Ähtäri Zoo
Etelä-Pohjanmaa
Located in Ähtäri, Finland, Ähtäri Zoo was established in 1973 with a mission to provide animals with spacious and natural habitats, focusing primarily on species from the northern boreal forest zone. The zoo became internationally famous for hosting giant pandas named Lumi and Pyry between 2018 and 2024, which significantly increased visitor numbers. It houses over 30 species adapted to cold climates, such as bears, wolverines, lynxes, and the endangered snow leopard, which was gifted by Helsinki's Korkeasaari Zoo. The zoo is a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and participates in several conservation breeding programs. Despite facing financial difficulties leading to its temporary closure in 2025, Ähtäri Zoo reopened in early 2026 under new management, continuing its commitment to animal welfare and conservation. Its naturalistic enclosures and focus on northern wildlife make it a unique destination in Finland.
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Tip: The best time to visit Ähtäri Zoo is during the summer months when all animals are active and outdoor enclosures are fully accessible. Visitors are advised to check the zoo's official website for updated opening hours and to consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues. Discounts are often available for families, students, and groups. The zoo's reopening in 2026 under new management may affect visitor services, so checking current conditions beforehand is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •Ähtäri Zoo was the only zoo in Finland to exhibit giant pandas between 2018 and 2024.
- •The zoo's first animal was a moose named Köpi, symbolizing its focus on northern wildlife.
- •It has participated in European Endangered Species Programs (EEP) for animals like the snow leopard and wolverine.
- •The zoo's bankruptcy in 2025 involved debts estimated at over 17 million euros.
- •The property with animals was sold for one euro to a non-profit association dedicated to animal care during the bankruptcy period.
History
Ähtäri Zoo was founded in 1973 by the initiative of Ähtäri's municipal leader Väinö Jaakola to stimulate the local economy.
Initially, it focused on northern species, with the first animals including a moose named Köpi, wolves, and lynxes.
The zoo joined the EAZA in 2004, affirming its role in conservation.
In 2018, the arrival of giant pandas brought international attention and a surge in visitors.
However, financial challenges culminated in the zoo's bankruptcy and closure in late 2025.
A new company, Mesi Zoo Oy, reopened the zoo in February 2026, continuing its legacy under a fresh operational model.
Place Guide
Northern Boreal Forest Enclosures
These enclosures recreate the natural habitats of northern species such as bears, lynxes, wolverines, and snow leopards, emphasizing spacious and naturalistic environments that allow animals to exhibit natural behaviors.
Giant Panda Exhibit2018-2024
From 2018 to 2024, Ähtäri Zoo housed two giant pandas named Lumi and Pyry, which attracted significant media attention and increased visitor numbers. The exhibit was designed to meet the pandas' specific needs and to educate visitors about their conservation.
