📸 Road trip: Oleshky Sands and Askania-Nova from Kherson

5/51 rating

Route across Kherson Region: Kherson → Oleshky Sands → Askania-Nova Biosphere Reserve. This is a convenient one-day self-drive route for lovers of history, nature and sweeping steppe vistas. Short drives, an easy pace and photo-angle tips will keep the trip light yet full of impressions.

Kherson Oleshky Sands Askania-Nova road trip photo spots

Important

Temporary unavailability of sites due to occupation

Oleshky Sands are located in an occupied zone; the area is used as a training ground, with recorded shelling and large-scale fires. Part of the protective forest has been lost.

At present, visiting Oleshky Sands and certain parts of the Kherson region is dangerous or impossible. Check official notices before planning any travel.

Recommendation: choose safe alternatives until access is restored.

route start

Херсон – Олешківські піски – Асканія-Нова

Kherson

Kherson Fortress St Catherine’s Cathedral parks and riverside promenade easy logistics

This self-guided trip begins in tourist-friendly Kherson. Don’t miss the Kherson Fortress, St Catherine’s Cathedral, Taras Shevchenko Park and the Park of Glory. The total route length is about 167 km, so the day will be full without being exhausting.

Short hops around town, easy access

1–2 hours to see the key spots

Angles: fortress, cathedral, riverside

Tip: comfortable footwear and water in hot weather

“Ukraine’s Sahara”

Oleshky Sands

national park hiking guided routes desert panoramas

The sand massif known as Oleshky Sands is often called “Ukraine’s Sahara”. Trails run across dunes and artificial plantations, with options for a self-guided walk or a guided tour (advance booking recommended).

Drive from Kherson: ~35–40 km

60–90 minutes for a walk

Footwear: closed shoes that keep sand out

Tip: water, a hat and sun protection

biosphere reserve

Askania-Nova Reserve

rare birds ungulates over 800 plant species wildlife watching

The journey ends in the steppe expanses of Askania-Nova, with unique ecosystems, rare animals and birds, and numerous species of steppe flora. It’s a popular destination for ecotourism and educational tours.

From Oleshky Sands: ~120–130 km

1.5–2 hours for the park/safari zone

Angles: open virgin steppe, enclosures

Tip: check opening hours and regulations

One-day plan

Morning

Kherson: Kherson Fortress, St Catherine’s Cathedral, riverside promenade.

Midday

Oleshky Sands: a short walk across the dunes, scenic photo spots.

Evening

Askania-Nova: arboretum, enclosures, wildlife watching according to the schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much time do I need for the whole route?

Usually one day. If you wish, allow extra time for wildlife watching in “Askania-Nova”.

Are the sites accessible now?

Some sites, including Oleshky Sands, are temporarily inaccessible and unsafe due to occupation. Please check official sources before travelling.

What about tickets and opening hours?

Schedules may change at short notice. In peaceful times, tickets are purchased at on-site ticket offices; we recommend checking current announcements from each institution.

Should I plan this trip right now?

Given the safety risks, choose alternative safe routes for now. Return once access has been restored.

28.04.2020

by : Nataliia Hrebovych

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