Offroad in Estonia: what’s allowed and where to start
Estonia has sandy forest roads, deep mud in spring and proper snow in winter. Here’s what we, an Estonia-based offroad crew, tell everyone who wants to start, legally and safely.
The rules
- In forests you may drive on the roads. Driving off the road requires the landowner’s permission (Forest Act § 35).
- Old tracks and forest lines are not roads. In state forests, ask RMK for permission first.
- In protected areas, extra restrictions apply. Check the area’s protection rules before you go.
- Estonia’s freedom to roam covers walking, cycling and camping, not driving wherever you want.
Read more: RMK – Freedom to roam
Where to drive
The easiest legal way to really go offroad is at an organised event or on a track with the owner’s permission. The Estonian 4×4 events calendar is at offroad.ee. The best-known event is Klaperjaht, held every summer in Tartumaa.
Gear to bring
- Recovery strap or kinetic rope and soft shackles (recovery gear)
- Shovel and traction boards
- Tyre repair kit and compressor
- A second car. Never go alone.
When you get serious: a winch, a lift kit, a snorkel and a roof rack for overlanding trips.
Let’s drive together
Many people tell us they’d love to go offroad but have no one to go with. Join the Ridin Dirty offroad group on Facebook to find people to drive with in your own country, wherever you are in the world.
Not sure where to go or what your car needs? You can always contact us. Message us on WhatsApp: +372 56868535 and let’s plan a drive together.