Brijuni Safari Park: A Walk on the Wild Side of Istria
Brijuni Safari Park is famous for its stunning blend of natural beauty and historical treasures – Roman ruins hidden among pine trees, pristine beaches lapped by the Adriatic. But tucked into one corner of Veliki Brijun, the park’s largest island, there’s something unexpected waiting for visitors – a Safari Park, where zebras graze, llamas lounge, and even elephants roam.
This surprising corner of Istria isn’t a recent addition. It dates back to the mid-20th century when Josip Broz Tito, the former Yugoslav leader, used Brijuni as his summer residence. Tito welcomed diplomatic guests from around the world, and many brought exotic animals as gifts – a tradition that gave rise to today’s Safari Park.
A Mediterranean safari
The Safari Park stretches across a sun-drenched plain framed by olive groves, Mediterranean shrubs, and the sea in the distance. Unlike traditional zoos, there are no cages here – just spacious open areas, where animals roam freely, sharing the landscape with native Istrian species.
You’ll encounter:
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Zebras wandering peacefully alongside Istrian Boškarin cattle.
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Nilgai antelopes, brought from India, blending into the green pastures.
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Llamas, elephants, and Somali sheep, living harmoniously with autochthonous goats.
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There’s even a sacred cow from India, gifted by Jawaharlal Nehru, which adds a spiritual touch to this unusual menagerie.
The animals live in an environment that feels natural and open, combining the wild spirit of Africa with the tranquility of the Adriatic. As you explore, it’s easy to forget you’re still in Croatia – the blend of exotic wildlife and Mediterranean landscape creates something truly unique.
A journey for all ages
For families, the Safari Park is a highlight of any visit to Brijuni. Children’s eyes light up as they spot a zebra grazing or watch an elephant flap its ears under the Istrian sun. But even adults find something magical here – the peaceful coexistence of species, the gentle sway of trees, and the sense of being part of a larger story.
Exploring the park is easy and accessible. You can:
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Join a guided tour on the tourist train, which weaves through the park and the island’s other attractions.
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Choose to walk or cycle at your own pace, stopping to take in the views of the sea, the animals, and the landscapes.
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It’s a place where curiosity meets relaxation – perfect for slowing down and enjoying the simple wonder of nature.
Where history and nature meet
Brijuni isn’t just about wildlife. The Safari Park sits alongside archaeological sites, ancient Roman villas, and Mediterranean gardens. It’s a place where history and nature exist side by side, telling the story of Istria’s diverse past and its commitment to conservation.
Whether you come for the animals, the landscapes, or the history, Brijuni’s Safari Park offers something rare – a glimpse into a world where the wild meets the serene, and every visit feels like an adventure.
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