Korkeasaari Zoo
Museum Helsinki island zoo focusing on Arctic and exotic species
Korkeasaari sits on an island off Helsinki and houses Arctic and tropical species across compact exhibits; tourists arrive by ferry for family visits, seasonal events and animal education programmes.
Korkeasaari Zoo (Helsinki Zoo) is Finland’s main zoological park on the island of Korkeasaari in Helsinki, founded in 1889. The zoo focuses on northern species as well as tropical and endangered animals and combines outdoor exhibits with greenhouse and indoor facilities.
Popular attractions include native arctic species displays and seasonal tropical houses, together with conservation and breeding programs for threatened species. The zoo runs educational programs and provides interpretive information about animal biology and conservation.
The zoo was established in the late 19th century and has been developed on the island site through successive improvements to enclosures and visitor infrastructure. It is managed by the City of Helsinki and serves both residents and tourists.
Korkeasaari occupies an island in Helsinki harbour and is reachable by short ferry routes from the city centre in summer and by road and public transport year-round.
- Founding date: Founded in 1889 on Korkeasaari island and run by the City of Helsinki, making it one of the world's older urban zoos.
How to Get to Korkeasaari Zoo #
Korkeasaari (Helsinki Zoo) is located on Korkeasaari island off Helsinki’s Market Square (Kauppatori). In summer a public ferry runs from the Market Square to the island (short crossing); year‑round the island is also served by Helsinki public buses from the city centre - from the ferry or the nearest bus stop it’s a 5-10 minute walk to the zoo entrance. By car it’s a short drive from central Helsinki across the pier/bridge to the island; parking at the zoo is available but limited.
Tips for Visiting Korkeasaari Zoo #
- In summer, take the short passenger ferry from Helsinki Market Square for a scenic arrival-ferry service is seasonal and gives you a pleasant approach to the island zoo.
- Visit early in the day on weekends to beat families and school groups; quieter mornings make it easier to observe species that retreat during busy hours.
- Don't miss the island's wooded paths and viewpoints along the shoreline; many visitors focus on the animal enclosures and skip the surrounding nature and sea views.
Best Time to Visit Korkeasaari Zoo #
Best visited in summer for full access and active outdoor exhibits; go in early morning on weekdays in shoulder seasons to avoid crowds.
Weather & Climate near Korkeasaari Zoo #
Korkeasaari Zoo's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -8°C to 21°C. Moderate rainfall (632 mm/year).
January
January is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -7°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -2°C and lows of -8°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with 76 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
