Animal activities Wieliczka
Animal Activities near Wieliczka
Wieliczka is a small mining town about 13 km south-east of Krakow, and its attractions are the salt mine, the old churches and a few parks. Animal attractions are found in the wider area, so plan them as separate outings.
Krakow Zoo The zoo stands in the Wolski Forest (Las Wolski) on the western side of Krakow, roughly 25 km from Wieliczka. Give it a day of its own and check the public transport route before you set out.
European Bison in the Niepolomice Forest About 15 km north-east of Wieliczka, the Niepolomice Forest covers around 110 square kilometres. A European bison breeding centre operates in the Poszyna area, run by the Niepolomice Forest District, and bison are watched from a tower or viewpoint outside the enclosure. Ask the Forest District before you go, since access may depend on its consent.
Cycling and walking in the forest The same forest has paved and gravel cycling trails and makes an easy half-day outing from Wieliczka by car or local bus.
Parks in town Park Adama Mickiewicza, a landscaped park of about 9 hectares, has duck ponds and walking paths.
Tips and Essentials
- Getting There: The SKA train from Krakow Glowny to Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia takes about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Comfortable Shoes: Wear sturdy shoes for forest paths and the zoo’s large grounds.
- Respect the animals: Follow the instructions of the Forest District and keep to marked viewpoints.