Zoologická záhrada Košice

Košice Zoo is the largest zoo by area in Slovakia — and even in the whole of Central Europe. It spreads across 289 hectares in the natural setting of the Čierna hora hills, in the Košice district of Kavečany. Almost 75 hectares are open to visitors today, and walking through it feels like strolling through a forest park full of animals — this is a trip where you'll genuinely get your steps in.

The zoo's history goes back to 1979, when it was established, with Ing. Josef Vágner — the longtime director of the world-famous Safari Park in Dvůr Králové nad Labem — playing a key role in choosing the site. Building such a vast complex was a major undertaking, so it only opened to the public in 1986, initially covering 7 hectares with 23 animal species. Since 1993 it has been run by the City of Košice.

Today visitors find a rich collection of animals from around the world, and one of the biggest draws for kids is DinoPark, opened on 1 June 2013 across almost five hectares. The combination of animals, models of prehistoric giants, and a walk through the forest makes Košice Zoo an ideal destination for families — kids get an experience full of fun, while adults enjoy a pleasant walk in the fresh air.

The zoo in Kavečany is a great pick for a full-day trip near Košice and pairs easily with exploring the eastern metropolis and its surroundings. If you're planning to explore Košice with children, it's worth choosing accommodation in the city or nearby and setting aside a whole day for the zoo — it's vast, and there's plenty to discover.