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Lake Engure Nature Park: A Coastal Birdwatcher's Paradise

Explore Latvia's coastal gem: Lake Engure Nature Park, a haven for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and rare species, with diverse flora and fauna.

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Lake Engure Nature Park, established in 1998, is a protected area encompassing Lake Engure, coastal regions of the Gulf of Riga, and surrounding forests. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, boasting diverse flora and fauna, including rare orchids, wild horses, and almost all migratory bird species found in Latvia.

A brief summary to Nature park Lake Engure

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or autumn migration to witness the impressive gatherings of migratory birds.
  • Wear rubber boots during flood season or on rainy days, as the area can be wet.
  • Explore the Orchid Trail in late June or early July for the best chance to see the orchids in bloom.
  • Check the park's website for information on activities, tours and events.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Riga, take the bus (operated by Wanema or Hansa Lines) from Rīgas SAO station to either Engure or Abragciems. Buses depart approximately every 3-4 hours, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 35-40 minutes. From Engure or Abragciems, it's a short local taxi or walk to the Nature Park. Bus tickets cost approximately $1 - $8.

  • Car

    From Riga, drive towards Lake Engure Nature Park. The drive is approximately 82 km and takes around 1 hour and 21 minutes. Follow the P131 road. Once in the vicinity of Engure, follow local signs to the Nature Park. Parking is available near the visitor center. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak season. There are no unavoidable tolls.

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Discover more about Nature park Lake Engure

Lake Engure Nature Park, located in northwestern Latvia, is a protected area of significant ecological importance. Established in 1998, the park encompasses Lake Engure, the seashore of the Gulf of Riga from Mērsrags to Engure, and the forests in between. The park was initially established in 1957 as an ornithological reserve. Lake Engure itself is the third largest lake in Latvia and the largest coastal lake, formed approximately 4,000 years ago as a remnant of the Littorina Sea. Its shallow waters and extensive littoral zone create a unique habitat for a wide array of plant and animal life. The lake's average depth is only 0.4 meters, with a maximum depth of 2.1 meters. The park is renowned for its biodiversity, with approximately 200 bird species nesting in the preserve, including endangered species like the white-tailed eagle and corncrake. During migration seasons, large numbers of cranes, swans, and geese can be observed. The park is also home to diverse flora, with over 860 species of vascular plants, including 40 under nature protection in Latvia. Notably, the Orchid Trail offers a chance to see 22 different orchid species that grow in the vicinity of Engure. Wild animals, such as Polish Konik horses and Latvian Brown cows, graze on the lakeside meadows. Visitors can explore the park through various nature trails and observation towers. The 3.5 km Orchid Trail is best visited in late June and early July. Birdwatching Days, major events organized by the Latvian Ornithology Society, take place annually in April and October. The park also plays a vital role in nature conservation, forming part of the Natura 2000 network, which protects sites of European importance.

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