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Yurievichi Hills

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Yurievichi Hills in southern Belarus (Gomel Region) constitute one of the most landscape-altering and historically fascinating anomalies within the otherwise table-flat Pripyat swamp region. Over a stretch of just a few kilometers, a prominent, steep chain of hills rises asymmetrically, reaching an elevation of 160 meters above sea level. Particularly impressive is the abrupt plunge of the terrain toward the Pripyat River: the steep riverbanks drop almost vertically by 30 to 40 meters, offering a panoramic panoramic view over the endless wetlands of Polesie. However, the Yurievichi Hills achieved global fame through groundbreaking archaeological discoveries. In the deep ravines carved by severe erosion, researchers discovered the remains of an Upper Paleolithic mammoth hunters' settlement. This archaeological site is dated to an incredible age of around 26,000 years, making it the oldest known human settlement on the territory of Belarus. Thousands of mammoth bones, primitive flint tools, and ancient fire pits have been excavated from the loess and sandy soils of these steep slopes.

Location: Belarus
Nearby: Mozyr (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-7	-5	0	8	14	18	21	20	15	8	2	-4
Rain mm	48	44	47	44	74	73	89	56	44	62	49	51

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Yurievichi Hills are a prominent natural landmark on the banks of the Pripyat River, freely accessible at all times. There are no closed areas; the heights invite walks and nature observation.

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Typical hours

As an open-air attraction, the hills are accessible around the clock. However, the best time to visit is during daylight hours, especially late afternoon for nice lighting conditions.

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Photography

The hills provide wide views over the Pripyat River and surrounding landscape - convenient for panoramic photos. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the expanse.

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Time needed

A walk over the hills and along the river takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. For a longer hike with a picnic, allow 2 hours.

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Combine with

The hills are located near the village of Yurievichi, which has a traditional wooden church. A boat trip on the Pripyat can also be combined with the visit.

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Getting there

The area is accessible by car on local roads; parking is available at the village entrance. Public transport goes to the nearest town, from where it is about 2 km on foot.

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Insider tip

Bring sturdy footwear as the paths can be uneven. Binoculars are useful for birdwatching and observing the river landscape.

Geography

Coordinates

52.00000, 29.30000

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mozyr7 km · NWExplore →

Mozyr Ridge7 km · WExplore →

Kalinkavichy13 km · NExplore →

Yelsk20 km · SWExplore →

Narawlya26 km · SEExplore →

Skryhalev Reserve34 km · WExplore →

Petrykaw56 km · WExplore →

Polessky State Radioecological Reserve59 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why are the Yurievichi Hills famous?

They are a significant archaeological site for Paleolithic mammoth hunter settlements.

Is there a museum there?

Yes, there is an archaeological museum showing finds from the excavations.

What is the best view?

From the ridge, you have a great view of the vast Pripyat valley.

Can children see mammoth-related things?

Yes, mammoth bones and replicas of prehistoric lifestyles can be seen in the museum.

Is there a monastery in Yurievichi?

Yes, the village is also known for its historical Orthodox monastery.

Yurievichi Hills: where is it located?

Yurievichi Hills is located in Belarus.

Yurievichi Hills: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Yurievichi Hills: why is it worth visiting?

The Yurievichi Hills in southern Belarus (Gomel Region) constitute one of the most landscape-altering and historically fascinating anomalies within the otherwise table-flat Pripyat swamp region.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →