15 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Finland

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Finland is famous for many reasons, but what is most surprising is that it is one of the happiest countries in the world

. In addition, they have some of the most impressive zoos and aquariums full of awe and wonder.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 15 best zoos & aquariums in Finland, including everything you can expect on your visit.

Read on to get a taste of this beautiful country.

Zoos & Aquariums in Finland

1. Helsinki Zoo 

Home to more than 200 species, the Helsinki Zoo is an excellent choice for animal lovers.

Some of the most popular residents include tigers, elephants, gorillas, and snow leopards. 

The zoo has a very relaxed and calming atmosphere that puts visitors at ease.

There are also several enclosures where I was able to get up close and personal with the animals. 

There are not only many animals, but also the exhibits offer great lighting, an ability to see animals much more clearly, and even to interact with them to a certain degree. 

2. Tampere Zoo 

If you want a unique experience, head to the Tampere Zoo.

This family-friendly destination features more than 400 animals from all over the world!

You can get up close with many of them, such as monkeys, lemurs, and reptiles. 

But what makes this zoo special is the opportunity to feed some animals, including zebras.

There are plenty of interactive activities for children to enjoy too.

It’s a family-fun location that everyone can enjoy together.

3. Turku Aquarium 

For those looking for an underwater adventure, the Turku Aquarium is a great place to visit.

This aquarium features over 500 different species of fish and other aquatic life.

You can even dive in the tanks to get up close with some of them! 

Many fascinating sea creatures live here, including jellyfish, octopuses, and starfish.

Plus, there are plenty of educational activities available for kids as well.

It is a fantastic experience to observe these creatures up close. 

4. Oulu Zoo 

Set amongst lush forests and meadows, the Oulu Zoo is an excellent place for nature lovers.

The zoo features over 500 animals from various habitats, including deserts, jungles, and even arctic tundra.

You won’t be disappointed when you visit this zoo.

If you take the time, you can observe some of these animals in their natural environment.

Plus, plenty of educational programs are available, too, making it an ideal spot for learning more about wildlife.

5. Kuopio Aquarium 

The Kuopio Aquarium is the perfect place to explore the underwater world.

Featuring a wide range of marine species, visitors can interact with sharks, stingrays, and jellyfish.

Plus, there are plenty of educational activities available here as well.

You can take the opportunity to learn something new while experiencing all the marine life.

The aquarium staff members are very knowledgeable and passionate about the animals they look after.

They even offer guided tours, allowing guests to look closely at some of the creatures living here. 

6. Lapland Safari 

If you are looking for a unique experience, then Lapland Safari is the perfect destination.

Located in the northernmost part of Finland, this safari park offers visitors a chance to observe some of the rarest species that call this region home. 

They have special areas dedicated to huskies and reindeer.

You can also go on guided tours to learn more about wildlife and its habitats. 

7. Korkeasaaren Eläintarh

Korkeasaaren Eläintarh is one of the oldest animal parks in Finland, and it’s worth a visit.

The park features over 200 species of animals from all around the world, including polar bears, lynxes, and red pandas. 

Plenty of interactive activities are available for children, such as feeding the animals and exploring the playground.

Plus, there is a mini train that tourists can take for a tour around the park when they want a break from walking. 

8. Maretarium

Found in the historic city of Turku, the Maretarium is an excellent spot to explore the underwater world.

The aquarium features over 150 species and has a diving pool where visitors can swim alongside some creatures! 

It’s one of the few aquariums in the world where you can come face-to-face with some wildlife.

There are plenty of educational activities available as well.

It’s a fantastic experience that you won’t soon forget. 

9. Tervakoski Nature Reserve

Not as much a traditional zoo or aquarium as the others, but it takes the cake (no pun intended) regarding its diversity and fun. 

The Tervakoski Nature Reserve is a great spot to explore the natural wonders of Finland.

The reserve features over 1000 species of plants, animals, and birds. 

You can take a boat trip on the lake or explore the hiking and biking trails for more adventurous types.

With the option for exploration, you will see so much more at this location than you could have imagined.

10. Elf’s Farmyard

The Elf’s Farmyard is an excellent spot for families.

Featuring over 200 animals from all around the world, this attraction also offers plenty of activities for kids.

There is a petting zoo, pony rides, tractor rides, and even a playground. 

You can also take the alpacas for a walk around the forest.

If reindeer are more your style, you can also take them for a walk.

Elf’s Farmyard is open for year-round fun, offering winter sledding and access to the barbecue/campfire.

You can choose to be an observer or take a moment to stop and pet some of the animals.

11. Ähtäri Zoo

Ähtäri Zoo is considered to be one of the most popular zoos in Finland, and it is easy to see why.

The zoo has over 200 species of animals, including polar bears, wolves, and lynxes. 

These make up a very rare collection of rare animals, their stories, and even some associated fun things to do.

There are interactive experiences, such as feeding the animals while being supervised by the staff. 

The zoo includes a farm where you can pet and feed different animals for a sweet up-close-and-personal experience.

12. Tropicario Tropical Indoor Zoo

Another great spot in Finland is the Tropicario Tropical Indoor Zoo.

This zoo is unique and a great place to watch over 300 species of rare animals and plants, making it one of the largest indoor zoos in the world. 

The zoo also features a rainforest experience where visitors can explore the many different species of animals and plants living in it.

While having an excellent time, you’ll be treated to a unique educational experience.

13. Zoolandia

Zoolandia is a great place to explore and see some of the most exotic animals in the world.

Situated in the city of Jyväskylä, this zoo holds over 500 species of animals and plants.

The venue also hosts a wide range of events, from family-friendly activities to educational seminars. 

The butterfly garden is fascinating as it allows observing and learning more about these beautiful creatures.

A nocturnal house is also filled with active and visible animals at night, allowing you to see first-hand the different animals of the night.

14. Maretarium

An aquarium plus a zoo plus a theme park, Maretarium is the perfect place for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike.

It is in the city of Kotka and was founded in the mid-1990s. 

This venue houses over 300 species of fish, reptiles, and mammals in its tanks, as well as a wide range of educational activities and experiences.

The interactive exhibits, such as the predator pond and shark enclosure, are perfect for visitors looking to learn more about the animal kingdom. 

This unique experience offers visitors a look into the underwater world and exhibits showcasing the hidden world. 

15. Domestic Animal Park Korpikeidas

A rather unique “zoo” for domestic animals, the Korpikeidas animal park is dedicated to animals you can tame.

The animals feature a wide range of breeds, including cats, horses, llamas, mini-pigs, and iguanas. 

The park allows people to interact with the animals and explore the domestic side of nature in a more hands-on way. 

There are even some domestic cockroaches as well that people pet.

Having a cockroach follow your finger or a friendly lizard crawling all over you is an experience to behold. 

15 Best Zoos & Aquariums in Finland – Summary Table

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