Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, Restricted military facility in northern Ukraine
The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone is a sealed territory in northern Ukraine surrounding the former nuclear power plant, containing abandoned villages and military checkpoints. The restricted area shows the physical traces of a sudden evacuation and decades of abandonment.
After the nuclear reactor explosion in 1986, authorities sealed a 30-kilometer radius area and evacuated tens of thousands of residents from surrounding communities. The territory remains under strict control and restricted access today.
Scientific research teams conduct regular studies within the zone to examine radiation effects on local wildlife populations and document environmental changes.
Entry requires official authorization, radiation safety screening, and certified guides who follow designated routes through the restricted territory. Visitors should expect limited facilities and strictly regulated movement throughout the area.
Some older residents returned to their villages after evacuation and still live within the sealed territory despite official restrictions. These self-settlers have adapted to conditions and chosen to remain in their communities.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
