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Ukraine FAQ

Is tipping customary in Ukraine?

Tipping is becoming customary in many of the larger Ukrainian cities. While it's not necessary to tip drivers unless the service is exemplary, a 10-15% tip is expected in most restaurants.

What is the internet access like in Ukraine?

Internet cafes are available in cities and towns, and some larger hotels now offer Wi-Fi connectivity. Remote and rural areas will have less internet availability, so be prepared for this when travelling out of the city.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Ukraine?

Roaming agreements exist with major mobile phone companies, check with your service provider for more information.

What are the toilets like in Ukraine?

Western-style, flushable toilets are normally available in the larger cities. In rural areas, simple squat toilets are more common.

What will it cost for a…?

Cup of coffee in a cafe = 10 UAH
Beer in a bar or restaurant = 5-15 UAH
Basic, takeaway lunch = 40 UAH
Dinner in an inexpensive restaurant = 100 UAH

Can I drink the water in Ukraine?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Ukraine. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Ask your leader or hotel where filtered water can be found and don't forget to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Ukraine?

Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops and hotels. Smaller vendors may not accept credit cards, so carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Ukraine?

ATMs are commonly found in Ukraine's cities and urban areas. Remote regions will have less ATM availability, so prepare accordingly before travelling away from cities.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Ukraine?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Ukraine?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 7 Orthodox Christmas Day
Mar 8 International Women's Day
May 1-2 Labour Days
May 5 Orthodox Easter Sunday
May 9 Victory Day
Jun 23 Orthodox Pentecost
Jun 28 Constitution Day
Aug 24 Ukrainian Independence Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/ukraine/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Ukraine?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • UKRAINE:
    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: No - Not required
    Canada: No - Not required
    Germany: No - Not required
    Ireland: No - Not required
    Netherlands: No - Not required
    New Zealand: Yes - in advance
    South Africa: Yes - in advance, Visa Support letter - Yes
    Switzerland: No - Not required
    United Kingdom: No - Not required
    USA: No - Not required

    As of 2013 travellers from Australia and New Zealand no longer need a Visa Support letter.

    Some other nationalities requiring visas may need a visa support letter (sometimes known as an 'invitation' or 'voucher') in order to apply for your Ukraine visa. Should you require this service please notify us at time of booking. You will also need to nominate at which consulate you will be applying for your Ukraine visa. We will then submit this information to our Ukrainian partners in order to obtain the visa support letter. You or your agent will be forwarded the visa invitation by email within 5 business days. Once you have received this invitation you can then apply for your visa at your nominated consulate or use a visa service recommended by your travel agency.

    When filling out the visa application form you may be asked to complete a section "Surname and first name of the inviting person(s) in Ukraine. If not applicable, name of hotel(s) or address of applicant’s temporary accommodation(s) in Ukraine."
    Please enter these hotel details when referring to the inviting organisation:

    Kozatskiy Hotel
    1/3, Mikhailovskaya street1
    Kiev 1001
    Ukraine
    PH +380 44 279 49 25

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Ukraine at a glance

  • 3
  • Kyiv (population 2.6 million)
  • 45.9 million
  • Ukrainian
  • UAH
  • (GMT+02:00) Helsinki, Kyiv, Riga, Sofia, Tallinn, Vilnius
  • Type C (European 2-pin), Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)
  • +380

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