The Olanga WILDRiver is embedded in the Paanajärvi Wilderness and in Paanajärvi National Park, Russia. The Olanga WILDRiver is characterized by an extraordinary scenery, with the well-known Kivakkakoski rapids. There are altogether 13 rapids on the river from lake Paanajärvi to Pyaozero lake. The Olanga WILDRiver is the key element and driving force behind the establishment of the Paanajärvi National Park and later on the transboundary protected area: the Paanajärvi National Park in Russia and Oulanka National Park in Finland.
The Paanajärvi Wilderness is embedded in the Paanajärvi National Park, Russia. Paanajärvi Wilderness is located right at the Arctic Circle and preserves the representative examples of natural values of the whole Karelia region, at the Finnish–Russian border. The boreal forests with lakes reach into far horizons with no sign of human presence, any roads or towns. The Paanajärvi Wilderness and Olanga WILDRiver create a great example of pristine and remote Wilderness.