For those traveling from afar to Hotel Kőporos, it's definitely worth visiting Nyíregyháza, located just 70 km away from the hotel. Nyíregyháza Zoo, better known as Sóstó Zoo, is one of Hungary's largest and most popular zoos. Situated in the Sóstó recreational area, it's only 5 kilometers from Nyíregyháza. Spanning across a 30-hectare oak forest, the zoo provides a natural habitat for over 500 species totaling approximately 5,000 individuals.
The area is thematically divided, showcasing the most popular animal and plant species by continent. The zoo is so vast that visitors deciding to come here should plan to spend an entire day!
Main Attractions
Ice World: The zoo's newest attraction, Ice World, showcases the wildlife of the polar regions. Opened in 2024, this unique exhibition in Europe features rare animal species such as polar bears and penguins.
Oceanarium: One of the zoo's most impressive parts is the oceanarium with a 500,000-liter glass corridor where sharks and other marine creatures swim above visitors.
Asian Jungle: This area awaits visitors with a massive waterfall and suspension bridge, presenting the wildlife of Southeast Asia.
Adventure Path: On the adventure path, visitors can walk along a three-meter-high winding bamboo bridge, showcasing the wildlife of South America.
Lemur Forest and Parrot Show: These interactive areas bring visitors closer to the animals, where they can directly encounter lemurs and admire the parrots' flying demonstrations.
Programs and Experiences
Sóstó Zoo offers numerous permanent and seasonal programs, including animal shows such as seal shows and parrot shows. Throughout the zoo, regular feeding demonstrations and educational lectures await visitors.
Educational and Conservation Mission
Nyíregyháza Zoo places great emphasis on conservation and education.The zoo actively participates in species conservation programs and nature conservation research. Through their educational activities, they aim to increase visitors' awareness of the importance of animal and nature conservation.
Practical Information
Opening Hours: The zoo is open year-round from Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Due to its diverse programs and stunning attractions, Sóstó Zoo offers an experience for all ages. It's worth visiting multiple times as its continuously expanding and renewing exhibitions always offer new experiences.
more info:
https://www.sostozoo.hu/nyitvatartas
https://www.sostozoo.hu/jegyek
Why Should Hikers Visit?
Hikers should particularly visit Sóstó Zoo because the park not only features animals but also stunning natural surroundings. Walking through the park can feel like exploring different continents, getting to know the animals and plants native to those regions. During long walks, hikers can discover the beauty of nature and enjoy numerous rest areas and restaurants where they can relax and refresh. The interactive programs and shows provide unique experiences that complement the joy of hiking.
How to Get There?
Sóstó Zoo is easily accessible by car and public transport. It's only a 10-minute drive from Nyíregyháza, and ample parking is available around the zoo, free of charge. Visitors arriving by car can easily find suitable parking spaces and reach the zoo entrance with a short walk.
For those using Nyíregyháza's local public transport, regular bus services operate from the city to the Sóstó recreational area where the zoo is located. Bus stops near the zoo are easily accessible on foot, making it convenient for visitors choosing public transportation.
Visitors arriving from further away should take a train to Nyíregyháza railway station and then continue by local bus to Sóstó Zoo. Located directly next to Lake Sóstó, visitors can combine their visit with a pleasant lakeside walk. The number of parking spaces is sufficient for visitors to park comfortably and quickly, allowing them to enjoy the stunning animal and conservation exhibitions at Sóstó Zoo.
