The History of the Canal's Construction
The canal was built between 1824 and 1839 by the decree of Polish King and Russian Emperor Alexander I. Its main purpose was to provide a waterway connecting the river basins of the Neman and the Vistula, significantly facilitating trade between regions while bypassing Prussian customs borders.
The canal stretches 101.2 km, of which 22 km are located in Belarus, and the rest is in Poland. On the Belarusian side, there are five functioning locks: Nemnovo, Dombrovka, Vodopad, Kurpiki, and Neman. Each lock has been restored and retains its historical appearance, showcasing unique 19th-century technologies. One of the most picturesque is the Dombrovka Lock, which often becomes a venue for cultural events and historical reenactments.
Excursions to the Augustów Canal
Excursions across Belarus that include visits to the Augustów Canal offer numerous leisure options. Water cruises on motorboats, rowboats, pedal boats, and kayaks are particularly popular. You can glide along the calm waters of the canal and admire its beauty from an extraordinary perspective. For active recreation enthusiasts, there are cycling routes along the canal's banks, while walking tours unveil the secrets of the local nature and history.
Visitors can choose from single-day tours or longer trips. Excursions often include visits not only to the canal but also to nearby attractions, such as Grodno, one of the oldest cities in Belarus with rich architecture, Svyatsk, or the agro-tourism complex Korobchitsy.
For residents and visitors of the capital, an individual or group excursion from Minsk to the Augustów Canal is available. This is a convenient way to see one of Belarus’s most famous landmarks without worrying about organizing the trip. These tours typically include transportation, the services of an experienced guide who shares insights about the canal’s history, significance, and lock operations, as well as free time to explore the area independently and enjoy a boat ride.
To ensure a comfortable trip and avoid unnecessary hassle, it is recommended to book an excursion in advance. You can select a program that matches your interests, whether it’s a historical tour, active recreation, or a family trip. Thanks to professional guides and diverse itineraries, every visitor will find something special.
