Into the Wild: Ranua Zoo

The Arctic has always been a place of raw beauty and harsh realities, and my recent journey to Ranua was no exception. As a former Arctic researcher, I have spent countless hours observing the impact of climate change on polar regions, but this time, I was here to experience something different—a full-day tour that promised to showcase the best of Rovaniemi.

Our adventure began with a drive to the Ranua Zoo, the northernmost zoo in the world. Our guide, a fountain of knowledge, navigated us through the zoo with ease, sharing fascinating insights about each animal we encountered. The polar bears, reindeer, wolves, and arctic foxes were particularly active, a rare treat for any visitor. The absence of the brown bears, hibernating in the depths of winter, reminded me of the cyclical nature of life in these extreme climates.

Lunch was a delightful buffet featuring local delicacies like reindeer roast and vegetarian lasagna, a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the region. Despite the bustling crowd, our guide ensured we had a reserved spot, allowing us to enjoy our meal in comfort. A quick visit to the gift shop and the renowned Frasers chocolate shop rounded off our time at the zoo, leaving us with sweet memories and a few souvenirs.

The Lure of the Finnish Sauna

The second leg of our journey took us deeper into the Lappish wilderness, to a secluded cabin where the traditional Finnish sauna awaited. As someone who has spent years analyzing survival data in polar regions, I was intrigued by the health benefits of alternating between the intense heat of the sauna and the biting cold of the Arctic lake.

Our host, a warm and welcoming presence, guided us through the process, ensuring we understood the safety protocols before leaving us to our own devices. The experience was invigorating, to say the least. The shock of the icy water against my skin was a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the Arctic, yet it was also strangely rejuvenating. We repeated the cycle three times, each dip into the lake a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

The sauna experience was a profound reminder of the delicate balance between heat and cold, a dance that the people of this region have perfected over centuries. It was a moment of introspection, a chance to connect with the primal forces of nature that govern life in the Arctic.

A Feast by the Fire

As the day drew to a close, we were invited into our host’s cabin for a dinner that was nothing short of extraordinary. The interior, adorned with festive decorations, exuded a cozy warmth that was a welcome contrast to the icy landscape outside.

The meal was a celebration of local flavors—smoked salmon, potatoes, traditional bread, and warm gloggi, a spiced Finnish drink that warmed us from the inside out. The gingerbread cookies for dessert were a sweet ending to a day filled with adventure and discovery.

As we made our way back to Rovaniemi, our host regaled us with tales of the town’s history, painting a vivid picture of life in this remote corner of the world. It was a fitting end to a day that had exceeded all expectations, a reminder of the beauty and resilience of the Arctic and its people.

For those seeking an authentic Arctic experience, the Rovaniemi Adventure is a journey not to be missed. It is a testament to the enduring allure of the polar regions, a place where the harshness of the environment is matched only by its breathtaking beauty.