Soomaa National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Soomaa National Park, located in the Viljandi region of Estonia, is a unique and diverse natural wonder. The park is characterized by its extensive peat bogs, meandering rivers, and lush floodplains, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors to Soomaa can explore the park's five distinct seasons, including the famous "fifth season" of floods, where the landscape transforms into a vast watery wilderness.
One of the best ways to experience Soomaa National Park is by embarking on a guided canoe trip along the meandering rivers. Paddling through the flooded forests and wetlands offers a truly immersive way to witness the park's natural beauty and abundant wildlife. The park is also a hotspot for birdwatching, with over 180 bird species calling Soomaa home, including the iconic white-tailed eagle.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Soomaa National Park offers an extensive network of hiking trails that wind through the park's diverse landscapes. The peaceful surroundings and pristine nature make it an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect and recharge in the great outdoors.
In addition to its natural beauty, Soomaa National Park is also steeped in cultural history, with several traditional villages and historic sites scattered throughout the area. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and learn about the traditional customs and way of life in this unique region of Estonia.
Soomaa National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Soomaa National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Kuresoo Bog. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Soomaa National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Soomaa National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Gray wolf
The wolf, also known as the gray or grey wolf, is a captivating and majestic canine native to Eurasia and North America. There are over thirty recognized subspecies of Canis lupus, with the term "gray wolf" generally referring to the wild, non-domesticated varieties.
Mammals
Golden eagle
The golden eagle, a majestic bird of prey revered across the Northern Hemisphere, belongs to the Accipitridae family. These eagles are easily identified by their dark brown feathers accented with striking golden-brown patches on their necks.
Birds
Wild Boar, Pig, Hog
Wild boars, also known as wild swine or wild pigs, are fascinating creatures found across many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North and South America. Due to human activities, they have spread extensively, making them one of the most adaptable...
Mammals
Eurasian lynx
The Eurasian lynx is a captivating wild cat that inhabits the forests of Northern, Central, and Eastern Europe, as well as Central Asia, Siberia, the Tibetan Plateau, and the Himalayas. This medium-sized feline thrives in temperate and boreal forests and is found at...
Mammals
Common crane
The common crane, also known as the Eurasian crane, is a remarkable bird from the Gruidae family. It is one of the few crane species you can find in Europe, with the demoiselle crane being another. Although not currently facing extinction, the common crane has...
Birds
Viljandi