Roszapovedtsentr, the Russian Federal State Budgetary Institution for the Development of the System of Specially Protected Natural Territories, has highlighted several nature reserves offering unique experiences for those interested in traditional beekeeping, particularly the ancient practice of borte apiculture.
One such place is Bashkiria National Park. Visitors can learn about the art of beekeeping in specially hollowed-out tree trunks. Along the park's ecological trails, there are hollowed-out logs that have been colonized by wild bees. Guided tours offer insights into beekeeping practices, the life of bees, and the unique properties of Bashkir honey.
For the more hands-on experience, there are workshops on creating frames for beehives.
"The national park also offers thematic 'honey tours' to borti, where wild bees collect borte honey—the most valuable,beneficial, and rare. Visitors are particularly interested in learning about the work of bortniks, beekeepers who extract honey and wax from wild bees in borti," said Roszapovedtsentr.
In September, the park's bortnik conducts an autumn inspection of the hollowed-out trees and borti in the forest. He examines the wild bees' homes, prepares them for winter, and collects excess honey, leaving enough for the bees. This work is done at a height of over 10 meters, wearing protective clothing and a mask.
The "Cliffs Above the Apiary" trail in the Shulgan-Tash Reserve, also located in Bashkiria, offers another opportunity to learn about honey harvesting traditions.
"The excursion begins at a demonstration apiary of Burzyan bees and partially follows a phenological route, where tourists can see rocky mountain meadows and rare species of plants and butterflies. In autumn, the protected area offers honey tours, including for those who want to purchase wild borte honey," the message says.
And in the Bolshaya Kokhshaga Reserve (Mari El), there is a thematic exhibition "Beekeeping of the Mari people," which can be explored as part of a one-day excursion. Here, tourists learn about the history of the Mari people in the now non-existent village of Argamach, view a hollowed-out log and a modern apiary, a beekeeper's hut, antiques, and beekeeping equipment. A special part of the exhibition is dedicated to honey plants.
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