Ice Age Centre
Tartumaa
The Ice Age Centre, located in Äksi village on the shores of Lake Saadjärv in Tartu County, Estonia, is a unique museum dedicated to the understanding of ice ages and their impact on landscapes, animal life, and human history. Opened in 2012, the centre provides an interactive experience across three floors, featuring life-size prehistoric animals such as the woolly mammoth and a polar bear named Franz. The exhibitions explore the origins and dynamics of ice ages, the post-glacial development of Estonian nature, and future climate change scenarios. Visitors can engage with hands-on activities including ice experiments, virtual reality dives into ancient seas, and raft trips on Lake Saadjärv guided by stories of local nature and folklore. The centre also offers diverse educational programs tailored from kindergarten to high school, focusing on environmental studies and the natural history of Estonia. Its location within the Vooremaa landscape, shaped extensively by glacial activity, adds to the centre's significance and appeal. Awarded Best New Tourist Venue in Estonia in 2012, the Ice Age Centre is a prominent destination for both education and family-friendly entertainment.
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Tip: Visit during late spring to early autumn for the full experience including outdoor raft trips on Lake Saadjärv. Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons and school holidays. Educational groups should arrange visits ahead to utilize tailored programs. Discounts may be available for students and groups.
Interesting facts
- •The mammoth skeleton exhibited was created based on a tusk from Krasnoyarsk Krai and covered with horsehair from India.
- •The centre features one of National Geographic's 'Yellow Windows,' highlighting the region's importance for tourism.
- •Visitors can experience virtual reality dives into the 'Mystical Primitive Sea' showcasing ancient marine life such as trilobites and sea scorpions.
- •The centre offers educational raft trips on Lake Saadjärv guided by stories of the national hero Kalevipoeg and local nature.
- •The Ice Age Centre won the Best New Tourist Venue in Estonia award in 2012.
History
The Ice Age Centre was inaugurated on July 10, 2012, with its creation led by biology teacher Asta Tuusti.
Its establishment was influenced by the unique glacially shaped landscape of Vooremaa.
Within just over a week of opening, it attracted over 5,000 visitors.
Since then, it has become a significant center for environmental education and tourism in Estonia, winning the Best New Tourist Venue award in 2012.
The centre also incorporates scientific research stories, connecting visitors with Estonia's post-ice age natural history and human settlement development.
Place Guide
First Floor Exhibition
Features life-size prehistoric animals including the woolly mammoth, a diorama of ice age nature, and interactive ice-themed playgrounds designed as ice age caves for children.
Second Floor Exhibition
Focuses on the impact of ice ages on Estonian landscapes and folklore, presenting the post-glacial natural history and human settlement with storytelling from scientists.
Third Floor Exhibition
Explores hypotheses about future ice ages, human ecological footprints, and climate change, featuring a life-size polar bear named Franz.
Virtual Reality Experience
Allows visitors to dive into the ancient 'Mystical Primitive Sea' to see extinct marine creatures such as giant reptiles, trilobites, and sea scorpions.
Raft Trips on Lake Saadjärv
Guided outdoor tours on a raft where visitors learn about the natural formation of Vooremaa and hear stories of the Estonian national hero Kalevipoeg.
