From Riga: Kemeri National Park and Kuldiga Tour

If you’re looking to escape the city buzz and explore some of Latvia’s most captivating sights, this Kemeri National Park and Kuldiga tour might just be what you need. It’s a full-day experience that takes you out of Riga’s urban landscape to breathe the fresh air and see some pretty incredible spots. We’ve reviewed this tour based on detailed feedback and the itinerary, so here’s what you can expect — straightforward, honest, and practical.

Two things we really like about this trip? First, the stunning scenery at Kemeri National Park, especially the bog boardwalk, which offers a great way to experience Latvia’s natural wetlands up close. Second, the chance to stroll through Kuldiga, a UNESCO-listed town that’s full of charm, with its traditional Baltic architecture and notable landmarks.

One potential drawback? The tour’s duration is around 8 hours, so it’s quite full-on. Also, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, thanks to walking and uneven terrain. Finally, keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the stops.

This tour suits travelers who are curious about Latvia’s natural landscapes and historic towns, especially those who enjoy gentle walks, scenic views, and a small-group atmosphere where guides can focus on individual interests.

Key Points

• Beautiful natural scenery at Kemeri National Park with a bog boardwalk, lakes, and mini trees.
• Historic town of Kuldiga offers a chance to walk through well-preserved Baltic architecture.
• Impressive landmarks include the widest waterfall in Europe and the longest brick bridge.
• Small group setting (limited to 4 participants) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers due to walking and uneven terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Special?

This 8-hour trip from Riga is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Latvia’s natural beauty and cultural charm. It’s not a rushed, cookie-cutter experience — instead, it combines the serenity of wetlands with the vibrant history of a UNESCO site. The tour’s small-group format means you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the guide (who’s praised for professionalism and friendliness) can tailor the experience a bit to your interests.

Exploring Kemeri National Park: The Bog Boardwalk

We loved the way the tour kicks off with the Kemeri bog boardwalk. It’s a highlight because it’s such a unique environment. The wooden path winds through mini trees, small lakes, and mossy bogs, giving you a sense of how Latvia’s wetlands look in their untouched state. The wooden tower is a good spot for a panoramic view, and it offers a chance to snap some memorable photos.

Visitors consistently mention how worthwhile the visit is. One reviewer, Sarah, said, “The moor is really worth a visit,” which echoes what many find compelling about Kemeri. It’s a different type of scenery from Latvia’s forests or beaches — it’s wet, mysterious, and peaceful all at once. The scenery is soothing and perfect if you enjoy tranquil natural settings.

Discovering Kuldiga: A Town Full of Charm

After the wetland walk, the journey continues to Kuldiga, a town that feels almost like stepping back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is well-preserved, with traditional Baltic architecture lining the streets. The highlight here is the Venstpils rumba, the widest waterfall in Europe, which you can see right in the town center, flowing over the historic brick bridge.

The walk through Kuldiga is both relaxing and enlightening — you get to see the town’s historic buildings, walk along the river, and even observe fish jumping over the waterfall, so bring your camera! Marine, another reviewer, mentions that the guide was “very professional and friendly,” which helps make this part of the trip memorable.

Impressive Landmarks: Europe’s Widest Waterfall and Longest Brick Bridge

The Venstpils rumba is a real eye-opener — the widest waterfall in Europe, flowing over the historic brick bridge. It’s a sight that’s difficult to find elsewhere and offers a distinct photo opportunity. You might find yourself just staring at the water, amazed at how natural forces and history converge so beautifully.

Then there’s the longest brick bridge in Europe, which spans across the river and provides a fantastic vantage point to watch the waterfall. Walking across this bridge is a unique experience; it’s sturdy and full of character, giving you a real sense of Latvia’s engineering and architectural traditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the Pastry shop “Konditoreja Briedisi 17” in Riga, making it convenient to meet up. From there, it’s about a 1.5-hour walk through Kemeri National Park, where your guide will point out interesting features, share insights, and make sure everyone stays comfortable.

After the natural walk, you’ll have some free time — perhaps to take photos, grab a snack, or just soak in the scenery. Then, the focus shifts to Kuldiga, where the guided visit lasts about 1.5 hours. This includes walking through the old town, visiting the waterfall, and crossing the iconic brick bridge.

The tour wraps up back at the meeting point, giving you a full day’s worth of sights in about 8 hours. It’s a packed schedule but designed to maximize your time and experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

You’re covered for the main activities: the bog boardwalk, the Kuldiga old town, and visits to the widest waterfall and longest brick bridge. There are also photo stops, toilet breaks, and some flexibility if you want to grab a drink or snack.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly. Bringing some water and snacks is a good idea, especially if you prefer to avoid stopping for food during the day.

The Guide and Group Size

One thing that gets high praise is the knowledge and friendliness of the guide, Maarten. Multiple reviews mention how he “showed us the best places outside Riga” and was “very professional.” The small group size — limited to four participants — creates a comfortable environment where questions are welcome, and personalized attention is easier to come by.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, especially for the bog walk.
• Bring rain gear, as the weather can change quickly in Latvia’s outdoors.
• Dress in comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little wet or dirty.
• Remember that this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and terrain.
• If you want to take plenty of photos, a camera or smartphone with a good zoom will be helpful.

Pricing and Value

While the tour price isn’t explicitly mentioned here, reviews suggest it’s a good value for what you get. Covering both nature and history in one day, with a knowledgeable guide and a small group, makes it a practical choice for those wanting to see Latvia beyond Riga’s city limits.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves natural landscapes, peaceful walks, and charming historical towns, this is a solid choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, as the intimate setting enhances the overall enjoyment. It’s a great way to see Latvia’s outdoors and cultural sights in one go without feeling rushed.

That said, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour involves walking and some uneven terrain, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility impairments. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

How long do I spend at each stop? Expect about 1.5 hours at Kemeri and about 1.5 hours in Kuldiga, including walking and sightseeing.

What’s the meeting point? The tour starts at the pastry shop “Konditoreja Briedisi 17” in Riga, which is easy to find.

Are meals included? No, food and drinks aren’t included. Bring snacks or plan to buy something during the stops.

How many people are in the tour group? It’s a small-group experience, limited to 4 participants, which helps with personalized attention.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, rain gear, and casual clothes are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided? While not explicitly stated, the tour includes traveling from and back to the meeting point, so transportation is arranged as part of the trip.

What languages are available? Tours are guided in Dutch, English, French, and German.

All in all, this tour offers a nicely balanced day out, blending Latvia’s natural wetlands with its charming towns. Whether you’re into landscape photography, cultural exploration, or just want a change of scenery, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: