Kolmården is one of Sweden’s largest and most famous zoos, located in Östergötland near Bråviken. The zoo opened its doors in 1965 and has since become a popular destination for both Swedish and international visitors. With its impressive animal exhibits, exciting attractions, and scenic surroundings, Kolmården offers a unique experience for the whole family.
History
Kolmården officially opened on May 27, 1965. The park’s founder, Ulf Svensson, had a vision of creating a place where people could get close to nature and learn about animals from all over the world. During the early years, the park expanded rapidly with new animal exhibits and attractions. One of the earliest attractions was the safari park, where visitors could drive through enclosures and see exotic animals up close.
Over the years, Kolmården has undergone several renovations and modernizations to enhance the visitor experience and ensure the well-being of the animals. Today, the park is known for its combination of traditional animal exhibits and modern attractions like the Safari gondola ride and Bamse’s World.
Animals and Exhibits
Kolmården is home to over 750 animal species from all over the world. The park is divided into several different sections, each with its own theme and focus. Among the most popular exhibits are the savanna, where visitors can see giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in an environment that resembles their natural habitat. The predator section showcases some of the world’s most impressive predators, including lions, tigers, and wolves.
Another highlight is the dolphin show in Marine World, where visitors can enjoy a spectacular performance with dolphins performing impressive tricks. The dolphinarium has been a part of Kolmården since 1969 and has become one of the park’s most iconic attractions.
Safari and Gondola
One of Kolmården’s most unique experiences is the safari, which offers visitors the chance to see animals from a gondola that hovers over the park. The Safari gondola ride opened in 2011 and has quickly become a visitor favorite. From the gondola, you get a fantastic view of the park and can see the animals moving freely in their large enclosures. The safari ride gives the feeling of being on a real African safari and is an unforgettable experience for both children and adults.
Bamse’s World
Bamse’s World is a part of Kolmården that is especially popular among younger visitors. This theme park is based on the beloved Swedish comic character Bamse, the world’s strongest bear. Here, children can meet Bamse and his friends, ride fun carousels, and play in various themed playgrounds. Bamse’s World opened in 2015 and has quickly become an important part of Kolmården’s offering for families.
Research and Conservation
Kolmården is not just a place for entertainment but also an important institution for research and conservation of endangered species. The park actively works with various conservation programs and collaborates with researchers and zoos worldwide to protect and preserve endangered animal species. Through educational programs and exhibits, Kolmården also aims to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife and nature conservation among its visitors.
An example of Kolmården’s commitment to conservation is its work to protect the endangered Amur tiger. Through breeding programs and international collaborations, the park has helped increase the population of these majestic predators, which are critically endangered in the wild.
Visitor Information
Kolmården is open year-round, with special events and programs during different seasons. The park offers a variety of accommodation options, including the Vildmarkshotellet, which is adjacent to the park and offers comfortable rooms with fantastic views of Bråviken. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there is also the option to camp in the park.
Kolmården also offers a wide range of food and beverage options, from fast food outlets to more formal restaurants. Visitors can enjoy everything from traditional Swedish dishes to international cuisine, all while enjoying the views of the park.
Summary
Kolmården is more than just a zoo; it is a destination that offers a unique combination of nature experiences, education, and entertainment. With its impressive animal exhibits, exciting attractions, and strong commitment to conservation and research, Kolmården continues to be one of Sweden’s most beloved tourist destinations. Whether you are a nature lover, a family seeking adventure, or someone who just wants to experience something new, Kolmården has something for everyone.