Białowieża Forest
European Bison Safari
Track Europe's largest land animal through ancient woodland on a guided wildlife excursion with an expert naturalist.
The European bison (Bison bonasus) was hunted to extinction in the wild in 1919 — the last wild individual was shot in Białowieża. The species survives today because of a determined conservation programme that began in 1952 with reintroductions from captive stock. The Białowieża Forest is now home to approximately 800 wild bison, and tracking these magnificent animals on foot is one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences in Europe.
Our bison safari combines observation walks in the areas where bison are most frequently found with explanations of the species' ecology, the reintroduction programme, and the complex politics of the forest's management. We are almost certain to see bison — Cristiano's local guide partners know the forest's bison groups and their territories well.
Other wildlife commonly encountered includes red and roe deer, wild boar, beavers working their dams in the forest streams, and an extraordinary bird list that includes black stork, lesser spotted eagle, white-tailed eagle, and three species of woodpecker that are now rare elsewhere in Europe. The forest is alive.
Where We Go
Interactive map coming soon
Tour Highlights
- Track Europe's largest land animal — the European bison — in its natural habitat
- Learn to read animal tracks: wolves, lynx, otters and beaver alongside the bison
- Visit the European Bison Show Reserve for guaranteed close encounters
- Watch a bison herd at dusk in the golden light filtering through ancient oak
- Photograph the bison's shaggy winter coat in the snow-dusted forest
Difficulty & Fitness
Bison safari tours are guided, flat, and easy — suitable for all ages. Morning and evening excursions offer the highest chances of encounters. No special fitness is required; comfortable walking shoes are sufficient.
Where to Stay
The PTTK guesthouse and several eco-lodges in Białowieża village offer comfortable stays. Some lodges include dedicated wildlife-watching sessions at dawn and dusk as part of the package.
Ready for this adventure?
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