Hiking tour from Riga 10 - Baltic Nature Travel

Military Underground Secrets and the Sea

Hike in Riga

~12 km

Riga

All year round

Start time: 9 AM

Program

This hiking tour brings you to Mangalsala, a neighborhood of Riga that is known for its industrial vibe, romantic breakwater and wonderful opportunity to observe ships passing by. Screams of seagulls, lonely fishermen standing on the breakwater, powerful sea wind and a bright lighthouse – these are the most common associations with Mangalsala. And yet there is something else very special about this place – military underground secrets that invite you to come and explore them. First coastal defense fortifications in Mangalsala were built during the Russian Empire and later expanded by various armies – Latvian, German and Soviet. Many bunkers, batteries and other buildings are still visible today, making Mangalsala one of the best military heritage gems in Latvia. Military underground secrets, lovely paths through the pinetree woods, industrial vibe and the sea promises a very adventurous and exciting hiking tour.

Highlights

Bunkers, batteries and other military heritage
Sunken ship “Lady Cotlin”
Mangalsala Breakwater
White sand beach

Transportation

The hiking tour starts from Riga, driver will arrive at the arranged time and location and contacts of the driver will be provided at least a day before the tour starts.

Tour Map

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Private tour price

1-person group: 160€

2 – 2 person group: 180€

3 – 3 person group: 200€

4 – 4 person group: 260€

5 – 5 person group: 300€

6 – 6 person group: 320€

7 – 7 person group: 340€

8 – 8 person group: 360€

Included

English speaking guide
Transportation from Riga and back

Not included

Food and drinks.

What to bring with you

1 l of water per person as a minimum
Snacks and lunch for breaks and picnic
Flashlight or headlamp
Good and adventurous mood

How to dress

Please, dress accordingly to the weather forecast! Due to very changeable weather, layering is key to enjoying the hike, and rain protection is a must-have. Any comfortable shoes or sandals are good enough for this hike.

Level of dificulty

A quite easy hike that follows small paths through the woods and country roads, goes on a wooden boardwalk and along the sea. Hiking tour involves climbing down in the bunkers (entering bunkers is on your own responsibility!).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Giovanni Paolo Palamara

2023-01-07

Very interesting trip. Definitely worth it!

Eddie Mantle

2022-12-05

Very professional. Valdis, guided a group of 8 around Mangasala, Riga, giving us a fascinating insight into the military history there. Looking forward to the next tour.

Zijian Hua

2022-11-02

Valdis is an experienced guide, a local from Riga. He has a wealth of knowledge and is always able to tell you interesting history along the way. The route plan of the hiking is also reasonable. In autumn, the fallen leaves near Sigulda are also very beautiful. If you are planning to do an outdoor hike in Latvia too, then don't hesitate to join a walking group organized by Valdis.

bllhmn

2022-10-31

I took the tour in Lilaste. The train ride was very relaxing. The lakes and coast were amazing. It is great exercise and a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

John B

2022-10-30

Great hike at Lilaste. Friendly tour guide. Definitely looking forward to the next hike. Highly recommended for those who want a short break from the daily routine.

Rachel Pamplin

2022-10-18

I enjoyed I enjoyed my tour of Cesis: Medieval Heritage and Natural Treasures! I loved being able to do a little of many things. Exploring the old city, touring a medieval castle, and a walk through a national park. The scenery was amazing and my guide was knowledgeable and helpful! As a single female, I felt safe the entire time and and would recommend to others!

Colleen Bramanis

2022-10-11

We have enjoyed 2 days with Valdis who has shown us around Riga Old Town and a tour out to Sigulda. A very friendly tour guide who tailored the days to our needs with no fuss. Valdis is easy to get along , has a good sense of humour and is extremely knowledgeable. Fortunately for us Valdis is also very fluent in English. I can highly recommend him as a tour guide.

Barry Toward

2022-09-18

We have just spent 9 days travelling through the Baltic countries with Valdis as our guide. Although the itinerary and accommodation had been pre-arranged Valdis supported our trip brilliantly, bringing to life the individual countries with city walking tours, nature trails and visits to other sites. He is great fun, extremely knowledgable and became an integral part of our small group. His contribution to our holiday played a key part in making it a great and enjoyable experience (and he recommends good places to eat!)