When we watch documentaries featuring polar bears, wolves, lynxes, and reindeer, we understand that only hunters, photographers, or wildlife enthusiasts can witness such scenes. But that’s not entirely true, fortunately, on our planet, there are secret corners for observing wild Arctic animals in their natural habitat. Want to see Arctic creatures? Then visit the Ranua Arctic Zoo in Lapland.
This place is located near the small town of Ranua, just an hour’s drive from Rovaniemi. On your trip, do not forget to visit the capital of Lapland – Rovaniemi, which is written about in detail here.
Magical Arctic Zoo Ranua in Lapland.
The Ranua Zoo in Lapland is surrounded by marshes, lakes, and forests. It is one of the northernmost zoos in the world. Besides, it also serves as a hospital for animals. The territory of the Arctic park is not large, but more than 200 Arctic animals freely live and move around it.
The park is located right in the spruce forest; there are hardly any cages here, and all the inhabitants lead a free life, while people move along high bridges and paths. The park is arranged so that you walk along wooden walkways, three kilometers long, and from above, you see wolves, reindeer, lynxes, and wolverines. And this is the only place in Lapland where you can see polar bears.
Everything here is designed so that the animals feel completely comfortable, and humans can only observe. It is very quiet here, and only the muffled hooting of owls is heard in the depths of the reserve forest.
I am charmed by the snow. I love to listen to it crunching under my feet. The landscapes around are unparalleled; northern beauty has its charm, it enchants and mesmerizes, leaving no traveler indifferent.
At the beginning of the walk through the zoo, there is a little house where mice, rodents, and their furry neighbors will scuttle about. Further on, you can see graceful owls and proud eagles.
In addition to the northern reindeer, there are also regular American reindeer living here. In 1930, two pairs were brought to Lapland, and they gave offspring to two thousand individuals. They mainly live in the southern part of the country and are controlled by hunters. By the way, about hunting. It’s hard to believe what I’m about to say, but in 1970, almost the entire wild reindeer population in the country was destroyed by hunters. The Finns came to their senses in time and eventually restored the population. Now they live here. Apparently, they are very comfortable here. Just look at these well-fed, contented faces.
Want to learn more about Lapland? Don’t miss my post about the fairytale village of Santa Claus.
Useful recommendations before visiting.
Come prepared for the cold! Even in the summer months, the temperature in the Arctic region can be low.
Make sure to wear multiple layers of clothing, including a thick jacket, hat, gloves, and insulated boots – you’ll definitely want to explore every corner of this magical world.
Combine a walk near the animals with a picnic on the white snow, as fire pits are installed along the entire route.
In winter, you can ride dog and reindeer sleds, snowmobiles, and skis in the park. And in the summer, there is a horse sports complex.
At Ranua Zoo, you can also observe animal feeding. You can find out the feeding times here http://www.ranuazoo.com/Russian.
For a deeper understanding of the Arctic ecosystem and its inhabitants, consider joining one of the guided tours offered by the zoo. Knowledgeable guides will accompany you, providing fascinating insights into the behavior, biology, and conservation efforts related to the animals. From polar bear feeding sessions to husky safaris, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
There are several shops and restaurants near the zoo. The most popular one is the chocolate shop of the Fazer factory. Sweets are sold here by the kilogram.
Don’t forget to visit the Lapland wine shop. These wines are made from local northern berries – cranberries, lingonberries, blueberries, and cloudberries. Cloudberry is another symbol of Ranua. After all, swamps are everywhere, and as we know, cloudberry grows specifically on them. Cloudberry crops are usually very abundant, and in the summer, a cloudberry festival is held. The residents of Suomi treat the berry with great care and reverence. They not only eat it but also export popular liqueurs and jams made from cloudberry. Since 1999, coins with the image of this berry have been minted in Finland with a denomination of 2 euros.
If you want to read more about great nature walks, read my post about Oulanka National Park.
How to get to the Ranua Arctic Zoo.
Here’s your comprehensive guide on how to come to the Ranua Arctic Zoo and make the most of your visit:
The nearest major airport to Ranua is Rovaniemi Airport (RVN), located approximately 80 kilometers away. Several airlines operate regular flights to Rovaniemi from Helsinki, Finland’s capital. From Rovaniemi, you can opt for a rental car or book a transfer service to reach Ranua Arctic Zoo. The journey takes around an hour and a half by road.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Helsinki if you’re traveling from another country.
I highly recommend traveling by car as it is the most convenient and direct option. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
Address: Rovaniementie 29, Ranua, Finland.
Be extremely careful on the road. Road sign “Attention! Wild animals!” should be taken literally. Deer often cross the tracks. This is their domain, and you are just guests here.
If you are planning to visit Lapland for the first time, here is a list of the most beautiful places that I highly recommend you not to miss!
The best hotels near Ranua Zoo.
Are you planning a memorable trip to Ranua Zoo in Lapland and seeking the perfect place to stay? Look no further! Lapland, with its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife experiences, offers an array of charming accommodations to complement your adventure. Here’s a roundup of the best hotels near Ranua Zoo that promise comfort, convenience, and a touch of Lapland’s magic:
Arctic Fox Igloos – located just a stone’s throw away from Ranua Zoo, Arctic Fox Igloos offer a one-of-a-kind stay under the mesmerizing northern lights. These glass-roofed igloos provide panoramic views of the Arctic wilderness while ensuring cozy and luxurious interiors. With excellent amenities and attentive service, Arctic Fox Igloos guarantee an unforgettable Lapland experience.
Gulo Gulo Holiday Village – nestled amidst the serene forests of Lapland, Gulo Gulo Holiday Village is a perfect retreat for families and nature enthusiasts. Situated near Ranua Wildlife Park, this village-style accommodation offers comfortable cabins equipped with modern amenities. Guests can indulge in various outdoor activities, including husky safaris, reindeer rides, and Northern Lights tours, making it an ideal base for exploring Ranua and its surroundings.
Hotel Ilveslinna – boasting a picturesque location by Lake Ranuanjärvi, Hotel Ilveslinna provides guests with a tranquil setting to unwind after a day of wildlife encounters. The hotel features cozy rooms, a sauna, and an on-site restaurant serving delectable Lappish cuisine. Its proximity to Ranua Zoo and other attractions makes it a convenient choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
A journey to Ranua Arctic Zoo in Lapland promises an unforgettable encounter with the wonders of the Arctic wilderness. Whether you’re marveling at the majestic polar bears or admiring the agility of the arctic foxes, each moment spent here is sure to leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on an extraordinary expedition to Lapland’s icy paradise.
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