LocationsWhere barriers end, the journey to nature begins
“I Will Definitely Come Back Here”
May 8, 2026
In Belarus, more than 400,000 people choose protected natural areas for recreation and travel — to reconnect with nature, hear the whisper of pine trees, breathe in fresh air, watch the morning light over a lake, and listen to birdsong. Yet the opportunity to step into the forest, reach the water’s edge, and simply pause by a lakeshore to enjoy the moment is still not equally accessible to everyone.
For many persons with disabilities, the path to nature still begins with barriers — narrow forest trails, sandy and uneven paths, steep descents to the water, a lack of resting areas accessible by wheelchair, and the absence of navigation and infrastructure that can be used independently. What is a peaceful walk in the forest for some can still become a challenge — or remain out of reach entirely — for others.
Today, that is beginning to change.
UNDP Belarus
First Steps Along a Barrier-Free Trail
In Rossony District of Vitebsk Region, UNDP together with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus and with financial support from the Russian Federation, has been working to make nature truly accessible for everyone — creating barrier-free routes, developing inclusive infrastructure, and opening new opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate in ecotourism.
In May 2026, partners opened a new inclusive nature trail, “A Journey into Nature Without Barriers.”
UNDP Belarus
The 6-kilometre trail runs through a protected nature reserve near the ECO-ROSY Environmental Education Centre and features 17 thematic stops with interactive activities, educational displays, and recreation areas.
“The opening of this ecological trail marks an important step in advancing ecotourism in Belarus and expanding opportunities for inclusive recreation. Initiatives like this help people connect more deeply with nature, foster a culture of environmental stewardship, and ensure equal opportunities for all visitors to enjoy the outdoors,” said Roman Koltsa, Chairman of the Vitebsk Regional Committee for Natural Resources and Environmental Protection.
“We Will Definitely Come Back Here”
The opening of the trail took place during the “Rays of Hope” tourism camp, which brought together more than 20 persons with disabilities from the Rossony and Verkhnedvinsk districts.
For many participants, the trip was far more than a walk in the forest — it was a deeply personal experience. For some, it was the first time getting so close to the water. Others explored sensory stations and interactive installations. Some simply stopped to take a deep breath of forest air.
“I loved it. I hadn’t been anywhere like this in a long time, and here — nature, fresh air, movement — you feel energized, you feel stronger,” says Alexey Bogdanov. “I’m already dreaming of coming back. I want to come here with friends, walk, relax, discover new things, and simply be in nature.”
UNDP Belarus
“The lake, the air, the trail — I loved everything. Walking across the tree stumps was fun — it’s relaxing and good for your health,” says Katya Dolgikh.
Part of the trail has been specially adapted for people with different forms of disabilities, including persons with mobility, visual, and hearing impairments, as well as people on the autism spectrum. The route includes tactile and sensory elements, information boards with embossed text, and safe, accessible infrastructure throughout.
Water became one of the most talked-about experiences among participants. An accessible ramp leading down to the lake turned out to be one of the most meaningful features of the trail.
“I really love nature. We’re coming back here in summer — with my friend Sasha — to swim. We already go swimming in the pool. And somehow it feels like summer never ends here. I want to come back and swim here on my own — without being afraid,” says Pyotr Gavrilov.
UNDP Belarus
Visitors can also explore the trail with a “traveller’s passport,” completing challenges and collecting stamps along the way turning every walk into an adventure for both children and adults.
UNDP Belarus
Inclusion Begins with Participation
For several years, UNDP and its partners have been helping create not only accessible infrastructure in Belarus’ protected natural areas, but also new opportunities for persons with disabilities to actively participate in community life.
Young people with developmental disabilities take part in environmental quests, green volunteering, conservation activities, educational programmes, and community initiatives. These experiences help them build practical skills, confidence, independence, and meaningful social connections.
One inspiring example is Alexander, a participant in volunteer camps at the Sinysha reserve. His story shows how environmental initiatives can help persons with disabilities discover their strengths and become active stewards of nature. Across Belarus, green volunteering is increasingly becoming a sustainable movement that brings young people together around environmental and social causes.
From Forest Trails to School Classrooms
The project also places a strong focus on children and schools as key spaces for environmental education.
At Klyastitsy Secondary School, an interactive environmental safety classroom equipped with virtual reality technologies — created with support from UNDP and its partners — allows students to explore nature in a playful and immersive way. Through virtual experiences, children learn about forest ecosystems, wildlife, and safe behavior in nature — from encounters with wild animals to responsible outdoor recreation.
UNDP Belarus
In the village of Klyastitsy, the “EcoKnowledge” pavilion serves as an inclusive learning space for schoolchildren and persons with disabilities. Through interactive displays, visitors can learn about waste sorting, the biodiversity of the reserve, and the rules of visiting protected natural areas making environmental knowledge more accessible both inside and outside the classroom.
UNDP Belarus
Step by Step Toward Nature Without Barriers
Every new inclusive trail, educational space, or community initiative is another step toward a society where nature, opportunity, and the future are truly open to everyone. It is through these practical solutions that lasting change becomes possible. Step by step, protected natural areas in Belarus are becoming places where every person can feel the cool forest air, hear the sound of water, discover new places, learn, build friendships, and become part of a shared journey.
UNDP Belarus