Parco Natura Viva

The basics

Parco Natura Viva was opened in 1969 by architect Alberto Avesani, and is the foremost scientific breeding center for endangered species in northern Italy. Set just outside Verona, the park combines a safari area with a conventional zoo. The Safari Park, modeled after the African savannah, is home to wild animals from all five continents roaming free; the Fauna Park houses species in enclosures that mirror their natural habitats. Recent additions to the park include the Reptile House and the Dinosaur Park, packed with animatronic prehistoric creatures. You can also follow the botanical trail that leads through the Fauna Park to the Tropical Greenhouse to admire rare orchids and other exotic botanicals like carnivorous plants.

Things to know before you go

• The Fauna Park is pedestrian-only, so wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. About 4 hours are needed to visit this section.
• The Safari Park can only be visited in a vehicle. You can visit in your own car or rent a jeep at the park. It takes about 30 minutes to tour this section.
• The entire Parco Natura Viva is accessible to wheelchair users. Wheelchairs and strollers are available to rent at the park entrance.
• The park includes a self-service cafeteria, snack bars, vending machines, picnic areas, and a playground. Visitors can purchase park souvenirs at the gift shop.

How to get there

Parco Natura Viva is located in Bussolengo just outside Verona. Take exit Verona Nord to E45 and follow signs to the park.

When to get there

The park is open daily, but can be very crowded on summer weekends. Visit on a weekday from May through September to enjoy the animals in relative peace.

The Protected Species Housed in Parco Natura Viva

Expect to see lions, rhinos, and red pandas, as well as giraffes and bison roaming in the plains of the Safari Park. In the Fauna Park, observe snow leopards, tigers, bears, lemurs, and other species in large, lush enclosures.