South Estonia has got a land that is surrounded by hills and has a curved landscape. The highest of the uplands in South Estonia are that of Otepaa and Haanja. Southern Estonia carries the cultural heritage of the bygone days.
There are evidences of pagan signs and symbols in the various names of the places of southern part of Estonia.
Otepaa is the winter capital of South Estonia. This part has got facilities for various winter sports. There are also a number of pristine lakes, where swimming is a major recreation besides fishing activity. The rivers of Elva and Emajogi are located in this region. This place also abounds in bogs. This is an ideal natural park of South Estonia.
Haanja has got the Suur Munamagi, which is known to be the highest point in the Baltic States. There is an observation tower at the hill-top. This tower was built in the year of 1939. The part of southern Estonia that is close to the Russian border follows orthodox religion. This place is called Setomaa.
The region is full of bogs, rivers and forests. The major rivers of this area are the Vohandu, Ahja and the Piusa rivers. Sand Caves of Piusa is a major attraction of South Estonian region. Tartu is the second largest town of South Estonia.