This beautiful mountain town is a popular tourist destination, attracting people from all over the world with its stunning scenery and rich culture. As with any popular tourist destination, Zakopane’s high season can bring certain safety concerns due to the increased number of visitors.
However, it’s important to remember that Zakopane is generally a safe place to visit. In this article, we’ll discuss various aspects of safety in Zakopane, including how to stay safe during the high tourist season, and provide tips to ensure you have a worry-free vacation.
Police Face Increased Workload During Holidays
According to st.asp. Krzysztof Waksmundzki of the Zakopane Police, this year’s holiday season has been one of the most intense in terms of police workload. The increase in disturbances, including fights in accommodation facilities, is probably due to the large number of tourists flocking to the area.
A Comparison to Last Year’s Interventions
By comparison, police statistics show that there were nearly a thousand such interventions during last year’s holidays. This year’s interventions dealt with a variety of issues, including intoxicated individuals, noisy party-goers disturbing the peace at night, and fights breaking out in hotels or tourist accommodations.
↳ Make sure to check out my guide to ALL attractions in Zakopane, so you don't overlook anything interesting: 66 Best Attractions in Zakopane 2023 – What to Do – Interesting Places
Parking Problems Lead to Tensions Among Visitors
I must admit that finding a parking space in the Tatra Mountains during the holiday season has been a nightmare for visitors. It has even led to fights between drivers competing for the same space.
During the summer vacation, the police in Zakopane recorded 88 cases of illegal parking in 2022. This is a significant increase compared to the same period last year, when only 26 cases were reported.
An Unfortunate incident on the Małołączniak Trail
A particularly alarming incident occurred on the Małołączniak Trail in the Western Tatras this year. A drunk and aggressive 40-year-old man from Wielkopolska tried to navigate a trail equipped with chains, causing chaos and concern among other tourists.
Fortunately, the Tatra Volunteer Rescue Service was notified and arrived on the scene immediately. They airlifted the intoxicated man to Zakopane by helicopter, effectively ending the dangerous situation.
Staying Safe While Hiking and Exploring the Mountains
It’s important to remember that hiking in the mountains can be incredibly dangerous, even for experienced hikers. When planning a trip, take the time to familiarize yourself with safety rules and general knowledge to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Choosing the Right Trail for Your Skill Level
Before embarking on your mountain adventure, study maps and familiarize yourself with the terrain. Choose a trail that matches your physical fitness and experience level. Beginners should choose less challenging trails to begin with. If you’re bringing children, make sure the trail is appropriate for their abilities.
Plan Your Mountain Trip Wisely
Mountain trips should be well thought out and planned. Consider factors such as time of year and daylight hours. If you’re staying in a guesthouse or vacation home, ask the host about the route. Their input can help you prepare more effectively. Inform the host of the purpose of your trip, the route, and the expected time of return. Avoid leaving alone without leaving a message. This will help you get help quickly in case of an emergency.
Essential Equipment and Supplies
The right equipment is essential for a safe mountain trip. Bring items such as hiking boots with a lugged sole, a backpack with a fully stocked first aid kit, sunscreen, and clothing that protects you from rain and wind. Also pack enough food, water, and a fully charged cell phone for emergencies. If you are in a group, adjust your walking pace to accommodate the least experienced participant.
Winter Hiking and Avalanche Dangers
Winter mountaineering requires extra caution and preparation. Be aware of potential avalanche hazards, steep slopes, ice, and extreme weather conditions that can reduce visibility and make navigation difficult. Check the avalanche danger level before your trip and avoid high-risk areas.
Essential winter supplies include a thermos of hot tea, isotonic drinks, a thermal blanket, and high-calorie foods. Pay attention to trail signs and turn back if necessary. If you get lost, try to retrace your steps and stay on the marked route.
Public Transport and Safety in Zakopane
Using public transportation is a common way for many people to get around Zakopane. However, thieves sometimes lurk among the passengers, waiting for moments of distraction to strike. These criminals often target times of increased traffic, such as holidays, rush hours, or when people are tired.
To protect yourself and your belongings, follow these basic safety guidelines when using public transportation:
1. Keep Documents and Money Secure
Keep your documents in inside pockets of your clothes and your money in different places. Keep a few small coins in an outside pocket for tickets or small expenses.
2. Be Vigilant When Boarding and Exiting
Pay special attention when getting on and off public transportation, as this is when you are most vulnerable to theft. Keep an eye out for anyone watching you while waiting at stops or on platforms. Stay alert inside buses and trams.
3. Watch Your Luggage
Keep your luggage within reach and under constant surveillance. Hold your bag on your lap while riding a tram or bus. Be especially vigilant at stops and stations when people are moving around.
4. Pick a Seat Wisely
When boarding an empty bus, tram, or train, sit near the driver or in a group of trusted passengers, such as families with children or the elderly. Avoid groups that consume alcohol as they may act aggressively.
5. Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Avoid revealing the contents of your baggage by keeping tickets and carry-on items easily accessible.
6. Be Cautious with Refreshments
Do not accept refreshments from unfamiliar passengers, as thieves may use this tactic to drug and rob their victims.
6. Stay Awake and Alert
Avoid sleeping while traveling, especially when there are no trusted people around. If possible, lock your train compartment at night.
7. Manage Travel Sickness
If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication to relieve symptoms. Feeling sick can impair your alertness, attention, and concentration.
Travel Safety Tips for Solo Travelers and Families
Regardless of your gender, it’s important to take extra precautions when traveling alone. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable solo adventure:
1. Have Backup Plans
Whether you use Airbnb, couchsurfing, or a hotel, always have alternate accommodations in case something goes wrong.
2. Keep Copies of Your Documents
Make photocopies of your passport and ID before you leave in case you lose the originals.
3. Make Noise When Threatened
If someone approaches or follows you in a suspicious manner, alert others or shout loudly to attract attention.
4. Avoid Unlit Streets at Night
Do not explore dark, deserted areas alone at night. Use common sense and stay in well-lit, populated areas.
5. Share Your Location with Someone
Let a family member or friend know your travel plans and where you are staying, and check in with them regularly.
6. Travel Light and Avoid Expensive Items
Pack light to minimize the risk of loss or theft, and avoid carrying expensive items.
7. Research Your Destination
Learn about the country’s customs, traditions, and religion before you leave to avoid unpleasant situations.
8. Bring Sufficient Funds
Estimate your expenses and bring a little extra to avoid running out of money. Spread your funds among several locations for added security.
9. Use an Imaginary Fiancé or Partner
Female solo travelers can deter unwanted attention by wearing a ring and mentioning a fictitious fiancé or partner.
References
- https://wiadomosci.onet.pl/krakow/zakopane-rekordowa-liczba-interwencji-policji-spoleczenstwo-zdziczalo/jkwm0gw
- https://www.goralpoleca.pl/blog/bezpieczenstwo-w-gorach/
