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Ranua Zoo: Arctic Wildlife Adventure

Discover Arctic wildlife in their natural habitat at Ranua Zoo, home to Finland's only polar bears, in the heart of Finnish Lapland.

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Ranua Zoo, also known as Ranua Wildlife Park, is a unique zoo in Finnish Lapland, showcasing Arctic and Northern animal species in spacious natural environments. Home to Finland's only polar bears and around 50 other species, it provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Ranua Zoo

Local tips

  • Check the Ranua Wildlife Park website for online ticket discounts and to save money on admission.
  • Dress warmly in layers, especially during winter, as the zoo is primarily outdoors.
  • Allocate at least 3 hours to fully explore the zoo's 2.5 to 3 km walking trail and observe the diverse Arctic animal species.
  • Consider visiting during different seasons to experience the unique charm of the zoo in both winter and summer landscapes.
  • If visiting with children, take advantage of the playground and activity park available at the zoo.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Rovaniemi, the most common way to reach Ranua Zoo is by bus. Several tour operators offer round-trip shuttle services from Rovaniemi city center and Santa Claus Village, including hotel pick-up and drop-off. The bus journey takes approximately one hour, covering a distance of 80 km. A round trip shuttle service will cost around $85.55 per person, but does not include the entrance fee to the zoo. Kutilan Liikenne Oy operates a direct bus from Rovaniemi to Eläinpuisto E (Ranua Zoo) twice daily, with tickets costing between €6-€25. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Rovaniemi to Ranua Zoo, which takes approximately 56 minutes and costs between €140-€180. Once you arrive at Ranua Zoo, the entrance is clearly marked and easily accessible from the bus stop or parking area.

  • Car

    If you are driving from Rovaniemi, Ranua Zoo is located approximately 80 km south of the city. The drive takes about an hour. From Rovaniemi, follow highway 78 towards Ranua. The route is well-signposted. Parking is available at Ranua Zoo. However, during peak season, parking might be limited. Parking costs are not specified.

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Discover more about Ranua Zoo

Ranua Zoo, or Ranua Wildlife Park, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Arctic wildlife. Located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, about an hour's drive from Rovaniemi, this unique zoo specializes in animals native to the Arctic and northern regions. Unlike traditional zoos, Ranua Zoo provides spacious enclosures set within a northern coniferous forest, closely resembling the animals' natural habitats. Founded in 1983 with the goal of boosting tourism in the Ranua municipality, the zoo has become a leading attraction in Lapland. It is home to approximately 50 species and 150 individual animals, including iconic Arctic predators like polar bears, lynx, wolves, and brown bears. Visitors can also observe other fascinating creatures such as wolverines, moose, otters, arctic foxes, and various bird species, including eight species of owls. A highlight of the zoo is the presence of Finland's only polar bears, Venus and Sisu, who have successfully raised cubs, a rare achievement in captivity. The zoo is designed as a walk-through wildlife park with a 2.5 to 3-kilometer wooden boardwalk that winds through the forest. This allows visitors to observe the animals in a natural setting while ensuring accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers. The experience varies with the seasons, offering a unique perspective each time. In winter, the zoo transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, while summer brings lush greenery and opportunities for various activities. Ranua Zoo is committed to animal welfare and participates in the European Endangered Species Program (EEP) to protect endangered species. The zoo also offers various services and activities, including a restaurant, café, and souvenir shop. For families, there is a large activity park and playground.

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