The park contains the historic 24-meter tall lighthouse built in Paris and transported to the island in 1902.
Large populations of wild deer and mouflons roam the island freely, often venturing onto the beaches.
The island is connected to the mainland via a sand spit, which is frequently submerged by the sea depending on tides and wind conditions.
The park's saline lakes contain mud deposits historically used for therapeutic purposes.
It is the largest island in the Black Sea and the largest in Ukraine by total area.
The park protects rare plant species listed in the Ukrainian Red Book, such as the Dzharylhat sea lavender.
Dzharylhatsʹkyy Natsionalʹnyy Pryrodnyy Park is the largest island in Ukraine, spanning 56 square kilometers within the Karkinit Bay of the Black Sea. The landscape is dominated by coastal dunes, salt marshes, and saline lakes, featuring a unique steppe-desert climate. It is home to diverse fauna, including wild boars, red deer, mouflons, and fallow deer, which were introduced to the island in the 20th century. The island houses a historic 1902 lighthouse designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel. Due to the ongoing military conflict in the region since 2022, the park is currently occupied and inaccessible to civilians. Environmental reports indicate significant damage to the island's ecosystems due to military activity and fires. Under normal conditions, the park acts as a vital migration corridor for migratory birds within the Azov-Black Sea wetland ecosystem.
The base of the historic 1902 lighthouse during the golden hour.
Under normal circumstances, visitors must bring all fresh water and supplies, as none are available on the island.
Due to the lack of infrastructure, self-sufficiency and high-quality sun protection are essential for survival.
Prioritize eco-friendly practices, as the island's delicate ecosystem is highly susceptible to human pollution.
Do not attempt to visit while the territory is under military occupation due to extreme safety risks including landmines.
Currently closed indefinitely due to the war in Ukraine and military occupation of the territory.
Strict 'leave no trace' policy; camping is restricted to designated zones; fire building is prohibited to prevent steppe fires.
