Wild Estonia – Nature Tour through Estonia 8 days
This is the tour to take if you want to actively spend time in the wilderness, enjoy different natural habitats and watch birds and mammals. We watch the brown bears, elks(moose) and bird migration. We go bog-shoeing in one of Europe’s largest raised bogs with breath-taking views of bog-pools and experience the peacefulness of old-growth forests. To explore the most stunning contrasts of Nordic nature, we go canoeing and hiking in Matsalu- and Soomaa National Parks and other protected areas. In addition to excellent sightseeing and activities in natural settings we walk in medieval Tallinn Old Town, an increasingly popular UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights:
Very good opportunity to see Brown Bears in their natural habitat.
Elk spotting
Bog-shoeing in one of Europe’s largest raised bogs.
Canoeing on one of the wild rivers of Soomaa NP
Sights and sounds of thousands of cranes and geese, and millions of songbirds on their mass migration
Boat tour to watch Ringed Seals
Experiencing the medieval atmosphere of Tallinn Old Town.
Kayak tour in Tallinn
A harbour tour with a sea castle! Suitable for beginners as well as for experienced kayakers.
3-4 hour kayaking tour in Tallinn will offer a waterbird’s-eye view of Estonia’s capital and its „medievally modern” skyline, plus a slice of history, from its days as a major trading port in the Russian Empire to its prominence in the Danish era, and its more recent Soviet occupation.
As we paddle past 8 ports, with a collection of military vessels, we’ll get a glimpse of Peter the Great’s marine castle and Patarie – the seldom visited but infamous NKVD prison.
A welcome next stop will be Paljassaare Peninsula, with a walk on sandy Pikakari beach, Tallinn’s closest bird watching area. From there, we’ll paddle back to the city – enjoying the sweep of graceful architecture – towers, spires, and the onion dome of the Russian Orthodox cathedral – that still punctuates the rapidly changing skyline.
Suitable for beginners. No previous kayaking experience needed. Full briefing before the trip.
Speed boat rides
Summer speedboat rides are a fun and adventurous way to make a warm summer especially memorable. The boat rides we offer are perfect for celebrating a birthday, bachelor party, or company department summer days. Whether you want to explore Tallinn’s famous shard box view against the background of the setting sun from the bay of the capital or visit the beautiful small islands of Estonia – every adventure is possible. Our team is open to different options on how to combine the most exciting sea adventure for your group. Take a look at the boat trip packages we have developed below and feel free to contact us so that we can combine the most memorable sea adventure based on your wishes.
Possibilities:
Exploring Tallinn's famous splinter box view and the city's history from the sea
Getting to know the skyline and history of the city of Tallinn with a visit to a small island
Small islands of Estonia
Lahemaa National Park Tour
Lahemaa National Park is just east of Tallinn. It is a place of breathtaking landscapes and unspoilt nature. You can find beautiful peninsulas and bays, forests and beaches, waterfalls and bogs seasoned with rich cultural history. This day trip is perfect for spending a day out of Tallinn and is designed to show you the beauty of the area in every season.
During this tour you will admire Jägala waterfall, the highest natural waterfall in Estonia. Go on a hike in a bog, the mystical wetland with an important place in every Estonian's heart. Explore the charming fishing villages along the coastline. Visit a romantic manor and have a walk in the historical manor garden.
Lunch at a local tavern is not included in the price.
Winter Packrafting
Set off on a winter packrafting adventure in Latvia with our custom-made, ultra-light packrafts, perfect for solo excursions or shared experiences with friends. Built to handle tough conditions, these inflatable boats are ideal for exploring Latvia’s rivers and lakes during the colder months. Depending on weather and other factors, the route covers 5 to 10 km along either a river or lake. This winter activity can be enhanced with a scenic walk, a relaxing sauna visit, or a stop at a cozy local café for a warm drink.
Snowshoeing trip
The enchanting Koitjärve and Kõnnu bogs of the Kõrvemaa nature reserve await hikers from spring to autumn to get to know their diverse nature. Under the guidance of an experienced guide, a hike of about 4-6 kilometers will be completed in the swamp, getting to know the history of the area as well as the plants and animals that nest there.
The hike starts in the parking lot of the Sportland Kõrvemaa Hiking and Skiing Center, from where you move on together in a box of 6×6 ZIL 131 type military trucks, which have been especially applied there for the transport of passengers. We have 4 of these trucks to display, so we can take more than 60 people on a hike at the same time.
Seaside nature walks
Nature-watching walks from spring to autumn in the west coast of Estonia. There is a possibility to see migrating birds as they cover fields, stopping to rest and observe nature's awakening in the forest when leaves start sprouting on trees and plants. Moose, boar, foxes, and deer roam the area daily. White-tailed eagles can be seen eating at the beach, along with various kinds of herons and swans. Traveling is made easy with the help of our friendly horses, which assist us in carrying the luggage.
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.
Golden and White-Tailed Eagle photography in winter
The majestic but cautious Golden Eagle is considered to be the absolute pinnacle of Estonia’s bird kingdom, and the opportunity to see it undisturbed, up close, and for a long time offers an unforgettable nature experience.
The Eagle hide is heated and situated from car parking lot only 250 meters to walk. You should enter the hide at least an hour before sunrise and not leave the hide before it is totally dark (about an hour after sunset). One option would also be to go there on the previous night/evening. In the hide are WC and kitchen.
Besides the Golden Eagle, there’s a good chance of seeing White-tailed eagle, Goshawk, Jays, Ravens and various tits. With a bit of luck, also Pine Martens and Red Fox are visible.
There are 4 photography holes in the wall and plenty of space for 2 photographers, maximal 4 photographers. The background is mostly an open landscape and some trees.
Kayaking Tour in Riga
This self-service city kayaking tour provides a unique and enjoyable way to explore Riga. With our pre-planned kayaking routes and GPS-enabled kayaks you will navigate the city's canals and waterways at your own pace while admiring the scenery of parks, bridges, and secluded islands. Simply follow the route map on your phone and take in the beauty of Riga from a whole new perspective.
Early Spring Birding Tour
Join one of the most popular tours among UK birders, allowing you to combine sightings of wintering Steller’s Eiders with breeding Woodpeckers, Owls and Grouse in just one short holiday. Our 6-day birding focused holiday in West-Estonia takes place from mid-March until the second week of April, the best time to visit. Our professional guides will take you on a tour to Leidissoo Nature Reserve to search for the Ural and Eurasian Pygmy Owls, followed by birding on Saaremaa Island, where we can spot the endangered Steller´s Eider. Our last leg of the trip will take us to the western taiga forests in Soomaa National Park, known for its woodpeckers, including Three-toed, Grey-headed, White-backed and Black. We may also spot the elusive Hazel Grouse and Capercaillies in Soomaa.
Horse Riding Adventure in South-Estonia
A horse riding trip through the forests of Mõtsküla-Lootvina nature reserve in South-Estonia on our white blue-eyed Estonian Native Horses will take you to the stunning Taevaskoda sandstone outcrops on the banks of the Ahja River and the enchanting Akste Ant Kingdom, where a colony of Scottish wood ants, with over 3 billion ""inhabitants"" in about 1500 nests, reside. On the horseback ride, observe diverse varieties of birds, animals, and plants. With a bit of luck, you might spot the majestic White-tailed eagle, the largest living bird of prey in Europe, or even a Kingfisher. Take a break and enjoy a rest stop with a campfire in one of the picturesque wilderness camping sites. Previous riding experience is required.
Learn to Ski in Tallinn
Some people consider cross-country skiing to be Estonian national sport- try out the Estonian super power! Experienced ski instructors will help to choose the most suitable equipment and will show learners the basic technics. The distance you ski will depend on your own eagerness to learn. Maximum time spent at the ski tracks is 2 hours.
Nature tour from Tallinn to Riga
This tour offers an extensive exploration of Estonia and Latvia, beginning with three days in Tallinn, where participants can delve into the city's medieval history, visit the Rocca al Mare Open Air Museum, and enjoy a medieval dinner. The journey continues to the beautiful Lahemaa National Park, and includes a visit to Palmse Manor and a night hike at Jaagri Villa. The itinerary then moves to Tartu, to explore its university and cultural sites, and further to the Setomaa region for a deep dive into local customs and the Obinitsa museum. The adventure carries on to Latvia, starting with the ancient town of Cēsis, enjoying nature in Gauja National Park, and exploring the historical Sigulda and Turaida. The tour concludes in Riga, Latvia's capital, with a comprehensive city tour and an optional canal or kayak trip, showcasing the city's rich Art Nouveau architecture and bustling market life. The trip offers a blend of historical sightseeing, cultural experiences, and natural landscapes, culminating in a profound understanding of Baltic heritage.
Aksi Island Tour
Aksi Island is the neighboring island of Prangli, which is why it's often called "Little Prangli." What impresses visitors most are the island's extraordinary natural landscapes.
Thanks to the Aksberg family who once lived here, Aksi is known for its shipbuilding history. On the island, you can see a unique stone labyrinth dating back to 1849 and hear fascinating stories about the island's colorful settlement before World War II.
Today, the island is permanently uninhabited and under nature protection. Aksi has no harbor of its own. To reach the island, a private boat must be arranged. That means a visit to Aksi depends on wind conditions and can turn into quite a sea adventure.
Regular trips 5.07, 20.07, 2.08, 9.08, 23.08 and 13.09
Rural Living and Wild Foraging Experience
Depending on the season, your nature guide and a hostess on a small-scale farm will take you on a herb, berry, or mushroom foraging tour. You will learn to prepare food using natural ingredients, including herbal teas and treats, and cook soup over an open fire. The hostess will provide insights into traditional sustainable living.
A Walking Hike with Sled Dogs
Arrival at Small Lapland and a short introduction to our fairytale forest park. Getting to know our dogs, cuddling, malamute stories, instructions for hiking with the dogs.
Equipment preparation: belt, bungee leash and harness
Hot tea and cookies, on request it is possible to order homemade food or a campfire picnic – the possibility of grilling sausages and marshmallows on the fire.
Some beautiful photos by our photographer in the cozy dog barn and during the hike
Canoeing Through the Apocalyptic Smarde's Green Bog
In the mid-20th century, Smarde's Green Bog witnessed peat extraction until the revelation of hydrogen sulfide mineral waters beneath, leading to the cessation of peat mining in 1960. This halt also marked the end of water pumping from peat quarries, transforming them into water reservoirs. Despite the mining's cessation, drainage systems persist in influencing the bog's water dynamics. Cormorants, or sea crows, have chosen this altered landscape as their habitat, crafting nests among the withered trees. The bog's vivid emerald waters, alongside desiccated trees and cormorant colonies, form its distinctive hallmark, resulting in a uniquely captivating landscape with an almost apocalyptic ambiance.
Wetland Tour and Overnight Stay on a Bog Island
A 45-minute drive from Tartu brings you to Peipsiveere Nature Reserve, one of Estonia's wildest and least populated areas. This vast and unspoiled wetland, a Ramsar site, shelters numerous endangered species and is teeming with signs of wildlife activity. It's home to iconic Estonian animals like wolves, bears, and lynxes, along with elusive birds, notably eagles. The reserve is exceptionally tranquil, free from artificial noises in this remote region. On our hike, we'll spend the night on a secluded bog island, immersed in pristine nature amidst expansive bog landscapes. Dinner will be prepared using seasonal forest ingredients on a camping stove, and we'll sleep in tree tents. In the morning, we'll enjoy breakfast and hike back to the starting point, all under the guidance of an experienced local nature guide.
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.
Combined canoe, bog and forest hike
Let’s go on a cool hike to a bog! First canoeing along the picturesque Halliste river then hiking through meadows and forests to the bog. Visiting an old farm place and after that swimming in the bog lake. On the way back making a bonfire in an old traditional way, tea and snacks from freshly picked plants. Discussion about surviving in the nature. The hike is guided by an experienced survival instructor. Bogshoeing can be included.
Luxury brown bear hide
The Alutaguse luxury bear hides offer an excellent opportunity to watch bears and other wildlife from luxury conditions. In addition to the brown bears, the hides are frequently visited by raccoon dogs, occasionally by moose, badgers, wild boars, roe deer, and rarely by wolves and lynxes, as well as numerous bird species.
In the luxurious hide, you can observe bears through a floor-to-ceiling mirrored window, even while lounging on a spacious double bed. The elegant interior, crafted from high-quality materials, is inspired by the surrounding nature, creating the feeling of being immersed in the wilderness while still enjoying a secure and luxurious retreat.
It is like a fully equipped hotel suite in the heart of nature among bears, featuring a large double bed, comfortable chairs, a table, a shower, a refrigerator, a toilet, and other amenities for an exclusive getaway.
Sauna experience, sanctuary of six senses
Our commitment lies in curating a holistic sanctuary, in the Pädaste tradition of hospitality, ensuring that each moment resonates with the symphony of your senses crafting an immersive experience that nurtures your body, mind, and soul.
Step into our Natural-SPA realm, rooted in centuries-old Estonian herbal traditions, merging seamlessly with state-of-the-art spa technology. Our commitment to purity ensures that all ingredients are organic, sourced from the pristine nature of Muhu Island, meticulously prepared in our spa kitchen to offer you treatments enriched with pure, natural goodness.
When every sense is ignited to its fullest, you’ll encounter an awakening—an unveiling of your true essence, immersed in tranquility. It’s here that your presence is felt, harmonized in a symphony of sensations that lead you to your most serene self.
Possible to enoy:
Pädaste Smoke Sauna and guided rituals
Herbal Steam Sauna
Salt Crystal Sauna
Muhu Wood-burning Sauna
Nordic Cold Tub
Healing Hot Spring
Seawater Hot Tub by the Bay
Phyto Sauna Holiday Escape
Enjoy a phyto sauna while staying in a cosy log cabin by Lake Kāla in East Latvia. Phyto sauna uses heated herbs, steam, and aromatherapy. Located on a 6-hectare private forest within the protected NATURA 2000 area, the cabin is fully self-sufficient and heated with firewood harvested from the surrounding forest. Enjoy fishing, boating, or stand-up paddleboarding on the lake, exploring the forest paths and trails.
Wild Cranberry Picking Tour
A 45-minute car ride from Tartu takes you to the remote Peipsiveere Nature Reserve, one of Estonia's wildest and least populated areas. This expansive and pristine wetland, recognized as a Ramsar site, is a sanctuary for many endangered, privacy-seeking species. Additionally, Estonia's largest cranberry reserves are hidden here. For Estonians, picking wild berries is a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Join our guided berry-picking trip to taste freshly picked cranberries and experience the satisfaction of gathering them. Cranberries thrive in the unique bog landscape, rarely found elsewhere in Europe. The bog is soft and moist, with a distinctive aroma from wild rosemary. After berry picking, we'll light a campfire and serve dishes made from local forest ingredients, including cranberries.
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.