An Instagram video showing tourists swimming in the Tatra National Park’s Five Lakes Valley has sparked online outrage, with critics citing violations of park rules and environmental concerns.
Video Sparks Public Outcry
The Facebook page “tatry official” released a clip of a tourist swimming in Dolinie Pięciu Stawów within Tatra National Park, while others filmed and photographed him. Viewers condemned the activity as illegal and called for stricter enforcement, including an increase in park patrols.
Some commenters defended the swimmers, describing the valley as a natural gift to be enjoyed without “hate.” They contrasted Polish regulations with practices in other countries where public water use is common.
Park Regulations on Water Use
TPN visitor guidelines explicitly prohibit swimming, bathing, or washing dirty dishes in its water bodies and mountain rivers. The rules exist because these waters serve as drinking sources for mountain shelters and habitats for rare wildlife species.
Officials Call for Public Vigilance
Grzegorz Bryniarski, a ranger from the Morskie Oko protection circuit, urged visitors to report rule violations. He also cautioned against drinking water from mountain streams, noting the risk of contamination from wildlife.
