Parco Natura Viva

Ever have one of those days where you just want to escape into nature but don’t feel like roughing it too much? Well, let me tell you about a place where you can stroll among some of the world’s most fascinating animals without needing to pack your hiking boots or mosquito repellent. I’m talking about Parco Natura Viva, a wildlife park located in Bussolengo, just a stone’s throw away from Lake Garda.

This park is a wildlife haven where conservation meets adventure. Spread out over 40 hectares, the park is home to more than 1,500 animals from all over the globe. From African savannas to Asian forests, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can travel the world without ever leaving Italy.

Are you a family with kids, an animal lover, or someone just looking to reconnect with nature? Well, Parco Natura Viva offers an experience that’s both educational and entertaining. It’s one of those places that you’ll leave with a head full of memories and maybe even a few favorite animals you never knew existed.

Parco Natura Viva Description

When you step into Parco Natura Viva, you’re entering a full-blown safari experience in the heart of Italy. You start off in the Safari Park, driving through wide-open spaces where zebras, lions, and giraffes roam freely. It’s like being dropped into the African savanna, but with the comfort of your own car.

Next, there’s the Fauna Park, where you’ll walk along lush pathways lined with trees and flowers, taking in everything from curious meerkats to playful lemurs. It’s a place where you can get up close and personal with some of the planet’s most amazing creatures. You’ll find yourself face to face with everything from giant tortoises to majestic birds of prey.

There’s a strong focus on conservation, and throughout the park, you’ll find info boards that explain the efforts being made to protect these species in the wild. It’s both eye-opening and inspiring, making you appreciate the animals even more.
➱ Buy your Parco Natura Viva ticket online

What to Expect at Parco Natura Viva

So, what’s a day at Parco Natura Viva like? Well, expect a lot of walking, but don’t worry — it’s the fun kind. The park is divided into several themed areas, each one offering a different slice of the animal kingdom.

Start your journey in the Safari Park, where you can drive through wide-open spaces that mimic the African savanna. Here, you’ll encounter giraffes grazing lazily, zebras galloping across the fields, and lions basking in the sun. The best part? You’re in your own car, so it’s a personal, up-close experience. If you’ve ever dreamed of going on a safari but don’t quite have the budget or time for a trip to Africa, this is the next best thing. Don’t forget to keep your windows up when the lions are near — just saying!

Once you’ve soaked in the safari vibes, it’s time to park the car and take a leisurely stroll through the Fauna Park. This section is like a walk through the world’s most interesting neighborhoods. In the African section, you might catch a glimpse of the sleek and powerful cheetahs, or the stately rhinos with their tough-as-nails hides. Move on to the Asian area, where you’ll find the rare and beautiful Amur tigers, as well as curious red pandas that are just as adorable as you’ve heard.

After that, head over to the Aquarium and Reptile House. It’s a cool and quiet place, where you can marvel at the colorful fish swimming gracefully in their tanks or get a closer look at the reptiles, which range from small, agile lizards to imposing, slow-moving tortoises. The snake section is particularly impressive (and maybe a bit creepy, depending on your feelings about snakes).

As you wander further, you’ll find yourself in the Extinction Park, an area that’s both fun and thought-provoking. Life-sized models of dinosaurs are scattered throughout, bringing the prehistoric world back to life. It’s especially popular with kids, but let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good dinosaur display? This area serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation — after all, these giants once ruled the earth, and their extinction is a powerful lesson about the fragility of life on our planet.

The Tropical Greenhouse is another must-visit. It’s a thriving, humid environment filled with exotic plants and animals, creating a little slice of jungle in Italy. You’ll encounter colorful birds, butterflies, and even a few unexpected residents like sloths, who take “chilling out” to a whole new level. The greenhouse offers a sensory overload —in the best way possible— where every corner you turn presents something new and exciting.

One thing to keep in mind is that Parco Natura Viva isn’t a place you rush through. Plan to spend the whole day here if you can. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and let yourself be amazed by the sheer variety of life on display.

Fauna Park: A Walk Around the World (and Through Time)

Let’s be honest, when someone says “zoo,” you probably think of the usual lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!). But Fauna Park at Parco Natura Viva? It’s a whole other level. Spanning over 4 kilometers of trails, it’s like a global wildlife tour, minus the jet lag. Divided into macro-areas representing continents, plus a journey into the past with Extinction Park, this place is an epic adventure for all ages.

Africa: Where the Wild Things Are

Kick off your journey with Sentieri d’Africa, a pedestrian safari that puts you up close (but safe) with some of the most iconic animals on the planet.

• Hippos and Rhinos? Of course.
• Lions? Gaze at them from a massive glass wall, trust me, it’s better than being on their dinner menu.
• Primates like chimps and baboons put on quite the show, while meerkats scurry about their business in a space designed for maximum curiosity.

The highlight? The large shared habitat where antelopes and crowned cranes coexist like a scene from “The Lion King.” When your feet are tired, swing by Bar Gombe, an African-style lodge, for some well-deserved snacks and drinks.

Oceania: Hop, Skip, and Feather

Take a detour to the land Down Under! This section is home to fascinating creatures from Australia and New Zealand.

• Wallabies, which are like the adorable cousins of kangaroos.
• Cassowaries, think of them as dinosaurs in disguise with feathers.
• Kea parrots that look smart enough to start a podcast.

It’s a quirky mix of wildlife that’ll have you wondering how such diverse animals ended up on the same corner of the globe.

Asia: Bamboo, Big Cats, and Birds

Step into the bamboo-lined paths of Asia, where the park brings some of the continent’s most impressive (and endangered) species to life.

• The Siberian tiger, with its piercing gaze and majestic stripes, is a showstopper.
• Lesser-known but equally fascinating animals include the red panda, snow leopards, and the peculiar Przewalski’s horse, which sounds like a Scrabble-winning word.

When hunger strikes, the Manas Fast Food area offers Asian-inspired snacks and a playground for the kids to burn off some energy.
➱ Book your Parco Natura Viva ticket online

America: The Land of Color and Diversity

The American section showcases the continent’s vibrant biodiversity, perched on a scenic hill.

• Meet small but mighty primates like tamarins and sakis, and then move on to more unusual residents like the ocelot and the Andean bear.
• The Amazonas sub-area is a riot of colors, with parrots in every shade imaginable—macao, green-winged, blue-and-yellow, and more.

This is the part of the park where you’ll probably need to free up some phone memory—because who doesn’t want a thousand photos of bright parrots?

Extinction Park: A Time Machine with Teeth

Ready to go back in time? Extinction Park is like walking into a paleontologist’s dream. Life-sized replicas of extinct species make this a fascinating—and slightly eerie—experience.

• Dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus loom large.
• Prehistoric mammals like the saber-toothed tiger and woolly mammoth give you a glimpse of Earth’s more recent past.

It’s educational, entertaining, and humbling all at once. Bring the kids; they’ll be your excuse to geek out about dinosaurs without judgment.

Europe: Close to Home, Yet Wild

Don’t underestimate the Europe section, it’s a reminder of the incredible biodiversity right in our backyard.

• Spot wolves, lynxes, and European bison roaming among oak trees.
• The Borealia sub-area takes you to colder climates with animals like reindeer and snowy owls.

This zone also doubles as a conservation space, with bat boxes and bird nesting areas that help support local wildlife. It’s a lovely mix of education and beauty, and it might just make you want to plant a tree or two when you get home. Download Fauna Map

Why Fauna Park is Worth the Walk

Fauna Park isn’t just a zoo: it’s a celebration of the planet’s incredible diversity, all packed into 4 kilometers of trails. With its focus on natural habitats, education, and sustainability, it’s an adventure that leaves you inspired and informed.

Oh, and the best part? There are plenty of stops for snacks, playtime, and bathroom breaks, so it’s as practical as it is awe-inspiring.

Safari Park: The Thrill of the Wild, Right From Your Car

Ever wondered what it’s like to cruise through the wild while majestic animals roam freely just outside your window? That’s exactly what the Safari Park at Parco Natura Viva offers. Buckle up and get ready for a journey that feels like stepping into the savannah—without ever leaving Italy!

Drive Among Wildlife

In the Safari Park, your vehicle becomes your personal safari jeep. Whether you’re in a car, camper, or even a bus (yes, double-deckers too!), you’ll navigate through habitats where giraffes gracefully wander, zebras strut their stripes, and antelopes leap across open spaces. Then there are the predators—lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, lounging or prowling, often so close you might feel like they’re staring you down. No fences, no barriers, just you and the untamed (with safety measures, of course).

No Car? No Problem!

If you don’t have your own wheels, the park has you covered with its Jeep Safari Service. The park offers a Jeep Safari Service where you can rent one of their rugged 7-seater jeeps for a self-driven adventure through the Safari Park.

It’s like stepping into a real safari experience, but you’ll be the one behind the wheel! Keep in mind, these jeeps are equipped with a manual gearbox, so you’ll need to be comfortable driving stick. This extra service, available for a fee, can be booked online in advance. Perfect for those wanting a unique way to explore the park without bringing their own vehicle!

The Origins of Parco Natura Viva

Alright, let’s take a little trip back in time to see how Parco Natura Viva came to be. It all started in the early 1960s when a veterinarian named Alberto Avesani had a vision. He didn’t just want to create a zoo; he wanted to build a sanctuary for animals where people could learn about the importance of conservation. This was long before conservation became the buzzword it is today, so you could say he was way ahead of his time.

The park officially opened its doors in 1969, and it’s been growing ever since. Over the decades, Parco Natura Viva has expanded to include species from all over the world, from the tiniest reptiles to the mightiest mammals. The park’s mission has always been the same: to educate the public about the importance of biodiversity and to protect endangered species.

Today, Parco Natura Viva is recognized as one of the leading wildlife parks in Europe, playing an active role in conservation projects both in Italy and abroad. It’s not a place to see animals — it’s a place that’s making a difference.