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travel: Wildlife watching in Latvia and Estonia - a nature lover's paradise
10th February 2025
Travel Feature By James Hamilton
Travel Feature By James Hamilton
Brown bear in Estonia © Bert Rähni from Natourest.ee Tours
Nestled in Northern Europe, Latvia and Estonia are two Baltic gems that offer unparalleled wildlife watching opportunities. With vast forests, pristine wetlands, and diverse ecosystems, these countries provide sanctuary to an impressive variety of animals, including lynxes, wolves, bears, and countless bird species.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or a wildlife enthusiast, Latvia and Estonia are dream destinations for nature lovers and in this feature, we explore more about what awaits you on a trip.
🇱🇻 Latvia: A Haven for Rare and Majestic Wildlife
Latvia, with its extensive woodlands and marshes, is home to some of Europe’s most elusive wildlife. More than half of the country is covered in forests, making it an ideal habitat for large mammals such as elk, deer, and wild boar. The Kemeri National Park, located near the capital, Riga, is a hotspot for birdwatching, with its vast boglands (among the oldest landscapes in the country, covering more than 10% of the land) attracting species like the black stork and lesser spotted eagle.
For those hoping to catch a glimpse of Latvia’s apex predators, Gauja National Park is the place to be. The park’s dense forests shelter Eurasian lynxes and grey wolves, though spotting these shy creatures requires patience and a fair bit of luck. Meanwhile, the Slītere National Park on the coast is a prime location to witness the migration of thousands of birds in spring and autumn.
One of Latvia’s most sought-after wildlife experiences is brown bear watching. The eastern part of the country, particularly the border region with Estonia, is home to a growing bear population. Guided tours offer safe and ethical opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
🇪🇪 Estonia: A Birdwatcher’s Dream and More
Estonia, though small, boasts a striking variety of landscapes, from coastal meadows and bogs to dense forests. The country is a birdwatching paradise, especially in Matsalu National Park, a renowned wetland area that attracts over 200 bird species, including rare migratory birds like the white-tailed eagle and barnacle goose.
For a more rugged adventure, Soomaa National Park, known as the "Land of Bogs," offers an immersive experience in Estonia’s wilderness. Here, visitors can encounter moose, beavers, and even wolves, especially during the mystical "fifth season" - a flood period in early spring when the landscape transforms into a water-filled wonderland.
The forests of northeastern Estonia are one of the best places in Europe to see brown bears. Special bear hides allow visitors to observe these impressive creatures without disturbing them. Other must-visit sites include Alutaguse National Park, which is a stronghold for lynxes, and Lahemaa National Park, where you can often spot otters and foxes near the coastline.
📅 The Best Time to Visit
The best time for wildlife watching in Latvia and Estonia depends on the species you’re hoping to see. Spring and autumn are ideal for birdwatching, as migratory birds pass through in large numbers. Summer is the best time to explore forests and national parks, with long daylight hours making wildlife spotting easier. For those interested in brown bears and other large mammals, late spring through early autumn is the prime season.
🌿 Ethical Wildlife Watching
To ensure the protection of these fragile ecosystems and their inhabitants, ethical wildlife watching practices are crucial. Always choose guided tours led by experienced naturalists who prioritise animal welfare and conservation. Avoid disturbing animals in their natural habitats, and respect designated trails and observation points.
✅ Summary
Latvia and Estonia offer some of Europe’s most spectacular and unspoiled wildlife experiences. From the breathtaking sight of a soaring eagle over Estonia’s wetlands to the quiet presence of a lynx in Latvia’s deep forests, these Baltic nations provide unforgettable encounters with nature. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious traveller, the rich biodiversity of Latvia and Estonia is sure to leave you in awe.
✈️ Explore Baltic Nature Tours 👉 balticnaturetourism.com
Latvia Travel: www.latvia.travel
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