A walk on Estonia's wild side

Stretch your limbs on Estonia's extensive hiking trails and breathe some of the world's cleanest air.

But keep your eyes peeled — Estonia is a top destination for spotting wildlife that is difficult or even impossible to see in many other European countries.

Estonia is one of Europe's least densely populated countries; over fifty percent of the landscape is covered in forest. There is room for lynx, brown bears, moose, and the national animal, the grey wolf, to thrive. From Estonia's nearly 3,800 kilometers of coastline, you might spot grey and ringed seals or rare seabirds. 

A deep connection to the landscape and wildlife

In general, wild animals in Estonia aren't dangerous, except for bears in spring if they are protecting cubs. Although wolves may attack sheep, humans have nothing to fear. The forests provide them with plenty of food, and they stay clear of us.

Despite the occasional conflicts between humans and animals, Estonian mythology and folk stories are often centered around animal characters who give other creatures valuable advice or play tricks on them. Nature and animals are ingrained in everyday Estonian life, from language to passport design. 

Estonia even chooses an animal of the year every year. In 2024, it is the Eurasian otter. 

The best places to see wild animals in Estonia

Lahemaa National Park

Located less than 80 km from Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park is Estonia's largest national park and one of Europe's biggest. The Eurasian lynx lives here, along with moose, brown bears, wolves, red deer, and other rare animals and wild creatures that thrive in forest, bog, and coastal ecosystems.

Northern Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve

Northern Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve is one of Estonia's premier birdwatching destinations where avid birdwatchers can catch glimpses of endangered species like the black stork, the heather cock, and one of the best-known birds of prey in the Northern Hemisphere, the golden eagle. In addition to birds, you can also go bear-watching in Kõrvemaa.

Alutaguse National Park

Most of the park consists of vast bog areas and forested landscapes, making Alutaguse a sanctuary for wild birds and animals. Many mammals, such as the wolf, the Eurasian lynx, and the brown bear, are often on the move. Alutaguse is also home to the only flying squirrel species in Europe.

Soomaa National Park

Criss-crossed by wetlands and rivers, Soomaa is only accessible by kayak or canoe during certain parts of the year. It is a great place to see beavers, moose, wild boar, brown bear, grey wolf, and Eurasian lynx.