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Līgatne Nature Trails: A Wildlife Sanctuary

Discover Latvia's wildlife in a natural setting at Līgatne Nature Trails, offering scenic hikes and animal encounters in Gauja National Park.

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Explore Latvia's diverse wildlife at Līgatne Nature Trails, nestled in Gauja National Park. Observe native animals in spacious enclosures along scenic hiking paths, offering an immersive nature experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Līgatne Nature Trails

  • Līgatnes dabas takas Līgatnes novads, Līgatne, Līgatne parish, Cēsis Municipality, 4108, LV
  • +37128328800
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on varied terrain.
  • Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the trails are mostly outdoors.
  • Note that dogs are not allowed on the trails.
  • Feeding the animals is prohibited.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Riga, take the E77/A2 highway towards Cēsis. Follow the highway until you reach Augšlīgatne. From there, take road V283 to Līgatne, following the road signs. Once in Līgatne, follow the signs to the Līgatne Nature Trails. Parking is available at the entrance. Parking fee (12 hours) is EUR 2.50; EUR 5.00 for non-Līgatne Nature Trail visitors.

  • Public Transport

    Take an intercity bus from Riga to the bus stop 'Augšlīgatne'. Options include buses to Cēsis, Madona, or Alūksne. From Augšlīgatne, take the local bus to the 'Gaujasmala' stop, which is closest to the trails. The local bus schedule is limited, with more frequent service on weekdays and reduced service on weekends. Alternatively, from the Augšlīgatne bus stop, it's about a 10 km walk to the Līgatne Nature Trails.

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Discover more about Līgatne Nature Trails

Līgatne Nature Trails, established in 1975, offer a unique opportunity to observe Latvian wildlife in a natural setting. Located within Gauja National Park, the trails wind through a wooded ravine along the Gauja River, providing a habitat for various native animals. The trails stretch for approximately 4-5 km and are designed with varying levels of complexity, suitable for different fitness levels. The paths consist of soil, gravel, and wooden staircases. Allow 2-3 hours to fully experience the trails. Along the way, visitors can observe animals such as red deer, roe deer, wild boars, bears, lynx, foxes and various bird species in large open-air enclosures that mimic their natural environment. These animals were rescued from all over Latvia, often because they were injured or had been tamed and could not survive in the wild on their own. A 22-meter observation tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding Gauja National Park, including the Gauja River and Gūdu cliffs. In clear weather, you might even spot the Turaida Castle. The trails also feature informative signs about the local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience. In addition to the animals, the area boasts geological formations like Jumpraviezis rock, Katrīniezis rock, Gūdu cliffs, and the Paparžu grava sandstone canyon. The Līgatne area also has historical significance, with caves dug into the sandstone banks that once served as cellars for paper mill workers.

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