Miskolc Zoo

Miskolc Zoo is nestled under the foliage of the Bükk forests in the Csanyik Valley, a location that has attracted visitors since the 14th century when it was a royal game reserve. In its current form, the Municipal Wildlife Park opened in 1983 and has remained a popular destination ever since. Originally focused on the native flora and fauna of the Bükk Mountains, it now houses exotic species as well, with over 120 species and approximately 800 animals from around the world. Visitors can enjoy diverse experiences, from hearing the roars of lions introduced in 2021 to watching the lively sentry duty of meerkats. The zoo also features rare animals, such as the endangered Persian leopard, blue sheep, and kulan, and was the first in Hungary to breed the North American porcupine. The brown bears, Dorka Forgó and Borka Füles, are especially popular and can be observed in a bear-watching event each February. The zoo is committed to education and conservation, offering educational programs, feeding demonstrations, and summer camps to promote environmental awareness. It participates in breeding programs for endangered species and serves as a rescue center for orphaned or injured animals. The zoo’s unique sculpture park, with life-size bronze statues, commemorates extinct animals and notable zoologists, raising awareness of the importance of conservation. Eco-tourism developments since 2021 have brought a new reception building and gift shop to enhance the visitor experience. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, Miskolc Zoo received two prestigious awards, reflecting the community’s pride and commitment to the park.