Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Bulgaria, the Belitsa Bear Park is a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating brown bears. It offers a second chance at life for bears that have suffered from human exploitation.
What You Will See
Most of the bears in the park were once “dancing bears” from Bulgaria, Serbia, and Albania, a cruel practice where bears were captured from the wild and forced to play unnatural tricks for human amusement. They were chained, and forced to perform tricks for entertainment, this practice was banned in Bulgaria and later in other Balkan counties. Today, these majestic creatures roam freely across the 12-hectare forested land, where they can swim in ponds, forage naturally, and rest peacefully in shaded areas.
Visitors may observe the bears’ natural behaviors such as playing, swimming, and napping, and see the dens they’ve created.
Since the park mimics a wild habitat, sightings are not guaranteed. The park replicates wild conditions, bear sightings depend on the animals’ moods and movements because bears are free to choose their favorite spots just as they would in nature.
Knowledgeable guides share the individual stories of each rescued bear, offering insight into their past and their journey to recovery.
What You Should Know Before Visiting
The park operates from April to June. Tickets are paid in cash on-site, and children under six enter for free, with discounts available for youths.
Guided tours run every 30 minutes and last between 30 and 40 minutes. The first tour starts at 10:00 AM or 12:00 PM, depending on the season. A knowledgeable guide accompanies visitors, sharing fascinating facts about the bears, the park’s history, and its mission.
This protected area is a joint project between the Brigitte Bardot Foundation and the Four Paws foundation, donations are welcome but not obligatory.
Terrain and Accessibility
The park features steep slopes and over 100 stairs, making it unsuitable for visitors with mobility issues. Baby strollers are impractical due to the rugged terrain, so using a baby carrier or sling is recommended when visiting with an infant.
What to Bring
omfortable walking shoes are essential, preferably hiking or sports shoes, as the terrain is uneven. Flip-flops and high heels are not suitable. Bringing a camera is recommended to capture the bears in their natural-like environment. If you wish to donate food for the bears, it must be handed to the staff, as visitors are not allowed to feed the animals directly.
When It Operates
The park is open seasonally, with tours available from April to June. To fully enjoy your visit, plan for about an hour and a half.
Location and Travel
Belitsa Bear Park is located 180 km from Sofia, making it an ideal day trip for animal lovers and eco-tourists. By visiting, you support the park’s mission, giving rescued bears the peaceful, dignified life they deserve.