Aukštaitija National Park

Aukštaitija Overview

Aukštaitija National Park, or Aukštaitijos nacionalinis parkas in Lithuanian, is a remarkable natural preserve located in the northeastern region of Lithuania, about 62 miles (100 km) north of the capital, Vilnius. Covering an area of 156 square miles (405 square kilometers), the park was established in 1974 and is the oldest national park in Lithuania.

It is celebrated for its captivating landscapes, ancient cultural heritage, and exceptional biodiversity, making it one of the most popular destinations for nature enthusiasts in the country.

The terrain of Aukštaitija National Park is defined by its picturesque rolling hills, dense forests, and shimmering lakes. The park is often referred to as the “Land of Lakes,” as it boasts an impressive network of 126 lakes interconnected by rivers and streams. Among the most notable is Lake Dringis, the largest in the park, and Lake Baluošas, famous for its small island containing a unique natural spring.

The forests, primarily composed of pine, spruce, and birch, cover approximately 70% of the park and are interspersed with patches of bogs and meadows, creating a rich and diverse mosaic of habitats. Prominent hills such as Ladakalnis, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of six surrounding lakes, add to the park’s scenic charm.

Aukštaitija National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife. Visitors might encounter large mammals such as red deer, wild boars, and Eurasian beavers, which thrive in the park’s pristine wetlands. The elusive lynx and wolves also inhabit the deeper forested regions, although sightings are rare.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the presence of over 200 bird species, including the white-tailed eagle, black stork, and Eurasian bittern. During the warmer months, the park’s lakes and rivers are vibrant with fish species such as pike and perch, supporting an intricate aquatic ecosystem.

The park is also known for its cultural and historical significance. The region features charming wooden villages such as Palūšė, home to one of Lithuania’s oldest wooden churches, built in 1750. Traditional craft workshops and local festivals celebrate the area’s rich ethnographic heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

Aukštaitija is dotted with ancient burial mounds, hillforts, and remnants of pagan worship sites, providing a fascinating journey into Lithuania’s pre-Christian history.

Visitors can engage with the park through a variety of activities. Canoeing and kayaking along its interconnected lakes and rivers is a favorite way to explore the water routes, while marked hiking and cycling trails allow for immersive adventures through forests and meadows.

Ladakalnis Hill and observation towers provide stunning viewpoints for photography and relaxation. The park’s visitor centers offer guided tours, wildlife observation, and educational programs that enhance the experience.

Aukštaitija National Park faces conservation challenges such as balancing tourism with habitat protection and combating invasive species. However, efforts by local authorities and international collaborations have yielded significant successes, including the preservation of rare species and the promotion of sustainable tourism practices. The park remains a testament to Lithuania’s dedication to protecting its natural and cultural treasures for future generations.

Park Map

Aukštaitija National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Bird Species

Aukštaitija National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a diverse array of bird species that thrive in its lakes, forests, and wetlands.

White storks are iconic birds frequently seen in the park’s open fields and wetlands, where they hunt for fish, amphibians, and small mammals.

Cranes are tall, graceful birds that inhabit the park’s wetlands and meadows, known for their distinctive calls and elaborate courtship dances.

Eagles are powerful raptors often spotted soaring high above the park’s forests and lakes, hunting for fish, small mammals, and birds.

Kingfishers are brightly colored birds found along the park’s rivers and lakes, using their sharp beaks to dive into the water and catch fish.

Woodpeckers are common in the park’s forests, where they use their strong beaks to drill into trees, searching for insects and creating nests in tree trunks.

Great crested grebes are elegant water birds often seen on the park’s lakes, known for their elaborate mating displays and expert diving skills to catch fish.

Common buzzards are medium-sized raptors frequently seen soaring above open areas, using their keen eyesight to hunt for small mammals and birds.

Herons are tall, wading birds often found in the park’s wetlands, using their long legs to wade through shallow waters in search of fish and amphibians.

Swans are graceful water birds often seen gliding across the park’s lakes, feeding on aquatic plants and small invertebrates, adding elegance to the landscape.

Tawny owls are nocturnal hunters that inhabit the park’s forests, using their keen night vision to hunt small rodents and insects, often heard hooting at night.

Popular Species

Aukštaitija National Park is home to a variety of wildlife species, from large mammals to smaller forest dwellers, that thrive in its lakes, forests, and meadows.

Elk are the largest herbivores in the park, often seen grazing in forest clearings and near lakes, providing a majestic presence in the park’s landscape.

Red deer are commonly found in the park’s woodlands, known for their impressive antlers and social behavior, frequently spotted in open meadows during dawn and dusk.

Wild boars are resilient and adaptable animals, foraging in the forest underbrush for roots, tubers, and fallen fruits, often leaving behind signs of their activity.

Roe deer are smaller and more elusive than red deer, grazing in meadows and forest edges, recognized for their agility and ability to hide from predators.

Beavers are active in the park’s lakes and rivers, building dams and lodges, creating vital aquatic habitats for other species and altering the park’s waterways.

Wolves are the apex predators of the park, hunting in packs to prey on deer, wild boar, and smaller mammals, although they are rarely seen by visitors.

Foxes are commonly seen throughout the park, hunting small mammals, birds, and scavenging for food in both forested and open areas.

European hares are fast and agile herbivores, often found grazing on grasses and plants in the park’s open fields and meadows, evading predators with their speed.

Pine martens are small, agile predators that live in trees, feeding on small mammals, birds, and fruits, often spotted darting through the park’s forests.

Otters are semi-aquatic mammals often seen near the park’s rivers and lakes, hunting fish and small aquatic animals with their sleek, agile bodies.