RIVER ROUTES

The shortest canoe route on the Gauja River, perfect for a relaxing 2–3 hour trip through the beautiful landscapes of Gauja National Park near Cēsis, Latvia. This easy route is suitable for beginners, families with children and anyone looking for a short outdoor adventure on the Gauja River.

Shortly after the starting point at the Jāņrāmis water tourism camp, the route passes a small rapid and a bridge. Around 4 km further downstream are the impressive Ērgļu Cliffs on the left riverbank, one of the most beautiful sandstone cliff formations along the Gauja River, featuring a scenic walking trail.

Further along the route are the mouth of the Vaidava River, the historic Pielēkši ferry crossing, the Lenči water tourism area and the Cēsis bridge.

About 500 meters after the bridge lies the popular Cīrulīši riverside beach with tent camping, volleyball courts, showers and sauna facilities. Nearby visitors can explore the Cīrulīši cliffs, nature trails and Spring Lake at the Žagarkalns campsite.

Boat rental, equipment and transportation services for boats and passengers are available at Žagarkalns.

Distance: 9 km along the Gauja River
Duration: ~2–3 hours
Difficulty: Easy

DAY 2 — CĒSIS TO LĪGATNE

About 2 km after the starting point lies the Kvēpene water tourism area and the historic Kvēpene hillfort with the famous “pieclatnieks” oak tree.

Further downstream the route passes Briedīšu Rock, river islands, the Teņi settlement area and the mouth of the Amata River. One of the most impressive highlights of the route is the breathtaking Ķūķu Cliffs with nearby three-step rapids.

Before reaching the finish point in Līgatne, the route continues past Spriņģu Rock and the historic Līgatne ferry — the only remaining operating ferry on the Gauja River.

Distance: ~26 km along the Gauja River
Duration: 2 days
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

DAY 1 — CĒSIS TO LĪGATNE

About 2 km after the starting point, the route reaches the Kvēpene water tourism area, followed by the historic Kvēpene hillfort with the famous “pieclatnieks” oak tree.

Further downstream are Briedīšu Rock, river islands, the Teņi settlement area and the mouth of the Amata River. One of the most impressive highlights of the route is the breathtaking Ķūķu Cliffs with nearby three-step rapids.

Before reaching Līgatne, the route passes Spriņģu Rock and the historic Līgatne ferry — the only remaining operating ferry on the Gauja River.

Accommodation is available near the ferry at “Skaļupe”.

DAY 2 — LĪGATNE TO SIGULDA

This section of the Gauja River is peaceful and relaxing, while the current becomes slightly faster closer to Sigulda.

Along the route on the left riverbank are Jumprava Rock and the “Katrīna” water tourism camp, while Katrīna Rock is located on the right bank. Visitors can also explore the Līgatne Nature Park with scenic walking trails and nature excursions.

Further downstream are the impressive Gūdu Cliffs, the “Paslavas” tourism area and Launagu Rock. Several additional riverside campsites are located along the route, including “Brasla”, “Bērzi” and “Vējupīte”.

Approaching Sigulda, one of the most iconic landmarks of Gauja National Park becomes visible — the historic Turaida Castle on the right riverbank.

Distance: ~37 km along the Gauja River
Duration: 2 days
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

A peaceful and scenic two-day canoe route on the Gauja River, perfect for nature lovers and relaxed river adventures through Gauja National Park, Latvia. This route offers sandstone cliffs, forest landscapes and some of the most impressive natural formations along the Gauja River.

The route begins in Valmiera near the rowing slalom training base on the left riverbank. This section includes several more technical rapids and four bridges as the river passes through the city. After the final bridge, the Gauja becomes calmer and more peaceful.

Around 2 km beyond the city, Gauja National Park begins. Along the route are the “Vītoli” and “Sapa” water tourism campsites. Further downstream, after the Sapa valley, the river becomes deeper and enters the ancient Gauja valley with impressive sandstone landscapes.

On the left bank lies Liepa Rock, followed around 2 km later by the famous Sietiņiezis on the right bank — one of the most spectacular sandstone cliffs along the Gauja River. Nearby are the Grīviņi water tourism area and the scenic Grīviņi Cliffs.

Further downstream the route passes the impressive Līču-Laņģu Cliffs, located about 100 meters from the riverbank, as well as the “Rauna” water tourism camp and the mouth of the Rauna River. Around 4 km later is Kazu Rock on the right bank.

The river features large bends, sandstone outcrops and calm waters, creating one of the most picturesque canoeing experiences in Gauja National Park.

Distance: 36.5 km along the Gauja River
Duration: 2 days
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

A relaxing and scenic canoe route on the Gauja River, suitable for beginners, families and peaceful day trips through Gauja National Park, Latvia. This section of the river offers calm waters, sandy riverbanks and beautiful forest landscapes along one of the most popular canoeing areas in Latvia.

During the route you will pass the impressive Devil’s Cave on the right riverbank, as well as the Big Stone and the nearby “Big Stone” water tourism campsite. Further along the route is the mouth of the Lorupe River on the left bank.

The Gauja River current here is steady and calm, with several river islands and many sandy beaches perfect for short breaks and picnics during the trip.

Distance: 20 km along the Gauja River
Duration: ~4–5 hours by canoe
Difficulty: Easy

A beautiful and remote multi-day canoe route on the Gauja River, ideal for nature lovers, fishing enthusiasts and travelers looking for a quieter and wilder river experience in Latvia. This section of the Gauja offers untouched landscapes, peaceful forests and rich wildlife far from busy tourist areas.

The route from Vireši towards Gaujiena features shallow and rocky river sections with small sandstone cliffs and excellent fishing spots near the rapids. The first section to Gaujiena takes approximately 4–5 hours by canoe. A local shop is available near the river in Gaujiena.

Further downstream, parts of the river border the Republic of Estonia on the right bank. Visitors planning to stop or stay overnight on the Estonian side should carry valid identification and check local border regulations in advance.

The route passes wild meadows, forests, sandbanks and peaceful swimming areas, with very few buildings along the riverbanks. The Gauja here feels especially untouched and natural, offering opportunities to observe birds and wildlife throughout the journey.

This route is also popular among fishing enthusiasts thanks to several deeper river sections and calm natural surroundings.

Please note that ending the route and arranging transportation between Gaujiena and Aņņi Bridge can be more challenging due to limited river access points.

Distance: 49 km along the Gauja River
Duration: ~1.5–2 days by canoe
Difficulty: Moderate

One of the most popular canoe routes on the Gauja River, offering beautiful sandstone cliffs, peaceful river sections and impressive views of Gauja National Park. This scenic route is perfect for a full-day canoe or kayak adventure near Sigulda, Latvia.

The first section of the river is calm and relaxing, while the current becomes slightly faster approaching Sigulda. Along the route you will pass Jumprava Rock and the “Katrīna” water tourism camp on the left bank, as well as Katrīna Rock on the right bank.

On the left riverbank lies the Līgatne Nature Park, where visitors can enjoy a short excursion through forest trails and natural landscapes. Around 2 km further downstream are the impressive Gūdu Cliffs on the right bank.

The route continues past the “Paslavas” tourism area and Launagu Rock. Along this section of the Gauja River are several additional campsites and recreation areas including “Brasla”, “Bērzi” and “Vējupīte”.

Approaching Sigulda, one of the most iconic sights of Gauja National Park appears — the historic Turaida Castle on the right riverbank.

Distance: 38 km along the Gauja River
Duration: ~8–10 hours by canoe
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

A peaceful and relaxing canoe route on the Gauja River, ideal for nature lovers, quiet day trips and easy paddling through the beautiful forest landscapes of northern Latvia. This section of the Gauja River is known for its calm current, rich wildlife and untouched natural surroundings.

The river flows slowly through forests and meadows, passing a long island in the middle of the river and several peaceful riverside areas perfect for short breaks and picnics.

This route is especially popular for birdwatching, fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the Gauja valley. The surrounding forests are also well known for wild berries and mushrooms during the summer and autumn seasons.

Distance: 20 km along the Gauja River
Duration: ~5 hours by canoe or a full day at a relaxed pace
Difficulty: Easy

A calm and scenic canoe route on the Gauja River, perfect for beginners, families and relaxing nature trips in northern Latvia. The river current is slow and steady, allowing for an easy and enjoyable paddling experience through peaceful Gauja valley landscapes.

The route passes beautiful pine forests and quiet natural surroundings typical of the upper Gauja River region. At the mouth of the Vija River, a sandstone rock formation can be seen on the left riverbank.

This section of the Gauja River is known for its calm waters, silence and untouched nature, making it ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing canoe adventure away from busy tourist areas.

Distance: 18 km along the Gauja River
Duration: ~6 hours by canoe
Difficulty: Easy

One of the most beautiful canoe routes in Latvia, offering a scenic multi-day adventure through peaceful forests, sandstone cliffs and the impressive landscapes of Mazsalaca Nature Park. This route is ideal for nature lovers, photographers and travelers looking for an authentic river tourism experience in northern Latvia.

The Salaca River flows through picturesque valleys with caves, cliffs, steep riverbanks and numerous natural attractions along the route. The current gradually becomes faster in some sections, while calm swimming spots and quiet resting areas can still be found throughout the journey.

One of the recommended resting places is “EŽI” on the right riverbank. Before reaching Vīķi, several rapids create a more exciting paddling experience. Further downstream from Vīķi, the current slows and the river forms wide bends through peaceful natural landscapes.

This route is also popular among fishing enthusiasts thanks to several good fishing spots near the rapids.

Near Staicele, canoeists pass the former paper mill dam. Crossing the dam is possible, but all safety precautions must be followed carefully. It is recommended to unload equipment and carry boats by hand around the area.

Distance: 40 km along the Salaca River
Duration: ~2 days by canoe
Difficulty: Moderate

A scenic and more active canoe route on the Salaca River in northern Latvia, suitable for a relaxed two-day river adventure with beautiful natural landscapes, sandstone cliffs and faster river sections. This route offers a combination of peaceful paddling, small rapids and impressive river scenery.

The riverbanks become steeper along the route, with sandstone outcrops and increasingly faster currents. Several small rapids and river islands create a more dynamic canoeing experience compared to calmer sections upstream.

One of the recommended resting places along the route is “Mačkalni”. Further downstream, near “Mērnieki”, the river becomes rockier with additional rapids and flowing sections.

One of the most impressive highlights of the route is the famous Red Cliffs — an approximately 500-meter-long sandstone cliff formation along the riverbank, considered one of the most beautiful natural landmarks on the Salaca River.

Closer to the Vecsalaca River, lamprey fishing areas can be found, although passing this section by canoe may sometimes be more challenging depending on water conditions.

Distance: 45 km along the Salaca River
Duration: ~2 days by canoe
Difficulty: Moderate

A calm and easy canoe route on the Salaca River, perfect for beginners and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day on the river in northern Latvia. This section is ideal for learning basic paddling skills thanks to its slow current and narrower river width.

The route passes quiet meadows, open fields and natural countryside landscapes, offering a relaxing outdoor experience away from busy tourist areas. The peaceful surroundings also make this route suitable for fishing and nature watching.

A local shop is available near the river in Mazsalaca, making the route convenient for short day trips and family adventures.

Distance: 12 km along the Salaca River
Duration: ~3–4 hours by canoe
Difficulty: Easy