Volzhsko-Kamsky Nature Reserve

Volzhsko-Kamsky Nature Reserve is a protected area in Tatarstan, Russia, divided into two separate sections: Saralinsky in the south and Raifsky in the north near the Volga River. Each section comprises forests, wetlands, and meadows that together cover roughly 10091 hectares and represent different habitats of the middle Volga region.

The reserve was founded in 1960 to protect undisturbed forest and forest-steppe ecosystems of the middle Volga region. In 2005 it received UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status in recognition of its research and conservation work.

The Saralinsky section preserves the natural processes of a forest-steppe landscape where grasses and scattered trees shape the view. Visitors can follow educational trails that show how different plants and animals coexist in this ecosystem.

The reserve offers marked trails and a small 11-room lodging for visitors who want to experience the natural surroundings. Fixed observation points allow guests to watch wildlife without disturbing the natural habitats.

The arboretum in the Raifsky section is the largest in the Volga region and holds around 500 tree species from around the world. Scientists use it to test how different species grow and adapt in this climate.

Location: Tatarstan

Inception: April 13, 1960

Website: http://sopkgu.narod.ru/vkgpz.htm

GPS coordinates: 55.19000,49.20000

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30