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Riga Nature & adventure

Our most recommended Riga Nature & adventure

Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat

1. Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat

Climb aboard an eco-friendly canal boat to see the sights of Riga from a different perspective as you cruise along the Daugava River. Escape the crowds of the city center as you set sail from the pier by the Freedom Monument at the 18th-century fortifications known as the Triangula Bastion (Bastejkalns). Glide gently under historic bridges and see landmark attractions such as the elegant home of the Latvian National Opera, Europe's largest market and bazaar at Riga Central Market and the UNESCO World Heritage monuments of the Spīķeri Quarter.  Get amazing views of the Vecrīga district (Old Riga) as you cruise towards the Riga Passenger Terminal and Yacht Club Andrejosta. Make your way back towards the departure point and get stunning views of Kronvalda Park and the Latvian National Theatre.

Riga: Private Sigulda, Turaida, and Gauja National Park Tour

2. Riga: Private Sigulda, Turaida, and Gauja National Park Tour

Embark on a personal and immersive adventure on a private van tour from Riga to Sigulda and Turaida. Customize your itinerary to your preferences and visit sights such as Gauja National Park, Sigulda Manor and Castle, and Turaida Castle. Sit back and relax in the comfort of your private vehicle and watch the landscape change from city streets to lush greenery as you head out of Riga. Make your way to Sigulda, a town near the river Gauja that is also known as the Switzerland of Latvia by locals. Marvel at the Gauja valley with its dense forests, meandering river, and the Gauja National Park. Stop to stroll through the park before seeing the Sigulda Medieval Castle ruins, the new Sigulda Castle, the Turaida Castle museum with its watchtower peering above the trees, and Gutman's Cave, the widest and highest cave in the Baltic countries. Cross the river on the optional cable car ride for a different perspective of the region or enjoy a glass of local wine made in the Cremon Winery at Krimulda Manor. See local craftsmen and women at work to gain an insight into local and cultural life before heading back to Riga. This half day tour is a must for those who have visited Riga and Jurmala before and is especially recommended for bloggers and social media fans.

Riga: Best of Kemeri National Park In One Day

3. Riga: Best of Kemeri National Park In One Day

Start your morning with a convenient, pick-up service from your accommodation in Riga. Here, your friendly driver and guide will be waiting to meet you. After a quick chat with one another, you'll be hopping aboard your vehicle and setting off for your destination of the day - the Kemeri National Park.  Attractions you will visit: Great Ķemeri Bog: Enjoy the benefits of a day beginning with physical activity and experience a picturesque hike on the famous Great Ķemeri Bog boardwalk upon arrival at the National Park. · Unique Lagoon Lake Kaņieris: After the inspiring morning improv-hike in Kemeri boglands, you will visit the amazing Kanieris Lake and one of its bird watching towers. This big shallow lake is an amazing former lagoon of the prehistoric Littorina Sea. It is very close to the Gulf Of Riga. Kanieris Lake is an important stop-over place for migratory birds. During migration periods (April-May and August-October) it becomes a paradise for birdwatchers as it hosts more than 190-species of birds. It’s also an important breeding place for the local birds. Nature trails along the banks of this lake go through various unique protected ecosystems (habitats) and can be a great place for you to spot wildlife. · Ķemeri forests: Now it is time to have glimpse on the unique wet forests of Ķemeri National Park and their natural values including the famous Sulphur springs. · Sandy beach of the Gulf of Riga: Before heading back to Riga you will enjoy the fresh air of the stunning sandy seaside and costal pine forests of the Gulf of Riga · Soak up the energy of this unique pristine Latvian location before heading back to your accommodation in Riga for an evening of rest.

Sigulda Day Tour - Castle Ruins, Gūtmaņala Grotto, & More

4. Sigulda Day Tour - Castle Ruins, Gūtmaņala Grotto, & More

There is so much to see and do in Sigulda that sometimes it is difficult to fit it all in. This comprehensive tour led by a professional guide, is designed to show you around the historic highlights of the city in just a day. Ride the aerial cableway in Sigulda. Opened in 1969, this is the only one of its kind in the Baltic States. The cableway was built in cooperation between Sigulda and Chiatura, a city in Georgia, and offers spectacular views over the city. Explore the Sigulda castle ruins and the new castle. The Order of the Brothers of the Sword began building Sigulda castle in 1207. During the Great Northern War, the castle was destroyed never to be restored again. However the convent building with its famous gothic window plus the main gate tower still stand, and offer an insight into a bygone age. Delve deep into the Gūtmaņala grotto. This is the most popular and vast cave in Latvia. It was formed in the course of 10,000 years by water gradually eroding sandstone, and is a protected geological site. The cave is the oldest tourist attraction in Latvia. Marvel at the ancient inscriptions lining the walls. A trip to the Turaida Museum Reserve should not be missed. The 42 hectares of the reserve feature archaeological, architectural, historical, and art monuments, dating back from the 11th century.

From Riga: Full-Day Scenic Gauja River Valley Kayaking Trip

5. From Riga: Full-Day Scenic Gauja River Valley Kayaking Trip

Meet your guide in the morning and head to Gauja River Valley to begin your kayaking trip. The curving, wild nature of the Gauja River and its tributaries makes this experience one to remember, and a must-visit for travelers who like to venture off the beaten path. During your kayaking tour, see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Gauja River Valley, including stunning steep riverbanks, awesome sandstone cliffs, the dense forests of Gauja National Park, and more. Your eco-tour leader will engage you with a special “improv-travel” approach and tell you about the nature, culture, and traditions of Latvia. Paddle for 15 to 20 kilometers downstream on a truly enjoyable adventure. There are several alternative points to finish on the way so the length of the trip can be adjusted according to your wishes. After reaching your final destination, benefit from a transfer right back to your hotel in Riga, or stay in the scenic town of Sigulda.

From Riga: Kemeri National Park Nature Trail

6. From Riga: Kemeri National Park Nature Trail

Only a short drive from the center of Jurmala is Latvia's third largest national park, Kemeri National Park. This trail is perfect for nature-lovers and covers seven or eight total kilometers. You'll walk along a beautiful raised boardwalk, so you can easily observe the awe-inspiring landscape. The trail leads you to picturesque scenes and a viewing tower. The wooden footbridge gives you an easy and safe pathway into the amazing world of moss, bog pine trees, pools, dark ponds, cranberry bushes, and Labrador tea. On the way back, you can stop at Kemeri, a well-known mineral water resort since the 19th century. A nearby hotel is an architectural monument of interest too.

From Riga/Jurmala/Vecriga: Kemeri National Park Outdoor Tour

7. From Riga/Jurmala/Vecriga: Kemeri National Park Outdoor Tour

The first stop and walk is Lake Kanieris with wooden path and Bird watching tower. The tower allows enjoying some truly spectacular views over the lake. From the tower it is possible to take a short walk along the wooden boardwalk, which sometimes floats on pontoons, allowing to observe the beauty of the lake landscape with dry legs. Kanieris Lake is a lagoon-type lake and is a protected nature object located in Ķemeri National Park. The lake is one of the richest in Latvia in bird and plant diversity; therefore it is favored to nature lovers and ornithologists. The “Sulfur nature trail” is only 830 meters in length, located in a marshy area. The trail makes a loop around Ragana (A witch) Lake, which has a red bed. Therefore, all the water in the lake appears to be copper in color. The entire trail smells of hydrogen sulfide. Sulfur ponds are a rare natural phenomenon in Latvia. It is a place where sulfurous water flows from springs on the surface and accumulates in several ponds. The sulfuric water is the reason for the peculiar flora and the color of the pond water. The scent of the Bog-myrtle growing there adds to the pleasure of the senses. Historical Kemeri Health resort park with sulfur mineral water spring. Kemeri is an area of the Jurmala seaside town where a resort was set up already in the 18th century due to the therapeutic qualities of sulfur water in the many springs in the neighborhood. Only architectural monuments are left to speak of the former glory of the Kemeri resort, although sulfur water and mud are still available. The park was created in the middle of the 19th century and features a network of winding paths interspersed with architectural objects – pavilions, rotundas, bridges across the artificial canals fed by the Versupite River that flows through the park. The Sulfur Water Pavilion, built at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, stands in the south-eastern part of the park. Next to it, you will find the Kirzacina (Little Lizzard) sulfur spring, one of the most popular in Latvia. Its water can be used both internally and externally. Other interesting objects in the park include the Love Islet Pavilion, a rotunda built in 1928 in the Classicism style; the Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, the oldest of the churches in Kemeri which was built in 1893 in the style of wooden churches typical for Northern Russia; monuments to the founders of the Kemeri resort, the first physicians, who worked there, and soldiers fallen in World War I and World War II. The hotel was designed by the outstanding Latvian architect of Baltic German descent, Eizens Laube (1880–1967). The white building is a brilliant example of Neo-Classicism in the Latvian architecture.

Kemeri National Park & Baltic Seaside Tour Bog Boardwalk

8. Kemeri National Park & Baltic Seaside Tour Bog Boardwalk

Spend a day in one of the biggest nature parks in Latvia, Ķemeri National Park. This park is great to visit because it combines so much of the local nature including bogs, forests, seaside, lakes, and wildlife (most of the bird species in Latvia are found here).  Journey along a boardwalk trail through a beautiful bog that has been formed over thousands of years and now is a true natural treasure of Latvia. The Ķemeru Lielais Tīrelis is only a 1-hour drive from the Latvian capital city of Riga. During the walk, you will learn about how the bog is created and about its usage and value. You will also see the gorgeous bog sights with many small and large lakes which reflect the world in its calm and dark waters. You will have the opportunity to sample some local snacks and drinks.  Then, head to the unique trail of Kaņieries Lake that is nearby. Experience a bit of the local fisherman's way of life by casting an eye over their fishing boats and tools on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Be shown the biggest seaside resort city in Baltics, Jūrmala before you return to Riga.

The Soul of the Baltic Sea: Half-Day Jurmala Tour

9. The Soul of the Baltic Sea: Half-Day Jurmala Tour

Visit Jurmala, the largest resort in the Baltic states, on a half-day tour that departs from Riga. The city of Jurmala is known for its mild climate, healthy sea air, curative mud and mineral waters. Admire the city’s natural features, including the white sand beach that stretches for nearly 33 kilometers, the pine forest and the Lielupe River. The typical architectural style of Jurmala is seen in its private houses built of wood. Discover the charming wooden homes constructed in the early 20th century and note also the modern resort buildings.

Private Day Trip to Cesis, Sigulda and Turaida Castles

10. Private Day Trip to Cesis, Sigulda and Turaida Castles

Discover the charming towns of Cesis, Sigulda, and Turaida on this private day trip from Riga. Learn basic historical information from your driver, as well as the best restaurants to stop for lunch. Depart from Riga with private transport and head to Cesis, where you'll find an 800-year-old medieval castle. Learn about its connection to the town's history and its continued expansion during the years. Then head to Āraiši Lake Castle Archaeological Park, where you can visit the castle, nominated as the Latvian archaeological monument of 2021. Check out the permanent exposition with fascinating archeological finds from the area. Next, it's on to the Livonian Order Castle in Sigulda, built in 1207, and current host to the International Sigulda Opera Music Festival. Finally head to the Turaida Museum Reserve, where you'll discover archaeology, culture, and art dating back to the 11th century. Please note that from 1st of November to 30th of April Cesis Castle museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. During this time we will be able to see Castle only from outside, we'll do walk thru Cesis old town part.

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What people are saying about Riga

Overall rating

4.2 / 5

based on 46 reviews

This was a breathtaking way to get out of Riga and see more of the real Latvia. The tour includes 3 stops: 1. a walkway in and out of a forest through bogs and wetlands; 2. a walkway amongst marshes; and 3. a trip past pine trees and dunes to the beach. Stops 1 and 2 include stunning views from vantage towers. We visited in December 2022 and, although snow had started to melt and stop 1 was rainy, by the time we reached stop 3, the sky had broken, providing stunning views of the sky, beach and sea. Our guide, Rolands, is a biologist and conservationist, whose passion and knowledge of the area and of Latvian culture and history was amazing. Nothing was too much trouble for him and I can honestly say he’s the best tour guide I’ve ever encountered. He provided details the day before as well as food and drinks on the day, and was happy to take pics of my wife and I to capture memories. We will definitely do another tour in Latvia and look forward to Rolands being our guide again.

This was the best thing I did in Riga. Not only were the three destinations beautiful and unique, the trip was also incredibly educational. Roland was a fantastic guide with genuine expertise and a deep knowledge of the areas we visited, and was able to give great answers to whatever questions I had throughout the tour. Additionally, I was able to learn much about the history and culture of Latvia from just chatting with him in the car between stops. Roland is a thoughtful and chilled out guy, very profesional and his passion for his work really shone through during the tour. You don’t have to go far out of Riga to see some incredible nature, something I hadn’t realised before I arrived in Latvia. Thanks a lot for a great day!

Armand was a very pleasant and knowledgeable guide. We enjoyed the hours in his company and was glad to lean a lot about both local history, personal experiences on the many cultural changes of Latvia. The nature walk was very beautiful in itself. We give our very best recommendations to take a walk with Armand

Ava was professional and knowledgeable about Latvian history and culture. She was also very personable and made for a great tour of Old Town Riga. Would recommend this tour especially if it’s your first time in Riga.

Muy buena experiencia, el recorrido precioso, el barco muy chulo y el guía super agradable.