Bird watching tour: North & West- Estonia

This guided bird watching tour is a great introduction to Estonia’s birdlife and suitable for regular and serious birdwatchers, nature lovers or people who just want to have day tour outside of Tallinn. Estonia lies on the East Atlantic Flyway, one of Europe’s most important migratory routes, and more than 300 bird species are seen here annually. With coastal wetlands, lagoons, reedbeds, forest edge and open meadows, West-Estonia — including Matsalu National Park and the Lääne County reserves — is among Europe’s most rewarding birding regions. Our Bird Watching Day Tour to West-Estonia is an expert-led journey designed for those who want to explore varied habitats, seasonal migration phenomena and key birding locations in one immersive day. The itinerary adapts based on season, weather and your specific interests — from spring songbird migration to autumn waterfowl concentrations and winter forest species

🌍 Why West-Estonia Is a Top Birding Destination

🌿 Matsalu National Park & Bay

Matsalu is one of Europe’s most important wetland bird areas. Lying on a major flyway, it attracts huge concentrations of waterfowl and shorebirds during spring and autumn migration, including long-tailed ducks, geese, waders and raptors. Spectacular movements of waterbirds — sometimes numbering in the millions — make this region a bucket-list destination for serious birders.

🪶 Silma Nature Reserve

Silma Reserve’s extensive lagoons, reedbeds and coastal meadows provide a rich mosaic of habitats supporting hundreds of species, including coastal passerines and migrating waders. Observation towers allow excellent views of birds feeding and resting.

🌾 Other Key Stops

Depending on season and conditions, the tour may include additional rich birding sites such as:

Haapsalu coastal plains and lagoons
Reedbeds and wetlands near the Kasari River
Quiet meadow and forest habitats with songbirds, woodpeckers and raptors

These varied landscapes give you the best possible chance to see a diverse spectrum of species throughout the year.

🐦 What Birders Can Expect

Estonia’s coastal and wetland reserves are especially notable for:

Migration peaks in spring and autumn (March–May & September–October)
Large numbers of waterfowl, shorebirds and passerines on the move
Birds in diverse habitats — reedbeds, lagoons, coastal shores and forest edges
Seasonal forest species such as woodpeckers and grouse (location dependent)

With expert guidance, you’ll be positioned to observe, identify and enjoy birds at both classic hotspots and lesser-visited sites. Guides can also support photography and behavioural observation techniques if requested.

📅 Tour Details

Duration: ~9–10 hours (full day)
Season: Mid-March to mid-October (peak birding during migration and breeding seasons)
Starts/Ends: Tallinn (other meeting points by arrangement)
Walking: Easy to moderate walking; observation tower climbs of 6–8 m available
Lunch & Breaks: Included (local options; can be adjusted on request)

Your guide will tailor the route, pace and stops for optimal birdwatching based on:

Season
Weather conditions
Your experience level and target species

🌦 Seasonal Highlights

Spring (April–May)
Peak migration with tens of thousands of waterfowl and waders passing through Matsalu Bay
Songbirds arriving from Africa and southern Europe
Summer (June–July)
Breeding species in meadows, reedbeds and forest edges
Dense foliage birding with a chance to hear or see warblers and other passerines
Autumn (September–October)
Another major migration wave with large flocks of ducks, geese and shorebirds
Good opportunity for raptors and late migrants
These seasonal rhythms make multiple visits rewarding at different times of year.

Bird watching tour to West-Estonia prices 2026

Available from 15 of March to 15 of October

No. of people*	Price per person
1	270…320€
2	140….170€
Additional person	100€ (under 14 years 60€)
Additional hour	45€

* In case of group of 5-8 people, please contact us for price.

🛶 Optional Explorer Add-On: Matsalu Nature Boat Trip & Wetland Experience

Enhance your West-Estonia Birding Tour with a Matsalu Nature Boat Trip — a unique opportunity to experience Matsalu National Park’s rich wetland habitat from the water, guided by local experts with deep knowledge of the bay’s wildlife and cultural heritage.

Matsalu Bay is one of Europe’s most important bird areas, positioned on the East Atlantic Flyway where millions of migratory birds pass each year. This optional add-on combines a boat journey on the Kasari River or across Matsalu Bay with the chance to observe waterfowl, waders and coastal species from close range — often in places that are inaccessible by land.

Alongside attentive birdwatching, the boat experience offers scenic views of reedbeds, meadows and shoreline, and may include sightings of other wildlife such as elk, beaver or even seals during the warmer months. Whether you choose a relaxed cruise or a targeted water-based birding session, this add-on gives you a broader understanding of Matsalu’s ecosystem and deepens your connection to one of Estonia’s most iconic natural landscapes. Beside birdlife there is high chance to see also elks and beavers

Contact us for the price and availability!

🎯 Who This Tour Is For

This is not a casual sightseeing walk — it’s tailored for people who want a serious birding experience with professional guidance, rich habitats and a broad species overview. It suits: