Ukraine, heavily affected by the Russian invasion, is emerging as a new tourist destination. In 2023, around 4 million foreign tourists visited Ukraine, double the number recorded in 2022 during the height of the war.
AFP reported on Wednesday that while many visitors to Ukraine are there for business purposes, the number of so-called war tourists is also increasing.
Currently, about 10 war-related tourism programs are operating in Ukraine. Among them, War Tour offers packages to visit sites of civilian massacres by Russian forces in Kyiv, Bucha, and Irpin for €150–250 (approximately $164–273).
According to the company, about 30 people have used this program since January, with most tourists coming from Europe and the United States.
High-priced packages are also available for tourists visiting more dangerous areas near the frontlines. One travel agency is offering a tour of southern Ukraine for €3,300 (approximately $3,606).
Local agencies running these war tourism programs donate part of their profits to the Ukrainian military. However, some quarters criticize and are dissatisfied with these external visitors. Residents suffering from the war have reportedly expressed frustration, asking, “Why do they come here?” and “Why do they want to witness our sorrow?”
Nonetheless, Ukrainian tourism authorities view such war tourism positively, believing it can help spread the historical lessons of the war. Marianna Oleskiv, the head of the Ukrainian State Agency for Tourism Development, stated that global interest in Ukraine has increased since the onset of the war. She added that she expects the war tourism industry to continue growing.
Meanwhile, Ukraine is preparing for the post-war era by collaborating with global tourism platforms such as Airbnb and TripAdvisor to revive its tourism industry.
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