Visiting Lapland isn’t just about chasing the Northern Lights or meeting Santa Claus — it’s also about discovering the incredible wildlife that calls the Arctic home. Just one hour south of Rovaniemi lies Ranua Wildlife Park, also known as Ranua Zoo, Finland’s most famous wildlife park and the only place in the country where you can see polar bears.

Our Explore Ranua Zoo with Shared Tour is designed to make this experience easy, enjoyable, and memorable. You’ll travel comfortably from Rovaniemi with a professional guide, enjoy stories about Lapland’s animals and ecosystems, and spend a full day walking through the forested park trails that showcase more than 50 species of arctic and northern wildlife.
 
This isn’t your average zoo trip — it’s a journey into the heart of the Arctic.
 
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A Wildlife Park Like No Other
 
Ranua Wildlife Park was founded in 1983 and quickly became one of Lapland’s most beloved attractions. Unlike traditional city zoos, Ranua is located deep in the forest. The animals live in large, natural enclosures that mimic their real habitats. Walking the 2.8-kilometer trail feels less like visiting a zoo and more like exploring a northern wilderness where the animals just happen to live nearby.
 
Here, you’ll meet:
- Polar bears – the only ones in Finland, and the park’s main stars.
- Wolves and lynxes – apex predators of the north, often active in the cooler hours of the day.
- Brown bears – mighty giants that spend their summers eating and their winters hibernating.
- Moose and reindeer – symbols of Lapland, standing tall and proud in their forest enclosures.
- Arctic foxes and wolverines – small but fierce survivors of the harsh climate.
- Owls, eagles, and other northern birds – silent hunters and majestic flyers that thrive in Lapland’s skies.
 
With around 150–200 animals across 50+ species, you’ll experience a true cross-section of Arctic wildlife in one visit.
 
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The Journey from Rovaniemi
 
Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Rovaniemi. No need to worry about buses, tickets, or driving icy winter roads — we take care of everything. Settle into a comfortable vehicle and enjoy the scenic drive through Lapland’s forests, lakes, and villages. Your guide will share fascinating insights along the way, from local legends about wolves and bears to details about how animals survive the long Arctic winters.
 
The drive itself takes about an hour, but the landscapes you pass make the time fly. Snow-covered trees in winter, glowing colors in autumn, or lush green in summer — Lapland is beautiful in every season.
 
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Exploring Ranua Wildlife Park
 
Upon arrival, your guide will arrange the tickets (included in your tour) and lead the way inside. The walking trail is designed to follow the natural terrain of the forest, circling around to bring you close to each enclosure.
 
The beauty of Ranua is its natural setting:
- The paths are surrounded by pine and birch trees.
- Enclosures blend into the forest, giving the animals space to live and behave naturally.
- Depending on the time of year, you may see tracks in the snow, spring flowers, autumn colors, or the glow of the midnight sun.
 
You’ll have plenty of time to stroll, stop for photos, watch animal behaviors, and ask questions. Your guide will share information about each species, their role in the ecosystem, and fun facts you won’t find on the signboards.
 
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What’s Included in the Tour
- Round-trip transportation from Rovaniemi hotels
- Professional guide to provide stories, facts, and help during the day
- Entrance tickets to Ranua Wildlife Park
- Snacks to keep your energy up during the trip
 
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Important Things to Know
 
While the park is accessible for most travelers, please note:
- Not wheelchair or stroller accessible
- Infants must sit on laps (no infant seats provided)
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions
 
Tip: Always dress for the season. In winter, temperatures can drop below –20°C, so warm layers, hats, gloves, and good winter boots are essential. In summer, light clothing with a waterproof layer is best, as Lapland weather can change quickly.
 
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A Seasonal Adventure
 
One of the best things about Ranua Zoo is how different it feels depending on when you visit:
- Winter (November–March): A true winter wonderland. Snow covers the trees, the air is crisp, and many animals are active in the cooler climate. Seeing polar bears surrounded by snow is an iconic Lapland moment.
- Spring (April–May): Snow melts, daylight grows longer, and the forest comes back to life. It’s a great time to spot young animals.
- Summer (June–August): The park is green, vibrant, and full of life. Under the Midnight Sun, the animals often stay active much longer than in winter.
- Autumn (September–October): The forest glows with red and gold, and the crisp air makes walking comfortable. Fewer visitors mean a quieter, more intimate experience.
 
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Why Choose the Shared Tour?
 
You might wonder — why join a shared tour instead of going on your own?
- Convenience: No planning, no driving, no worrying about tickets. Everything is included.
- Value: Shared tours are more affordable than private tours while still offering the comfort of guided travel.
- Social: Meet other travelers, share the experience, and maybe make new friends.
- Insight: Your guide shares local knowledge and animal facts that make your visit much more meaningful.
 
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Sample Itinerary
- 09:00 – Hotel pickup in Rovaniemi
- 10:00 – Scenic drive through Lapland forests
- 10:30–13:30 – Explore Ranua Wildlife Park with your guide
- 13:30 – Short break for refreshments or visiting the park café/gift shop
- 14:00 – Departure from Ranua back to Rovaniemi
- 15:00–16:00 – Drop-off at your hotel
 
(Exact times may vary depending on season and group size.)
 
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Tips for the Best Experience
- Bring a camera or binoculars — some animals are shy, and you’ll want to capture the moment.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the trail is about 2.8 km through forest paths.
- Respect the animals — stay quiet, avoid sudden movements, and never try to feed them.
- Take your time — the joy of Ranua is not rushing but soaking in the atmosphere of the Arctic forest.
 
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More Than Just a Zoo Visit
 
Ranua Wildlife Park is not only about entertainment; it also plays a role in education and conservation. The park participates in international breeding programs, raises awareness about endangered species, and provides a safe haven for animals that could not survive in the wild.
 
By joining this tour, you’re not only enjoying a day out but also supporting important work for wildlife protection.
 
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Who Will Love This Tour?
- Families – Kids are fascinated by the polar bears and other animals.
- Nature lovers – A perfect way to combine forest walking with wildlife watching.
- Couples and solo travelers – A relaxed, scenic day out that doesn’t require planning.
- Photography enthusiasts – Unique opportunities to capture Arctic animals in natural settings.
 
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A Day You’ll Remember
 
Imagine this: snow crunching under your boots, a guide leading you along a quiet forest trail, and suddenly — a glimpse of a polar bear rolling in the snow or a wolf pacing through the trees. These moments stay with you long after the trip is over.
 
The Explore Ranua Zoo with Shared Tour is more than just a day trip — it’s a chance to connect with the wildlife and landscapes that make Lapland so special.
 
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Ready to Explore?
 
If you’re staying in Rovaniemi, this tour is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to discover Arctic wildlife. With transport, tickets, and guiding included, all you need to do is show up, dress warmly, and enjoy the adventure.
 
Book your spot on the Explore Ranua Zoo with Shared Tour today — and let Lapland’s wild side amaze you.