Experience Lake Saimaa responsibly – where protected nature, local traditions and certified services create a sustainable travel destination.
Responsibility in Saimaa begins with nature itself. The region is defined by crystal-clear waters, quiet forests and a delicate balance of rare wildlife, and protecting this environment is a shared priority in everyday life. In Saimaa, responsibility is not a separate value, it's part of how nature and people coexist.
The Saimaa ringed seal, found nowhere else in the world, has become a powerful symbol of this commitment. Its survival depends on careful protection of its habitat, respect for nesting areas and ensuring that human activity remains gentle and unobtrusive. This same mindset extends across the entire region: from safeguarding fragile shorelines to preserving lakes, forests and diverse birdlife.
Responsibility also means supporting the communities who live by the lake. Many restaurants, accommodations and activity providers use local ingredients, materials and craftsmanship. Seasonal food, small-scale services and regional traditions offer a more sustainable way to experience Saimaa – and help keep local culture alive.
Across the region, sustainability is guided by recognised certifications such as Sustainable Travel Finland and Green Key. These labels highlight companies and destinations committed to reducing their environmental footprint and developing tourism in a long-term, responsible way.
Responsible travel in Saimaa is simple.
• Respect nature and wildlife
• Keep a safe distance from animals
• Stay on marked routes
• Leave no trace
• Choose local services
Move quietly in nature and take time to observe your surroundings
Small choices make a difference. Together, they help preserve Saimaa’s landscape, culture and wildlife – so that the same sense of peace and purity can be experienced for generations.
