Yanukovych's Countryside Residence Tour from Kyiv
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover how far corruption can go on this 4-hour tour of ousted Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych's former countryside residence. Located 30 minuted from Kiev, Mezhyhirya Residence Museum features an opulent mansion, private zoo, replica Spanish galleon, underground shooting range and 18-hole golf course. Led by an English-speaking guide, this small-group tour is limited to 15 people to ensure a personalized experience.
Available options
Price per 1 person
Small-group tour includes an Expert guide and transportation.
What's included
Round-trip transfers from Kiev to Mezhyhirya Residence Museum by vehicle or minivan or minibus
3-hours guided walking tour by the territory in Mezhyhirya
Small-group tour limited up to 2-15 people
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide in the lobby of the Hotel Ukraine at 9am and make yourself comfortable in the private vehicle for the journey to the Mezhyhirya Residence Museum, once the private residence of former President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych.
Thirty minutes later you will arrive at Mezhyhirya, a luxurious 140-hectare (350 acre) site where Yanukovych lived before being ousted from power and fleeing to Russia in 2014. After paying the entrance fee (approximately 120 UAH / US $4 per person), learn the details of Yanukovych's corruption as your guide leads you on a 3-hour walking tour of Mezhyhirya, taking in the mansion with its $100,00 chandeliers and priceless works of art, a replica Spanish galleon, and recreation center with bowling, an underground shooting range and tennis courts.
Stroll around the vast landscaped gardens dotted with opulent fountains and man-made lakes, an 18-hole golf course and helipad. Yanukovych's former residence also includes a small church, yacht pier, equestrian club, ostrich farm and, of course, the zoo with its kangaroos, emus and peacocks.
For an extra $10 per person, you can also visit the extravagant so-called Club House, known as HONKA after the Finnish company which built it. Other optional extras include the museum of vintage cars and motorcycles (extra $2 per person), visiting the bath complex (extra $2 per person), golf cart rental (extra $4) or bicycle hire (extra $2).
At 12:30pm your driver will take you back to Kiev, where the tour ends.
What's not included
Mezhyhirya Residence Museum entrance fee (approximately 300 UAH / US$8 per person)
Honka entrance fee (approximately 550 UAH / US $15 per person
Bath complex entrance fee (approximately 50 UAH / US $2 per person)
Museum of vintage cars entrance fee (approximately 50 UAH / US $2 per person)
Transportation within Mezhyhirya Residence Museum
Golf car rental (approximately 300 UAH / US $8 per person)
Bicycle rental (approximately 300 UAH / US $12 per person, 2 hours)
Food (available for purchase)
Souvenirs and photos (available for purchase)
Please be informed You should pay all entrances fee for the guide what coming with you from Kiev
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
UK
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
5 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.8
8 reviews
5★
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum of two people per booking
Children under 6 years are free of charge
Please inform us in advance in Special Requirements during the reservation if you want visit Club House HONKA.
Meeting point
Hotel UKRAINE, 4 Instytutska Str., Kiev, 01001, tel. 00380445904411 Downtown. Close to Maydan Nezalezhnosti Square /Independence Square / Inside the Hotel on ground floor, Lobby area, Reception Sign name for the meeting MEZHYHIRYA
Important notes
• Please advise tour leader name and second name.
• Please provide the name and address of your stay in Kiev. *recommended
• Please provide your cell phone number in journey. *recommended
• Please provide sign name for the meeting. * recommended
• Arrive 15 minutes before the activity starts
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the walking.
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
About Kyiv
Kyiv, the capital and largest city of Ukraine, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern culture. Known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and lively arts scene, Kyiv offers a unique travel experience with its medieval cathedrals, golden-domed churches, and bustling modern districts.
Top Attractions
Saint Sophia Cathedral
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 11th-century cathedral is one of the oldest churches in Kyiv and features stunning mosaics and frescoes.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
100 UAH
Kyiv Pechersk Lavra (Kyiv Monastery of the Caves)
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic Orthodox Christian monastery is famous for its underground caves and golden-domed churches.
Historical/Religious
2-3 hours
Free (some areas require tickets)
Independence Square (Maidan Nezalezhnosti)
The central square of Kyiv, known for its political significance and vibrant atmosphere. It's a hub for cultural events and protests.
Historical/Cultural
30 minutes to a few hours
Free
Golden Gate of Kyiv
A reconstructed ancient gateway that once served as the main entrance to the city. It's a symbol of Kyiv's rich history and medieval architecture.
Historical
30-60 minutes
20 UAH
Andriyivsky Descent
A historic street with cobblestone steps, lined with art galleries, cafes, and souvenir shops. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Cultural/Shopping
1-2 hours
Free (shopping and dining vary)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Borscht
A traditional beetroot soup, often served with sour cream and fresh bread. It can be made with or without meat.
Soup
Vegetarian options available
Varenyky
Dumplings filled with various ingredients like potatoes, cheese, cabbage, or meat. They are often served with sour cream and onions.
Main Course/Snack
Vegetarian options available
Holubtsi
Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of rice and minced meat, usually served with a tomato-based sauce.
Main Course
Vegetarian options available
Deruny
Potato pancakes, often served with sour cream or mushroom sauce. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Side Dish/Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Boating
Guided tours of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
Spa treatments
River cruises
Park picnics
Museum visits
Art gallery tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals. It's ideal for exploring the city's parks, riverside areas, and historical sites.
18°C to 28°C
64°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Ukrainian
- Widely spoken: Russian, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts
Currency
Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2), EEST (UTC+3) during daylight saving time
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Kyiv is generally safe for tourists, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transportation. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or app-based services
Getting there
By air
- Boryspil International Airport • 36 km from city center
- Kyiv International Airport (Zhuliany) • 7 km from city center
By train
Kyiv Central Station, Kyiv-Pasazhyrsky Station
By bus
Kyiv Central Bus Station (TzUM), South Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Kyiv Metro is efficient, clean, and affordable, with three lines connecting major parts of the city. It's the fastest way to get around during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uklon, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Podil
Pechersk
Pechersk
Lypky
Obolon
Day trips
Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
130 km from Kyiv • Full day
A guided tour of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, offering a unique and sobering look at the site of the 1986 nuclear disaster.
Mezhygirya
20 km from Kyiv • Half day
A historic estate and park known for its beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and cultural significance.
Kaniv
130 km from Kyiv • Full day
A scenic town on the Dnipro River, known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and cultural significance.
Festivals
Kyiv Day • Last Sunday in May
Kyiv International Film Festival • Late May to early June
Wizz Air Kyiv City Jazz Festival • June
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Ukrainian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Use the metro for fast and efficient transportation around the city
- Try local street food and traditional dishes for an authentic taste of Ukrainian cuisine
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore beyond the city center to discover hidden gems and local experiences
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
