Summer opening hours
Ähtäri Animal Park is open every day from 15.5.-16.8.2026!
Now is the time to plan a trip to the animal park.
Ähtäri Zoo is Finland’s oldest naturalistic zoo. It was founded in 1973. In October 2025, Ähtäri Zoo was closed to visitors due to the company’s bankruptcy. Since then, the non-profit association Vieraile ja Välität ry has been responsible for the animals’ welfare. The association has actively raised funds for the animals’ food, medicines, care, and maintenance costs.
Thanks to countless private donations as well as support from companies, the association was able to take care of the animals until a new, responsible operator was found.
Ähtäri Zoo is Finland’s first organic zoo. More than 50 different species of animals live in the park, including the snow leopard, red panda, bear and lynx.
Besides the zoo, we offer a variety of other activities such as spa/swimming hall, trekking paths and bowling.
Our Farm focuses on native Finnish breeds and it is often the favorite part of the whole Zoo especially for our youngest visitors. For many adults as well it might be the first time of seeing a farm animal from up close and even touching one.
Hotel Mesikämmen is an architecturally valuable hotel in the center of the Ähtäri Tourist Area – just a stone’s throw away from the Ähtäri Zoo. It offers high-quality accommodation for tourists by the lake and close to nature. Welcome to enjoy nature, unique milieu and architecture.
Ähtäri Zoo’s exact address is Karhunkierros 150, 63920 Ähtäri
Once you are close to Ähtäri, you can find the Zoo following the road signs. There are two parking areas, from which P1 is closer to the entrance and P2 is within a 10min walking distance. All parking areas are free of charge. There are several accessible parking spaces right next to the entrance on P1 for those in need.