Dzūkija National Park was founded in 1991. It is the largest specially protected nature area in Lithuania and one of the most forested areas in the country. The national park is rich in rivers, the banks of which have impressive sedimentary outcrops, as well as hundreds of springs. Also valuable habitats are meadows, floodplain meadows, marshes and other wetlands. In total, almost 2,000 plant species and 2,108 animal species, including insects, have been found in the park. One of the most important cultural and historical values is the ethnographic villages, where beekeeping, crafts, architecture, culinary and other traditions have been preserved. The well-known local tradition is mushrooming and berry picking. There are walking, cycling and water tourism routes in the park. Visitor centres are located in Merkinė small town and Marcinkonys village.