Riga is more than just a charming city with its cobblestone streets and art nouveau architecture. It’s also a gateway to some truly exceptional hiking opportunities. With nearby national parks, forests, and coastlines, outdoor lovers will find plenty to explore without straying far. We especially like the Hike In Gauja National Park – Up And Down The Switzerland Of Latvia for its manageable length, stunning views, and small-group intimacy—perfect for those who want a guided adventure without the crowds.
While Riga offers a handful of well-organized tours, the variety of scenery and experience levels makes it easy to find something that suits your pace—whether a half-day trek or a week-long expedition. Below, we’ve rounded up the top hiking and trekking options, each with its own unique appeal.
1. Hike In Gauja National Park – Up And Down The Switzerland Of Latvia
Starting with one of the most popular day hikes, this tour takes you into Gauja National Park, often called “Latvia’s Switzerland” for its breathtaking sandstone cliffs and lush valleys. The 9.3-mile (15 km) guided hike covers the most scenic areas, including Gutman Cave and Gauja River. You’ll travel from Riga to Sigulda with convenient hotel pickup, making it an easy day trip. The small group size—maximum of eight travelers—ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of easy logistics and rich scenery. The guide, Lauris, is praised for his knowledge and humor, making the experience both educational and fun. Reviewers highlight the “beautiful views,” “interesting geographic features,” and the “relaxing” atmosphere. The price of around $136 makes it a solid value for a full day immersed in natural beauty.
Bottom Line: If you want a manageable, well-organized day hike with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers top-notch scenery and a friendly group experience.
2. Hiking in Gauja National Park
For those who prefer a private, customizable experience, the Hiking in Gauja National Park tour offers a 12 km trek that is perfect for nature enthusiasts. This half-day guided tour from Riga includes transportation and the chance to see Gutmanis Cave and Krimulda Castle Ruins.
The private aspect allows you to tailor your adventure—perhaps adding ziplining or visiting Sigulda’s medieval castles at your own expense. The local guides are described as friendly, flexible, and attentive to your interests. Reviews mention how Krista and Janis made the day enjoyable and well-organized, with hikers appreciating the scenic beauty and peaceful forests. At $115 per person, the tour provides an intimate, personalized experience that’s ideal for those with specific interests or limited time.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a private, flexible trek with options to extend the adventure, especially if you appreciate tailored experiences.
3. From Riga: Four Natural Ecosystems In One Hike
This tour takes you along the coast into Nature Park Piejūra, where you’ll see four distinct ecosystems—coastal pine forests, wild lakes, secluded beaches, and the Gauja River delta—all in one hike. It’s a 6-hour experience designed for those curious about Latvia’s diverse natural environments.
What makes this hike special is the focus on learning about Latvia’s cultural and natural traditions while exploring untouched landscapes. The route is designed for a “special improv-travel approach,” making each outing slightly different. It’s perfect for travelers who want an active day out that combines nature with cultural insights, all within easy reach of Riga.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers keen on experiencing multiple ecosystems in one day, with an educational twist.
4. Full Day Gauja National Park Ultimate Hiking & Sightseeing Trip
Looking for a comprehensive adventure? This full-day tour combines hiking, forest bathing, and cultural visits in Gauja National Park. The itinerary includes a 2-3 hour hike through pristine forests and salmon rivers, followed by a picnic-style lunch with local goodies and drinks. Later, you’ll visit Ligatne to explore sandstone caves and taste Latvian wines, and finish in Cēsis, one of Latvia’s most charming towns.
The highlight is the combination of physical activity with sensory relaxation, especially the “forest bathing” part, which encourages a deep connection to nature. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the local food tasting, with the price of $289.20 reflecting the extensive itinerary and included experiences.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full immersion—combining hiking, local food, wine tasting, and sightseeing in one well-rounded day.
5. Great Ķemeri Bog and Swamp Forest Hiking Adventure
This 6-hour tour offers a guided walk along the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk, one of Latvia’s most famous natural sites. The 2-hour, 4-km walk takes you through untouched raised bog habitats, revealing the landscape’s unique beauty in every season. From spring blooms to winter serenity, the scenery is spectacular year-round.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to learn about bog ecosystems and experience Latvia’s famous swamp forests firsthand. Reviewers note the expert guidance and the mesmerizing scenery, emphasizing the tranquility and natural beauty. The cost, around $144, is reasonable given the rich environment and the opportunity to see a habitat of European importance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers who want a manageable, scenic walk with educational commentary on Latvia’s bog ecosystems.
6. Hiking Adventure in Gauja National Park – 7 Days
For the truly dedicated, this seven-day hiking tour covers Latvia’s most scenic landscapes, starting from Riga. The trip includes gentle hikes through forests, along rivers, and around towns like Cēsis, with options for walking into the countryside and along beaches. It’s designed for those with a week to explore Latvia’s natural beauty thoroughly.
Highlights include a guided Riga Old Town Walking Tour and visits to local sites like the Riga Central Market. The itinerary balances scenic hikes with cultural experiences, making it ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into Latvia’s outdoors and history.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious hikers or those wanting an immersive Latvia experience over several days.
7. Hiking in Sigulda – the Switzerland of Latvia
Sigulda, often called the Latvian Switzerland, offers spectacular scenery just an hour from Riga. This 8-hour tour blends hiking, panoramic views, and cultural visits, led by Edgar, who’s passionate about showcasing Latvia’s natural beauty. The route includes walks through forests, along river valleys, and around Sigulda’s castles.
The reviews praise Edgar’s knowledge and the quality of the views, highlighting it as a good balance of physical activity and sightseeing. The tour’s price of around $68 makes it accessible for those looking for a full day outdoors without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a scenic day with historical sights and expert local guidance.
8. Slitere National Park Latvian Nature Hiking Tour from Riga
This 8-10 hour trip goes to Slitere National Park, one of Latvia’s most pristine wilderness areas. Starting in a Livonian fishing village, you’ll hike about 12 km along a coastal forest trail, enjoying sandy beaches and dense pine forests. The trip is ideal for those seeking seclusion and untouched landscapes.
Along the way, you can taste smoked flatfish and visit the Slitere Lighthouse for panoramic views. The tour is praised for its “wilderness and gorgeous beaches,” making it perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see Latvia’s lesser-visited corners.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking a full-day, off-the-beaten-path coastal hike with opportunities for local food tasting.
9. Four Natural Ecosystems In One Hike
This hike explores Nature Park Piejūra, covering four ecosystems—coastal pine forests, lakes, beaches, and the Gauja River delta—in a 5-hour, approximately 10-15 km walk. It’s a good option for travelers who want to experience a variety of habitats in a single outing.
The route is designed for energetic walkers eager to see Latvia’s natural diversity, with plenty of opportunities to relax on quiet beaches and observe wildlife. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a vigorous walk with educational commentary about Latvia’s ecosystems.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers wanting to see multiple environments in one scenic hike.
10. Bushwalking/Hiking adventure from Riga
This shorter, 5-hour trip offers a relaxing escape to forest trails just outside Riga. Traveling by train, you’ll walk through peaceful woods, culminating at a beautiful beach where you can unwind. It’s perfect for beginners or those with limited time who want a quick nature fix without long travel or strenuous activity.
Reviewers mention the “peaceful forests” and the “stunning beach,” with the trip priced at about $58. It’s a simple, effective way to enjoy Latvia’s outdoors in a half-day outing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for casual hikers seeking a quick nature break with a mix of forest and seaside.
$57.93 per person
11. Gauja National Park Guided Hiking Tour
This guided tour offers a comprehensive experience in Gauja National Park, with private transport from Riga or Jurmala. It emphasizes walking in the Gauja River valley, visiting Sigulda and Krimulda manor, and enjoying panoramic views, including 800-year-old architecture.
Practical, well-organized, and informative, it’s suitable for travelers who want to learn about Latvia’s natural and cultural heritage without strenuous effort. The reviews praise the personalized attention and the scenic highlights, making it a reliable choice for a full-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a guided, story-rich hike in some of Latvia’s most iconic landscapes.
How to Choose Your Perfect Hiking Tour in Riga
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level, interest in cultural sites, and how much time you want to spend outdoors. For a full immersion, tours like the Full Day Gauja National Park Trip offer multiple activities; for a quick escape, the Bushwalking/Hiking adventure from Riga provides a peaceful half-day. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Hiking in Sigulda at a lower price, while those seeking privacy and customization can opt for the private Gauja hike.
Booking early is recommended during peak seasons, and consider weather conditions—some tours, especially coastal ones, are more dramatic in winter or autumn.
Final Thoughts
Riga offers a surprising variety of hiking options, from easy, scenic walks to multi-day explorations. For a beginner, the Gauja National Park day hike offers a taste of Latvia’s stunning landscapes without overexertion. Experienced hikers might prefer the 7-day Gauja adventure, which showcases the country’s diverse terrains over an extended period.
If coastal scenery is more your style, the Great Ķemeri Bog or Slitere National Park tours will not disappoint. Whether you’re after a gentle walk or an active expedition, Riga’s natural surroundings are ready for your footprints—so don’t wait too long to book your adventure.