Sunset Safari – The Best Moments of a Summer Evening on Lake Saimaa

A summer evening on Lake Saimaa offers a unique combination of breathtaking lake scenery, peaceful archipelago nature, and the excitement of wildlife spotting. As the sun begins to set over the islands of Linnansaari National Park, a safari departs from Oravi where every trip is different. You never know in advance what nature has in store or whether a Saimaa ringed seal will appear along the route this time.

Oravi’s Sunset Seal Safari takes guests through the maze-like waterways of Haukivesi and Linnansaari National Park with an experienced local guide. Between June and September, Saimaa ringed seals spend most of their days in the water and typically climb onto shoreline rocks to rest in the evening. This makes sunset the ideal time to head out in search of these rare animals.

The safaris are conducted in small groups using open safari boats, with respect for nature at the heart of every excursion. Seals are observed from a safe distance without disturbing their natural behaviour. Along the way, visitors may also encounter many other inhabitants of the Saimaa region, including ospreys, waterfowl, beavers, and deer.

It is the unpredictability of nature that makes every safari unique. Sometimes luck is on your side and several different animal species can be seen during a single evening. On other trips, the highlights may be the stunning landscapes, birdlife, or the magical atmosphere created by the setting sun. In the wild, you never know what awaits around the next island or what memorable encounters the evening may bring.

All the photos in this collage were taken during the same safari by our guest Clarien van der Wilt. Evenings like this are a reminder of how diverse and vibrant the nature of Lake Saimaa truly is. Some of the most unforgettable moments occur when you spot moose swimming between islands—a sight that makes even the most experienced guides stop and admire the beauty and power of nature.

Sunset-coloured lake views, tranquil archipelago landscapes, and the possibility of encountering the world’s rarest seal create an experience that stays with you long after the trip is over. Oravi has been organising seal safaris since 1996, and the expertise of its local guides helps visitors experience the very best of Saimaa’s unique nature.