Europe's largest mammal up close — a herd of bison on the edge of the Borecka Forest. Approx. 30 km, May–October.

Wolisko Bison Enclosure — meeting the king of the forest

The Wolisko Bison Enclosure (Zagroda Żubrów w Wolisku) is a show enclosure home to around 80 European bison on the edge of the Borecka Forest (Puszcza Borecka), by Lake Wolisko, about 30 km from Ostoja Dwa Jeziora. You watch the bison from a safe distance behind a fence. The enclosure is open seasonally, from May to October, only in the morning and late afternoon. It is closed in winter.

On the edge of the Borecka Forest, by Lake Wolisko, there is a show enclosure for European bison. You watch the herd from a safe distance — a rare chance to see up close Europe's largest mammal, which only a hundred years ago was on the brink of extinction.

The animals are most active in the morning and towards evening — and those are the only times the enclosure is open to visitors. It is worth bringing binoculars and a little patience: watching the herd cross the clearing stays in the memory.

Why it's worth a visit

Europe's largest mammal, live — a herd of around 80 bison.
A species that was on the brink of extinction; information boards tell its story.
Observation from a safe distance — calm and without crowds.
The Borecka Forest and Lake Wolisko all around — the journey itself is a nature trip.
In the morning and towards evening the animals are at their most active — and that is exactly when the enclosure is open.
An attraction for the whole family, easy to combine with a walk in the forest.

At a glance

a herd of bison in a show enclosure
the Borecka Forest
observation from a safe distance
boards on the history of the species
an attraction for the whole family.

Practical information

approx. 30 km
season: May–October
open only in the morning and late afternoon (check times with the Borki Forest District)
do not feed the animals or make noise
binoculars, closed-toe shoes.

From Ostoja

Combine it with Kruklanki (the collapsed railway bridge) and a walk in the forest.

Frequently asked questions

Is the enclosure open in winter?
No. The season runs from May to October; in winter the enclosure is closed.

What time should you arrive?
In the morning or late afternoon — the enclosure is closed in the middle of the day. It is worth checking the current times before you set off.

Can you feed the bison?
No.

How far is the Bison Enclosure from Ostoja Dwa Jeziora?
About 30 km — the enclosure is in Wolisko near Kruklanki, on the edge of the Borecka Forest.

Is it a good attraction for children?
Yes — it is a rare chance to see Europe's largest mammal up close. It is worth telling children beforehand that they need to be quiet and stay behind the fence.

What should you bring?
Binoculars, closed-toe shoes and a little patience.

What can you combine with the Bison Enclosure?
A walk in the Borecka Forest and the area around Kruklanki.

What can you see instead of the bison in winter?
In winter we recommend attractions open all year round, such as the Parrot House in Wilkasy, Boyen Fortress in Giżycko or the Wolf's Lair (Wilczy Szaniec).