Ranua Wildlife Park🎡 recreation
A wildlife park in Ranua specializing in Arctic animal species.
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Ranua Wildlife Park
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Ranua Wildlife Park, opened in 1983, is the northernmost zoo in Finland and is located approximately 80 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. The park specializes in displaying Arctic and Nordic animal species in their natural habitats, with large enclosures seamlessly integrated into the surrounding boreal coniferous forest. Its most famous residents are the polar bears, the only ones in Finland, making the park a vital center for education and species conservation. In total, the facility houses around 50 different species and approximately 200 individual animals, including brown bears, wolves, lynxes, moose, and various birds of prey. A 2.8-kilometer wooden boardwalk winds through the park, providing accessible passage for visitors even in winter, when the animals are particularly active in the snow. The park actively participates in international breeding programs for endangered species and operates a wildlife clinic for injured animals rescued from the Lapland region.
- Location: Finnish Lapland, Finland
- Top sights: Ranua Wildlife Park · Domestic animal park · Takajärvi lintutorni
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -12 | -11 | -7 | -1 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 13 | 8 | 1 | -5 | -9 |
| Rain mm | 52 | 42 | 44 | 49 | 74 | 81 | 95 | 85 | 85 | 70 | 65 | 62 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Ranua Wildlife Park is a year-round wildlife park in Lapland. Animals are visible in spacious outdoor enclosures, but there are also covered viewing areas for colder days.
Typical hours
Opening hours vary by season: longer in summer, shorter in winter. Typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park, but no flash near the animals. There are no restrictions for personal memories except in some indoor areas.
Time needed
Plan to spend about two to three hours for a visit. With children, you can easily spend half a day, especially if you make use of feedings and playgrounds.
Combine with
The park is near Rovaniemi and can be combined with a visit to Santa Claus Village. A trip into the snowy wilderness of Lapland is also recommended.
Getting there
The park is accessible by car or bus from Rovaniemi. There is parking on site, and buses stop near the entrance.
Insider tip
Dress warmly - even in summer it can be cool in Lapland. Bring binoculars to better observe the animals from a distance.
Geography
Facts
- Opened in 1983 as Finland's northernmost wildlife park
- Located just 80 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle
- Home to Finland's only captive polar bears
- Features approximately 50 different northern animal species
- Equipped with a 2.8 km wooden walkway for visitors
- Member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA)
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Ranua Wildlife Park (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are there polar bears in the park?
Yes, Ranua is the only place in Finland where you can see polar bears.
How far is the park from Rovaniemi?
It is about 80 km south of Rovaniemi, roughly a 1-hour drive.
Is the park open in winter?
Yes, the park is open daily all year round.
How long does a visit take?
Plan about 2 to 3 hours for the 2.8 km long wooden boardwalk trail.
Can strollers be brought?
Yes, the boardwalk is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Ranua Wildlife Park: where is it located?
Ranua Wildlife Park is located in Finnish Lapland, Finland.
Ranua Wildlife Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ranua Wildlife Park, Domestic animal park, Takajärvi lintutorni.
Ranua Wildlife Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Ranua Wildlife Park: why is it worth visiting?
Ranua Wildlife Park, opened in 1983, is the northernmost zoo in Finland and is located approximately 80 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle.
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