Embarking on a captivating full-day tour from Helsinki to Savonlinna, travelers can enjoy a thrilling seal safari on Lake Saimaa. This intimate experience, limited to just six guests, offers guided photography opportunities to capture the stunning landscapes and elusive wildlife, including the endangered Saimaa ringed seals and majestic ospreys. Beyond the seal safari, the tour explores the expansive Savonlinna National Urban Park and the historic Olavinlinna Castle, providing a well-rounded adventure filled with natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With all admissions included, this tour promises an unforgettable day, leaving visitors eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Safari Tours In Helsinki.

Key Points

Full-Day Tour Through Savonlinna From Helsinki With Seal Safari - Key Points

  • A full-day tour from Helsinki to Savonlinna, including a photography adventure on Lake Saimaa to spot endangered Saimaa ringed seals and other wildlife.
  • Exploration of the Savonlinna National Urban Park, featuring the 15th-century Olavinlinna Castle with admission included.
  • Opportunity to capture stunning landscapes and wildlife in the picturesque Saimaa archipelago under the guidance of a local photographer.
  • Maximum group size of 6 travelers for an intimate and personalized experience.
  • Flexible pricing structure starting from $545.23 per person, depending on group size.

Tour Overview

Full-Day Tour Through Savonlinna From Helsinki With Seal Safari - Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Helsinki to Savonlinna takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes each way.

The tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and has 10 reviews with a 5.0 rating.

It’s a photography adventure on Lake Saimaa, where visitors can capture wildlife like endangered Saimaa ringed seals, ospreys, and waterbirds. Guests will receive expert tips from a local photographer guide.

The tour also includes a visit to the National Urban Park of Savonlinna, spanning 7,700 hectares, and the medieval Olavinlinna Castle. Admission to the castle is included, and visitors can explore its interior and 3D models.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers per group.

Photography Experience

Full-Day Tour Through Savonlinna From Helsinki With Seal Safari - Photography Experience

Join a local photographer guide for a daytime photography adventure on Lake Saimaa.

Capture stunning wildlife, including the endangered Saimaa ringed seals, ospreys, and a variety of waterbirds.

Receive expert tips from your guide on techniques for wildlife and landscape photography.

Explore the picturesque Saimaa archipelago, enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

This unique photography experience allows you to hone your skills while witnessing the diverse flora and fauna of this remarkable ecosystem.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, you’ll come away with breathtaking images and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the Saimaa environment.

Saimaa Archipelago Exploration

Full-Day Tour Through Savonlinna From Helsinki With Seal Safari - Saimaa Archipelago Exploration

The Saimaa archipelago, with its thousands of islands, offers a captivating landscape for exploration.

During the tour, travelers will have the opportunity to venture into this picturesque region, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife.

The local photographer guide will lead the way, imparting valuable tips on capturing the best shots of the area’s natural beauty.

Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, as well as ospreys and other waterbirds.

The exploration of the archipelago promises to be a highlight of the Savonlinna tour, providing a chance to take in the tranquil and diverse ecosystem of this unique Finnish region.

Savonlinna National Urban Park

Savonlinna’s National Urban Park spans an impressive 7,700 hectares, offering visitors a chance to enjoy stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife encounters.

The park’s highlights include:

  1. Exploring the picturesque Saimaa archipelago, home to endangered Saimaa ringed seals, ospreys, and a variety of waterbirds.

  2. Visiting the 15th-century Olavinlinna Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress with intricate architecture and a rich historical legacy.

  3. Discovering the park’s diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to pristine waterways, and witnessing the interactions of the region’s unique flora and fauna.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Savonlinna’s National Urban Park promises an unforgettable experience.

Olavinlinna Castle Tour

Full-Day Tour Through Savonlinna From Helsinki With Seal Safari - Olavinlinna Castle Tour

Olavinlinna Castle, a 15th-century medieval fortress, stands as a testament to Savonlinna’s rich history.

During the tour, visitors can explore the castle’s interior and marvel at the 3D models showcasing its construction.

The castle’s impressive architecture and well-preserved features transport guests back in time, providing a glimpse into Finland’s medieval past.

Travelers will learn about the castle’s strategic importance and the role it played in the region’s history.

With admission to the castle included in the tour, visitors can fully enjoy this remarkable historical site and gain a deeper understanding of Savonlinna’s cultural significance.

Transportation and Amenities

The full-day tour from Helsinki to Savonlinna whisks travelers away in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, allowing them to stay connected during the approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes of travel time each way.

During the journey, guests can sit back and enjoy the scenic views while indulging in complimentary coffee or tea.

Upon arrival in Savonlinna, the tour includes admission to the captivating Olavinlinna Castle, dating back to 1475.

With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, this experience offers an intimate and personalized adventure, ensuring a well-rounded and immersive exploration of the region’s highlights.

Booking and Availability

Booking the full-day tour from Helsinki to Savonlinna can be easily done, with confirmation received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The price varies by group size, starting from $545.23. With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention from the local photographer guide.

Exploring the stunning Saimaa archipelago and encountering wildlife like endangered Saimaa ringed seals makes this an unforgettable adventure.

Pricing and Group Size

The tour’s pricing starts at $545.23 per person, with the final cost varying depending on the group size.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Travelers can expect the following regarding group size and pricing:

  1. Groups of 1-2 people: $545.23 per person
  2. Groups of 3-4 people: $432.89 per person
  3. Groups of 5-6 people: $389.60 per person

This flexible pricing structure ensures that the tour remains accessible to a wide range of budgets, while still maintaining a small group size for a more enjoyable and immersive photography adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Participants Need Any Prior Photography Experience?

No, participants don’t need any prior photography experience. The tour includes a local photographer guide who’ll provide expert tips on wildlife and landscape photography, making it suitable for beginners and experienced photographers alike.

What Type of Equipment Is Recommended for This Tour?

The tour recommends bringing a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens for capturing wildlife and landscapes. Participants don’t need prior photography experience, as the guide provides expert tips throughout the day.

Are There Any Restrictions on Locations That Can Be Photographed?

The tour allows participants to photograph the picturesque Saimaa archipelago and its wildlife, including endangered Saimaa ringed seals. However, there may be some restrictions on photographing certain areas or sensitive habitats to minimize disturbance.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Wildlife or Landscapes?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific wildlife or landscapes. Travelers can work with the photographer guide to tailor the itinerary based on their interests, whether it’s capturing endangered seals, ospreys, or the picturesque Saimaa archipelago.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Activities?

Yes, the tour can be extended. Travelers can customize the duration and activities, such as adding more photography sessions or exploring additional attractions in the Savonlinna region, based on their preferences and interests.

Recap

This captivating full-day tour from Helsinki to Savonlinna offers a unique opportunity to witness the captivating wildlife and stunning landscapes of the Saimaa region. Visitors can embark on a thrilling seal safari, explore the Savonlinna National Urban Park, and tour the historic Olavinlinna Castle, all while enjoying guided photography experiences and convenient transportation. With limited group sizes, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure filled with natural beauty and cultural heritage.