In the fall of 2023, we decided to spend our vacation in Latvia and, to be honest, I didn’t have the greatest expectations. But I was more than pleasantly surprised. Latvia turned out to be a Baltic jewel on the Baltic coast with a rich history as well as vast forests, rolling hills and picturesque coastlines. Our journey took us from Liepaja, where we arrived by ferry, along the east coast to Riga. From there, we only had time for a short detour to the Gauja National Park. We explored a diverse landscape ranging from untouched national parks to picturesque coastal paths. The Gauja National Park and the Kemeri National Park are particularly memorable. Latvia also offers two long-distance hiking trails: the Baltic Coastal Trail and the Baltic Forest Trail. As the names suggest, these trails extend not only through Latvia, but also through Lithuania and Estonia.

Attraktion in Riga
Attraktion in Riga
Attraktion in Riga
Sternenhimmel im Gauja Nationalpark
Caddy Camper auf dem Campingplatz
Kirche in Riga

In addition to nature experiences, Latvia also offers a rich cultural scene, which is reflected in traditional festivals, folklore and a rich folk music tradition. Cities such as Riga, the capital of Latvia, offer a successful mix of historic architecture and modern city life, and visitors can discover the country’s vibrant culture and rich history.

Wild camping in Latvia

Wild camping in Latvia is generally permitted as long as some basic rules and guidelines are followed. There are many areas in Latvia that are perfect for wild camping, including forests, lakes, and remote coastlines.

Here are some important information and tips for wild camping in Latvia:

  1. Permitted areas: It is important to set up in suitable spots that are not in nature reserves, private property, or near populated areas. Most forests and state nature reserves offer suitable sites for wild campers.
  2. Campfires: Lighting campfires is permitted in some places, but it is advisable to enquire locally about the applicable rules. In dry summer months, fires may be completely prohibited in some regions.
  3. Waste disposal: It is important to respect nature and not leave any garbage behind. Wild campers should dispose of their garbage carefully and leave the area as clean as possible.
  4. Consideration: When wild camping, it is important to be considerate of the environment and other outdoor enthusiasts. Noise should be kept to a minimum so as not to disturb wildlife or inconvenience other campers.
  5. Permits: In some nature reserves it may be necessary to apply for a permit to camp. It is advisable to find out in advance about the specific rules and regulations in the region where you wish to camp.

Even with your own motorhome, there are no problems simply standing free. Only in the region around Riga were parking lots increasingly subject to charges or indicated that camping was not permitted.

Wanderungen

Strand und Vögel

From Kolka to Cape Kolka in Kurzeme, Latvia

Hiking in the Slītere National Park
Strand und Vögel

Kemeri Bog Boardwalk – Kemeri National Park in Kurzeme, Latvia

Wandern im Kemeri Nationalpark
Strand und Vögel

Hiking on the Baltic Costal Trail around Ventspils

Wandern in Lettland
Strand und Vögel

Walk to the Baltā kāpa (white dune)

Wandern in Lettland
Strand und Vögel

From Mazirbe, hiking on the Baltic Coastal Trail in Slītere National Park, Latvia

Hiking in the Slītere National Park

Regionen

Hiking in the Gauja National Park – Latvia

Hiking in Kurzeme – Latvia

Hiking in the Slītere National Park – Kurzeme, Latvia

Hiking in the Kemeri National Park – Kurzeme, Latvia

Fernwanderwege

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