The Chornohora is the highest ridge of the Ukrainian Carpathians, running along the old Polish–Czechoslovak border of the interwar years. Its summit, Hoverla (2,061 m), is Ukraine’s highest mountain; further along the ridge, the ruins of the “White Elephant” observatory stand on Pip Ivan. The surrounding Carpathian National Nature Park is one of the largest protected areas in Ukraine.
The foothills are Hutsul country, with wooden churches, markets selling woven and carved crafts, and resort towns such as Yaremche, with its Probiy waterfall, and Vorokhta. In peacetime this was Ukraine’s favourite mountain holiday region.
Top things to do: Chornohora & Hoverla (Ukraine)
Hoverla (for future trips)
The usual route starts at the Zaroslyak base below the mountain and takes around 4–5 hours up and down. In normal times it is climbed by thousands of Ukrainians every summer.
The Chornohora ridge
A multi-day traverse from Hoverla to Pip Ivan follows the grassy crest past glacial lakes and old border posts — one of the great Carpathian treks.
Yaremche and Hutsul culture
The town’s wooden church, the Probiy waterfall on the Prut river and the craft market are the classic stops in the valley.
How to get to Chornohora & Hoverla (Ukraine)
- Current situation: Ukraine’s airspace is closed to civilian flights, and many governments advise against travel. Check your government’s advice before considering any trip.
- In normal times: trains ran from Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk to Yaremche and Vorokhta, the gateways to the Chornohora.
Insider tips
- Read and follow your government’s latest travel advice and check whether your insurance is valid.
- Martial law applies across Ukraine, including curfews and restrictions in border areas.
- We do not list or promote tours in Ukraine while these conditions persist.
