The zoo was established in 1889, making it one of the oldest zoological gardens in the world.
It is a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
The zoo operates a dedicated hospital for wild animals, treating injured wildlife found throughout Finland.
It participates in over 30 international EEP (EAZA Ex-situ Programmes) for threatened species.
The island features a protected forest area that serves as a habitat for local wild species not contained in enclosures.
The snow leopard breeding program at Korkeasaari is internationally recognized for its success in increasing the population of the species.
Most of the enclosures are built to follow the natural contours of the island's granite landscape.
The zoo is a self-governing foundation, separate from municipal city management.
Korkeasaari Zoo is one of the world's oldest zoos, situated on its own dedicated 22-hectare island in Helsinki. It houses approximately 150 animal species, with a primary focus on the conservation of endangered species from boreal and Arctic climates. The zoo utilizes the island's natural rocky topography and coastal forests to create habitat-appropriate enclosures for its residents. It serves as an active research and conservation hub, collaborating internationally on species survival programs. The island is accessible via a bridge from the Mustikkamaa district or by seasonal ferry from Helsinki's city center. Visitors can observe animals ranging from Amur leopards to European bison in environments designed to mimic their native terrains. Educational signage throughout the park details the zoo’s role in biodiversity protection. The park also maintains several botanical gardens that showcase plants native to the Nordic region.
The viewing platform overlooking the Baltic Sea from the eastern side of the island provides excellent shots of the coastline and animal enclosures.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the island features uneven rocky terrain and steep paths.
Check the zoo's online calendar for animal feeding times, which occur at scheduled intervals throughout the day.
Bring binoculars to get a better view of the animals in the larger, more naturalistic enclosures.
Trying to see every enclosure in a single, rushed visit; the terrain is hilly and requires significant walking.
Open daily throughout the year; some tropical houses may have shorter hours during the winter months.
Do not feed the animals, refrain from tapping on glass barriers, and keep noise levels low near enclosures to avoid stressing the wildlife.
