Ranua Wildlife Park Guided Tour from Rovaniemi, With Lunch

Key Points

• Visit the world’s northernmost zoo in Lapland, Finland, home to Finland’s only polar bears.
• Tour lasts 5 hours, including transportation, entrance, and a lunch break.
• Family-friendly experience with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
• Meet 50 Arctic species like brown bears, lynx, foxes, musk oxen, and more.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from Rovaniemi included.
• Wear warm clothes and bring your camera for this scenic wildlife adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Ranua Wildlife Park: Finland’s Most Northern Zoo

This guided tour departs from Rovaniemi and takes you roughly one hour into the Arctic forest to reach Ranua Wildlife Park, the world’s northernmost zoo. The park was established in 1983 and features spacious enclosures nestled in the natural conifer forests. The setting offers an authentic environment for the 50 Arctic and northern animal species housed there.

What makes this zoo special is that it houses Finland’s only polar bears, giving visitors a rare chance to observe these majestic creatures in their Arctic habitat. The park’s natural setting provides a serene backdrop for wildlife spotting, with the conifer forests adding to the sense of wilderness.

The guided aspect ensures that visitors gain insightful explanations about the animals’ behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts. The English-speaking guide enhances the experience by sharing detailed information throughout the visit. The park’s large enclosures are designed to mimic the animals’ natural environment, providing both comfort for the animals and a more engaging experience for visitors.

Exploring Arctic Wildlife: 50 Species to See

During the 5-hour tour, you’ll get the chance to see a wide variety of Arctic animals. Among the highlights are brown bears, lynx, foxes, and musk oxen. Each species is housed in spacious enclosures that replicate their natural habitat, helping visitors understand their behavior and adaptations.

The park also offers the chance to observe animals that are less common in other zoos. This includes polar bears, which are particularly notable as they are Finland’s only polar bears, and are a major highlight of the visit. The diverse collection of animals provides a comprehensive look at Arctic biodiversity.

The guided tour makes it easy to identify and learn about each species. The knowledgeable guide answers questions, shares anecdotes, and helps visitors appreciate the importance of wildlife conservation in the Arctic region.

Easy Access and Transportation from Rovaniemi

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rovaniemi, making the journey to Ranua Wildlife Park seamless. Transportation is arranged by bus or minibus, depending on the number of travelers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient ride to the park.

The one-hour drive from Rovaniemi takes you through scenic Lappish landscapes, with views of frozen lakes, forests, and winter scenery. The small group size allows for a more intimate experience and personalized attention from the English-speaking guide.

The tour starts at a designated pickup time, so it’s important to be punctual. The transportation is well-organized, and there’s no need to worry about parking or navigation—your focus can be on the sights ahead.

Visiting the Enclosures in the Arctic Forest Setting

Once at Ranua Wildlife Park, the spacious enclosures are set into the middle of the northern conifer forests. This setting not only provides a naturalistic environment for the animals but also immerses visitors in the authentic Arctic landscape.

The enclosures are designed to mirror the animals’ natural habitat, allowing for more authentic viewing. Visitors can expect to walk approximately 2.5 kilometers around the park at a relaxed pace, giving ample opportunity to observe the animals and take photos.

The park is open year-round, so whether visiting in winter or summer, the natural scenery and animal exhibits remain compelling. The park’s location in the Arctic forest makes for a peaceful, scenic backdrop during the visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Sweets: Resting in the Park’s Restaurant and Fazer Shop

After exploring the wildlife, the tour includes a lunch break at the park’s restaurant. The lunch buffet provides a simple but satisfying meal, with nothing overly fancy but adequate for a filling break.

Following the visit and lunch, visitors can browse the Fazer sweets shop, which offers a selection of Finnish chocolates and candies. This provides a nice opportunity to purchase souvenirs or enjoy a sweet treat before heading back to Rovaniemi.

The lunch is a practical addition, giving guests time to relax, reflect on the experience, and enjoy some local flavors.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by bus or minibus, entrance tickets to Ranua Wildlife Park, and the English-speaking guide. This makes it a worry-free experience, with no hidden costs for entry.

Participants should wear warm clothes and shoes—especially during winter months—since outdoor walking in Arctic temperatures is expected. It’s also advisable to bring a camera and drinking water for refreshments.

Note that pets, large luggage, drones, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted on the tour. The tour duration is around five hours, with some walking involved. It is not suitable for children under 3 years, persons with back problems, or wheelchair users.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out From Others

This small-group experience offers a personalized connection to Arctic wildlife in a setting that emphasizes natural habitat. The expert guide helps visitors understand the animals and their environment better, enhancing appreciation for Arctic conservation efforts.

The inclusion of lunch and shop visits adds value, making the half-day trip more complete. The easy logistics—including hotel pickup in Rovaniemi—are ideal for travelers seeking a convenient, family-friendly outing.

The high rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 35 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction, especially praising knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers great value, travelers should be prepared for cold weather, especially in winter. The lunch buffet is described as nothing special, so those seeking gourmet meals might want to plan additional dining options.

The physical activity includes walking approximately 2.5 kilometers, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The tour is not suitable for very young children under 3, or guests with specific mobility needs.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Arctic Wildlife Experience

The Ranua Wildlife Park Guided Tour from Rovaniemi provides an accessible and informative way to see Finland’s only polar bears and 50 Arctic species in a natural setting. The small-group format and professional guide ensure a personalized experience that educates and entertains.

With hotel pickup, transportation, and lunch included, this tour offers good value for $171 per person. It’s particularly well-suited for families and wildlife enthusiasts eager to discover Arctic fauna in a peaceful forest environment.

While visitors should dress warmly and be prepared for outdoor walking, the scenic landscapes and close animal encounters make this a memorable addition to any Arctic adventure in Rovaniemi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but it is not suitable for children under 3 years or those with mobility limitations.

What should I wear for the tour?
Warm clothes and shoes are essential, especially during winter, to stay comfortable during outdoor walks.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Rovaniemi are included, along with transportation by bus or minibus.

What animals can I expect to see?
You will see 50 Arctic and northern animal species, including polar bears, brown bears, lynx, foxes, and musk oxen.

Is the lunch buffet included?
Yes, a lunch buffet is part of the tour, providing a simple meal at the park’s restaurant.

How long is the walking involved?
Expect to walk approximately 2.5 kilometers at a relaxed pace during your visit.

Can I visit the park in any season?
Yes, the park is open year-round, offering scenic views and animal encounters in all seasons.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small group size, naturalistic enclosures, and expert English guide make this tour particularly engaging and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby