The zoo is situated on the site of a former forest park founded in 1895 by Metropolitan Methodius of Stara Zagora.
The facility is home to a dedicated rehabilitation center for wild birds and small mammals found injured in the Stara Zagora province.
The 2022 renovation involved the complete reconstruction of the cages to create more spacious, habitat-appropriate living conditions for big cats.
The zoo features a specialized 'educational zone' designed for interactive learning about local ecosystem conservation.
The grounds contain rare tree species, as the zoo is an integral part of the Ayazmoto landscape park's arboretum.
Stara Zagora Zoo is located within the Ayazmoto Park, a prominent green space spanning over 300 hectares. The zoo houses approximately 400 animals representing over 80 species, including tigers, lions, bears, and various primates. It underwent an extensive modernization project completed in 2022 to upgrade enclosures and visitor infrastructure. The facility serves as an educational center and a rescue hub for injured wildlife in the region. Nestled in a hilly, forested area, the zoo provides a naturalistic setting for its inhabitants. The layout follows the contours of the local terrain, offering a mix of shaded walking paths and elevated viewing decks. Recent renovations integrated modern safety standards while maintaining the site's historical integration with the surrounding Ayazmoto forest. Visitors can observe both indigenous Bulgarian fauna and various exotic species.
The elevated observation deck overlooking the big cat enclosures.
Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the path follows the natural hilly terrain of the park.
Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds, as the park is a very popular weekend destination for local families.
Check the official website before visiting, as certain zones may occasionally close for animal enrichment activities.
Avoid visiting during the peak heat of mid-summer afternoons when animals retreat into their inner shelters and are difficult to view.
Closed on Mondays for maintenance and animal care.
Do not feed the animals; observe strictly from behind the safety barriers; keep noise levels low to avoid distressing the wildlife.
