A Roaring Adventure Awaits Just One Hour from Amsterdam
Have you ever imagined yourself face-to-face with a lion or hearing the call of a zebra echo across a vast savanna—without ever stepping foot in Africa? Welcome to Safari Park Beekse Bergen, the largest wildlife park in the Netherlands and one of the country’s most exciting attractions. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or an unforgettable solo trip, this place is where thrilling animal encounters, safari-style adventures, and relaxing lakeside stays all come together in one stunning location.
As your guide through this Dutch safari experience, I’m here to show you everything that makes this park such a must-visit destination—especially if you’re traveling from the U.S. or Canada and want a uniquely European experience that’s also family-friendly, educational, and, let’s be honest, just plain cool.
Go Wild: Four Ways to Experience the Safari
At Beekse Bergen, you can watch giraffes stroll past your car on a self-drive safari, hop on a safari bus with a guide who’ll share fascinating facts about African wildlife, or cruise past hippos and flamingos on a boat safari across the lake. And if you’re up for stretching your legs, there’s also a walking safari route where you can explore animal habitats at your own pace. Each route gives you a completely different view of the park’s incredible animals—from lions and rhinos to cheeky monkeys and sable antelopes.
Stay Where the Wild Things Are
What really makes this place special? You can sleep right next to the animals—literally. Choose from beautifully styled accommodations at the Safari Resort Beekse Bergen or the Lake Resort, where panoramic windows let you wake up to zebras grazing just outside. These luxurious lodges and bungalows come with spacious showers, king-size beds, and even indoor pools like the Etsi Pool for a relaxing dip after a day of adventure. It’s an experience that’s part luxury, part adventure, and fully unforgettable.
And here’s something to keep in your back pocket: our very own Bungalow Park ’t Eekhoornnest in Soest is less than an hour’s drive away. It’s the perfect base if you’re looking to explore more of the Netherlands after your safari adventure. Soest itself is centrally located, quiet, and scenic—ideal for recharging while planning your next excursion.
But back to Beekse Bergen—this isn’t just a park, it’s a full-on immersion into the wild, packed with hidden corners, fun surprises for kids and adults alike, and top-tier amenities like family restaurants, buffet breakfasts, and even canoe safaris.
So buckle up, because in the next section, I’ll take you off the beaten path with hidden gems, delicious eats, and insider tips you won’t want to miss.
Hidden Gems, Tasty Stops, and Unforgettable Moments at Safari Park Beekse Bergen
So, you’ve taken the boat safari, waved at a rhino from your car, and maybe even spotted a lion lounging in the sun. But did you know there’s a lot more to Beekse Bergen than the safari routes? In this part, we’re stepping off the main trails to explore hidden gems, cozy spots to eat, and little touches that make the park truly memorable.
Discover Karibu Town: More Than Just a Pit Stop
Tucked within the heart of the park, Karibu Town is a lively, African-themed village that brings color, culture, and convenience together. Most visitors pass through quickly—but take some time to explore, and you’ll find a lot more to love. Here, you can grab a delicious coffee (served in eco-friendly cups—cheers to sustainability!), shop for unique souvenirs, or let the kids run wild in the themed play zones. There’s even a wooden service shelf that’s cleverly designed for stashing your gear while you relax.
If you’re traveling with children, don’t miss the animation program offered during weekends and holidays. It’s packed with fun activities like animal-themed arts and crafts, treasure hunts, and interactive games. It’s a welcome break for parents, too!
Dining Delights: From Buffets to Bistro Vibes
You’ll never go hungry here. The park offers several cozy places to eat, but Restaurant Moto in Karibu Town is a standout. With stylish interiors and large windows overlooking the lake, it’s perfect for sitting down to a warm meal between safaris. Try the buffet breakfast if you’re staying at one of the resorts, or treat yourself to the excellent dinner buffet featuring a rotating menu of international dishes, local favorites, and vegetarian options.
For something more casual, grab a bite at one of the lakeside cafés, where you can sip a cappuccino while watching the safari boat pass by. And if you’re a coffee lover (who isn’t?), don’t miss the luxury coffee brew stations available at several park locations. It’s the perfect pick-me-up during a day full of exploration.
Little Luxuries and Unexpected Surprises
The accommodations at Lake Resort Beekse Bergen and Safari Resort Beekse Bergen go beyond just comfort—they’re thoughtfully designed for convenience and style. Think spacious showers with rain shower heads, touch-screen controls, and even automatic license plate recognition at the entrances, making check-in smooth and seamless. One particularly charming touch? Some bungalows feature one-sided see-through windows, giving you a clear view of the animals while preserving your privacy. It’s like having your own little wildlife documentary—minus the camera crew.
If you’re feeling more active, grab a bicycle and explore the scenic trails around the park, or join a canoe safari for a peaceful paddle through quiet corners of the lake. And for a quirky, kid-approved thrill, check out the mud pool play area near Speelland, the adjacent attraction park that’s included with your Beekse Bergen Pass.
