Visitor Centre of Karula National Park

Võru County, Karula National Park
The visitor centre is located in the centre of Karula National Park, surrounded by scenic hills and mysterious forests, and opening up breathtaking views of Lake Ähijärv.
The visitor centre is at the border of Valga and Võru counties, away from big roads, so one has to plan their visit either by car or by bus, or maybe even on foot or by bicycle along the RMK Pearküla-Aegviidu-Ähijärve Hiking Route. But the journey is worth it!
A tired wanderer can have a rest here, find shelter from the rain, watch a documentary introducing the national park, or enjoy the permanent exhibition. For those who want to take a walk here or go hiking, there are several hiking trails that start near the visitor centre. Also the branch of the RMK Hiking Route leading to Peraküla starts here. There is a campfire site and a campsite right near the visitor centre by Lake Ähijärv. The centre's rooms are available for rent for seminars.
Besides the enchanting scenery, the visitor centre offers good advice about the sights in the area, outdoor recreation opportunities, as well as advice on accommodation and where to eat. There are souvenirs, information folders and hiking route maps available in the centre. For groups we provide, if requested, various programmes which may also involve local farms.
Phone+372 782 8350
E-mail info.karula@rmk.ee
Opening hours01.09 to 17.05 Wed to Fri 10.00–16.00
18.05 to 31.08 Mon to Sun 10.00–18.00
except on public holidays
Type of objectVisitor Centre
Parking facilitiesParking area for 20 cars.
AmenitiesInformation and promotional materials about Karula National Park. Maps of RMK recreation areas available.
Campfire site yes
Wheelchair accessibility yes
Hiking options yes
Recycling point yes
Additional information
Restrictions The Visitor Centre is situated in Karula National Park, about restrictions please read here.
Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board (+372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee).
LocationÄhijärve village, Antsla municipality, Võru County.
Driving directionsDrive 8 km from Antsla towards Haabsaare, turn right 50 m after the Haabsaare bus stop (signs “Karula rahvuspargi külastuskeskus 7 km”, “Saru 20 km”). Drive 7 km on Haabsaare–Saru road and follow the signs to the visitor centre of Karula National Park.
Geographic coordinatesLong-Lat WGS 84
latitude: 57.71247
longitude: 26.50496
L-EST 97 x: 6399499.7 y: 649284.7