Swimming, quad bikes and more: what are the restrictions in the Carpathians and what are the penalties for breaking them?

The Carpathians are one of the most popular destinations for travellers, but a holiday in the mountains requires strict rules to be followed. In 2025, Ukraine tightened the penalties for violations in protected areas: now even ordinary swimming or improperly lit fires can cost thousands of hryvnia. Find out what exactly you can be fined for in the Carpathians and how to avoid problems during your mountain holiday

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The Carpathians are not just picturesque mountains, they are a unique ecosystem, part of which is protected by the state. But even paradise can turn into chaos if simple rules of conduct are forgotten. In April 2025, the Verkhovna Rada adopted Bill No. 11309, which increased the responsibility for violations in protected areas. We explain what exactly is prohibited in the Carpathians — and why it is better to follow the rules.

Lighting fires

Fires may only be lit in specially designated areas marked with signs. Forest rangers regularly update information and monitor safety.

Penalty: up to 4,590 UAH

Swimming is prohibited (but not everywhere)

Some lakes in the Carpathians are protected natural sites. Swimming in them disrupts the fragile ecological balance and is dangerous for both nature and humans.

Where is swimming prohibited?

❌ Synevyr

❌ Neistove

❌ Beskul

❌ All water bodies in protected areas

Penalty: up to 2,000 UAH (higher for repeat offences)

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Jeeping and quad biking

Driving off-road destroys the grass cover, ruins wildlife trails and threatens rare species of flora.

Penalty: 510 UAH + compensation for damages up to 9,000 UAH

Litter

Abandoned plastic bottles, cigarette butts and other litter are not only unsightly, but also harm the groundwater that feeds rivers and lakes.

Penalty: from 340 to 1,700 UAH

Illegal tree felling

Building a tent out of a Christmas tree or lighting a fire with branches may seem romantic, but cutting down trees harms the ecosystem and is punishable by law.

Penalty:

▪️ For individuals — from 510 to 1,020 UAH

▪️ For companies — up to 170,000 UAH

❗️ Restriction of freedom for 3–5 years is also possible

How to relax in the Carpathians without breaking the law?

Want to explore the Carpathians without the risk of fines? Choose proven routes with experienced guides on Visit Ukraine — the platform has over 800 tours in Ukraine, including dozens of routes in the Carpathians:

- Safe eco-trails

- Legal parking

- Professional guides

- Maximum experience without harming nature

Book your tour now and travel with respect for nature!

We remind you! The most spectacular panoramic viewpoints in the Carpathians are waiting for you this spring. We have collected locations that offer ideal angles for photos, peace and inspiration.

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