Lapland, Finland
Ranua Wildlife Park, located approximately 1 hour (80 km/50 miles) south of Rovaniemi, is the northernmost wildlife park in the world, specializing in Arctic and northern animal species. It features animals like polar bears, brown bears (visible in summer), lynx, wolves, Arctic foxes, moose, and various birds. The park includes boardwalks that allow for close viewing of animals in spacious enclosures.
Access is by organized bus tours from Rovaniemi (many tour operators package this with entrance and lunch) or by rental car. Allow 3-4 hours to explore the park, plus travel time. Lunch choices are at the park.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of Rovaniemi, Lapland presents opportunities for further exploration, from natural wonders to cultural towns and multi-day extensions into neighboring regions.
Pyhä-Luosto National Park is an ancient park with old-growth forests and deep gorges. It is home to the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine. The park has marked hiking trails. In winter, it is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Korouoma Canyon, south-east of Rovaniemi, is known for its deep ravines and impressive frozen waterfalls in winter, attracting ice climbers.
Sodankylä, a municipality approximately 1.5 hours north of Rovaniemi, home to the old wooden church (Sodankylä Old Church), built in 1689. This church is one of Lapland's oldest surviving wooden buildings. The Geophysical Observatory, for Northern Lights research, is also nearby. Sodankylä presents a traditional Lappish town atmosphere.
A visual guide to some of the captivating destinations and natural sites near Rovaniemi, offering diverse experiences for your Arctic adventure.
Home to Arctic and northern animal species, including polar bears.
An annual snow hotel with unique ice and snow sculptures and glass igloos.
Larger ski resorts and a gateway to the Pyhä-Luosto National Park.
Pyhä-Luosto National Park is an ancient and sacred national park featuring old-growth forests, deep gorges, and fells. It is also home to the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine.
Located south-east of Rovaniemi, this impressive canyon is known for its deep ravines and, in winter, its several frozen waterfalls. These ice formations draw ice climbers from around the world.
