Martimoaapa Mire Reserve: A Lapland Wilderness

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Explore vast mires, diverse birdlife, and serene landscapes in Martimoaapa Mire Reserve, a hidden gem of Finnish Lapland.

Martimoaapa Mire Reserve, located near Simo in Finnish Lapland, is a vast protected area showcasing some of Northern Europe's finest aapa mires. This unique landscape of open bogs, forests, and diverse birdlife offers hiking, birdwatching, and a tranquil escape into nature.

A brief summary to Martimoaapa

Simo, 94500, FI
Click to display

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Martimoaapa.

Visit during early morning or late evening for the best light and chances to spot wildlife.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching; nearly 100 species nest in the area.
Wear waterproof footwear, as trails can be wet, especially during spring floods.
Check for fire warnings before your visit, as open fires may be prohibited.
Pack insect repellent, especially during the summer months, to ward off mosquitoes.

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Getting There

Car

The most common way to reach Martimoaapa is by car. From Simo, drive northeast on E8 for about 20 km. Turn onto Sompujärventie road and follow signs for approximately 29 km to Hangassalmenaho parking area. From Kemi, drive approximately 30 km to Kivalot parking area. Parking is free at both locations. Note that Sompujärventie is a small road, so drive carefully.
Public Transport

To reach Martimoaapa via public transport, take a bus from Oulu or Rovaniemi to Simo. From Simo, the closest bus stop is in Alaniemi, about 4 km from Hangassalmenaho. From the Simo bus station, you will need to take a local taxi or rideshare service to reach the Martimoaapa area, as public transport does not go directly to the reserve. Expect taxi fares to range from €20 to €30. Bus tickets from Oulu to Simo cost approximately €10-€18.
Walking

If you are near Simo, you can walk to Martimoaapa. Follow marked trails towards Martimoaapa. The distance is approximately 5 km and will take around 1 to 1.5 hours on foot. Ensure you have appropriate footwear and check the weather before your hike.

Discover more about Martimoaapa

Martimoaapa Mire Reserve, a significant part of the Martimoaapa–Lumiaapa–Penikat mire complex, stands as one of Northern Finland's most important mire conservation areas. Established in 1981, the reserve protects a diverse range of mire types, including aapa bogs, raised bogs, and flark fens. These varied landscapes provide habitats for nearly 100 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The area's history stretches back thousands of years, with traces of human activity dating to prehistoric times. The name 'Martimo' itself is derived from the Sami word for 'marten,' reflecting the area's long connection to Lapland's indigenous people. The reserve features several hiking trails, including the accessible trail to Järviaapa, the family-friendly Nature Trail, and the longer Martimoaapa Hiking Trail. These trails, many with duckboards, lead visitors through the heart of the mires, past wilderness huts, lean-to shelters, and birdwatching towers. Visitors can explore the open, treeless views of Lumiaapa and Simoskanaapa, or discover the unique vegetation of Järviaapa, which depends on rainwater. Lake Martimojärvi, in the eastern part of the reserve, offers fishing opportunities and scenic beauty. The forests within the reserve, some old-growth, provide habitats for game birds and diverse fauna. Whether hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the peace, Martimoaapa offers an immersive experience in the Lapland wilderness.