Poloniny Bison Enclosure

The Bison Enclosure in Poloniny National Park is a cornerstone of the program to reintroduce the European bison (Bison bonasus) into the wild in Slovakia. Located in the far east of the country, the facility is situated in a region defined by vast primeval beech forests and minimal human presence. The first bison were brought here in 2004 from various European zoos and reserves to establish a sustainable local population. The enclosure serves as an acclimatization zone where animals adapt to the local environment before being released into the national park's wilderness. The European bison is the continent's largest land mammal and had previously been extinct in this area. Thanks to successful breeding and rewilding efforts, dozens of bison now roam freely in the Poloniny mountains. The project is part of an international conservation initiative aimed at preserving this endangered species. Visitors have the chance to observe these majestic animals from a safe distance and learn about Carpathian forest ecology.

Nearby cities

Košice

Košice is the second-largest city in Slovakia and the center of the eastern region.

Sídlisko KVP

One of the largest housing estates in Košice, offering a mix of modern living and green spaces, providing a unique glimpse into local life.

Prešov

The third-largest city in Slovakia is located at the confluence of the Torysa and Sekčov rivers.

Michalovce

Michalovce is the center of the Eastern Slovak Lowland, located on the Laborec River.

Spišská Nová Ves

This Spiš region city is the gateway to the Slovak Paradise National Park.

Humenné

Humenné is located in the Laborec valley in eastern Slovakia.

Bardejov

Bardejov in the northeast is one of Slovakia's oldest and most beautiful towns.

Liptovský Mikuláš

Located in the Liptov Basin between the Low and High Tatras, this town is a major tourist hub.

Ružomberok

Ružomberok is located at the confluence of the Váh and Revúca rivers and is a major center for the paper industry.

Vlkolínec Historical Heritage

The village preserves traditional folk architecture from the 19th century.

Lučenec

Lučenec is the economic and cultural center of the Novohrad region in southern Slovakia.

Trebišov

Trebišov is located in the southern part of the Eastern Slovak Lowland.

Snina

Snina is the easternmost town in Slovakia, located at the confluence of the Pčolinka and Cirocha rivers.

Rimavská Sobota

Rimavská Sobota is located on the Rimava River in southern Slovakia.

Vranov nad Topľou

Vranov nad Topľou is located in northeastern Slovakia on the Topľa River.

History & landmarks

Bardejov Town Hall

This former town hall stands isolated in the center of Bardejov's market square.

Vlkolínec

A perfectly preserved mountain village and UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Northern Slovakia's traditional log architecture.

Levoča Old Town Hall

This Renaissance town hall stands in the middle of Levoča's historic square.