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Best National Parks in Estonia to Visit: Nature, Wildlife & Scenic Escapes

Estonia might be small, but it is a country whose identity is very much shaped by nature. More than half of the land is covered by forests. Besides forests, there are also marshes, islands, sand beaches, and some mysterious bogs here and there. The national parks in Estonia are the islands of these natural environments. Besides serving as a haven for wildlife, the best national parks in Estonia also offer a great opportunity for hiking, observing animals, or just taking a break from the city crowd.

If nature is your thing in any way, be it hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the view, the best national parks in Estonia offer unforgettable experiences. To give you an idea, here’s a brief overview of the top parks in Estonia, their features, and the best time to see them with your Estonia tourist visa from London

Best National Parks in Estonia and Wildlife Reserves You should Visit in 2026

best national parks in Estonia

1. Lahemaa National Park The Oldest and Most Varied Park in Estonia

Lahemaa, a national park, is the biggest and oldest one in Estonia and is situated only an hour away from Tallinn. It’s the starting point for most visitors who want to experience nature without venturing far from the capital.

Why Visit one of the best national parks in Estonia?

The park is known as one of the best national parks in Estonia. Here, the park has it all for you: natural habitats like forests, bogs, beaches, and rivers, together with historic manor houses. Besides, walking the old-timey coastal villages will give you a glimpse of the history and lifestyle of Estonia.

Things to do in one of the best national parks in Estonia:

  • Stroll around Viru Bog Boardwalk
  • See the old Palmse and Sagadi manors
  • Experience the seaside village of Kamu
  • Watch out for the wildlife as you might spot elk, wild boar, or even a fox or two

Best Time to Visit:

Late spring to early autumn is the perfect time, especially summer, when the flowering trails and coastal views are stunning.

2. Soomaa National Park – The Land of Bogs and the Fifth Season

Soomaa is well known for its large bogs and the fifth season, which refers to the time of the year when seasonal flooding turns the park into a surreal watery wonderland. It is one of the major reasons to come to one of the best national parks in Estonia. 

Why Visit one of the best national parks in Estonia?

During spring, the floodwaters turn the forests and fields into rivers, and you can take a canoe trip through the flooded landscape. It’s an exceptional experience, unique to this place only.

Things to Do:

  • Canoeing through the submerged forests during the fifth season
  • Walking along the Riisa Nature Trail and other trails
  • Enjoying the calm and peacefulness of this nature haven
  • Seeing wild animals like moose, beavers, and owls

Best Time to Visit:

Spring is excellent if you want to go canoeing, and the weather is good for hiking in late summer. 

Note: Apply online by filling out the visa application form, and after reviewing your application, our visa experts will schedule your Estonia visa appointment from UK at the center for you to attend on the intended date. BOOK NOW!

3. Matsalu National Park—A Birdwatcher’s Dream

Matsalu is a wetland of significant importance for migratory birds in Europe. Birdwatchers will find this place an absolute must.

Why Visit one of the best national parks in Estonia?

Matsalu is basically a haven for birdwatchers. During their spring and autumn migrations, the park is a stopover for thousands of birds. So it’s a perfect place if you’re into nature photography or just love wildlife.

Things to Do:

  • Go to the birdwatching towers with a view over Matsalu Bay
  • Walk along the park’s coastal meadows and reed beds
  • Snap photos of the landscape and wildlife
  • Have an unhurried walk in the park

Best Time to Visit:

If you want to see the birds migrating, visit the park in April, May, September, or October.

4. Karula National Park – Rolling Hills, Lakes, and Forest Trails

Karula may be the smallest national park in Estonia, but its definitely one of the best national parks in Estonia, with beautiful rolling hills, thick forests, and peaceful lakes.

Why Visit?

Karula’s main feature is its hilly landscape, from which you can see really great views. It’s just the right spot to go hiking if you like it or to relax by a lake if you don’t.

Things to Do:

  • Take a long walk along the forest paths with stunning panoramic views
  • Have a swim or simply unwind by the quiet lakes
  • Discover the traditional rural landscapes surrounding the park

Best Time to Visit:

Summer and early autumn provide better conditions for one of the best national parks in Estonia that offers outdoor activities; thus, they are the most suitable times to come.

5. Vilsandi National Park – Estonia’s Island Wilderness

Vilsandi consists of a number of islands and the marine area surrounding them. It is a quiet, less crowded place for those who want to experience nature without the noise and crowds of popular tourist spots.

Why Visit?

If you are fond of islands, the sea, and birdwatching, this park will be a perfect find. There will be lots of wildlife and beautiful, rugged coastlines to discover.

Things to Do:

  • Observe seabirds and other coastal animals
  • Take a walk on the park’s beautiful coastline trails
  • Visit the small islands and the rocky shores
  • Go kayaking or simply enjoy watching marine life

Best Time to Visit:

Visiting in late spring and summer will give you the opportunity to enjoy calm seas and plentiful wildlife.

6. Alutaguse National Park—Estonia’s Newest Wilderness Area

Alutaguse is the newest addition to the list of Estonia’s national parks. Situated in the northeast, it mainly focuses on the protection of vast forest ecosystems and wetlands.

Why Visit?

You’ll find in this park a purely natural wild environment with forests, peatlands, and some of the rarest animals. To simply disconnect from the world, Alutaguse is your spot.

Things to Do:

  • Take a walk in the thick woods
  • Try to see some of the rare species, such as lynx and squirrels
  • Discover the quiet, typical villages around

Best Time to Visit One of the Best National Parks in Estonia:

The most suitable time for a visit to the park to hike or to discover it is from late spring to early autumn.

Best Time to Visit the Best National Parks in Estonia

  1. Spring (April-May): Ideal for birdwatching, canoeing, and enjoying the fresh greenery
  2. Summer (June–August): The first of the summers days make it most suitable for hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities
  3. Autumn (September–October): Capture the stunning gall colors anf enjoy the scenery
  4. Winter (November–March): The parks look stunning covered in snow, but access can be limited

Outdoor Activities to Enjoy in best national parks in Estonia

Estonia’s national parks provide some of the best outdoor activities for every kind of person, from peaceful forests to people seeking wildlife adventures. Here are some of the best small activities to enjoy while providing the beautiful landscapes while exploring the country’s natural beauty. Some of them are: 

  • Hiking and nature walks
  • Canoeing and kayaking
  • Birdwatching and wildlife photography
  • Cycling and eco-tourism
  • Camping and stargazing

Fun Facts About the best national parks in Estonia

Estonia is full of surprises, from old and beautiful landscapes to wildlife adventures not available anywhere except Europe. Here are some of the facts that reflect the country’s connection to nature and history. 

  • Estonia has a total of 6 national parks
  • Over 20% of the land in the country is under protection
  • Some peatlands date back more than 10,000 years
  • Estonia’s fauna includes rare animals such as lynx, flying squirrels, and rare species 
  • Wooden tracks make it possible to walk in the bog without damaging the fragile microhabitats. 

Tips for Visiting Estonia’s National Parks

Here are some of the tips that can be used while visiting some of Estonia’s best national parks to remember while going to explore: 

  • Remember to always wear waterproof shoes, especially if you are wandering through parts of the bog, and remember to carry your Estonia Schengen visa from UK. If you haven’t applied for it, now is the time to take action, before you leave to explore Estonia’s national parks. APPLY NOW!
  • To help protect our environment, always stay on the marked trails
  • Use insect repellent, particularly during the summer season
  • To catch the best wildlife sightings, visit early in the morning or late in the evening
  • Go for a guided tour in the park to gain a more profound knowledge of the ecology of the park

Final Thoughts

Definitely. The best national parks in Estonia are among the most peaceful and most well-preserved natural areas in Europe. They are a great choice for those looking to get away from overcrowded tourist spots or simply to be closer to nature in a tranquil setting. Bogs, deep forests, clear lakes, and picturesque coastal villages are just a few of the things one can find and experience in the parks of Estonia with their Estonia tourist visa from London. APPLY NOW!

FAQs

How many national parks are there in Estonia?

Estonia has 6 national parks that include forests. Bogs, landscapes, and coastal areas. These are Lahemaa, Karula, Soomaa, Vilsandi, Matsula, and Alutaguse.

Which is one of the best national parks in Estonia?

Lahemaa National Park is the most popular and is among the largest national parks in Estonia. It is also one of the oldest national parks, with a short distance from Tallinn.

Are Estonia’s national parks free to enter?

Yes, most parks are free to visit. The country operates under a public right of access policy allowing anyone to hike, explore, and camp for free in nature. Although, it is recommended to carry your Estonia Schengen visa from UK.

Is Estonia good for wildlife lovers?

Absolutely. Estonia is fantastic for spotting birds, elk, moose, and rare species like lynx due to 50% of its land being covered in forest with wetlands less crowded. It is considered one of Europe’s top biodiverse spots for nature spotting.

Can I visit Estonia’s national parks without a car?

Yes, it is possible to visit Estonia’s national parks without a car. You can visit the famous Lahemaa National Park using a combination of public buses, trains, and, in some cases, bicycles.

What is the best season to visit Estonia’s national parks?

Summer is the most popular time, but spring and autumn are also great for fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing. Therefore, it is recommended to visit Estonia’s national parks from late May to early September, offering warm, long days. It is ideal for hiking, while early spring from April to May is perfect for a flooded landscape in Soomaa.

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