Found nowhere else on Earth – the Saimaa ringed seal lives only in Lake Saimaa.
The Saimaa ringed seal is one of the rarest seals in the world, found only in Lake Saimaa. It has lived here since the Ice Age and, after coming close to extinction, now stands as a powerful symbol of the resilience – or sisu – of Finnish nature.
The first five weeks after ice-out are the best weeks of the year to see seals lying on a rock sunbathing, as the adult seals are changing their fur during that period. No two seals are alike; each has a unique fur pattern, as individual as a fingerprint. Later in summer seals can normally be seen only in water as they come breathing to the surface.
On a seal watching cruise you'll get to know Saimaa seal, its habits, habitat, and if you are lucky… see a Saimaa seal with your own eyes.
The best chance to spot this rare species is on a guided excursion. Local guides know the seals’ resting areas and approach them quietly to avoid disturbance. Exploring the waters around Puumala and Anttola by boat or canoe offers the greatest opportunity to catch a glimpse of these elusive animals in their natural habitat.
Along the way, you may also see other rare wildlife, such as ospreys and a variety of water birds – and hear fascinating stories about life on Lake Saimaa.
Saimaa Ringed Seal safaris by electric boat
On a Saimaa ringed seal safari, you may spot one of the world’s most endangered seals.
Product pagePaddling the Saimaa Ringed Seal Route
A 3-day guided self-paddling adventure in the Saimaa archipelago with overnight stays on private islands, combining wilderness camping, sauna and the chance to explore the habitat of the endangered Saimaa ringed seal.
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