Latgale’s Wetland Biodiversity Park is a place that not only provides shelter for many rare and protected species of animals and plants, but is also an area that provides residents and visitors of the city with recreation, ecological learning and other ecosystem services. Moreover, it is located almost in the very centre of Daugavpils.
Daugavpils is a rare city in Latvia and even in Europe, which can be proud of a colony of seagulls, bog turtles, jackdaws, small pipits and other animals that live right in the centre of the city. That is why the Wetland Park can be safely called a unique tourist and natural object.
In the swampy area of the park, next to the Latgale Zoo, there is a Wetland Trail, which is about one and a half kilometres long. The trail is equipped with several observation platforms and shelters, allowing to observe birds and animals.
It offers two options for exploring wetland life: a leisurely stroll along a well-maintained trail or an explorer-style adventure route. It is possible to book a tour with the guide in order to explore the territory of the Wetland Park. Information about the tours is available in Latgale Zoo or by phone: +371 65426789.
The trail has several entrances:
- at the observation hill – from the side of Esplanade Park and Kandavas Street;
- at the Daugavas Street footpath – next to the sewage treatment plant area;
- at the Daugavas Street footpath – next to the dog walking area;
- from the side of Latgale Zoo.
The trail is equipped with bicycle stands, information boards and signs providing information on possible directions of the trail.
A special trail, the Biologist’s Trail, is also built in the Wetland Park in Esplanade. It is a fascinating and informative route, which can be wet and flooded at times, with possible obstacles such as fallen trees, branches, animals and traces of their activity, as well as reeds. That is why the Biologist’s Trail can only be accessed with a guide. Guide services are offered by Latgale Zoo, you can book an excursion by phone +371 65426789.
The Wetland Trail is suitable for mums with prams and wheelchair users. The exception is the Biologist’s Trail route.
Latgale’s Wetland Biodiversity Park – a fascinating and unusual nature study complex for the whole family. Here you can get acquainted with unusual exotic animals by getting into their habitat.
Access to the territory is prohibited from 1 March to 1 August, as this is the bird nesting season.