The landscape of the Karula uplands, formed thousands of years ago by continental glacial activity, is noted for its rich diversity; marshes, swamp-forests, small lakes, streams, meadows and floret-covered knolls and hills.
Seventyper cent of the territory of the national park is forest and there are 38 lakes.
The cultural landscape is sparsely inhabited. Narrow fields, plots of forests, mires, meadows and farmsteads all give the landscape an especially intimate feel.
Tornimägi Hill, the highest in the park at 137 metres, is situated near Lüllemäe.
157 species of birds have been spotted in Karula National Park.
The most typical large mammals living in the park are moose, western roe deer, wild boar and lynx. Common small mammals include the red fox, raccoon dog, polecat, brown hare, red squirrel and European beaver.
The visitor centre in Karula National Park lies close to Lake Ähijärv. It provides information about hiking trails, campsites and sights in the national park, a multimedia slide show and exhibitions.
