Mariy Chodra was created to protect rare plants: more than 115 rare plant species are documented. There are fourteen tourist routes in the park; the most popular attractions being Yalchik, Glukhoye, and Kichiyer Lakes, the rafting on the Ilet and Yushut Rivers, Pugachov's Oak, and the Maple Mountain.
There are more than fourteen tourist centers in Mariy Chodra, which play a major role in the recreation of the republics of Mari El, Tatarstan, and Chuvashia.
