People have always been fascinated by places linked to death, tragedy, or the macabre. This enduring curiosity has made dark tourism increasingly popular today.
Despite the ongoing conflict, the number of foreign tourists visiting Ukraine surged in 2024. Many are drawn to dark tourism, exploring sites marked by significant tragic events. Thrill-seeking foreigners are willing to pay substantial amounts to witness places like Bucha and other towns in Kyiv Oblast, which were the scenes of Russian war crimes in the spring of 2022. Two and a half years after the full-scale invasion began, these war crime sites have become a lucrative business. There are tours lasting several days or even weeks, costing thousands of euros. Companies also offer shorter excursions, lasting half a day or a full day, to Bucha, Irpin, and Hostomel, which were occupied in the spring of 2022. Foreign tourists are shown locations where Russians killed local civilians. Most visitors come from the USA, with others from the UK, Germany, Japan, and France.
Naturally, the ethics of such tours are questioned. Not all residents appreciate these tours, and some dislike the idea of profiting from tragedy. However, it is crucial for people to come and learn about the atrocities committed by the Russians. Initially, dark tourism in Ukraine gained popularity due to Chernobyl, but now it is the war. What is happening in Ukraine today is our reality. Undoubtedly, it is essential to be aware of these tragic events and crimes that have no place in the 21st century.
Apart from Ukraine, extreme tourists visit some other places which can be considered the most notable dark tourism destinations:
Auschwitz, Poland. This former Nazi concentration camp is now a museum and memorial, serving as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II.
Pompeii, Italy. An ancient city that was buried under volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 CE, Pompeii is now an archaeological site where visitors can explore well-preserved ruins.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Japan. This park commemorates the victims of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945, featuring monuments and a museum dedicated to promoting peace.
Catacombs of Paris, France. These underground tunnels house the remains of millions of Parisians, offering a unique and eerie glimpse into the city's history.
Ground Zero, the USA. The site in New York City where the World Trade Center towers stood before the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, is now home to a memorial and museum honoring the victims.
These destinations not only attract visitors due to their historical significance but also provide a space for reflection and learning about past events. Whether driven by a desire to understand history or a fascination with the macabre, dark tourism continues to draw people from all over the world.
Find more about UA Destination tours, including Horrors of War Tour here or just contact UA Destination team for a custom private tour.