Emajõe-Suursoo Nature Centre
Immerse yourself in Estonia's wild heart with unique bog tours, dog sledding, and canoeing adventures led by passionate local guides.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for mushroom & berry foraging
Emajõe-Suursoo Nature Centre
Best Time
Best for mushroom & berry foraging
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in Estonia's wild heart with unique bog tours, dog sledding, and canoeing adventures led by passionate local guides.
"An amazing experience! If you love the outdoors, try this very unique experience."
Book Dog Sledding Early
Dog sledding is weather-dependent and highly sought after. Book well in advance!
Waterproof Footwear is Key
Essential for bog tours. Expect wet conditions; wear sturdy, waterproof boots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Overnight Bog Tour
Emajõe-Suursoo Bog
Experience the bog's magic overnight, with foraging, wildlife spotting, and campfire meals.
Dog Sledding Adventure
Emajõe-Suursoo Trails
Embark on a thrilling dog sledding journey through snowy landscapes with award-winning dogs.
Canoeing at Sunset
Emajõe River
Paddle through serene waters at sunset, spotting wildlife and enjoying the tranquil Estonian nature.
Foraging Tours
Emajõe-Suursoo Bog
Learn to identify and collect edible mushrooms and berries with expert guides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Bog Adventure
Dress for the Bog
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Dog Sledding Early
Dog sledding is weather-dependent and highly sought after. Book well in advance!
Waterproof Footwear is Key
Essential for bog tours. Expect wet conditions; wear sturdy, waterproof boots.
Pack for All Weather
Layers are your friend. Bog temperatures can change quickly.
Bring Insect Repellent
Especially crucial during warmer months to enjoy your bog experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Dog Sledding Early
Dog sledding is weather-dependent and highly sought after. Book well in advance!
Waterproof Footwear is Key
Essential for bog tours. Expect wet conditions; wear sturdy, waterproof boots.
Pack for All Weather
Layers are your friend. Bog temperatures can change quickly.
Bring Insect Repellent
Especially crucial during warmer months to enjoy your bog experience.
Ask About Seasonal Activities
Tours vary by season. Inquire about foraging, canoeing, or dog sledding availability.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Emajõe-Suursoo Nature Centre for its unique and immersive nature experiences, particularly the overnight bog tours and dog sledding. Guides are frequently highlighted for their deep knowledge, passion, and kindness, making the tours educational and enjoyable. The opportunity to forage and enjoy campfire meals is a significant draw. Some visitors note the remote location and the need for specific gear, but overall, the experiences are described as unforgettable and highly recommended.
"We did the overnight bog tour in September and I highly recommend it. Kristina was our guide and she is deeply knowledgeable about nature and the Estonian environment, as well as being very kind and a wonderful conversationalist. We had unforgettable moments including learning to forage several varieties of mushrooms and berries (which became part of a delicious dinner and breakfast), seeing moose tracks and other signs of the the unique animals living in the bogs, and of course the bog itself. Wearing bog shoes and seeing the thick moss and plants of the strange and wonderful landscape is something I will always remember. Thank you so much!"
Rachel Meadows
"Very beautiful strong dogs, a fantastic guide, a knowledgeable and kind host. An amazing experience! If you love the outdoors, try this very unique experience during colder times when dogs are available. P.S. Heinrich, the host, and his dogs have won multiple awards, and did 600 km trails! Mind-blowing!"
Mira The Scientist
"I booked the mixed foraging tour with Heinrich. The entire process was smooth and efficient. I reached out to Heinrich via email and he responded very swiftly. The tour itself was very nice. The walk in the bog was a unique experience and we found plenty of spots to pick berries and mushrooms. The tour concluded with cooking the mushrooms we had collected and Heinrich prepared an excellent meal over the fire. A truly unique experience. We also had plenty of berries and mushrooms left over to take home which was excellent!! Those mushrooms are very expensive in the supermarket. I highly recommend Heinrich's tours and I definitely look forward to more of them especially the dog sledding one."
Noyonika Das
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The nature centre is located in southeastern Estonia. Driving is the most common method, with GPS coordinates being helpful. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or arranging a private transfer is often recommended for easier access to the remote bog areas.
Public transport to the immediate vicinity of the nature centre is scarce. It's best to check local bus schedules for nearby towns and then consider a taxi or pre-arranged transport for the final leg of your journey.
From Tartu, driving is the most convenient. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can inquire about organized transport options when booking your tour.
Yes, typically there are parking facilities available for visitors arriving by car. It's advisable to confirm this when booking your specific tour or activity.
From Tallinn, it's a longer drive, around 2.5-3 hours. You can also take a bus to Tartu and then arrange onward travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular activities like overnight bog tours and dog sledding, as they often have limited spots and are weather-dependent.
Tour prices vary depending on the activity and duration. Overnight bog tours and dog sledding tend to be more expensive than shorter guided walks. It's best to check the official website or contact the nature centre directly for current pricing.
While the nature centre may have an information point, the primary costs are associated with the guided tours and activities offered. Specific entry fees for general access to the bog areas are usually not applicable, but guided tours are essential for experiencing the best of the region.
Cancellation policies can vary. Dog sledding tours, in particular, are subject to weather conditions, so it's important to understand the terms regarding cancellations or rescheduling due to weather.
It's generally not advisable to rely on purchasing tickets on the day, especially for specialized tours. Booking ahead ensures your spot and allows the guides to prepare adequately.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can spot various wildlife, including moose (look for tracks!), various bird species, and smaller mammals. The bog ecosystem is rich and diverse.
Wear waterproof, sturdy boots, and comfortable clothing in layers. Waterproof trousers are also a good idea.
Yes, guides like Kristina and Heinrich are known for their knowledge and ability to conduct tours in English, making the experience accessible to international visitors.
It involves camping in the bog, learning about foraging, enjoying campfire-cooked meals with collected ingredients, and experiencing the bog's atmosphere at night.
No, dog sledding is a winter activity dependent on sufficient snow cover. Other activities like canoeing and foraging are available during warmer months.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, many tours, especially the overnight bog tours and foraging tours, include meals prepared over a campfire using foraged ingredients.
Absolutely! Foraging tours focus on teaching you to identify edible mushrooms and berries, which are then often cooked and enjoyed as part of the tour experience.
Expect hearty, rustic meals cooked over a fire, often featuring fresh foraged mushrooms, berries, and other local ingredients.
Dining options are limited in the immediate vicinity of the remote nature centre. It's best to plan for meals included in your tour or bring your own snacks.
Often, yes. You'll likely have opportunities to take home any excess foraged berries or mushrooms, which can be quite valuable.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique bog landscape, misty mornings, sunset canoeing, wildlife, and the dogs during sledding tours offer incredible photographic potential.
The terrain can be challenging, so a stable tripod might be useful for low-light conditions. Protecting your gear from moisture is also important.
Golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic light for landscape photography. Misty mornings can also create a magical atmosphere.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in a nature reserve.
Ask your guide! They often know the most scenic spots for capturing the essence of the bog and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed experience, canoeing at sunset is ideal, allowing families to enjoy the scenery and spot birds without strenuous hiking. The dog sledding tours in winter are a huge hit with children, offering an exciting and memorable adventure. Ensure to book family-friendly tour options in advance and inquire about any age restrictions for specific activities.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
Guides are excellent resources for finding the best viewpoints and understanding the local ecosystem. Consider booking an overnight bog tour for a chance to experience the bog's tranquility under the stars and capture unique nocturnal scenes. Remember to protect your gear from the elements, especially during bog tours.
✨ Adventure Seekers
Even the standard bog walks can be adventurous due to the terrain. The opportunity to learn survival skills like foraging and campfire cooking adds another layer of excitement to the experience. Be prepared for active days and embrace the wildness of the Estonian nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Bog Tours
Redditors rave about the unforgettable moments, from spotting wildlife signs to simply appreciating the strange and wonderful landscape of the thick moss and plants. The guides' passion and conversational skills enhance the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. It's a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in a peaceful, wild environment.
When planning, remember that the bog can be wet and uneven. Wearing appropriate footwear is crucial, and layering clothing is advised due to potential temperature shifts. The best time for foraging tours is typically in autumn when berries and mushrooms are abundant.
Dog Sledding: An Arctic Thrill
Travelers describe the experience as 'amazing' and 'mind-blowing,' highlighting the dogs' strength and the guides' expertise. It's important to note that dog sledding is entirely weather-dependent, requiring sufficient snow cover. Therefore, booking in advance is essential, and flexibility with dates might be necessary.
When considering dog sledding, dress warmly in multiple layers, including waterproof outer gear. Ensure your booked tour includes all necessary equipment and safety instructions. This activity is a fantastic way to experience the more rugged, adventurous side of Estonia.
Canoeing and Wildlife Encounters
Reviews highlight the peacefulness of these excursions, with participants often seeing and hearing a lot of wildlife. The experience is further enhanced by the guides' extensive knowledge of Estonian nature, shared in a passionate and engaging manner. It's a perfect activity for those seeking a tranquil yet engaging encounter with the natural world.
For canoeing trips, it's advisable to wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing and bring a waterproof bag for electronics. While not as physically demanding as bog walking, being prepared for potential splashes is wise. The combination of gentle paddling and expert commentary makes for a memorable outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit