Pristina Bear Sanctuary (Kosovo)

Back in 2019, while driving through the Balkans, we decided to visit Kosovo and stay in the capital city of Pristina (or Prishtina). This was our first time visiting Kosovo on a Convoy trip, and although it was only for a couple of days, we managed to squeeze as much in as possible. I heard of a bear sanctuary not too far from the capital, so we took a couple of cars and a small group to visit after a little research.

Four Paws

Located in the remote mountains of Kosovo, just 20 kilometers outside Pristina, is Four Paws Bear Sanctuary. The 16 hectares serve as a sanctuary for bears that were kept at restaurants across Albania and Kosovo for entertainment. The bear sanctuary provides a suitable environment for bears to live in, while they are under the supervision of professionals. This project has eradicated bears being kept by private owners in Kosovo since 2014. It wasn’t until 2010 that it became illegal in Kosovo to keep bears privately, and it was very popular to keep “restaurant” bears. Restaurant bears were kept in small cages, often out the front of restaurants across the region, to act as entertainment for guests and to attract customers. Often mistreated and living in poor conditions, there was a considerable concern for their welfare raised by the public. Four Paws offered a solution and home for these bears, so the rescue operation began in March 2013. The first bear Kassandra, was rescued and brought to the sanctuary in 2013. Many more were rescued, including some privately owned bear cubs.

My Experience

I loved our visit to the bear sanctuary and it gave an interesting insight into the world of bears in the Balkans. Growing up in the UK, with no wild bears, I've always had a fascination with the grizzly animals and going to the sanctuary was a great way to find out more about them. Entrance to the park cost around 1.50 Euro, which was fantastic considering the amount of work and effort they have put into building this beautiful sanctuary.

The park itself leads you on a relaxed trail around the enclosures where you can see the bears running free, or bathing in the sun. There is parking at the park, cafe, toilets and a gift shop. The sanctuary is very sophisticated and is a great place to spend an afternoon. There are also great photo opportunities for any wildlife lover as the enclosures make the visibility of the bears fantastic.

For more information about what Four Paws are doing, check out their website here