Journey Across Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

## Part 1

* 🚗 Traveling to Chernobyl.
* 🏞️ Hiking through the exclusion zone.
* 🌅 Cooking food at sunset.
* 💀 Exploring abandoned buildings and an eerie cemetery.

During our trip to Chernobyl, we started off in Kiev, facing a frustrating traffic jam. We decided to take the metro to meet our guide, Anton, who would accompany us on the trip. Despite feeling exhausted from only one hour of sleep, we pushed ourselves to gather supplies, including specialized food, water, snacks, and a dosimeter. We encountered challenges along the way, such as language barriers and last-minute preparations, but remained optimistic.

Once we met up with Anton, who spoke Russian fluently, we embarked on our journey. Over the course of several days, we explored different areas, including the city of Pripyat and the Duga radar installation. We faced obstacles like crossing a river and encountered signs indicating our entry into the exclusion zone.

The trip involved long walks with heavy backpacks, testing our endurance and motivation. We shared moments of exhaustion, humor, and frustration, reflecting on the affordability of supplies for us compared to the local population. Our guide, Anton, shared his experiences of being caught in the zone multiple times, highlighting the need to be cautious and prepared.

As we progressed deeper into the zone, our excitement grew, and we appreciated the eerie beauty of the abandoned surroundings. We swam in a Chernobyl river and set up camp to cook our alpine food using a gas burner. We adjusted our plans along the way, modifying our route and deciding to sleep in the forest instead of Pripyat.

During the night, we followed a path frequently used by other stalkers, feeling a mix of tranquility and unease. We encountered abandoned houses and even heard the howling of a wolf nearby. As we walked through an abandoned village, we discovered intriguing sights like a collection of dolls arranged in the area.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties, we remained determined to explore Chernobyl. The journey tested our physical and mental limits, but we maintained our optimism and curiosity. Our retrospective captures the memorable and unique experiences we had during our trip to Chernobyl.

During our trip to Chernobyl, we started off in Kiev, facing a frustrating traffic jam. We decided to take the metro to meet our guide, Anton, who would accompany us on the trip. Despite feeling exhausted from only one hour of sleep, we pushed ourselves to gather supplies, including specialized food, water, snacks, and a dosimeter. We encountered challenges along the way, such as language barriers and last-minute preparations, but remained optimistic.

Once we met up with Anton, who spoke Russian fluently, we embarked on our journey. Over the course of several days, we explored different areas, including the city of Pripyat and the Duga radar installation. We faced obstacles like crossing a river and encountered signs indicating our entry into the exclusion zone.

The trip involved long walks with heavy backpacks, testing our endurance and motivation. We shared moments of exhaustion, humor, and frustration, reflecting on the affordability of supplies for us compared to the local population. Our guide, Anton, shared his experiences of being caught in the zone multiple times, highlighting the need to be cautious and prepared.

As we progressed deeper into the zone, our excitement grew, and we appreciated the eerie beauty of the abandoned surroundings. We swam in a Chernobyl river and set up camp to cook our alpine food using a gas burner. We adjusted our plans along the way, modifying our route and deciding to sleep in the forest instead of Pripyat.

During the night, we followed a path frequently used by other stalkers, feeling a mix of tranquility and unease. We encountered abandoned houses and even heard the howling of a wolf nearby. As we walked through an abandoned village, we discovered intriguing sights like a collection of dolls arranged in the area.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties, we remained determined to explore Chernobyl. The journey tested our physical and mental limits, but we maintained our optimism and curiosity. Our retrospective captures the memorable and unique experiences we had during our trip to Chernobyl.

## Part 2

* 🚶‍♂️ Walking through the Exclusion Zone, enduring the cold and physical exhaustion.
* 🖥️ Comming across radiation measurement machines, monitoring the dangerous levels in the area.
* 🌲 Walking through the Red Forest, where trees turned red from radioactive contamination.
* 💧 Filtering rainwater from the area to drink.
* 🏚️ Exploring abandoned buildings, encountering other people in the complex.

Our adventure in Chernobyl began on a beautiful morning, as we greeted each other and prepared for the day ahead. The cold weather during the previous night had made sleeping outside unpleasant, leading us to reflect on our not-so-great experience. Despite the discomfort, we managed to find some rest and even engaged in a morning exercise routine.

As we set out on our journey, we encountered loud animal noises that filled the air. We walked halfway to our destination, Pripyat, the abandoned city near the Chernobyl reactor. The physical strain began to take its toll on us, with aching legs and aching heads. The temperature fluctuations between walking and resting added to our discomfort, but we remained determined to reach our goal.

Along the way, we came across power lines that led us in the direction of the reactor. Following these lines would eventually lead us to the main reactor site, where the catastrophic incident occurred. Despite feeling tired after walking for about 12 kilometers, we pressed on, knowing that our destination was within reach.

During our journey, we periodically checked the radiation levels using a dosimeter. The readings fluctuated, but we didn't encounter any alarming levels that would pose an immediate threat. However, as we entered a village, the radiation levels began to increase rapidly, making us more cautious about our surroundings.

In our exploration, we stumbled upon a radiation measurement machine named ASKRA. It was fully functional, confirming the presence of radiation in the area. The sight of a radioactive sign served as a stark reminder of the reasons behind the abandonment of this place.

Continuing our trek, we found ourselves in the infamous Red Forest, named for the trees that turned red due to the radioactive contamination after the explosion. The forest presented new challenges, including sharp debris and an abundance of ticks, further slowing our progress.

Pushing through the obstacles, we reached an area where the radiation levels doubled, prompting us to find a safer spot to rest. We managed to evade the major radiation hotspots and took a break, though the presence of ticks and bugs made it less than ideal.

We approached Pipiat, the ghost town at the heart of the Chernobyl disaster. The sight of abandoned buildings and the nearby sarcophagus, which housed the reactor, left us in awe and disbelief. The impact of the catastrophe became more tangible, and we felt a mix of exhaustion and fascination.

Our search for water led us to a rainwater reservoir, despite concerns about its contamination. We used a dosimeter to assess the radiation levels, which were slightly below the acceptable limit. With no other options available, we decided to filter the water and take our chances.

Arriving back at our apartment, we encountered the presence of others in the building complex, which raised our suspicions. We took precautions and secured our belongings before settling in for the night, opting to sleep on the roof to enjoy the peacefulness of the night sky.

As we woke up before dawn, we marveled at the serene atmosphere around us. Despite the short hours of sleep, we found solace in the quiet surroundings. The beauty of the moment captured our attention, reminding us of the unique experience we were having.

With the sun rising, we prepared for the day ahead, determined to continue our exploration of Pripyat. The journey had its challenges, but the allure of uncovering more abandoned buildings and witnessing historical landmarks like the Ferris wheel and Duga radar motivated us to push forward.

As we embarked on our final stretch towards the railway, we reflected on the intensity of our adventure. The experiences we had, from monitoring radiation levels to navigating through forests and encountering other explorers, shaped our understanding of the Chernobyl disaster and its lasting impact.

In the end, our trip to Chernobyl was a mix of physical exert.

## Part 3

* 🏨 Visiting the hotel from Call of Duty.
* 🚰 Drinking rainwater from a reservoir in the exclusion zone.
* 🏫 Exploring an abandoned musical school.
* 🏢 Visiting the office building managing the Chernobyl power plant.
* ⚠️ Encountering security concerns while exploring the zone.

As we made our way through the desolate streets of Pripyat, we marveled at the eerie beauty of the abandoned buildings. From the carousel and the pool to the cultural house and the hotel, each location told a story of a bygone era. We couldn't help but feel a mix of fascination and trepidation as we ventured deeper into the heart of the exclusion zone.

Time was of the essence, as security would arrive at eight in the morning, limiting our exploration. We hurriedly moved from one location to another, trying to capture as much as we could before our window of opportunity closed. The remnants of the past, such as slogans from 1968 and a photo of Lenin, seemed frozen in time, evoking a sense of both nostalgia and a dystopian reality.

One of the highlights of our journey was the climb up the Ferris wheel, despite the time constraint. From the top, we were rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding area, reminding us of the magnitude of the disaster that had unfolded decades ago. We descended, reluctantly leaving the Ferris wheel behind, and continued our exploration.

The river, the Pripyat River, held a special significance. It not only served as a source of water for the reactor but also played a role in the creation of the city itself. As we walked along its banks, we couldn't help but notice the mosaic decorations and the remnants of the musical school. The empty buildings stood as silent witnesses to the tragedy that had unfolded.

The water reservoir, although not visually impressive, held a unique fascination. The rainwater had been tested by the locals, and they claimed it was safe to drink. Curiosity got the better of us, and we cautiously sipped the water, finding it surprisingly palatable. It was a reminder that life finds a way, even in the midst of such devastation.

Throughout our journey, we had to be cautious and stealthy, always mindful of security patrols and the impending arrival of other tourists. We felt a sense of urgency and excitement, aware that our time within the exclusion zone was limited. Each step we took, each photograph we captured, was a testament to our determination and curiosity.

As the trip neared its end, we found ourselves reflecting on the experience. The desolation and solitude of the abandoned city left a profound impact on us. We couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like before the disaster, and the contrast with the present-day ghost town was stark.

Finally, as we returned to our apartment complex, exhausted and ready to rest, we couldn't help but feel a strange sense of affinity for this place. It had become a temporary home, a refuge amidst the desolation. The thought of staying and living in this surreal environment crossed our minds, but we knew it was time to leave, to return to the world outside the exclusion zone.

Chernobyl had left an indelible mark on our souls. It was a journey filled with curiosity, awe, and a deep respect for the power of nature and the consequences of human error. As we departed, we carried with us the weight of the past and a renewed appreciation for the fragility of our world.

## Part 4

* 🚶‍♂️ Exploring inside the exclusion zone and discovering production, office and power buildings.
* 🌳 Walking through the Red Forest, which is highly contaminated due to radiation.
* 🌕 Arriving at Duga, a massive, abandoned Soviet radar system.
* 🏕️ Spending the night near Duga before starting the climb at 5 a.m.
* 🥘 Enjoying condensed milk tea, potatoes, and bacon for dinner.

As we made our way out of the city, we passed by a mysterious factory whose purpose remained unknown to us. The scorching heat added to the tension as we tried to remain discreet, mindful of the tourists and heightened security present in the area. Despite the challenges, we pressed on, determined to uncover the secrets that lay within.

At the factory, we left our backpacks behind and ventured inside to investigate. It became apparent that the factory was somehow related to the power plant, possibly involved in the production of resonator tools. As we explored the different sections, memories from childhood flooded back, triggered by the sight of familiar dining hall pots and abandoned cars.

Making our way towards the production building, we climbed higher, eager to gain a vantage point from the tallest structure. The view confirmed our suspicions as we observed the layout of the office buildings, the production area, and the power building. However, our presence did not go unnoticed, as a passing tourist and the growing crowd of visitors threatened to expose us to the security personnel.

With caution, we waited for the opportune moment to escape, ensuring the tourists were occupied within the factory grounds. Eventually, we managed to slip away, avoiding any unwanted attention. Our next destination was Tuga, approximately 20 kilometers away, promising a thrilling adventure ahead.

As we continued our journey, we encountered a massive wall blocking our path. Undeterred, we searched for a way to overcome this obstacle, eventually discovering a road leading us in the desired direction. Walking along the train tracks, we realized the distance we had yet to cover, a grueling prospect that would require days of travel.

Feeling the weariness set in, we took a break near the Red Forest, a haunting reminder of the radiation that permeated the area. Aware of the danger, we monitored the radiation levels with our dosimeter, ensuring our exposure remained limited. Despite the challenges and the constant reminder of the risks, we pushed forward, each step bringing us closer to our goals.

    Finally, we reached our destination, Duga, as the sun set on the horizon. We sought refuge nearby, preparing for an early morning climb up the tower. The sheer size of the structure overwhelmed us, leaving us in awe of the magnitude of the task ahead.

With the break of dawn, we began our ascent, filled with anticipation and excitement. The tower's enormity became more apparent as we neared its summit, and we marveled at the breathtaking view before us. Our journey through Chernobyl had been one of discovery, resilience, and the willingness to venture into the unknown.

As the night descended upon us once again, we found solace in our beds, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the day. With the tower behind us and memories etched in our minds, we settled in for a cold night, grateful for the unique adventure we had undertaken. The anticipation of what lay ahead fueled our dreams as we rested, ready to face whatever challenges awaited us on the continuation of our journey through Chernobyl.

## Part 5

* 🚶‍♂️ Climbing towers and navigating abandoned buildings.
* 🚨 Encountering military personnel and avoid detection.
* 🐴 Encountering a random horse and wait for it to leave the area.
* 💀 Visiting an abandoned cemetery and finding graves from the early 1900s.
* 🏞️ Leaving the exclusion zone and enjoying civilization, including a trip to the store.

As we entered the exclusion zone, our excitement grew. We observed the eerie beauty of the abandoned buildings and felt a sense of awe as we stood before the towering Duga radar installations. Anton guided us through the area, explaining the significance of each structure and sharing his knowledge about the site's history.

As we ventured deeper into the zone, we encountered various challenges and surprises. We navigated through interconnected towers, climbed bridges, and explored the vast, abandoned buildings. The sound of the wind whistling through the hollow tubes of the towers fascinated us, reminding us of the ghostly presence that once inhabited this place.

Despite our desire to explore every nook and cranny, we had to be cautious. The risk of encountering security personnel added a thrilling element to our adventure. We tried to be swift in our movements, constantly aware of the possibility of being caught. At times, we found ourselves rushing to evade the security personnel who patrolled the area, adding an extra layer of excitement and urgency to our journey.

The deteriorating condition of some structures, particularly Duga 1, showed the passage of time and neglect. Wires hung loose, and parts had fallen off, leaving a skeletal frame of what was once a technological marvel. It was a stark contrast to the still-intact Duga 2, which showcased its imposing presence against the sky.

As we made our way through the exclusion zone, we encountered other unexpected elements. A random horse standing in the middle of the road caught us by surprise, reminding us that nature had begun reclaiming these abandoned lands. We marveled at the abandoned village with no name, its graves holding stories of those who once lived in this desolate place.

Our journey towards the exit of the exclusion zone was not without its challenges. We had to be vigilant on the main road, as passing vehicles could potentially reveal our presence. The anticipation of encountering military personnel heightened our senses, and we strategically planned our movements to avoid detection.

Finally, after hours of walking and anticipation, we reached the river, a symbolic gateway to freedom. We reveled in the opportunity to refresh ourselves, even though we couldn't drink the water due to its contamination. With the river behind us, we continued our trek towards the meeting point for our taxi, eager to return to civilization and reflect on the incredible adventure we had just experienced.

As we sat in the taxi, leaving the exclusion zone behind, we couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and relief. We had successfully navigated the dangers and challenges of Chernobyl, witnessing firsthand the haunting remnants of a tragic event. The memories and experiences we gained during this journey would forever remain with us, reminding us of the resilience of nature and the indomitable spirit of exploration.

Back in Kiev, we stood in awe of the city's vibrant streets, grateful for the safety and comfort it provided. We reflected on our time in the exclusion zone, feeling a mix of emotions—awe, gratitude, and a profound sense of respect for the people who had lived and worked in this forsaken place.

Chernobyl had left an indelible mark on us—a reminder of the fragility of life and the consequences of our actions. We understood the importance of preserving and respecting the environment, and we pledged to share our experiences responsibly, educating others about the lasting impact of nuclear disasters.

Our journey through Chernobyl had been one of adventure, danger, and discovery. We were filled with a renewed appreciation for life and a deep respect for the enduring spirit of those affected by the catastrophe. As we departed from the meeting spot, we carried with us a newfound sense of perspective and a desire to protect the world we call home.