Tatra National Park

Tatra National Park (TPN) is one of the most important national parks in Poland, established on January 1, 1955. It encompasses the Polish part of the Tatra Mountains, along with sections of the Bukowina Foothills and the Sub-Tatra Trough. The park boasts exceptional natural values, featuring the highest peak in Poland, Rysy (2,499 m), and rich biodiversity with numerous endemic species. The Tatras are characterized by distinct vegetation zones, ranging from lower montane forests to alpine meadows. Among the rare wildlife, visitors may encounter chamois, marmots, and golden eagles. The need for nature conservation in TPN stems from intensive exploitation of the region in the 19th and 20th centuries, which not only damaged natural ecosystems but also ultimately led to the park’s establishment. Initial protective measures date back to 1868, when the first regulations for safeguarding alpine animals were introduced. Today, TPN faces significant pressure from tourism, with over 2.5 million visitors annually contributing to environmental degradation. Additional threats include air pollution and illegal activities such as poaching and unauthorized plant collection. An interesting fact is that TPN, together with its Slovak counterpart TANAP, plays a crucial role in preserving biodiversity. Both parks were designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in 1993. While Tatra National Park continues to attract tourists, it also grapples with the challenges of protecting this unique area, necessitating ongoing educational and conservation efforts.