Belarus / Рэспубліка Беларусь / Республика Беларусь – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Belarus?
Belarus is a landlocked, mostly flat, forested country in eastern Europe. The highest point is a hill named Dzyarzhynskaya Hara, at 1,130ft (345m) above sea level. To the west of the country in the Brest and Grodno regions lie vast Natural Park areas, including the last primeval forest fragment of the European woodlands that once stretched across the European plain.
Travelling in Belarus is an adventurous and unique experience for anyone looking to explore the country’s untouched landscapes and lesser-known destinations. It has vast forests, rolling hills and pristine lakes, including the picturesque Braslaw Lakes. You can also drive through quiet rural roads, visit Soviet-era towns, and experience local culture.
The capital city, Minsk, is a vibrant center for culture, history, and modern life, with landmarks like Independence Square and the National Opera House. Belarus also has a rich heritage in literature, music, and art. Despite its tumultuous political history, the country has very friendly people, making it a hidden gem in Europe.
Belarus shares borders with Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia and Ukraine, and its population is around nine million people (2024), about two million of whom live in Minsk. Belarus is the only European country that continues to use capital punishment.
A bit about the history of Belarus
Belarus has a history marked by its geographical location between major European powers and its complex political and cultural evolution.
Early History and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania
The area of modern-day Belarus has been inhabited since ancient times, with various Slavic tribes settling there. In the 9th century, the region became part of the Kievan Rus, a powerful East Slavic state. By the 13th century, Belarus became a significant part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, which was one of the largest and most powerful states in Europe during the Middle Ages. Belarusian culture, language, and identity developed within this framework.
Union with Poland and the Russian Empire
In 1569, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania entered into a union with Poland, forming the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. This lasted until the late 18th century, when the Commonwealth was partitioned by Russia, Prussia and Austria. By the end of the 18th century, Belarus was fully absorbed into the Russian Empire.
Soviet Era
After a brief period of independence following the Russian Revolution, Belarus became one of the founding republics of the Soviet Union in 1922 as the Belarusian Soviet Socialist Republic. During the interwar period, the region suffered from Soviet repression, including forced collectivisation and the purges of the 1930s. Belarus was heavily affected by World War II, suffering immense loss of life and destruction. The Holocaust also claimed the lives of many Jews in Belarus.
Post-Soviet Period and Independence
Belarus declared independence from the Soviet Union on August 25, 1991, following its collapse. However, the country has maintained a strong connection with Russia, and in 1994, Alexander Lukashenko became president, marking the start of an authoritarian regime that has lasted for decades. Lukashenko’s government has been criticised for its suppression of political opposition, media freedom and human rights.
Recent Developments
Belarus has faced significant political unrest, especially after the disputed 2020 presidential election, in which Lukashenko claimed victory amid allegations of election fraud. Protests erupted, calling for democratic reforms and Lukashenko’s resignation. The regime responded with violent crackdowns on protesters, leading to widespread international condemnation. Despite this, Lukashenko has remained in power, with Belarus continuing its close ties to Russia.
Today, Belarus is a country with a mixed economy, heavily influenced by state control, and remains a key geopolitical player in eastern Europe, balancing its relationships between Russia, the European Union, and other global powers.
Belarus road trip
We’ve been to Belarus before, however it was a very long time ago. Our European road trip in 2023 took us very close to Belarus, in both Lithuania and Poland. However, the borders from both countries were closed into Belarus in the month that we were in the area, due to fears that members of the Russian Wagner group were trying to enter the respective countries. This resulted in us being stopped by police multiple times at emergency road blocks. Read our Poland blog for more information on that!
Due to the current turbulence in the region, we may have to visit at another time. Whenever we do visit, hopefully our journey will improve our knowledge of this intriguing country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back 🙂
What’s it like to drive in Belarus?
They drive on the right hand side of the road in Belarus. There is no internal border between Belarus and Russia. The Russian government states that there are no legal grounds for foreigners (including UK nationals) to cross the Russia-Belarus state land border including by road, bus or rail. If you try to do this, you will be refused boarding or stopped at the border.
Do you require an international driving permit in Belarus?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Belarus?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Belarus?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What are the speed limits in Belarus?
The speed limits for cars in Belarus are:
- 15 mph (20 km/h) for urban driving
- 35 mph (60 km/h) outside of built up areas
- 55mph (90 km/h) on dual carriageways
- 70 mph (110 km/h) on motorways
We’ve also created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which you might find helpful 🙂
What currency do they use in Belarus?
In Belarus they use the Belarusian ruble. The use of credit / debit cards is now widespread, although currently almost every major bank in Belarus has restricted use of foreign-issued cards. It’s best to bring Euros or dollars into the country and exchange them at banks. Travellers cheques are not accepted. There are lots of ATMs.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Belarus?
They speak Belarusian and Russian in Belarus. English is not widely spoken.
What time zone is Belarus in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Belarus?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Belarus?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Belarus, although you should avoid national parks and natural reserves.
What plug / socket type do they use in Belarus?
In Belarus they use plug / socket types C and F.
Health issues in Belarus
Is it safe to drink water in Belarus?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Belarus. Bottled water is readily available across the country.
What vaccinations are required for Belarus?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Belarus.
Phones in Belarus
What is the country calling code for Belarus?
The country calling code for Andorra is +375
What are the emergency phone numbers in Belarus?
- The emergency number for police in Belarus is: 102
- In Belarus, the emergency number for ambulance is: 103
- The emergency number for fire in Belarus is: 101
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
Don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!