Šumava safari

Šumava Safari: A Unique Wildlife Experience

Explore the natural wonders of the Šumava region with Šumava Safari, offering a unique opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitats. This experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.

Deer Observation at Kvilda

The observation reserve near Kvilda allows visitors to learn about the life of European deer. Here, you can:

• Visit the observation hut and enjoy the only place in Šumava National Park where you can see deer up close.
• Climb the 7-meter-high observation tower for panoramic views, available all year round, including during the deer rut season.
• Enjoy the convenience of visiting anytime without prior registration. The visitor center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in winter.

Lynx Enclosure Near Kvilda

Next to the deer observation area, you can find a lynx enclosure. Highlights include:

• Observing a male lynx named David, who became accustomed to humans after being rescued and treated.
• Meeting Kate, a female lynx from Germany, who was born in captivity and is used to human interaction.
• Enjoying the half-hectare enclosure from an elevated and roofed observatory.

Wolf Observation Near Srní

Just outside Srní, you can explore the Wolf Observation Center. Features include:

• An indoor exhibition about wolf life with audio recordings and films.
• A marked wolf trail leading to a 3-hectare enclosure where you can see wolves from a 300-meter-long wooden footbridge.
• Informative boards, benches, observation shelters, and terraces along the trail.

Summer Observatory at Velký Bor

During the summer season, visit the Velký Bor lookout tower for a broader safari experience, including:

• Observing wild boar, lynx, fox, and badger.
• Limited opportunities for photography from the simple log-type structure.
• Organized animal observation with professional escorts. Advance booking is required through the Rokyta information center.

Owl Aviaries at Borová Lady

Experience the unique owl aviaries featuring:

• Twenty different owl species, flying overhead.
• Six aviaries, two of which are free to walk through, allowing close encounters with non-aggressive owls.
• The other four aviaries are separated by stainless steel cables for safety.
• Open from May to September with exposure panels and observation peepholes.

Ecological Visitor Centers

The Šumava Safari also includes educational aspects with its ecological visitor centers:

• Built as passive houses with minimal energy consumption, utilizing renewable resources.
• Equipped with a hall for presentations on natural phenomena and animal life.
• Unique in Central Europe, comparable only to some animal centers in the Bavarian Forest.

Practical Information

Venues:

• At the Hercian, Jeléní Vrchy, Nová Pec. GPS: 48.790483, 13.946905
• Lambs, Roe deer. GPS: 49.104261, 13.483980
• Locations: Nová Pec, Jelení vrchy. GPS: 48.778163, 13.930024

Operator:

• Administration of the National Park and the Šumava Protected Landscape Area, 1 May 260, 385 01 Vimperk.
• Tel.: +420 388 450 111
• Email: vimperk@npsumava.cz
• Website: Šumava National Park
• GPS: 49.055597, 13.779847

Opening Hours:

• March – June: Monday – Sunday, 09:00 – 18:00
• July – August: Monday – Sunday, 09:00 – 20:00
• September – October: Monday – Sunday, 09:00 – 18:00
• November – February: Monday – Sunday, 09:00 – 16:00

Prices:

• General Admission: 20 CZK

Duration:

• Approximate visit time: 2 hours

Experience the best of nature and wildlife at Šumava Safari, a perfect blend of education, adventure, and ecological awareness.