Latvia offers far more than Old Town walks and Jūrmala beaches. From freefall over Vidzeme forests to Europe's only public Olympic bobsled track in Sigulda and kayaking through one of the continent's most scenic river valleys — here are six specific experiences with prices, locations, and practical tips. Whether you're after adrenaline, relaxation, or a creative escape, Latvia delivers on all fronts.
- How can you experience freefall over Latvia?
- Where can you ride a real bobsled track in Sigulda?
- Where is the best spa experience in Riga?
- What is the highest tandem skydive in Eastern Europe?
- How to go kayaking on the Gauja River?
- Where can you try pottery in Latvia?
- Comparison table: all 6 activities
- Frequently asked questions
How can you experience freefall over Latvia?
A tandem skydive is the fastest way to completely reset your perspective in 60 seconds. You'll jump from 4,000 metres strapped to a certified instructor, reaching ~200 km/h in freefall, then gliding under a parachute for 5–7 minutes with views of Vidzeme forests and the Gulf of Riga. No prior experience is needed — the instructor handles everything.
Skydive Latvia operates from Limbažu Airfield — about 1 hour from Riga via the A1 highway. The tandem jump costs €239 (or €30 deposit + balance at the airfield). Minimum age: 16 (with parental consent) or 18. Weight limit: 105 kg. Optional photo/video: +€70. An upgrade to 4,809 m altitude is also available.
Practical tip: the season runs from April to October. Book a weekday for shorter waits and a more flexible schedule. Wear comfortable trainers and avoid a heavy meal before the jump.
Where can you ride a real bobsled track in Sigulda?
The Sigulda Bobsleigh and Luge Track is one of only 18 such facilities in the world — and it's open to the public year-round. In winter, choose from the soft-bob (vučko), skeleton-bob, or ice raft (~€30 per ride). In summer, the wheelbob sends you down the same 1,200-metre, 16-curve track on wheels. Speeds reach up to 125 km/h — the closest most people will get to Olympic bobsled.
The track is at Šveices iela 13, Sigulda (about 1 hour from Riga by car or train). Track tours cost just €3. Check ride schedules at lnsc.lv. Open daily 8:00–20:00; recreational rides on weekends 12:00–17:00.
If you come by train from Riga, combine the bobsled track with the Sigulda Cable Car and Turaida Castle for a full day out.
Where is the best spa experience in Riga?
ESPA Riga is one of the largest five-star spa centres in the Baltics, located in the heart of Riga with six floors of relaxation. The active leisure area includes an 18-metre pool, rock and Sanarium saunas, a steam room, and a shower labyrinth. The 6th-floor thermal suite features an outdoor vitality pool with a view over the city. Spa treatment prices start from approximately €50–80 for a body massage, with day spa packages offering a full experience.
Address: Elizabetes iela 55, Riga (inside the Radisson Blu Hotel Latvija). Bookings: espariga.com. Note: from April to September 2026, the active leisure area will be under renovation — spa treatments and the thermal suite will remain open.
For a spa outside Riga, consider SPA Hotel Ezeri in Sigulda or Jūrmala's beachfront spa hotels — each offers a distinctly different atmosphere.
What is the highest tandem skydive in Eastern Europe?
The Oxygen Jump is a tandem skydive from 5,500 metres — the highest civilian tandem jump in Eastern Europe. Freefall lasts ~90 seconds (compared to ~60 seconds in a standard tandem), speed reaches ~220 km/h, and supplemental oxygen is used at altitude. The aircraft is a Pilatus Porter PC-6/B2-H4 — this single-engine turboprop can carry the tandem pair and a camera operator simultaneously.
Price: €490. Available at Skydive Latvia, Limbažu Airfield. This jump is unique not just in Latvia but across the entire Eastern European region — other tandem operations typically max out at 4,000–4,500 m. If you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience or an exceptional gift — this is it.
Both the tandem and Oxygen Jump experiences are available as gift cards. Skydive Latvia gift cards have no expiration date, so the recipient can choose the most convenient time.
Learn more about the Oxygen Jump →
How to go kayaking on the Gauja River?
The Gauja is Latvia's longest river (452 km), and its stretch through Gauja National Park from Cēsis to Sigulda is one of Europe's most scenic paddling routes. Along the way you'll see red Devonian sandstone cliffs, the Eagle Cliffs (Ērgļu klintis), Turaida Castle, and forests that have been virtually untouched for centuries. Canoe or kayak rental starts from approximately €15/day for a two-seater, with routes ranging from a few hours to multi-day expeditions.
The most popular outfitter is Žagarkalns campsite in Cēsis (zagarkalns.lv), offering canoes, kayaks, rafts, and SUP boards plus transport to start/finish points. Alternatives include Cēsu plosti, Laivot Gauju, and Makars Tourism Agency. Season: May–October (spring brings higher water levels and faster flow).
Practical tip: weekdays the river is nearly empty. Bring a waterproof phone pouch and sunscreen. If travelling with children, opt for a wide inflatable raft — it's more stable and safer.
See our full guide to adventure activities in Latvia →
Where can you try pottery in Latvia?
Pottery workshops are a wonderful way to create something physical and lasting — and in Latvia, this craft tradition has been alive for centuries. In a typical session you can try throwing on a potter's wheel, hand-building vessels, or painting pre-made pieces. Prices usually start from €15–30 per session (1–2 hours), and you can take your creation home after firing.
One of the finest venues is Izagata Pottery Workshop "Cēpļi" in Sigulda district — a traditional Latvian pottery studio with masterclasses for visitors. Details: latvia.travel. In Riga, several urban ceramics studios offer drop-in sessions — search for "pottery classes Riga" and book ahead, as groups are typically small (4–8 people).
Pottery is also a great activity for couples or small groups — not every adventure requires adrenaline. Sometimes the best thing to do in Latvia is simply making something with your own hands.
Get a Skydive Latvia gift card — no expiration date →
Comparison table: all 6 activities
| Activity | Price | Location | Season | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tandem Skydive | €239 | Limbažu Airfield | Apr–Oct | Thrill-seekers, first-timers |
| Bobsled Track | €3–30 | Sigulda | Year-round | Families, tourists, sports fans |
| ESPA Riga SPA | from ~€50 | Riga city centre | Year-round | Couples, relaxation, gifts |
| Oxygen Jump | €490 | Limbažu Airfield | Apr–Oct | Extreme seekers, unique gifts |
| Gauja Kayaking | from €15/day | Cēsis–Sigulda | May–Oct | Nature lovers, families |
| Pottery Workshop | €15–30 | Sigulda district / Riga | Year-round | Couples, creatives, groups |
Frequently Asked Questions
How safe is tandem skydiving?
Tandem skydiving is one of the statistically safest extreme sports. Skydive Latvia instructors have 15–25 years of experience and 2,000–3,000+ jumps each. All parachutes are inspected before every jump, and reserve canopies have an automatic activation device (AAD).
Can I skydive with no prior experience?
Yes. A tandem jump is designed specifically for beginners — the instructor controls the entire process. You'll receive a 10–15 minute briefing on body position and safety before the jump.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks ahead, especially for weekends and the summer season. Weekdays often have availability on shorter notice. Book online at skydive.lv.
Can you ride the bobsled track in summer?
Yes. In summer the wheelbob takes you down the same Olympic track on wheels. In winter there's the soft-bob (vučko), skeleton-bob, and ice raft. The price is approximately €30 per ride in both seasons.
What is the Oxygen Jump and how does it differ from a standard tandem?
The Oxygen Jump is a tandem skydive from 5,500 m — the highest civilian tandem in Eastern Europe. Freefall lasts ~90 seconds (vs. ~60 in standard tandem), speed reaches ~220 km/h, and supplemental oxygen is used at altitude. Price: €490.
Can I kayak on the Gauja with no experience?
Yes. The Gauja is a slow river with a gentle current, suitable for beginners. Boat rental stations (like Žagarkalns in Cēsis) provide equipment, life vests, and a brief orientation. For children, inflatable rafts are recommended.
Do Skydive Latvia gift cards expire?
No. Skydive Latvia gift cards have no expiration date — the recipient can use them in any season. Available for specific services or in open denominations (€100, €300, €500). Purchase at: skydive.lv/en/products/gift-cards.
What is the best season for activities in Latvia?
It depends on the activity. Skydiving and kayaking: April/May through October. Bobsled track and spa: year-round. Pottery workshops: also year-round. Summer (June–August) is ideal if you want to combine multiple activities in a single trip.
How do I get to Limbažu Airfield from Riga?
By car via the A1 highway — about 1 hour. Skydive Latvia provides the exact location in the booking confirmation. Public transport: Riga–Limbaži bus from the Riga bus station, though a car or taxi is the most convenient option.
Recommended
- Ekstrēmas izklaides – adrenalīna avots Latvijā – Skydive Latvia
- Adrenalīna Atpūta – Spēcīgas Emocijas un Drošība – Skydive Latvia
- Nedēļas nogales atpūta: Piedzīvojumu un adrenalīna iespējas – Skydive Latvia
- 7 izglītojoši padomi, ko darīt Rīgā adrenalīna meklētājiem – Skydive Latvia
- Ski Exercises: Sculpting Slope-Ready Strength in Minutes