From Riga: Kemeri National Park and Kuldiga Tour

From Riga: Kemeri National Park and Kuldiga Tour is a fantastic way to escape the city and experience Latvia’s diverse landscapes and charming towns. For about 8 hours, you’ll explore the haunting beauty of Kemeri National Park with its famous bog boardwalk, then stroll through Kuldiga, a UNESCO-listed town famed for Europe’s widest waterfall and longest brick bridge. Led by knowledgeable guides, with small group sizes, this tour offers a personal touch that big bus trips often lack.

What we really love about this experience? First, the Kemeri bog boardwalk gives an up-close look at Latvia’s unique wetland ecosystem, complete with mini trees, dozens of tiny lakes, and a wooden tower offering panoramic views. Second, the opportunity to walk over the long brick bridge while watching the flowing waters of Ventas Rumba provides a rare sense of connection to the landscape.

A potential drawback? The tour involves some walking—about 1.5 hours at each stop—so travelers with mobility issues might find it a bit challenging. Also, since food and drinks aren’t included, you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan for a meal on your own.

This trip suits curious travelers who love nature and history in equal measure and don’t mind a bit of walking. It’s especially perfect for those eager to see authentic Latvian towns away from the crowds, with the bonus of striking natural scenery.

Key Points

• Unique landscapes: Kemeri’s bogs and lakes offer stunning scenery, perfect for nature lovers.
• Historical charm: Kuldiga’s old town preserves traditional Baltic architecture and UNESCO status.
• Iconic landmarks: The widest waterfall of Europe and longest brick bridge provide memorable photo opportunities.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to just 4 participants, ensuring personalized attention from your guide.
• Flexible and straightforward: Includes guided walks, photo stops, and toilet breaks, with options to buy food or drinks separately.
• Ideal for active travelers: Involves walking and outdoor exploration, best suited for those able to handle some physical activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Kemeri Bog Boardwalk

We start our day in Riga, meeting at a central spot—Konditoreja Briedisi 17—before heading out. The drive to Kemeri National Park takes us into Latvia’s lush landscape, gradually revealing the stark beauty of the bogs.

Once there, we lace up our comfortable shoes for the 1.5-hour walk along the bog boardwalk. This wooden path winds through mini trees, small lakes, and the mossy terrain that makes this area so special. The highlight is the wooden tower, where we climb for a sweeping view of the surrounding wetlands. The air is filled with the earthy aroma of peat and moss, and the scenery lends itself well to photography.

Travelers report that the views are stunning, with one reviewer calling the moor “really worth a visit,” appreciating how well the guide showed us the best spots. The environment feels remote but accessible, offering a true taste of Latvia’s natural landscape away from urban life.

The UNESCO Town of Kuldiga

After a refreshing break, we’re off to the historic town of Kuldiga, about an hour’s drive away. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the town’s well-preserved architecture reflects its Baltic roots. The highlight here? The Ventas Rumba, Europe’s widest waterfall, where the river tumbles over rocks in a spectacle of rushing water.

Walking along the long brick bridge, you get a perfect view of the waterfall and the town’s charming old buildings. The bridge itself is an engineering marvel—Europe’s longest brick bridge—and provides a scenic vantage point. As we stroll the old town’s cobbled streets, traditional Baltic houses line the river, and the atmosphere feels authentic and timeless.

Reviews mention how the guide “showed us the best places outside Riga,” emphasizing the small-group intimacy that allows for personalized questions and better engagement. As one traveler noted, the old town “has a lot of charm,” and you might even spot fish jumping over the waterfall while walking alongside the river.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes all the essentials—bog boardwalk, Kuldiga UNESCO old town, visits to the widest waterfall, and the longest brick bridge. It’s priced to reflect good value, considering the transportation, guiding, and exclusive access to these highlights. Food and drinks aren’t included, so plan your own snacks, especially if you want to stay energized for the walks.

The tour operates in a small group—just four participants—which enhances the experience, making it more focused and flexible. Guides speak several languages, including Dutch, English, French, and German, ensuring you’re well looked after regardless of your background.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best for active travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery and cultural sights in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic towns and natural beauty, and who are comfortable with some walking. If you’re seeking a personalized experience away from large tour buses, this is a perfect fit.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Riga to Kemeri National Park and Kuldiga offers a well-balanced mix of Latvia’s natural landscapes and historic towns. The highlights—bog boardwalk, Europe’s widest waterfall, and longest brick bridge—are genuinely memorable and show the country’s diverse charm.

While it requires some walking and the day isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges, the small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a rewarding outing. You’ll leave with great photos, a deeper understanding of Latvia’s natural environment, and a sense of connection to its historic towns.

It’s a great choice for those wanting to see beyond Riga’s old town and experience Latvia’s authentic scenery and architecture firsthand. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or just eager to escape the city, this tour offers good value and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from the starting point at Konditoreja Briedisi 17 to Kemeri National Park and Kuldiga, and back again.

How long is the walk at Kemeri National Park?
The walk along the bog boardwalk lasts about 1.5 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the views and photo opportunities.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You may bring snacks or plan to buy something during your free breaks.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s walking involved. Bring rain gear and wear suitable outdoor clothes, especially if the weather turns.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best for active travelers who can handle walking. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of some terrain and walking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to keep your plans flexible.

This Riga day trip is a delightful way to explore Latvia’s natural and historic treasures in a small-group setting. Authentic, well-organized, and full of stunning sights, it’s sure to leave you with lasting memories of this Baltic gem.

You can check availability for your dates here: