Africa is likely the first place that comes to mind when someone mentions a
safari. But what if we told you that you don't need to travel so far in order to see
beautiful, untamed nature,
wild animals in their natural habitat, and to go on a
family adventure?
We want to introduce you to
Slavonia, the very northeastern region of Croatia, a place of
endless golden horizons of the Pannonia fields, fearless and abundant tradition, and unique gastronomy.
If you want to
witness nature in all of its unspoiled beauty away from the crowds, this is without a doubt the ideal location for you to visit.
We'd like to focus on two of the many locations in Slavonia that are worth visiting for an
outstanding safari adventure.
Papuk Nature Park
Once an island in the middle of the blue
Pannonian Sea, today an oasis of unending green and the
first Croatian geopark under UNESCO protection. The Papuk Nature Park offers countless opportunities for
quality family time in amazing surroundings, making it a
great getaway for its visitors.
With kilometers of
hiking and biking paths, woods, mountain wells, and creeks as well as
several educational activities for its visitors, including the younger ones, it is considered an
unavoidable destination for mountaineers and nature enthusiasts. Visit this area for
relaxation and mental renewal after the crowded and stressful city life. The surroundings and
breathtaking views from some of the park's highest points will stay with you for a lifetime.
It is recommended that you visit the park during the fall months for an even
greater experience since you’ll see a
truly spectacular collage of brown, red, and yellow autumn leaves of the forest. A
perfect postcard from Croatia we would say!
Kopacki rit
Kopacki rit,
Croatia's oldest nature park, is a fantastic suggestion for a fun and educational day trip
for the whole family. It's the ideal location for both nature and animal enthusiasts. If you want to
discover wild animals in their natural habitats and take in a beautiful landscape, this is one of the greatest places to go.
According to the latest research of the park, the mammal fauna of Kopacki rit contains
at least 55 different species, which is more than half of all the mammal species in Croatia. That’s one of the reasons visitors are traveling to Kopacki rit and are doing the so-called
“Foto-Safari”. While paddling through the
stunning lakes, canals, and ponds of the park, visitors can expect to see a variety of species including deer, beavers, otters, eagles, storks, boars, and many others.
The best recommended time to explore the wilderness is either
in the morning or in the evening because the animals are then most likely to be
active. This is always a good piece of advice for all visitors. Kopacki rit is a
fantastic experience and can undoubtedly be one of the most exciting parts of your future Slavonian trip.
If you have booked
one of our lovely villas in Croatia and are planning your journey to
Istria or even
Dalmatia, you should definitely think about stopping in Slavonia. When coming from northeastern European countries, not only is this region
practically on your way, but its natural beauty, gastronomy, and heartwarming locals will make this stop
unforgettable.
Dare to explore this stunning part of Croatia and
put Slavonia on your bucket list. You’ll not regret it!
Anna Loncar
22.3.2023
MY ISTRIA GUIDE
