Stara Zagora Zoo

Nestled within the shaded alleys of the picturesque Metropolit Metodiy Kusev Park, the Stara Zagora Zoo is one of the most beloved leisure spots for both locals and visitors. Founded in 1957, it holds the prestigious status of being the second oldest zoo introduced to tourists by Bulgaria.

Stara Zagora Zoo. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Occupying an impressive area of about 28 hectares, the zoo offers visitors a unique opportunity to encounter diverse fauna in conditions that closely mimic their natural habitat. The main pride and living symbol of the zoo are the brown bears, who not only live here but also regularly produce offspring—a testament to the high standard of animal care.

Today, Stara Zagora is rightfully proud of its zoo as an important center for environmental education. It is not just a collection of rare species, but a modern space that harmoniously balances nature conservation with a comfortable environment for family strolls and educational tours.

For those planning a visit, the essential contact information is provided below. It is recommended to check the official website before your trip to ensure there are no temporary changes to the opening hours.

Start your journey through the zoo by exploring the spacious enclosures home to lions, monkeys, and red deer. Pay special attention to the bear corner — watching the cubs play is often the highlight for younger visitors. Don't forget to take a souvenir photo at the entrance, where the famous sculpture of fighting bears is located.

In addition to animal watching, the grounds offer excellent opportunities for relaxation. There are cozy rest areas and picnic spots where you can catch your breath under the canopy of ancient trees. Playgrounds are provided for children, and the on-site cafe allows you to comfortably spend several hours enjoying the fresh park air.

Nature lovers will likely enjoy the ponds with waterfowl and the sections dedicated to exotic birds. If you're lucky, you might catch one of the educational tours or themed events regularly organized by the staff for those eager to learn more about the secrets of wildlife.

Finding this corner of wildlife is easy, as it is located in the heart of Stara Zagora, within the popular Metropolit Metodiy Kusev (Ayazmoto) Park. If you prefer public transport, you can take buses or shuttles that go to the city center or the park area.

For travelers arriving by train or intercity bus, the walk from the central station to the zoo entrance takes about 15–20 minutes at a leisurely pace. This is a great opportunity to see the city streets on your way to your destination.

If you are traveling by private car or taxi, head toward the northern part of the park. There is a parking area near the site where you can leave your car during your visit.

The history of this place began in 1957 with a touching event. The first inhabitants of the future zoo were two small bear cubs gifted by local hunters from nearby villages. The cubs were named Ivanka and Dimitrinka, and they became the founding symbols of the animal collection in Ayazmoto Park.

The official decision for large-scale construction was made in the summer of 1961, but active work only began in 1965. The first priority for the builders was a spacious bear enclosure, followed by habitats for predators, primates, and ungulates. Over time, the area evolved into a full-fledged scientific and recreational center.

A significant milestone in its development was the completion of the pool system for waterfowl in 1978. Today, the zoo continues the traditions established decades ago, with a special focus on preserving the brown bear population, which has successfully bred here for many years.

To walk through all the enclosures and soak in the park's atmosphere without rushing, guests usually need about 1.5 to 3 hours. The grounds are quite extensive, so it's worth planning your time to allow for breaks.

If you plan to attend an educational program or simply want to spend more time watching the bear cubs, it is better to set aside half a day for your visit. This will allow you to combine the tour with a walk through the scenic alleys of the surrounding Ayazmoto Park.

The zoo is ready to welcome guests daily throughout the week. According to the current schedule, the facility is open from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Sunday.

Please note that ticket offices may close slightly earlier than the main closing time. Also, keep in mind that operating hours may vary slightly depending on the season or weather conditions, so it is advisable to check the official website before your visit.

A walk through the zoo can easily be combined with a visit to other historical and cultural treasures of the city. Its central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the rich heritage of the region.