Beekse Bergen: A Safari Adventure in the Heart of the Netherlands

Beekse Bergen is the largest wildlife safari park in the Netherlands, where you can experience the thrill of an African safari right in the heart of Europe. Located in Hilvarenbeek, Beekse Bergen offers a truly unique adventure with over 1,250 animals spread across vast, natural landscapes. Whether you explore by car, boat, or on foot, you’ll get up close and personal with some of the world’s most iconic wildlife, from majestic lions and giraffes to playful zebras and powerful rhinos. Beekse Bergen is the perfect destination for families and nature lovers looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Highlights of Beekse Bergen

  • Safari Experiences: One of the main draws of Beekse Bergen is the variety of ways to explore the park. You can choose to drive through the safari park in your own vehicle, where animals roam freely around you. For a different perspective, hop on one of the safari boats that glide through the park’s waterways, or take the safari bus for a guided tour. For a more personal experience, you can also explore on foot and discover the beauty of the animals up close.

  • Big Five: Beekse Bergen is home to the "Big Five" of the animal kingdom: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. As you journey through the park, you’ll have the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures in their naturalistic habitats, making it a truly African-inspired experience.

  • Chimpanzee Island and bird of prey show: A favorite among visitors, Chimpanzee Island offers a fascinating view of these intelligent and playful primates. Watch as they swing through trees and interact with one another in a setting designed to mimic their natural environment. This island brings you to an impressive bird of prey show. It is in Dutch but with google translate you will be able to follow it and the impressive birds are very impressive to see.

  • Speelland Beekse Bergen: For families with young children, Speelland is an additional attraction right next to the safari park. This play area offers water slides, paddle boats, and adventure playgrounds, providing endless fun for the little ones after an exciting day of animal spotting. It is another gate that requires an extra ticket but with your stay at the hotel or safari resort it is included.

Family Fun

Beekse Bergen is ideal for families, with plenty of activities and experiences designed for children:

  • Ranger Programs: Kids can join in on educational programs led by park rangers, where they’ll learn about wildlife conservation and the behavior of different species. It’s an exciting way for children to engage with the animals and develop a deeper appreciation for nature.

  • Adventure Playgrounds: The park and the accommodations are filled with fun playgrounds.

Special Events

Beekse Bergen also hosts several special events throughout the year, making each visit unique:

  • Brew at the Zoo: Two nights per year the parks hosts a beer festival. 

  • Light Safari: Beekse Bergen offers an amazing winter walk full of magical lights through a dark zoo

Practical Information

  • Opening Hours: Beekse Bergen is open year-round, though opening hours vary by season. Safari tours and some activities may have limited availability during the winter months, so be sure to check the official website for up-to-date information.

  • Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online, with discounted rates available for early booking. Beekse Bergen also offers combination tickets that include entry to Speelland, making it a great value for families. You can buy tickets here

  • Location & Accessibility: Beekse Bergen is located in Hilvarenbeek, about an 20 minute from Efteling making them very easy to combine. The park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. For those using public transport, there are shuttle buses from nearby train stations.

Insider Tips

  • Stay Overnight: Beekse Bergen offers unique accommodation options for those looking to extend their safari experience. Stay in one of the Safari Resort lodges or Lake Resort cabins, where you can wake up to the sight of grazing animals right outside your window. It’s an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the safari atmosphere.

  • Bring binoculars: While many animals come close to the paths and safari routes, bringing binoculars allows you to spot animals from afar and enjoy a closer look at some of the more elusive creatures.

  • Plan for at least full day: Beekse Bergen is a large park with many ways to explore, so plan to spend a full day here to take advantage of all the experiences. Between the safaris, ranger talks, and play areas, there’s plenty to keep you entertained all day long.

 

Beekse Bergen offers an unparalleled wildlife adventure that brings the magic of the African safari to the Netherlands. With its immersive experiences, incredible range of animals, and family-friendly activities, this park is a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature and wildlife in a fun and educational way. Find out more.