Dzūkija National Park, National park in Alytus County, Lithuania
Dzūkija National Park is a protected area in southeastern Lithuania featuring extensive forests, wetlands, and river valleys. The park spans a large area around the Nemunas River and contains diverse ecosystems with forests and marshes.
The park was established in 1991 to protect the Dainava lands and preserve the natural heritage of the region. This protected status has allowed the forests and wetlands to remain largely undisturbed since then.
Local people have long gathered mushrooms and berries from the forests as a way to earn money and sustain themselves. This tradition remains visible today in how residents move through and use the woodland throughout the seasons.
General entry to the park is free, though certain activities like kayaking, fishing, or visiting the Čepkeliai Marsh require special permits. Planning ahead and checking requirements with park authorities ensures a smooth visit.
Dozens of rivers and streams flow through the park and connect to the larger Nemunas basin. This extensive water network supports populations of otters and other wildlife rarely seen elsewhere in the region.
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