Soomaa National Park, Estonia Travel Guide

Discover the enchanting landscapes of Soomaa National Park in Estonia, a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts with unique seasonal adventures and rich cultural heritage.

Home
Travel Guides
Estonia
Soomaa National Park

Soomaa National Park is a sanctuary of pristine nature and diverse landscapes in southwestern Estonia. Known for its unique 'fifth season' when the water levels rise and flood the forests, meadows, and roads, Soomaa is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The park's extensive wetlands are home to a rich variety of wildlife, including beavers, elk, and over 180 species of birds, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a vibrant ecosystem. Exploring Soomaa is an adventure that can be tailored to every season. In the spring, the park transforms into a watery wonderland, ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Summer brings lush greenery and the opportunity to hike through the park's diverse trails, while autumn offers stunning foliage and the chance to forage for wild berries and mushrooms. Winter turns Soomaa into a serene snow-covered landscape, perfect for snowshoeing and wildlife tracking. Cultural heritage is also a key part of Soomaa's charm. The park is dotted with traditional farmsteads and ancient wooden barns, giving visitors a glimpse into Estonia's rural history. Local guides offer tours that provide insights into the area's folklore, traditions, and sustainable practices. Whether you're looking to paddle through flooded forests, hike scenic trails, or simply unwind in nature, Soomaa National Park promises a memorable experience in the heart of Estonia's wilderness.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Soomaa National Park.

Visit during the 'fifth season' from March to April for the best canoeing experience.
Pack insect repellent during summer as the wetlands can attract many mosquitoes.
Hire a local guide to learn about the park's wildlife and cultural heritage.
Wear waterproof boots if you're planning to hike in the marshlands.
Check weather conditions before your visit, as the park's accessibility can vary with the seasons.

Explore Soomaa National Park: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Soomaa National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

MiniZoo

Experience a delightful family-friendly adventure at MiniZoo in Pärnu, where animal encounters and fun await visitors of all ages.

4.5

Carl Robert Jakobsoni Talumuuseum

Explore the agricultural heritage of Estonia at the Carl Robert Jakobsoni Talumuuseum, where history comes alive in the heart of Pärnu County.

4.7

Hüpassaare õpperada

Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Hüpassaare Õpperada, a premier hiking trail in Estonia's Soomaa National Park.

4.8

Ingatsi õpperada

Experience the serene beauty of Ingatsi Õpperada, a stunning hiking area in Viljandi County, Estonia, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

4.8

Best landmarks in Soomaa National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Hüpassaare õpperada

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Hüpassaare Hiking Trail in Soomaa National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

4.8

Riisa õpperada

Explore the serene beauty of Riisa Hiking Area in Pärnu County, where nature and adventure meet in perfect harmony.

4.8

Ingatsi õpperada

Explore the tranquil beauty of Ingatsi Õpperada, a perfect hiking oasis in Viljandi County, Estonia, where nature enthusiasts can connect with the great outdoors.

4.8

RMK Soomaa rahvuspargi külastuskeskus

Explore the RMK Soomaa National Park Visitor Center, the perfect starting point for discovering Estonia's natural beauty and biodiversity.

4.6

Best bars in Soomaa National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Tori mõis

Experience the warmth of Tori Mõis, a charming pub in Pärnu County offering local brews and traditional Estonian cuisine.

4.7

Vimba Igor

Experience the vibrant energy of Vimba Igor, a local bar in Kiisa, Pärnu County, perfect for drinks, socializing, and cultural immersion.

Обеды

Experience the warmth of Estonian hospitality at Обеды Bar in Vändra, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.

Best shops in Soomaa National Park

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Soomaa National Park

Explore the stunning wetlands and forests of Soomaa National Park, a unique natural wonder in Estonia perfect for outdoor adventures and serene escapes.

4.8

Selja Meierei Kauplus

Experience the authentic taste of Estonia at Selja Meierei Kauplus, where local flavors and artisan products await every traveler.

4.8

Tori Konsum

Explore local flavors and essentials at Tori Konsum, your friendly grocery store in Tori, Pärnu County, Estonia.

4.4

Coop Selja

Experience the heart of Estonian shopping at Coop Selja, where local flavors meet everyday essentials in Pärnu County.

4.2

Explore Soomaa National Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Soomaa National Park, mapped for you.

Soomaa National Park Essentials

Soomaa National Park is located in southwestern Estonia, and the nearest major city is Pärnu. The closest international airport is Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport in Tallinn, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Tallinn, you can rent a car or take a bus to Pärnu, which takes about 2 hours. From Pärnu, you can continue your journey by car or arrange for a guided tour to Soomaa National Park, which is about 50 kilometers away.
The best way to explore Soomaa National Park is by car or guided tours, as public transport options are limited. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility. Bicycles are also available for rent in some areas, providing an eco-friendly way to explore the park. During the 'Fifth Season' (flood season), canoes are the most effective means of transportation within the park.
The official currency in Estonia is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in nearby cities like Pärnu. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Pärnu, so it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Soomaa National Park.
Soomaa National Park is generally very safe for tourists. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists within the park. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas after dark. Always inform someone of your itinerary if you plan on venturing deep into the park.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance in Estonia. The nearest medical facilities are located in Pärnu, so it is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Pärnu where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It's also advisable to carry a basic first-aid kit when exploring the park.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, including waterproof gear during the 'Fifth Season'. Don't wear flashy or overly expensive jewelry. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, though Soomaa doesn't have significant religious sites. Public Transport: Do be prepared for limited public transport options; renting a car is highly recommended. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a nod; Estonians appreciate politeness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and beverages. Don’t litter; always clean up after yourself to preserve the natural beauty of the park.
To experience Soomaa National Park like a local, take part in traditional activities such as bog-shoeing and canoeing during the 'Fifth Season'. Visit the local visitor centers to learn more about the park's unique ecosystem and cultural heritage. Engage with local guides who can offer deeper insights into the history and natural features of the area. Don't miss out on the chance to taste local delicacies made from ingredients sourced from the park itself.

When is the best time to visit Soomaa National Park?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Soomaa National Park

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Soomaa National Park. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloTere
  [teh-reh]
- GoodbyeHead aega
  [heh-ad ah-eh-gah]
- YesJah
  [yah]
- NoEi
  [ay]
- Please/You're welcomePalun
  [pah-loon]
- Thank youAitäh
  [eye-taah]
- Excuse me/SorryVabandust
  [vah-bahn-doost]
- How are you?Kuidas sul läheb?
  [kwee-dahs sool leh-heb]
- Fine. And you?Hästi. Ja sina?
  [hah-stee. yah see-nah]
- Do you speak English?Kas sa räägid inglise keelt?
  [kahs sah raah-ee-geed een-glee-seh kehlt]
- I don't understandMa ei saa aru
  [mah ay sah ah-roo]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMa tahaksin menüüd näha, palun
  [mah tah-hahk-seen meh-nyoo-d nah-hah, pah-loon]
- I don't eat meatMa ei söö liha
  [mah ay soh lee-hah]
- Cheers!Terviseks!
  [tehr-vee-sehks]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMa sooviksin maksta, palun
  [mah soh-veek-seen mahk-stah, pah-loon]
- Help!Appi!
  [ahp-pee]
- Go away!Mine minema!
  [mee-neh mee-neh-mah]
- Call the Police!Helistage politseile!
  [heh-lee-stah-geh poh-lee-tseh-ee-leh]
- Call a doctor!Helistage arstile!
  [heh-lee-stah-geh ahr-stee-leh]
- I'm lostMa olen eksinud
  [mah oh-lehn ehk-see-nood]
- I'm illMa olen haige
  [mah oh-lehn high-eh]
- I'd like to buy...Ma tahaksin osta...
  [mah tah-hahk-seen oh-stah]
- I'm just lookingMa vaatan lihtsalt
  [mah vah-tahn leekt-sahlt]
- How much is it?Kui palju see maksab?
  [kwee pahl-yoo seh mahk-sahb]
- That's too expensiveSee on liiga kallis
  [seh ohn leeh-gah kahl-lees]
- Can you lower the price?Kas sa saaksid hinda alandada?
  [kahs sah saahk-seed hin-dah ahl-ahn-dah-dah]
- What time is it?Mis kell on?
  [mees kell ohn]
- It's one o'clockOn üks
  [ohn yks]
- Half past (10)Pool (10)
  [pohl (dahs-see)]
- MorningHommik
  [hohm-meek]
- AfternoonPäev
  [pah-ehv]
- EveningÕhtu
  [uhkh-too]
- YesterdayEile
  [ay-leh]
- TodayTäna
  [tah-nah]
- TomorrowHomme
  [hohm-meh]
- 1Üks
  [yks]
- 2Kaks
  [kahks]
- 3Kolm
  [kohlm]
- 4Neli
  [neh-lee]
- 5Viis
  [vees]
- 6Kuus
  [koos]
- 7Seitse
  [sayt-seh]
- 8Kaheksa
  [kah-hehk-sah]
- 9Üheksa
  [yehk-sah]
- 10Kümme
  [koom-meh]
- Where's a/the...?Kus on...?
  [koos ohn]
- What's the address?Mis on aadress?
  [mees ohn ah-drehss]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kas sa saaksid mulle näidata (kaardil)?
  [kahs sah saahk-seed mool-leh nah-ee-tahdah (kah-rdil)]
- When's the next (bus)?Millal on järgmine (buss)?
  [meel-lahl ohn yahrg-mee-neh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Pilet (....le)
  [pee-leht (leh)]

History of Soomaa National Park

Long before modern times, the area now known as Soomaa National Park was inhabited by Finno-Ugric tribes. Archaeological findings, such as stone tools and pottery fragments, suggest that these early settlers engaged in hunting, fishing, and rudimentary forms of agriculture. The dense forests and abundant wetlands provided ample resources for these communities.
During the medieval period, the region saw the influence of the Livonian Order, a crusading military order from the 13th to the 16th centuries. The Livonian Order established several trade routes through the area, and remnants of ancient roads can still be found within the park's boundaries. The period also saw the construction of fortifications and the introduction of Christianity to the local pagan communities.
Soomaa National Park is renowned for its expansive peat bogs, which have played a crucial role in the area's history. Over centuries, these peatlands have been both a resource and a challenge for the local population. Peat was harvested for fuel, but the bogs also made travel and agriculture difficult. These wetlands have preserved a unique ecosystem and are home to various rare species of flora and fauna.
Soomaa National Park was officially established in 1993 to protect the unique landscapes and biodiversity of the region. The park covers approximately 390 square kilometers and is known for its 'fifth season' – a period in spring where the rivers flood, transforming the area into a vast watery landscape. This natural phenomenon has become a focal point for both conservation efforts and eco-tourism.
The cultural heritage of Soomaa is rich with traditional practices that have been passed down through generations. Local communities have maintained age-old skills such as canoe building, using a unique dugout canoe called 'haabjas,' which is still used to navigate the floodwaters. Traditional knowledge of foraging, herbal medicine, and seasonal festivals also play a significant role in the cultural tapestry of the region.
In recent decades, Soomaa National Park has become a model for sustainable tourism and conservation. Initiatives include the restoration of natural water regimes, the reintroduction of native species, and the promotion of eco-friendly tourism practices. The park's management collaborates with local and international conservation organizations to ensure the long-term preservation of its unique ecosystems.