Orenburg Region Draws Record Auto Tourists with Literary Routes and Natural Wonders

More than 250,000 travelers hit the road to explore Orenburg Region last year, according to Governor Evgeny Solntsev. Speaking on the Max platform, Solntsev said the count comes from just five itineraries listed on the federal tourism portal Puteshestvuyem.rf, which supports the national Tourism and Hospitality project.

Topping the list is the "Routes of Great Writers" auto tour, which attracted about 80,000 visitors in 2025. The route weaves through 15 landmarks tied to famous literary figures with ties to the region, including the Aksakov estate museum, the Vladimir Vysotsky house museum, the Derzhavin family manor, Buzuluk Pine Forest National Park, the Holy Caves, and several museums in major towns. Solntsev described it as a chance to soak in the creative atmosphere of poets and cultural icons.

Other hot spots for road trippers include the therapeutic Salt-Iletsk Lakes, the village of Cherny Otrog, and the Orenburg Nature Reserve, home to Przewalski's horses. The governor emphasized the region's appeal beyond culture, noting its vast steppes, mountains, and wide-open spaces.

With warm weather and vacation season underway, Solntsev reported a noticeable uptick in visitors and predicted a 25% rise in demand for regional tours this year. "There's plenty to see here," he said. "We're expecting everyone to come visit."