Exploring the Zone in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl
In Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl, the Zone is organized into various regions that you’ll discover as you progress through the main storyline. Starting off in the Lesser Zone, you will soon venture to Garbage in search of clues about Nestor. But it’s not just about the main quests; this area is brimming with side content, including numerous hidden stashes that can divert your attention and aid your journey.
These hidden stashes are treasure troves for Stalkers, offering everything from first-aid supplies and ammunition to food and, on occasion, unique weapons to enhance your experience. If you’re keen to track them down, let’s dive into where you can find all the stashes in Garbage.
Koldyba’s Pigsty Stash: Location Guide
The first stash you’ll encounter in Garbage is quite easy to find, just after you cross the bridge into the region. Head north along the road, and listen for the frantic cries of a Stalker named Vovchyk Koldyba, who is being harassed by bandits looking to loot him. Intervene, save him, and in gratitude, he’ll reveal the location of his stash.
You’ll find the stash nearby, inside the building to the right of Koldyba. Look for wooden barricades at the north end of the structure. Break through, crawl through the gap, and you’ll discover the stash hidden in a dumpster alongside a pistol.
Abandoned Drop in Hlynka: Stash Location
The Hlynka settlement, positioned along the western road upon entering Garbage, contains a stash hidden within a small brick building near the end of the street on the right. Inside, you’ll find a duffle bag, along with additional loot scattered on the shelves.
Tip: Keep an eye out for any hostiles while you search!
Forgotten Loot in the Southeastern Junkyard
This stash is also an early find in Garbage, but this time you need to head east. Follow the road until you arrive at a junkyard that’s easily noticeable.
Look for a wrecked green truck. The stash lies directly underneath it. However, beware of mutant dogs that might ambush you. Only after dealing with any threats should you loot the stash safely.
Roof Stash in the Detention Center
During the Answers Come At A Price main quest, you’ll stop by the Detention Center located in the southeastern part of Garbage. This secure zone has multiple stashes, including one located on the roof.
To reach it, climb the stairs within the building until you reach an open, sky-exposed section. Use a slanted beam to access the roof, where you’ll navigate through anomalies spewing lava. At the northern end, find a chest next to a deceased individual—this is your stash!
Tamper-Proof Stash in the Detention Center
The Tamper-Proof Stash can be found in the basement of the Detention Center. You’ll need to obtain the heavy key first. Enter through the southern door and check a small compartment—the key is on the desk.
Once you have it, head downstairs to unlock the basement door, where you’ll find the stash in the room directly opposite the entrance.
Caution: There’s a fire poltergeist mutant lurking in the basement, but you can eliminate it by shooting through the grate from outside before going in. An artifact is also tucked away within the thermal anomalies down there.
Abandoned Drop in the Detention Center
Before you leave the Detention Center’s basement, loot the corpse of a soldier lying near a thermal anomaly. Act swiftly to avoid getting harmed, and you’ll find an old key on him.
This key unlocks the double orange doors on the same floor as the NPCs. Behind these doors lies the final stash you’re after in this area.
Missing Person’s Loot in the Vehicle Graveyard
To discover the Missing Person’s Loot, travel west of Hlynka and cross the bridge. Continue south until you see a series of dangerous bubble anomalies. Stay clear unless you’re specifically looking for artifacts.
Past that area is the Vehicle Graveyard. Here, seek out a small cabin wedged between several rusted trucks—this is your stash location.
Hidden Stash in Acidic Cave
For this stash, proceed to the hidden cave northeast of the Vehicle Graveyard. The entrance can be somewhat elusive, so keep your eyes peeled.
Inside, you’ll encounter hazardous acidic fumes. Be quick to minimize harm as you navigate through. Your prize will be the stash, which is hidden among the bodies inside.
Discovering More Loot in the Plant
The Plant, located along the northern road, is a crucial area with multiple stashes to uncover. One particularly easy find is located in the basement of the main building.
After locating a closed door, open it to unveil the chest. While it may not be very well concealed, the items inside are certainly worth it for any Stalker passing through.
Another stash, the Forgotten Loot, is found outside the main building in the adjacent structure. Ascend a ladder, go south to the skybridge, and navigate through pricking glass anomalies to claim your stash.
Lex the Legend’s Stash
At the Flea Market POI, situated in the western Garbage area, you’ll meet Lex the Legend—a Stalker known for dubious tales. After a brief interaction, he’ll send you coordinates for his so-called “legendary stash,” which turns out to be atop a vehicle fitted with a shovel.
The stash is mostly empty, containing a note mocking you and a broken pistol, followed by a surprise ambush from a Bloodsucker. Lesson learned: not all legends hold true in the Zone.
Conclusion
In Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl, the hunt for stashes can be as rewarding as it is challenging. Make sure to explore every nook and cranny as you journey through the Zone, and always be prepared for unexpected encounters!
