Riga may be known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and lively Old Town, but it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Latvia’s breathtaking national parks. With forests, bogs, sandy beaches, and scenic river valleys nearby, Latvia offers plenty of nature escapes that make for memorable day trips or even multi-day adventures. Whether you’re after a guided hike, a peaceful bog walk, or a sunrise experience, Riga has options that cater to a variety of interests and fitness levels. For example, the From Riga: Best of Kemeri National Park In One Day offers a comprehensive look at Latvia’s wetlands and beaches, perfect for those eager to combine forest walks with seaside relaxation.
If you’re wondering which tour suits your style, this list covers everything from short sunset strolls to multi-day treks, all led by knowledgeable guides. We’ve included options that range from budget-friendly to more immersive experiences, so you can pick what fits your time and interests best. Read on for detailed descriptions of each tour and find your perfect way into Latvia’s natural beauty.
1. From Riga: Best of Kemeri National Park In One Day
At number 1, this full-day trip from Riga combines hiking, birdwatching at Lake Kanieris, and walks on the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk. You’ll start with a hotel pick-up and head straight into Latvia’s famous wetlands, with round-trip transportation included. The tour’s highlights include exploring the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Riga and the lush forests and bogs of Kemeri National Park. Local snacks add a friendly touch, and the small-group format ensures a personalized experience. Reviewers praise the guide’s environmental expertise and the diversity of landscapes—bog, lake, forest, and beach—making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive day in Latvia’s outdoors, especially if they appreciate a relaxed pace and local insights.
2. Riga: Best of Kemeri National Park In One Day
This nearly identical tour also offers a 7-hour exploration of Kemeri’s natural beauty, including the Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk and a stop at Lake Kaļieris where a bird watching tower awaits. The guided walk emphasizes Latvian nature, culture, and traditions, with a flexible, improvisational approach that some travelers find refreshing. The itinerary includes visits to Ragaciems village and Lake Kanieris, with reviews emphasizing the guide’s friendliness and deep knowledge. The tour’s flexible structure makes it well-suited for those who want a relaxed, immersive outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice if you want a guided but informal day trip that combines wetlands, beaches, and cultural insights.
3. Sunrise at Kemeri National park + Jurmala
For early risers, this private sunrise tour offers a chance to witness Latvia’s wetlands as they wake up. Starting with a walk on the Kemeri bog boardwalk, you’ll enjoy the peace of dawn and spectacular views, all with personalized transportation. Afterward, the tour takes you along the coast of Jurmala, with stops at the beach and optionally the Dzintari Forest Park’s treetop tower for panoramic views. The tour includes snacks and drinks, making it a comfortable yet scenic experience.
Reviews highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and the unforgettable moment of sunrise over the bog, perfect for photography lovers or those seeking a peaceful start to the day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunrise enthusiasts and travelers wanting an intimate, customizable experience combining wetlands and seaside scenery.
4. Sunset at Kemeri National Park
This shorter, 3-4 hour sunset tour captures Latvia’s beauty in the golden hour. You’ll walk along the Kemeri bog boardwalk and enjoy the transition from day to night, with perfect lighting for photos. The tour includes transportation from your Riga hotel, making it a hassle-free option. Reviewers describe Krista as lively and full of interesting facts, and many mention how memorable the sunset views are, especially with the supermoon lighting up the sky.
Bottom Line: Best suited for visitors with limited time who want to experience Latvia’s wetlands during the magical sunset hours.
5. Hike In Gauja National Park – Up And Down The Switzerland Of Latvia
This 7-hour guided hike in Gauja National Park takes you through forest trails near Sigulda, often called the Switzerland of Latvia. The hike covers about 15 km and includes iconic sites like Gutmanis Cave and the Gauja River. The small group allows for a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunity for photo stops. The guide shares insights about Latvia’s nature, history, and culture, making it ideal for active travelers who want to combine physical activity with cultural discovery.
Reviews note the knowledgeable guide and the stunning scenery, with many mentioning the diversity of landscapes—bogs, forests, and river valleys.
Bottom Line: Perfect for hikers who want a full day immersed in Latvia’s most scenic landscapes, with a focus on environmental storytelling.
6. Kemeri National Park Bog Trail near Riga
This 4-hour guided walk takes you along a 2.8 km boardwalk over Kemeri’s wetlands. Led by an informed guide, you’ll visit the Kemeri Health Resort and see the 8-meter-high observation tower with views over the bog. Many reviewers mention how friendly and knowledgeable the guide is, and the tour’s pace is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a shorter, relaxed outing that offers a deep dive into Latvia’s peatlands and natural ecosystems.
7. Discover Best of Sigulda and Gauja National Park In One Day
This 8-hour small-group tour explores both Sigulda and Gauja National Park, combining hiking, castle visits, and local stories. The trip includes stops at Sigulda Castle, the Turaida Museum, and scenic viewpoints over the Gauja River, making it suitable for history and nature lovers alike. The guide’s lively storytelling enhances the experience, and reviews commend how well-rounded and educational the day is.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a mix of history, landscapes, and outdoor activity all in one day.
8. Kemeri National Park & Baltic Seaside Tour Bog Boardwalk
Offering a full 8-hour day, this tour combines bog walks, birdwatching, and a visit to the Baltic Sea coast. You’ll walk the Lagoon Lake Kaļieris trail, visit a fishing village, and stroll along Jurmala’s beaches. Many reviewers appreciate the balance of nature and seaside leisure, with guides providing detailed explanations of the ecosystems.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day trip that blends wetland exploration with coastal relaxation.
9. Hiking in Gauja National Park
This 6-hour private hike covers around 12 km in Gauja National Park, focusing on nature’s tranquility and scenic beauty. You’ll see Gutman Cave and Krimulda Castle Ruins, with options to extend the trip with activities like ziplining or castle visits at your own expense. The guide’s personalized approach suits travelers looking for a moderate adventure.
Reviews describe the hike as “beautiful” and “relaxing,” with knowledgeable guides making it especially engaging.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for active travelers who want a flexible, scenic hike in Latvia’s premier natural setting.
10. Discover Best Of Gauja National Park In One Day
This 8-hour full-day tour features hiking and sightseeing in Gauja National Park, including Krimulda estate and Turaida Museum Reserve. The itinerary combines natural scenery with cultural landmarks, making it ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded experience. The guide provides insightful commentary about Latvia’s landscapes and history.
Reviews praise the seamless logistics and the stunning views from the Turaida Castle, highlighting its value for a complete day outside Riga.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a deep dive into Latvia’s landscapes and historic sites in one convenient trip.
11. Full Day Gauja National Park Ultimate Hiking & Sightseeing Trip
This 10-hour tour is for the serious outdoors person, combining long hikes with forest bathing and local tastings. The hike covers some of the most scenic and less-traveled trails, including a visit to Ligatne with its man-made caves and local wine tasting. It’s best suited for fit travelers who want a full immersion day of nature, culture, and local flavors.
Reviews highlight the guide’s depth of knowledge and the quality of the food tasting, with many calling it “a truly memorable trip.”
Bottom Line: For dedicated hikers and explorers seeking an immersive, full-day experience.
12. Day trip to Gauja National Park: animals, castles and a cave
This 7-hour trip combines wildlife viewing, castle ruins, and Gutmanis Cave. You might see deer, wild boar, and even bears, as the guide takes you through the largest and oldest parts of Gauja. The tour is perfect for families or wildlife enthusiasts who want a taste of Latvia’s diverse landscapes and fauna.
Reviews stress the guide’s friendliness and the variety of the experience, which makes for a relaxed yet engaging day.
Bottom Line: Great for those interested in wildlife and historic ruins with a casual pace.
13. Sunrise at Kemeri National Park
For early risers, this private sunrise tour offers a peaceful walk over the Kemeri bog, with plenty of time to enjoy the silence before the crowds arrive. The tour includes hotel pickup and a gentle walk that many describe as ‘magical,’ especially when the dawn light illuminates the wetlands.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a calm start to the day, especially photography lovers.
14. Hiking Adventure in Gauja National Park – 7 Days
This multi-day hiking tour covers multiple trails across Gauja, including forest walks, river views, and local villages. It’s designed for seasoned hikers wanting an in-depth exploration of Latvia’s most scenic landscapes. The itinerary includes visits to Cesis and Ligatne, with plenty of time for relaxation and culture.
Reviews mention the value of the guided experience and the chance to see Latvia’s wilderness over an extended period.
Bottom Line: Suitable for dedicated hikers wanting a comprehensive, multi-day adventure.
15. Latvia’s Switzerland and Gauja National Park Tour
This 5.5-hour tour offers a quick look at Sigulda, Gauja River, and the castle ruins, with stops at Gutmanis Cave. It’s perfect for travelers short on time who still want to see Latvia’s mountain-like landscapes and learn about the area’s legends.
Reviews highlight the guide’s engaging storytelling and the beautiful scenery, making it a well-rounded option for a half-day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, scenic overview of Latvia’s “Switzerland” without a full-day commitment.
16. Slitere National Park Latvian Nature Hiking Tour from Riga
This 8-10 hour tour takes you to one of Latvia’s least visited but most pristine parks. You’ll hike around sandy beaches, dense forests, and bog habitats, with the chance to see the Slitere Lighthouse. It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers wanting an off-the-beaten-path experience with a focus on wilderness and local traditions.
Reviews highlight the untouched beauty and the knowledgeable guide, making it a top choice for real nature lovers.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting to explore Latvia’s rugged coast and forests in detail.
How to Choose Your Ideal Latvian Nature Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your fitness level, time availability, and specific interests. For a comprehensive outdoor day, the From Riga: Best of Kemeri National Park or Discover Best of Sigulda provide balanced mixes of scenery, culture, and activity. If you prefer shorter or more relaxed outings, the Sunset at Kemeri or Kemeri Bog Trail are excellent choices.
Fitness level matters: if you’re up for long hikes, the Full Day Gauja Tour or 7-Day Hiking are perfect. For those wanting a special experience, try a sunrise walk or a multi-day trek.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months or during special events like the supermoon sunset. Check availability, especially for private tours or trips with limited slots.
Final Thoughts
Riga’s proximity to diverse landscapes means you don’t have to venture far to experience ** Latvia’s natural beauty**. Whether you’re after a guided walk in a bog, a full-day hike, or a short scenic drive, there’s an option on this list to match your style. For active travelers, the multi-day Gauja trek or hiking tours will satisfy your adventurous spirit. For those seeking a relaxing escape, the sunrise or sunset trips provide peaceful moments amid Latvia’s stunning scenery.
Don’t forget: Latvia’s parks are best enjoyed in spring and summer, but winter hikes can be magical if you’re prepared. Book your preferred tour early, pack your sense of curiosity, and get ready to explore Latvia’s wilderness and water worlds—all just a short trip from Riga.