2026 is here, and if your holiday planning usually ends with "maybe sometime" – this article is for you. Latvia has a surprising number of experiences that can transform an ordinary weekend into an unforgettable adventure – from the skies to river currents and forest trails.
No generic advice here. These are 7 specific, tested ideas with practical tips, prices, and insider details that other articles won't tell you. We're starting with what's closest to the sky – literally.
Table of Contents
- 🪂 1. Tandem Skydive
- 🎓 2. AFF Training – Become a Skydiver
- 🥾 3. Hiking in Latvia's National Parks
- 🏄 4. SUP & Canoe on Latvian Rivers
- 🏍️ 5. Quad Biking Through the Forest
- 💨 6. Wind Tunnel – Flight Without the Jump
- 🎁 7. Adventure Gift Card
1. Tandem Skydive – The Most Powerful Experience in Latvia
If you do one thing in 2026 that changes your perspective – make it a tandem skydive. 60 seconds of freefall at 200 km/h from 4,000 metres. Nothing else in Latvia can replicate this feeling.
Skydive Latvia at Limbaži Airfield (~1h from Riga) offers tandem jumps with USPA-certified instructors. Choose the standard jump from 4,000 m or the unique Oxygen Jump from 5,500 m – a Baltic altitude record with ~90 seconds of freefall.
| Experience required? | None – suitable for complete beginners |
| Aircraft | Pilatus Porter PC-6 – a legendary skydiving aircraft |
| Total time | ~2 hours (registration, briefing, jump, photo/video) |
| Season | April – October, Wed–Sun (other days on request) |
💡 Tip: Choose a morning slot – the air is calmer, views are clearer, and you'll be back in Riga by lunchtime. Wear trainers and comfortable clothes. Book your tandem jump →
2. AFF Training – From Passenger to Pilot
After a tandem jump, many people realise: they don't just want to jump – they want to learn. The AFF (Accelerated Freefall) programme is an internationally recognised training system that transforms a beginner into a licensed skydiver.
Skydive Latvia's AFF programme follows USPA standards. It includes ground theory, progressive jumps with instructor accompaniment (two instructors at first, then one), and a path to fully independent solo jumps.
What you'll learn: Stable freefall, body control in the air, turns, altitude awareness, parachute deployment, and emergency procedures. Each level is a new challenge with a specific task.
💡 Tip: No need to finish in one week – many students do 2–3 jumps per month and complete the programme by end of season. There's also an intensive AFF camp in Spain →
3. Hiking in Latvia's National Parks
If the sky isn't your element yet, Latvia's nature trails offer their own version of adventure – calmer, but no less inspiring. The best part? Most routes are free and accessible year-round.
Best trails for 2026:
| Location | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Gauja NP | Easy–Moderate | Sandstone cliffs, caves, Turaida Castle |
| Ķemeri NP | Easy | Bog boardwalks, sulphur springs, wild horses |
| Slītere NP | Moderate | Old lighthouse trail, sea cliffs, Livonian villages |
| Līgatne trails | Easy | Nature paths, wildlife observation |
💡 Tip: Check the weather before setting out. Bring water, shoes with good grip, and at least one extra layer. Most national parks have free parking.
4. SUP & Canoe on Latvian Rivers
The Gauja, Salaca, and Abava – Latvia's rivers offer water adventures that combine physical activity with absolute tranquillity. SUP and canoeing are among the fastest-growing outdoor activities in Latvia, and it's no wonder – the river scenery from the water is completely different.
What to choose: SUP is more physically demanding (full-body workout) and best for calm stretches. Canoe is more comfortable for longer routes and couples/families. Many operators offer board/boat rental with transport to the start point.
Popular routes: Gauja (Sigulda–Līgatne section for beginners), Salaca (faster sections), Abava (Latvia's most picturesque river).
💡 Tip: Bring a waterproof bag for your phone. Start with a calm stretch if you're a beginner. Season: May–September (earlier with a wetsuit).
5. Quad Biking Through Forest Trails
If sky and water aren't your style – the forest offers its own adrenaline. Riding a quad bike or buggy along Latvian forest trails is a physical challenge: mud, narrow paths, uneven surfaces, and every turn brings a new surprise.
Several operators in Sigulda, Kurzeme, and Latgale offer guided rides with instructor supervision. Most routes are 1–3 hours long and accessible even without prior experience. Equipment (helmet, goggles, gloves) is provided.
💡 Tip: Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. A category B driving licence is required. Respect nature – stick to the designated routes.
6. Wind Tunnel – The Freefall Feeling Without the Jump
If you want to feel what freefall is like but aren't ready to jump from an aircraft yet – a wind tunnel is the perfect introduction. Horizontal airflow at speeds up to 160 km/h simulates the real freefall sensation in completely safe conditions.
Wind tunnels are also great for experienced skydivers – many professionals use them for training and learning new manoeuvres. No special fitness is required, and the experience suits almost all age groups.
💡 Tip: If you love the wind tunnel – the next logical step is a real tandem jump. The sensation in the air is similar, but with an infinite view beneath your feet. Book a tandem jump →
7. Adventure Gift Card – A Gift That Changes Lives
If you're looking for a gift that isn't just "another thing on the shelf" – an adventure gift card is an almost guaranteed "wow" effect. We see it every week: people arrive with gift cards received months ago and leave with a story they'll tell for years.
Skydive Latvia gift cards are valid for 3 years. They include the full tandem jump experience – briefing, equipment, and the jump itself. Available digitally (perfect for last-minute gifts) or in physical format.
Perfect gift for: birthdays, Christmas, stag/hen parties, wedding anniversaries, or simply to surprise someone who "already has everything".
💡 Tip: 3-year validity = zero stress. The recipient can jump whenever they're ready. Order a gift card →
Make 2026 Unforgettable
Tandem jump, AFF training, or a gift card – choose your adventure and take action today.
BOOK A JUMP GIFT CARD📍 Limbaži Airfield | 📞 Contact us | ✈️ Season: April – October
Frequently Asked Questions
Read Also
- → 7 Ideas for an Active Holiday in Latvia
- → 7 Skydiving Myths and Their True Answers
- → Outdoor Adventures in Latvia: Experiences & Safety
- → Tandem Skydive Near Riga – Complete Guide
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