Matsalu National Park

Located in West Estonia, this national park is a birdwatching paradise. Millions of migratory birds visit or nest there annually.

The best birdwatching time in Matsalu is from April to mid-May and then again from September to the end of October.

The national park includes 50 islands and shoals in addition to its mainland area. Birds aren't the only winged creatures there — the wetlands attract a variety of butterfly and dragonfly species.

Matsalu is one of three national parks in Estonia to receive a quality label from the European Union of Protected Areas (EUROPARC Federation), recognizing the region's sustainable development of nature tourism.

One of the most exciting sights of the park is Northern Europe's largest flood meadow.

Matsalu National Park protects semi-natural habitats characteristic of Western Estonia (coastal and floodplain meadows, alvars and wooded meadows, reed beds, and small islands) and the cultural heritage of the Väinameri region. The flood meadow is an important nesting area for the corn crake.

Climb a birdwatching tower, and listen to the melodic songs of warblers coming from the reeds at the mouth of the Kasari River. You can get closer by taking an organized boat excursion or canoe trip.

Birdwatching tower at dusk in Matsalu National Park

Photo author: Martti Volt

The land slowly rose from the sea after the Ice Age.

The people who settled on the coast made a living from cattle breeding, forming a meadow-rich landscape.

To preserve the cultural heritage of the Matsalu region, old haystacks and thatched-roof fishing huts have been restored to tell the story of Estonians' past. Continued cattle grazing preserves the area's biodiversity, as the local species depend on these open grasslands.

Highland cattle grazing in Matsalu National Park

Photo author: Mati Kose

Photo author: Martti Volt

Guide to birdwatching in Estonia

Untouched nature and the massive spring and autumn migrations make Estonia an ideal place for a birdwatching holiday in the Baltics.

What to do in Matsalu National Park

Take a guided boat trip, visit the Puise Nina peninsula, climb the Haeska, Kloostri, and Keemu observation towers, kayak the Kasari River, and more!

Haapsalu

A charming city to use as a base for exploring Matsalu National Park

If you come to Estonia to explore Matsalu National Park, then you'll want a city that's as calm as the surrounding nature. Haapsalu is just the ticket. The city is a birdwatching destination in its own right thanks to its seaside location.

Plus, you can unwind in one of the city's spas after a long day of hiking or canoeing. Make sure to try a medicinal mud treatment; it's what made Haapsalu a famous resort city for the well-heeled of the Russian Empire.