in the mountains poses serious health risks. Due to the difficult terrain, lack of specially equipped roads, and often unprofessional drivers, such entertainment often ends in injuries to passengers.

Local authorities emphasize that the restrictions are not aimed at reducing the region's tourist appeal, but at improving safety and developing more responsible tourism.

An alternative to jeeping: eco-tourism in the Carpathians

Visitors planning a trip to Pylypets and Mount Hymba are advised to consider alternative ways to relax. First and foremost, hiking trails allow you to experience the atmosphere of the Carpathians much more deeply than a quick drive up the mountain.

On the Visit Ukraine platform, you can choose safe trips to the Carpathians with responsible guides who not only know the best routes but also help you see unique places that are inaccessible to transport. This is the best option for those who value comfort, safety, and respect for nature.

We remind you! August and September are the perfect time to escape to the quiet, discover new corners of the Carpathians, swim in thermal pools, find a lake without people, and sit on the porch of a mountain hut overlooking the ridge. Read about unusual places to visit in August and September in our previous article.

Photo: mukachevo.net

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