The paw print hike
We will follow whoever has set a path for us with their latest paw prints- whether it’s a moose, fox, wolf, lynx or even a bear. On the way, we read what is written on the landscape as a trail line. In this way, we can participate in wild animals’ fascinating and mysterious life and customs!
Photographing birds from a floating hide
Unforgettable meetings with the Great Crested Grebe and the Horned Grebe. Requires early rising, sleeplessness and a bit of madness. But everything is safe and birds are not disturbed.
The Horned Grebe – a rare breeding bird with irregular habitat in Estonia, lives in vegetated areas of bodies of water, also in bogs
The Great Crested Grebe – a breeding bird with small population in Estonia, lives on lakes and coastal waters
It is possible to photograph the Horned Grebe and the Great Crested Grebe from the floating hide from the beginning of May until the end of June. We have altogether two floating hides in different places.
We set off to the hide from Kuressaare at about three o’clock in the morning and it takes about 30 minutes to get to the hide. We have to get to the hide before sunrise. After you have settled in at the hide, you start moving quietly along the lake shore now already with the floating hide. No sudden movements should be made in the hide.
Sleddog Ride in Magical Small Lapland
Come and enjoy a unique experience dashing through a magical snowy forest route pulled by a team of trained alaskan malamutes. Our extremely human friendly sleddogs are cuddly and sweet with all human visitors. In Small Lapland it is possible to cuddle and play with our dogs inside their kennels. After some doggy kisses, we prepare the sled and go for an amazing sleddog ride in a Natura 2000 protected pristine forest. We have a cozy dog barn photo studio, lush nature and a warm house to make you feel right at home. The ride is possible also without snow, with super comfy 4 wheel carts from September until May.
Kayaking Skills Adventure
This is the best kayaking focused Adventure Training programm in Estonia and nearby countries, available over two day activity. We start from sheltered water environment, foundation skills and move on to more advanced skills and locations offering excitement and challening conditions. This package takes place in the in canoeing mecca of Estonia - Soomaa National Park and sea kayaking in Pärnu. After the two day program paddlers can be awarded by British Canoeing Paddle Explore Award. The activity is suitable for all healthy adults interested in kayaking and exploration.
Nordic Ski tour in the largest bog
Explore the wild Soomaa National Park on a Nordic Ski Tour this winter. Glide across the largest bog system and take in the breathtaking winter scenery that surrounds you. Our experienced guides will lead you on a journey through the park, pointing out the unique history and tracks of wildlife that make this area so special. Perfect for beginners and experienced skiers alike, this tour is a must-do for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Estonia's winter landscape.
Wildlife photographic hide
Our luxury wildlife photographic hide complex can accommodate up to 24 photographers at 2-metre wide windows. All hides are interconnected and you can easily move between them.
The windows in our hides are 180cm x 50cm and made by Photo Logistics in Spain. Their specialist photographic glass is used all over the world in premier hides. 2 people per window.
The complex is heated and Wi-Fi is available throughout the complex.
Possible to have also smaller hides at the complex.
Top Nature Sites of Latvia
Enjoy a week-long guided tour through Latvia's natural areas and landmarks. Discover Europe's widest waterfall, hike on the white sand beach in the Baltic Sea resort town of Jūrmala, traverse the Vidzeme rocky coastline, canoe and bogshoe through Latvia's national parks, and sample the mouth-watering natural cheeses, honey and wines from local small-scale farms. End your days relaxing in a traditional countryside sauna, taking in the serene surroundings.
Wild Food Foraging and Cooking Experience
Welcome to our recreation center on the border of Soomaa National Park, where we offer a unique wild food foraging and cooking class. Led by an expert guide, we venture into the forest and fields to collect berries, mushrooms, wild herbs, and fresh produce from our garden. Together we prepare homemade Estonian dishes, such as soup or casserole, using traditional recipes and techniques. While our sweet dish cooks in the oven, we enjoy humorous stories about Estonian culture and history over Estonian cider or beer. Finally, we sit down together to enjoy our delicious meal in a convivial atmosphere. This activity is perfect for groups looking for a fun and educational culinary experience.
Tailor-Made Smart-Guided Tour
The biggest advantage of a smart-guided tour is flexibility. Therefore the easiest way to set it up is by writing to us when and for how long would you like to stay. Which species and habitats would you like to see? Through the given information, we will organize a fitting tailor-made tour specially crafted for you. You can concentrate only on birding, or mix it with mammal observation, or even mix the two together with searching for rare orchids in Estonia’s wooded meadows. In case you want to get more in touch with the local history and culture, we can also add the best or most fitting sightseeing locations. If you want a more active tour, we can add walking trails to your tour and if you are interested in photography, we can arrange stays in various photo hides.
March and the end of April are the best times for seeing wintering arctic waterfowl. During the mentioned period, there’s a great chance to observe Steller’s Eider and hundreds of Long-tailed Ducks, feeding on the west coast of Saaremaa island. In the meantime, the spring migration is slowly starting and every day brings new species. Usually, the early arrivals include species like Cranes, Skylarks, and Northern Lapwings. Commonly it is also the best time for seeing arctic passerine birds like the Snow Bunting, Arctic Redpoll, or even Lapland Longspur.
On warmer days the woodpeckers get more active and then it’s possible to hear the drumming of species such as the White-backed Woodpecker, Three-toed Woodpecker, Black Woodpecker, Lesser-spotted Woodpecker, and Grey-headed Woodpecker. In the evening, there’s a chance to see or hear the Pygmy Owl, Ural Owl, or Tengmalm’s Owl. Black Grouse are already on their lekking grounds and Western Capercaillies and Hazel Grouses are just starting to. March and April are also good months for Elk spotting.
In April the migration is getting stronger every day and then there’s the chance to see new arctic species such as the Greater Scaup, Common- and Velvet Scoter, different Loons, Geese, and Swans. In the meantime, new and new nesting birds are arriving. April is also the best time for spotting woodpeckers, owls, and Galliformes.
The migration lasts until the middle of May and that is also the time when it is possible to see the greatest number of different species. By that time, late arrivals such as the Common Rosefinch, Blyth’s Reed Warbler, Greenish Warbler have just arrived. Earlier nesters are still active and the waterfowl migration has not ended yet.
May is also the best time for seeing local mammals – the Elks feed on fresh grass and leaves and are easy to spot. Bears start visiting the bear watching hide and also sightings of foxes and raccoon dogs will become frequent. Estonia has also a good number of Wolves, Lynx, Jackals, Wild Bore, Otters and other mammals and May is a really good month for accidental observations. In this month, Flying Squirrel tours can also be planned, as there is sufficient light even in the woods. The end of May is also a good time for looking for the first blossoming orchids, such as the majestic Lady’s Slipper. The best time to see as many orchids as possible is at the end of June and in the beginning of July.
While the summer is quite calm in terms of nature observations, it again gets more interesting from mid-August, when the waders start migrating. The greater migration starts in September. During the autumn migration, there are not so many different species, but the masses are greater, as the migration takes place during a shorter period. From the middle of September onwards, thousands of Cranes will start gathering on the fields, later accompanied by various species of geese. When the nights get colder, Hazel Grouse and Western Capercaille get more active again and for the Black Grouse, it signifies the beginning of the (false) autumn lek. Besides the Galliformes, autumn is also an active period for owls and woodpeckers. In terms of mammals, Brown Bears and Raccoon Dogs will be actively looking for food as they need to fatten up for the winter and the chances to spot them are much greater than during summer. Colder nights and shorter days trigger the rutting period of the Elk, which normally lasts from the end of August until the middle of October. The end of the elk rut signifies also the end of our autumn season.
Traditional Estonian mushroom hunting
Picking mushrooms are for many estonians like a summer national sport and tradition from generations to generations. We invite you to a guided mushroom foraging tour to Järvselja forest area and to the forests on the bog islands of Emajõe-Suursoo, located in Peipsiveere Nature Reserve. Experience the scenic landscape with no artificial noises and most likely no other people.
Guided by an experienced guide, we will hike to places where you will find the best delicacies of Estonian nature. We will learn how to find our own mushroom spots, what to pick and what to leave in the forest, and how to cook and store mushrooms for the winter.
At the end of the hike, we will build a campfire and serve dishes made from fresh mushrooms we just picked.
1. Public transport - buses from Tartu Coach Station to bus stop Saki. If you are coming from Tallinn, take a bus to Tartu from Luxexpress, if you want to come from Tartu by bus, find the best time for you using the time table. NOTE! There are buses from Tartu and back only on Wednesday and Saturday so that you can have a tour at 13.00
2. Rent a car or use Bolt/Taxi. We recommend that option!
3. Ask for us pick up from Tartu and back. Pick up fee is 200.00 euros.
SUP and Kayak expedition in the Abava River
Begin your SUP and Kayak expedition with a stroll and warm-up at the scenic Abavas Rumba Waterfall on the Abava River. For the daring, take on the challenge of navigating the whitewater of the waterfall. Along the way, discover the ruins of the Svente mill and try your hand at the classic zip-line over the Abava river, first installed in 1948. The journey culminates in Renda, where you can capture stunning photos, share your experiences, and admire the Īvande waterfall. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure through Latvia's natural beauty.
Big Predator Tour - Lynx, Bear, and Wolf
This autumn tour focuses on three key species: Eurasian Lynx, Brown Bear, and Grey Wolf, in three distinct wilderness areas - West Estonia, Lahemaa National Park, and the Alutaguse area.
We'll spend a night in a Brown Bear hide in the Alutaguse area. In autumn, bears actively forage to prepare for winter hibernation.
We'll search for Eurasian Lynx primarily in the late afternoon, evening, and night using thermal scopes, covering significant ground.
For Grey Wolves, we'll head to the stable western region where wolf packs have resided for years.
During the day, we'll rest or engage in brief birdwatching trips. While our main focus is on the three predators, we'll have good opportunities to see Raccoon Dogs, Elk, Red Foxes, and Pine Martens.
Rural spa and sauna experience
The best way to restore the balance between body and mind is to derive strength from the ancient nature of Estonia, to energize oneself in sauna like our ancestors and to enjoy the healing power of sauna therapy, bathing and body procedures.
In Maria Farm it is possible to take part in a unique and interesting sauna therapy! A professional sauna man awaits you in the authentic Estonian sauna and shall arrange an unforgettable whisking session.
After that it is time to cool your heated body in cool pond water or in ice-hole during winter. After cooling off, honey-salt mask shall be applied during a light massage which leaves the skin feeling pleasantly soft.
Possible to order classical, aroma or lymphatic massage.
Nature photography tour
Estonia is known for its most in-tact biodiversity in Europe, perfect for nature photography tour ; therefore in our forests and wild landscapes, there is a high probability to see large mammals, carnivores, rare birds, insects and plants.
High possibility to see wildlife:
Beautiful and extraordinary forests, bogs & landscapes
You learn about animal and bird marks (like footprints)
Tips and tuition by professional nature & wildlife photographer
Birds Migration
Estonia is located on the migration route for millions of passerines flying through central Estonia as well as over 50 million waterfowl and shorebirds flying along the north-western coast. More than 330 species have been identified in Estonia, of which more than 220 are breeding birds. In 1999, Estonia held the European record for the highest number of species seen in a day - unbelievable 189.
Possible to see some:
Tens of thousands of Cranes in Matsalu, Yellow-browed Warbler, White-tailed Eagles, Golden Eagles, White-backed Woodpecker, Three-toed Woodpecker, Black Woodpecker, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Grey-headed Woodpecker, White-fronted Geese and Bean Geese
Peak autumn migration of songbirds, waders and waterfowls
Goshawk, Peregrine Falcon, Black Grouse, Yellow-browed Warbler (probably), Lapland Bunting, Nutcracker, Crested Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Bearded Tit
Kayaking
Kayaking is so much fun! Kayaking is done in the Baltic Sea, we can make a few hours trips or even days to Estonian smaller islands. Kayaking in Estonia provides an opportunity to witness diverse marine and bird life along the Baltic Sea coastline- may it be rare bird species or curious seals.
We have trips for those who look for romantic tours, for those wishing to get an exciting experience, and for those who are willing to educate themselves about local nature and culture. Such small islands like in Estonian coastal waters cannot be found elsewhere and the limestone cliff is worth seeing. The best way to explore our natural treasures is to use a sea kayak.
Safari trip through the nature reserve "Ance swamps and forest" roads.
We will have a trip through the nature reserve "Ance swamps and forest" roads. Driving occurs primarily on the forest roads, as well as tank roads. Along the way we will look at the forest lakes, swamps, radio telescope in Irbene and one of the best mushroom and berry places in Nothern Kurzeme areas. Great chance to see wild animals and their traces. In the middle of our trip will be lunch outdoors.
Cozy Seaside Hideaway at Tēva Mājas Garoza
A cosy guest house in Tūja, a small seaside village just an hour from Riga. Surrounded by forest and only a short walk from the sea, it’s a wonderful place to relax, celebrate, and enjoy time with family or friends. Stay in one of the comfortable guest rooms, relax in the sauna and outdoor hot tub, and take part in memorable experiences like tea and honey tastings, sauna rituals, candle and pizza-making workshops. Delicious breakfasts and four-course dinners make the stay even more special. Whether for a quiet weekend or a celebration, you’ll feel at home here.
Bushcraft day – tangible connection to nature
Day in the forest full of discovery and knowledge. We discover the possibilities offered by the forest. It is possible to jointly prepare simple or slightly more complex necessities from the materials provided by the forest during the day. Everyone learns to make up to 5 bushcraft items on a care-guided day. We create a comfortable forest camp with our own hands. Creating something in natural materials connects us much deeper with nature than a conventional hike.
Lunch included
Dragonfly watching tour
Estonian nature offers numeros of insects, dragonflies, butterflies and all this you will find on splendid landscape. About half of Estonia is covered in forests and here you will find more coastal meadows, alvars and woodlands than in any other European country. Here is located also one of the largest meadows in Europe – Kasari meadow of 4,000 hectares. Many of the abovementioned habitats are vitally important for rare butterfly and dragonfly species.
We may see the following dragonflies: Beautiful Demoiselle, Small Spreadwing, Common Spreadwing, Siberian Winter Damsel, Common Bluet, Moorland (Common) Hawker, Blue (Southern) Hawker, Brown Hawker, Migrant Hawker, Baltic Hawker, Yellow-spotted Emerald, Four-spotted Chaser, Black-tailed Skimmer, Black Darter, Yellow-winged Darter, Ruddy Darter, Common Darter, Moustached (Vagrant) Darter, etc. Ofcourse we will see also many butterflies and rare types of plants- like the most important protected plant species that can be found here: White Adder`s Mouth, Lesser Twayblade, Early Coralroot, Fly Orchid, and Brown Beak Sedge (protection category II). Also, several plant species which belong to the protection category III can be found here. These belong mostly to the orchid family.
SUP and kayak adventure to the Death Island
Join us on a unique SUP and kayak adventure on the Daugava river, where you'll visit the WW1 battle sites on the Death Island. The island is home to trenches, a bunker, and other remnants of the historic battle, which you can explore on a guided walk with a knowledgeable guide.
As the day comes to a close, you'll be treated to a soldier's dinner, giving you a taste of what life was like for the soldiers who fought here a century ago. This SUP and kayak adventure is a perfect way to experience Latvia's history while enjoying the beauty of the Daugava river.
Hiking tour along the western coast of Estonia and the resort towns
Explore the beautiful western coast of Estonia on this scenic hiking route from Parnu to Tallinn. Along the way, you'll visit popular resort towns like Parnu and Haapsalu, passing by tranquil bays, charming fishing villages, and lush meadows. In the northern part, you'll discover the striking Pakri cliffs, offering some of the area's most stunning views. There will be sandy beaches and dolomite outcrops in some places, and you'll navigate rocky and wet sections using coastal forests and trails. You'll also have the chance to glimpse the Soviet military history in Paldiski. Enjoy a delightful journey through Estonia's coastal beauty.
E-Bike Līgatne-Sigulda-Līgatne
Our journey commences at Līgatne Nature Trails Information Center. En route to Sigulda, we'll traverse one of Latvia's most picturesque cycling paths, hugging the Gauja River. At certain points, we'll carry bikes on stairs, aided by our guide. Following Sigulda's Gauja Bridge, the classic MTB route takes us to Krimulda Manor via Velnala. Appreciating Sigulda's cycling infrastructure and e-bike advantages in its terrain, we'll pause at a café. From Paradīzes Hill, we'll retrace our path via the Nurmižu road to Līgatne, savoring tranquility, road, and rural expanses—a contrast to forests and urbanity. The journey concludes at Līgatne Nature Trails Information Center.
Team Adventure Hike with Challenges
Join our adventure hike with tasks, a team event that lasts a few hours. During this exciting experience, you'll discover how to navigate using a map, conquer natural challenges, cook your meals over a self-made bonfire, and partake in team-building activities. These fun activities will help you get to know each other better in a relaxed outdoor setting, all while enjoying the beauty of nature.