Background

Saimaa Geopark: A Journey Through Finland's Geological Past

Explore Finland's ancient geological history at Saimaa Geopark, a UNESCO site with stunning landscapes and unique natural formations.

4.8

Saimaa Geopark, located in the South Karelia and Southern Savonia regions of Finland, showcases the unique geological history of the Lake Saimaa area. With ancient bedrock shaped by the Ice Age, the park offers a glimpse into the region's formation over nearly two billion years.

A brief summary to Saimaa Geopark

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Saimaa Geopark Visitor Centre in Imatra to learn about the area's geology and history.
  • Explore the diverse landscapes through hiking, cycling, or canoeing.
  • Discover the unique natural and cultural sites within the geopark.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Imatra city center, you can reach Saimaa Geopark sites using local buses. Check the Jouko, Lappeenranta regional public transport, for schedules and routes to various locations within the Geopark. A single ticket for local transport within Imatra costs approximately €3-5. During major events like Imatranajo, special bus services and discounted tickets may be available.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Imatra. A taxi ride from the Imatra city center to a location within Saimaa Geopark, such as the Saimaa Geopark Visitor Centre, will cost around €14-19. The base fare is about €5.9, with an additional €1.7 per kilometer. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app.

  • Walking

    Many of Saimaa Geopark's attractions are easily accessible on foot from the center of Imatra. For example, the Saimaa Geopark Visitor Centre is located in the Culturehouse Virta, a short walk from the city center. Walking allows you to explore the city and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. No cost is associated with walking.

Unlock the Best of Saimaa Geopark

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Saimaa Geopark

Saimaa Geopark offers a captivating journey through the geological history of Finland's largest lake, Saimaa. Designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, this expansive area encompasses nine municipalities in South Karelia and Southern Savonia, boasting a diverse landscape shaped over nearly two billion years. The park's foundation lies in its ancient bedrock, formed at the bottom of an ancient sea. This bedrock, composed of gneisses and granites, tells the story of receding seas, mountain formation, and the gradual erosion that sculpted the landscape. The most recent Ice Age further transformed the region, leaving behind visible marks such as the Salpausselkä ridges, esker terrains, and erratic boulders. These formations provide a comprehensive view of the landscape-shaping forces of the Ice Age. Visitors can explore the park's 65 geosites, each offering a unique perspective on the region's geological past. The Saimaa Geopark Visitor Centre in Imatra provides a wealth of information on the area's geology and development, with exhibits showcasing rock samples, geological maps, and models of the Salpausselkä formations. Beyond geology, Saimaa Geopark highlights the area's natural environment and cultural heritage, with over 50 natural and cultural sites that illustrate the long-standing connection between people and the land. Activities such as hiking, cycling, and canoeing allow visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes and discover the hidden treasures of Lake Saimaa.

Popular Experiences near Saimaa Geopark

Popular Hotels near Saimaa Geopark

Select Currency