Čepkeliai Nature Reserve

The Čepkeliai Nature Reserve is one of Lithuania's most strictly protected areas, located in the extreme south of the country along the border with Belarus. Established in 1975, its primary purpose is to preserve Lithuania's largest raised bog, along with the surrounding continental sand dunes and wetland forests. This isolated and virtually untouched wilderness spans a massive area, providing a vital sanctuary for highly endangered wildlife species. The dense forests harbor populations of brown bears, wolves, and Eurasian lynxes, while the bogs serve as crucial breeding grounds for the rare capercaillie and black grouse. During the spring and autumn migrations, thousands of common cranes use the bog as a resting and gathering site, offering a spectacular natural display. To protect the fragile ecosystem, public access to the reserve is heavily restricted, generally allowed only through authorized guided tours or along a very specific, short educational trail at the edge of the swamp.

Nearby cities

Alytus

Alytus is the unofficial capital of the Dzūkija region in southern Lithuania.

Alytus area

The area around Alytus lies on the banks of the Nemunas.

Marijampolė

Marijampolė is the center of the Suvalkija region and is known for its industrial importance.

Jonava

Jonava is a city in central Lithuania known for its chemical industry.

Ukmergė area

The rural area around Ukmergė offers a varied landscape with many historical manors.

Ukmergė

Ukmergė is one of the oldest cities in Lithuania and is located on the Šventoji River.

Elektrėnai

Elektrėnai is a modern city founded during the Soviet era as a residence for the workers of the local power plant.

Druskininkai

Druskininkai is a renowned spa resort in southern Lithuania.

Grigiškės

Grigiškės is an industrial city west of Vilnius on the Voke River.

Trakų Vokė

Trakų Vokė is located in the suburban area of Vilnius.

Lentvaris

Lentvaris is an industrial city near Vilnius and Trakai.

Garliava

Garliava is a growing city located immediately south of Kaunas.

Kaišiadorys

Kaišiadorys is an important railway junction between Vilnius and Kaunas.

Vilkaviškis

Vilkaviškis is located in southwestern Lithuania and is the administrative center of the district.

Vilkaviškis area

Vilkaviškis is located in southwestern Lithuania.

History & landmarks

Vilnius Old Town

Vilnius Old Town is one of the largest surviving medieval town centers in Northern Europe.

Kaunas Town Hall

The Town Hall in the main square of Kaunas is often called the 'White Swan' due to its elegant shape and white facade.

Vilnius Town Hall

A Neoclassical landmark in the heart of the Old Town, designed by Laurynas Gucevičius.

Vilkija

A picturesque town on the banks of the Nemunas river with a striking neo-Gothic church and rich Jewish heritage.