Flora & Fauna
Despite its small size, Switzerland is surprisingly rich in species — thanks to the enormous differences in altitude (196 m at Lago Maggiore to 4,634 m Dufourspitze), various habitats exist in close proximity.
Wildlife
- Marmots: The cute rodents can be seen — and heard — everywhere in the Alps above 1,800 m: Their piercing warning whistle echoes through the mountains. Best observed in the morning and evening.
- Ibex: Almost extinct, now over 17,000 animals in Switzerland thanks to protection programs. Easiest to see in the National Park (Engadin) and on Pilatus.
- Chamois: Present throughout the Alps — these agile climbers are often seen on steep rock faces.
- Bearded Vulture: The largest bird in the Alps (wingspan 2.8 m) was eradicated and successfully reintroduced since 1991. Today, over 250 animals in the Alpine region.
- Lynx: Reintroduced in the Jura and the Pre-Alps since 1971 — around 300 animals, but very shy.
Alpine Flowers
In June/July, the alpine meadows explode into a sea of flowers: Gentian (deep blue), Alpine roses (pink, entire slopes), Edelweiss (rare, protected!), Arnica, and hundreds of other species. The most beautiful flower meadows can be found on the First above Grindelwald, on the Rigi, and in the National Park.
Swiss National Park
The only national park in Switzerland (since 1914, the oldest in the Alps) is located in the Engadin (Graubünden): 170 km² of untouched nature, strictly protected — no path may be left, no stone taken. Ibex, marmots, deer, and bearded vultures in the wild. Free entry, marked hiking trails. Best access: Zernez (National Park Center, 10 CHF).
💡 Tipp
You can best see marmots early in the morning (6–8 AM) or late in the afternoon (4–6 PM) when they emerge from their burrows. Sit quietly and wait — they come closer than you think. They are particularly friendly at First (Grindelwald) and on the Rigi. Bring binoculars!
