The park was established in 1997 with the primary mission of showcasing animals native to Estonia.
Many animals at the park are 'rescues' that arrived as orphaned cubs or calves found by local residents.
The park contains a specialized enclosure for the European polecat, a species rarely seen in the wild.
It serves as a key location for the Estonian Society for Nature Conservation to conduct public education.
The park's layout preserves existing forest stands, providing natural cover for the animals.
Elistvere is one of the few places in the Baltics where visitors can reliably observe lynx in a semi-natural environment.
Elistvere Animal Park functions as a rehabilitation center for orphaned or injured Estonian wildlife rather than a traditional zoo. Managed by the State Forest Management Centre (RMK), the park is situated within a forested area that mimics the natural habitat of its residents. It specializes in housing large European mammals, including brown bears, lynx, moose, and fallow deer. A significant portion of the animals are permanent residents unable to survive in the wild due to health issues or human habituation. The facility features a network of well-maintained walking trails and elevated boardwalks that allow for non-intrusive observation. A visitor center provides educational exhibits regarding local forest ecosystems and animal behavior. The park is designed for quiet observation rather than direct interaction with the wildlife.
The elevated wooden observation platforms overlooking the lynx and deer enclosures.
Bring binoculars to spot the lynx and bears, as they often retreat to the denser parts of their large enclosures.
Visit during feeding times if you want to see the animals more active, though check the board at the entrance for daily schedules.
Wear footwear suitable for forest paths, as some trails can be uneven or muddy after rain.
Attempting to touch the animals or shouting to grab their attention, which causes significant stress to the rescues.
Open daily year-round; however, some animals may be less visible during extreme winter weather or summer midday heat.
Maintain a quiet volume; do not attempt to feed animals or cross safety fences.
