The park was founded by Krzysztof Schmidt, a biologist dedicated to the protection of endangered European species.
It is one of the few places in Poland where wolves can be observed in a semi-natural environment.
The facility functions as a research center for the Polish Academy of Sciences.
Several animals in the park are orphans or injured individuals rescued from the wild that cannot return to their natural habitats.
The park includes authentic Masurian wooden houses salvaged and restored to maintain the regional landscape aesthetic.
The wildlife enclosures are designed to be vast enough that animals can avoid human contact if they choose to do so.
Park Dzikich Zwierząt in Kadzidłowo is a wildlife reserve specializing in the protection and breeding of endangered species native to Poland and Eurasia. The park operates as a research and educational facility, focusing on rehabilitating injured animals and reintroducing them into the wild. Unlike traditional zoos, the park features large, open enclosures that mimic natural habitats within the Masurian Landscape Park. Visitors can only access the park through guided tours, which are mandatory to ensure the welfare of the animals. Species hosted include European bison, lynx, wolves, red deer, fallow deer, and various birds of prey. The facility emphasizes ecological education and the history of regional wildlife conservation. The terrain is rural and woodland-based, reflecting the natural forest environment of the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship. The park also maintains a collection of historic regional architecture relocated to the site to preserve local heritage.
The elevated boardwalks near the large ungulate enclosures offer the best vantage points for wildlife photography.
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots suitable for muddy or uneven forest trails.
Bring binoculars for better observation, as animals may be located deep within the large enclosures.
Plan for the mandatory guided tour, as independent wandering is not permitted for safety and animal stress management reasons.
Do not arrive expecting a traditional zoo with cage-front viewing, as the primary goal here is the well-being of the animals within large, forested spaces.
The park is generally closed during the winter months due to harsh conditions; always check for seasonal openings before planning a visit.
Stay close to your guide at all times, maintain a quiet volume to avoid stressing the animals, and do not attempt to feed or touch the wildlife.
