Welcome to the island of animals!

During the Maritime Helsinki weekend on 6–8 June 2025, children under 18 can travel to Korkeasaari by waterbus for free. In addition, children under 18 arriving by waterbus can also visit the Korkeasaari Zoo free of charge from 6 to 8 June 2025.

JT-Line’s traditional paddlewheel vessel Vispilä will operate a scheduled service from the Market Square to Korkeasaari Zoo every day from 1 June to 31 August 2025. 

Korkeasaari Zoo was founded in 1889, and it is one of the world’s oldest zoos. The 150 animal species and nearly 1,000 plant species in the zoo illustrate natural diversity. About a third of the animal species in Korkeasaari Zoo are endangered.

Korkeasaari raises endangered species to protect and preserve them. Most of the animals at Korkeasaari have been born in Korkeasaari or other zoos. Each visitor to Korkeasaari Zoo is part of the conservation effort: by visiting the zoo, you are supporting Korkeasaari’s work in terms of natural diversity, environmental education and the research and reintroduction of endangered species.

Korkeasaari is a popular destination and the island also has a souvenir shop, kiosks and two restaurants as well as opportunities to eat your own packed lunch at barbeque spots, for example.

The waterbus to Korkeasaari departs from the Keisarinluodonlaituri pier on the Market Square.