Korkeasaari Zoo
Korkeasaari Zoo, Helsinki's island sanctuary, offers a beautiful escape with diverse animals and scenic views. Explore nature and wildlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are more active
Korkeasaari Zoo
Best Time
Animals are more active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Korkeasaari Zoo, Helsinki's island sanctuary, offers a beautiful escape with diverse animals and scenic views. Explore nature and wildlife.
"A beautiful place with well-cared-for animals and plenty of space, making it a great family outing."
🚢 Ferry or Walk?
Take the JT-line ferry (free with Helsinki City Pass) or enjoy a scenic walk to the island. :ferry:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the island, so wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Big Cats
Big Cat Enclosures
Witness the power and beauty of tigers and other big cats in spacious, naturalistic habitats.
Reptile House Wonders
Reptile House
Explore a fascinating collection of snakes, lizards, and amphibians from around the world.
Playful Seals
Seal Habitat
Watch seals swim, dive, and interact in their aquatic environment. Keep an eye out for wild seals nearby too!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Adventure Awaits
Timing is Key for Animal Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry or Walk?
Take the JT-line ferry (free with Helsinki City Pass) or enjoy a scenic walk to the island. :ferry:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the island, so wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own drinks, especially on warm days, as you'll be exploring for a few hours. :droplet:
💰 Helsinki City Pass Value
Consider the Helsinki City Pass for free ferry access and discounts on many attractions. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry or Walk?
Take the JT-line ferry (free with Helsinki City Pass) or enjoy a scenic walk to the island. :ferry:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the island, so wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own drinks, especially on warm days, as you'll be exploring for a few hours. :droplet:
💰 Helsinki City Pass Value
Consider the Helsinki City Pass for free ferry access and discounts on many attractions. :moneybag:
📸 Capture the Moments
Don't forget your camera! The zoo offers beautiful scenery and many photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Korkeasaari Zoo to be a clean, well-maintained, and beautiful place with animals that appear well cared for and have ample space. The island setting is a significant draw, and many appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and picnic facilities. Some visitors note that not all animals are active during peak hours, and the variety of species might be less extensive than in larger zoos.
"The zoo is on an island (i think the entire island is the zoo). I got there by JT-line boat, which is free with Helsinki City Pass (recommended, many activities with 55euro/48h).
Anw, the zoo is ok, animals are not really active on a sunny saturday morning of August. But they look well taken care of and have a lot of space.
Prepare yourself with drinks and at least 1,5h of walking :)"
Trần Thảo
"I visited this zoo quite early (11am-2pm) there was not lot of people so no line, saw most of the animals except big cats. I assume they would be more active during afternoon hours, food and drinks were good and gift shop had lot of things to pick from. Ticket prices were affordable and all the events (feedings) were clearly stated in signs, I loved that. I recommend visiting with the whole family or group"
elena p
"The zoo was very clean and large. Excellent facilities, even for grilling. The animals' rights were well met and they were all in the best condition. Good food and enough space appropriate to each animal's habitat were very interesting and satisfying to me. Good luck."
mozhan khosronezhad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Korkeasaari Zoo by taking the JT-line ferry from the Market Square (Kauppatori) in Helsinki. The ferry ride is scenic and often included with the Helsinki City Pass. Alternatively, you can walk or cycle to the island via Mustikkamaanpolku.
Yes, there is parking available near the zoo, though it can get busy. It's often recommended to use public transport or the ferry to avoid parking hassles.
Ferry schedules vary by season. It's best to check the official JT-line website or local transport information for the most up-to-date ferry times.
Yes, you can walk to Korkeasaari Zoo via Mustikkamaanpolku, which offers a pleasant stroll. This route is accessible and provides lovely views.
Besides the ferry, you can reach the vicinity of Korkeasaari Zoo using Helsinki's public transport network, followed by a short walk. Check HSL.fi for route planning.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Korkeasaari Zoo's opening hours vary by season. It's essential to check their official website for the most current hours before your visit, as they can change.
Ticket prices for Korkeasaari Zoo are generally considered affordable. You can find the latest pricing information on their official website. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time.
Yes, discounts may be available for children, students, seniors, and families. The Helsinki City Pass also offers benefits that might include zoo entry or discounts.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance, but buying them online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to avoid queues.
A standard ticket grants you access to all areas of the zoo and its animal exhibits. Special events or guided tours might incur additional costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the big cats like tigers, the diverse reptile collection, and the playful seals. Many visitors also enjoy the primate exhibits and the aviary.
Absolutely! Korkeasaari Zoo is very family-friendly, with spacious enclosures, educational information, and often play areas. It's a great place to introduce children to animals.
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 3 hours at Korkeasaari Zoo, depending on their pace and interest in each exhibit.
Yes, the zoo often schedules animal feeding times, which are great opportunities to see animals active and learn more about them. Check the signs at the zoo for the daily schedule.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. There are also designated picnic areas, and some facilities offer dining options.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Korkeasaari Zoo offers various dining options, including cafes and restaurants where you can purchase meals and snacks.
Yes, picnicking is a popular option. There are designated picnic spots, and you can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy amidst nature.
While specific menus can vary, many zoo restaurants nowadays offer vegetarian and sometimes vegan choices. It's advisable to check with the food vendors directly.
Food prices at tourist attractions can be higher than average. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can help manage costs.
There are several cafes and a restaurant on the island. For a more relaxed experience, consider finding a scenic spot for your picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The enclosures themselves offer great opportunities, especially with the naturalistic settings. The island's scenery and the ferry ride also make for beautiful shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of any specific signage regarding flash photography or restricted areas.
A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing animals from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be great for landscape shots of the island.
While general photography is permitted, avoid using flash directly at animals as it can disturb them. Always respect the animals' space and well-being.
Drone usage is typically restricted in zoo environments to ensure the safety and well-being of animals and visitors. Check the zoo's official policy for specifics.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Korkeasaari Zoo: Getting There and Around
Once on the island, the zoo is spread out, so comfortable footwear is a must. The paths are generally well-maintained, but be prepared for some inclines. While the zoo itself is the main attraction, the island setting offers a beautiful natural environment to explore. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as even wild seals have been spotted in the surrounding waters!
Maximizing Your Animal Encounters
During the warmer midday hours, some animals may seek shade or retreat indoors, making them harder to spot. The zoo's design aims to provide ample space and naturalistic habitats, which means animals might be exploring larger areas. Pay attention to feeding schedules, which are clearly posted and offer excellent opportunities to observe animals up close and learn from the keepers.
A Family-Friendly Island Escape
The zoo is well-equipped for families, with facilities that make a day trip enjoyable. While specific play areas might vary, the open spaces and the natural environment encourage exploration. Bringing snacks and drinks is a great way to keep little ones fueled, and the picnic areas offer a relaxed setting for a family meal. The educational aspect of the zoo also makes it a valuable learning experience for kids, introducing them to conservation and biodiversity in an engaging way.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit