Cēsis → Līgatne

A beautiful one-day paddle through the heart of Gauja National Park, from medieval Cēsis to Līgatne village. The river flows calmly between forested banks, passing dramatic red sandstone cliffs that rise up to 10 metres above the water — some hiding small caves you can paddle directly into.

1 days
Duration
Easy
Difficulty

About the Route

A beautiful one-day paddle through the heart of Gauja National Park, from medieval Cēsis to Līgatne village. The river flows calmly between forested banks, passing dramatic red sandstone cliffs that rise up to 10 metres above the water — some hiding small caves you can paddle directly into. Ospreys, kingfishers and beavers are regular sightings along this wildlife-rich stretch. The route finishes in Līgatne, where the famous Līgatne Nature Trails and wildlife viewing enclosures are a short walk from the take-out. A great introduction to Gauja National Park for first-time visitors and an excellent option for families.

What You'll See Along the Way

Sandstone cliffs & caves

The Cēsis–Līgatne section is famous for its red sandstone cliffs, some rising over 10 m above the water, with small caves you can paddle right up to.

Gaujas National Park wildlife

Ospreys, kingfishers and beavers are regular sights along this forested stretch inside Gauja National Park.

Līgatne nature trails

Finish in Līgatne village, where a short walk leads to the famous Līgatne Nature Trails and wildlife viewing enclosures.

Available Boats

DULKAN Amata 300

DULKAN Amata 300

2 seats ·
35 / day
Kanoe ROTOATTIVO CANADIER 3

Kanoe ROTOATTIVO CANADIER 3

3 seats ·
20 / day
Kajaks VISTA

Kajaks VISTA

2 seats ·
20 / day
DULKAN Raft 460

DULKAN Raft 460

9 seats ·
65 / day
DULKAN Raft 330

DULKAN Raft 330

4 seats ·
45 / day
SUP Bee

SUP Bee

1 seat ·
20 / day
BUSH Venta 300

BUSH Venta 300

3 seats ·
35 / day
Kanoe LOXIA

Kanoe LOXIA

3 seats ·
20 / day
Kanoe PELICAN

Kanoe PELICAN

3 seats ·
20 / day
Perception PESCADOR

Perception PESCADOR

1 seat ·
15 / day
Kanoe ALBA

Kanoe ALBA

3 seats ·
20 / day

Map

Map coming soon

Useful Information

Included in Price

Paddles, life jackets, waterproof dry bag

Transport

Boat transport to start point and pickup at finish included

Best Time

May — September. Water levels are optimal during summer months.

Notes

Suitable for all fitness levels.

Ready to Paddle?

Choose a date, boat type, and quantity — we'll take care of the rest.

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