Sunrise at Kemeri National Park: Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk Tour from Riga
Catch the sun rising over Great Kemeri Bog on a guided small-group walk. This three-hour tour brings you onto the protected boardwalk for wildlife viewing, peatland geology, and local spa-town history before returning to Riga.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive before dawn
Tours leave pre-sunrise; plan transport and be ready to board the vehicle 15 minutes early to avoid delays.
Layer for damp cold
Bog mornings are cold and wet even in summer—wear breathable waterproof layers and a warm midlayer.
Footwear matters
Choose grippy, waterproof shoes—the boardwalk can be slippery and sections are narrow.
Bring optics and patience
Binoculars and a zoom lens make bird and beaver sightings much richer; stand quietly and scan reed edges.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ķemeri sulphur spring and historic spa architecture near the park entrance
- •Quiet observation points along lesser-used wooden platforms on the park perimeter for late-summer dragonfly watching
Wildlife
- •Common crane
- •European beaver
Conservation Note
The boardwalk concentrates visitor impact to protect fragile peat and vegetation; stick to paths, avoid trampling, and pack out all waste to support ongoing bog restoration.
Kemeri’s wetlands were long valued for spa treatments—the area grew as a 19th-century health resort—and the national park was established to protect its peatlands and coastal marshes.
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Keeps feet dry and provides grip on the wet boardwalk.
Warm, breathable layersEssential
Thermal midlayer and windproof shell for cold, damp mornings.
Headlamp or small torchEssential
Useful for pre-dawn approach and uneven paths before sunrise.
Binoculars or zoom lens
Improves birding and wildlife viewing across open bog pools.
Common Questions
Where does the tour meet and is transport included?
Pickup is typically arranged from central Riga or nearby points; transport in an air-conditioned vehicle to Kemeri is included in the tour price.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled for poor weather or insufficient travelers; you will be offered a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure or when the operator cancels due to conditions.
Is the boardwalk accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?
Large sections are flat but the boardwalk narrows and can be uneven—this activity is best for visitors who can walk unassisted; check with the operator for specific accessibility arrangements.
Should I worry about insects or mud?
Bring insect repellent in warmer months and expect damp conditions; sturdy, waterproof footwear and long sleeves help against both bugs and wet vegetation.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Jūrmala, Riga Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires steadiness on narrow, occasionally slippery boardwalk sections.
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