Maltio Strict Nature Reserve

Maltio Strict Nature Reserve is a protected area in northern Finland covering extensive wilderness with diverse natural habitats. The landscape includes old forests, open moor areas, and waterways that support many animal and plant species.

This area was established as a protected reserve by Metsähallitus, Finland's forest authority, in 1956. The designation was meant to preserve natural processes from human impact and enable long-term research in the region.

The reserve demonstrates Finland's commitment to keeping wild lands truly untouched by establishing strict rules that prevent disturbance. This approach allows researchers to observe how nature functions on its own, free from human interference.

Entry requires advance permission from Metsähallitus since the site is a research area with strict visitor limits. The best time to visit depends on your interests: bird watching is most rewarding in summer, while winter conditions make access considerably harder.

The area functions as a laboratory for scientists studying how predators and reindeer interact in cold landscapes. These studies have wide-reaching impacts on understanding arctic ecosystems globally.