Sooma National Park (Estonia)

Soomaa National Park was created in 1993, is one of the largest in Europe at 390 km². Soomaa NP was created to protect large raised bogs, flood plain grasslands,  forests and meandering rivers.

Often, when there are heavy rains on the Sakala hills,  the rivers of Soomaa overflow across flood plains, grasslands and forests.

At its height when Winter’s ice cover breaks up (towards the end of March/beginning of April), the water eventually recedes in late May or early June. But, while it remains, the landscape transforms into a series of extraordinary views – witness mist over the bog fields at dawn, a mind-boggling criss-cross of rivers and water for as far as the eye can see. All await discovery via an assortment of transport – pull on snow shoes for a unique hike across the bog land, take to a traditional dug-out canoe, log boat or kayak, or explore this unique wilderness on ’dry land’ from a series of specially-constructed boardwalks.

Despite such challenging terrain, flora and fauna continue to thrive in Soomaa’s protected environment. Siberian Iris and wild gladiolus can be found aplenty on the floodplains whilst the bogs provide one of the most important habitats for golden plovers, whimbrel and other wading bird species. Roe deer are easily spotted and wild boar or elk encounters are always a possibility. Visit in early Spring (or late Autumn) and experience the spine-tingling call of the wolves as it echoes around the park. 

Wildlife highlights: Roe deer, elk, wild boar, beaver, lynx, wolf, brown bear, are common. Waterbirds thrive here, and Ural owls, cranes and several species of swan breed.

Admission Fee: Free

Facilities: Soomaa National Park Visitor Centre is located in the middle of the park.

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