Korkeasaari is an island and a district in Helsinki, Finland, most famous for being the location of the Helsinki Zoo, which bears the same name. Situated in the inner archipelago of Helsinki, it is one of the city's most popular attractions, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
Geography and Location Korkeasaari is located to the east of the Helsinki city centre, across a narrow strait from the larger island of Mustikkamaa, to which it is connected by a pedestrian and cycling bridge. The island itself is relatively small, characterized by rocky terrain and forested areas, providing a naturalistic environment for its animal inhabitants. Its name, "Korkeasaari," translates from Finnish as "High Island" or "Tall Island," referring to its elevated topography compared to surrounding areas.
Korkeasaari Zoo The primary feature of Korkeasaari is the Korkeasaari Zoo (Finnish: Korkeasaaren eläintarha), one of the oldest zoos in the world. Established in 1889, it houses approximately 150 animal species and around 1,000 plant species. The zoo's mission focuses heavily on species conservation, particularly for endangered species, and environmental education. Its design emphasizes natural enclosures that mimic the animals' native habitats, ranging from Finnish forest environments to more exotic biomes. Notable sections include the Borealia, a house for northern animals; Africana, featuring species from the African continent; and Amazonia, a tropical rainforest exhibit.
Access Korkeasaari is accessible throughout the year via a pedestrian and cycling bridge from Mustikkamaa, which in turn is connected to the mainland. During the summer months (typically May to September), ferry services operate directly to the island from Helsinki's Market Square (Kauppatori) and Hakaniemi. Public transport (buses) connects to Mustikkamaa, from where visitors can walk across the bridge.