The marshy Narew valley is dense reeds, reed beds and sedge meadows, all but inaccessible from the bank. That is why the park gives visitors wooden boardwalks — the best known runs from Waniewo to Śliwno and crosses successive river channels on floating pontoons and drawbridges that people pull across themselves with ropes.
It is a paradise for birds — the park's symbol is the marsh harrier, and in spring the valley fills with the calls of aquatic warblers, corncrakes and terns. The Narew is best explored from the water: kayak rentals operate in Kurowo (the park headquarters) and Waniewo, and a trip can be planned for a few hours or a whole day.
From Łomża you drive south along the Narew. On the way it is worth stopping in Tykocin — one of the prettiest small towns in Podlasie, with a Baroque market square and a rebuilt synagogue.
Good to know
- The Waniewo–Śliwno boardwalk is sometimes closed when water levels are high — check the park's announcements before you go.
- Access to the boardwalks is paid; tickets from machines or at the headquarters in Kurowo.
- Book kayak equipment ahead in season.
Official site: npn.pl