Weerribben-Wieden is one of the most biodiverse wetland habitats in the Netherlands, and it begins immediately at the edge of the village. The national park covers a vast expanse of reed beds, open water, and narrow channels — the same peatland landscape that Giethoorn sits in, but extending far beyond the tourist zone into genuine wilderness. Otters, marsh harriers, bitterns, and rare dragonfly species are all present in summer for those willing to move quietly and look carefully.
The park has canoe and kayak routes that go deeper into the landscape away from the main tourist traffic — these are the best way to experience the park's quieter channels and to see wildlife at close range. Walking and cycling routes also cross the park, including a network of farm tracks and dyke paths that can be linked into longer half-day or full-day circuits. The park information centre near Ossenzijl has maps, wildlife guides, and seasonal advice on where to look for particular species.