Country Information

Services run regularly from Minsk to all other towns. For more information, contact Belarus Railways (website: www.rw.by). There have been instances of theft from travellers, especially on sleeper trains to Warsaw and Moscow.

Traffic drives on the right. The quality of driving in Belarus is erratic. A-class highways are in average to good condition. The condition of B-class roads varies considerably and some are impassable for periods in winter. Drivers should note that road works and potholes are usually poorly marked. Pony and trap combinations are a specific hazard for drivers in rural unlit areas. In 2005, Belarus introduced a system of fees for drivers of foreign vehicles wishing to use Belarus’ highways. Payments are collected at border checkpoints and vary according to the length of stay. There are police checkpoints on all the main routes to and from Minsk. Drivers should stop at these when instructed, and have the vehicle documentation to hand, otherwise they risk a fine and delay.

Regulations: The standard speed limit is 37 mph (60 kph) in built up areas, 55 mph (90 kph) outside built up areas and 62 mph (100 kph) on motorways (Brest-Moscow). Visiting motorists who have held a driving licence for less than two years must not exceed 43 mph (70 kph). There are frequent radar traps. Vehicles should have lights on at all times from 1 November to 31 March.

Documentation: International Driving Permit required. When travelling by private vehicle, travellers must be able to produce ownership documents or a letter of ’power of attorney’ at customs offices at border crossings. Only originals of these documents are accepted. Travellers must have third party car insurance or they may get an on-the-spot fine. Travellers can only buy this when entering Belarus. Motorists should enquire at customs border offices for information. Drivers should ignore ’private facilitators’ who offer to help travellers pass through checkpoints and border crossings.

Public transport is cheap and efficient. The city of Minsk has an underground system with two lines that cover central Minsk (16 stations). It is in the process of being expanded. Trains run between 0530-0100, buses, trams and trolleybuses between 0535-0030. Tickets for buses, trams and trolleybuses can be purchased at news-stands or kiosks and are to be punched on board. Entry to the underground is by tokens which are obtainable from stations. Taxis are available and carry a maximum of four passengers; fares can vary greatly