Hilvarenbeek: Safaripark Beekse Bergen Entry Ticket

Our review of the Safaripark Beekse Bergen experience offers a thorough look at one of the Netherlands’ largest animal parks. With over 1,250 animals from 150 species, this ticket unlocks a day packed with wildlife encounters, whether you prefer exploring on foot, by boat, or by car. Located in Hilvarenbeek, just a short drive from Tilburg and easily accessible via bus, the park promises an immersive safari-style adventure right in the Benelux region.

What we really love about this experience is the variety of ways to see the animals—each method offers a different perspective. The walking trail lets you get close to lions, elephants, and penguins in a natural setting, while the boat safaris and car rides add a sense of adventure and unpredictability. However, potential visitors should be aware of some limitations, like the language barrier on the boat safari and extra costs like parking. Still, for those craving a genuine safari feeling without leaving the Netherlands, it’s a compelling option.

This experience is ideal for families, animal lovers, and anyone looking to add a dash of adventure to a day trip. If you’re prepared for some logistical considerations and enjoy seeing animals in a more naturalistic environment, you’ll find this park offers good value and plenty of memorable moments.

Key Points

• Multiple Safari Options: You can explore on foot, by boat, or by car, making for a varied and personalized experience.
• Wide Range of Animals: Over 150 species, from big cats to penguins, mean lots to see and enjoy.
• Naturalistic Setting: The park’s large plains and landscapes give a sense of being on a real safari.
• Additional Costs: Parking (€9.50) is not included, and the boat safari is only available in Dutch.
• Limited English Information: Some visitors noted that directions and guides lack English explanations, so planning ahead can help.
• Flexible Booking: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, which adds convenience and peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Safaripark Beekse Bergen Experience

How the Ticket Unlocks a Day of Wildlife Encounters

At €34 per person, the ticket to Safaripark Beekse Bergen is priced competitively, especially considering it grants access to three different safari experiences. The inclusion of the walking, boat, and car safaris means you’re not limited to just one perspective — instead, you can tailor your visit to your interests and energy levels.

Walking Safari: Close Encounters in a Natural Setting

The walking trail is a highlight, allowing visitors to stroll among the animals in expansive enclosures designed to resemble their natural habitats. Here, you’ll come face-to-face with lions, hyenas, elephants, and penguins. Several reviews note that the walk provides an authentic feeling of being in the wild, which adds a lot of value.

One reviewer, Marisa, shared that the car safari was fun and fairly close to some animals, but pointed out that not all animals are visible from the car, making the walking trail a more comprehensive way to see the entire park. She also mentioned that directions for the walking route could be clearer, which is a good tip for first-timers.

Boat Safari: A Waterside View of Wildlife

The boat safari takes you aboard either the Livingstone or the Stanley boat. This is a relaxed way to see animals grazing, swimming, and enjoying the sun. You might spot ring-tailed lemurs, rhinos, and swinging monkeys in their watery habitats.

However, some reviews express reservations. Marisa reported that the boat ride had a strong smell of diesel, and the guide only spoke Dutch, which limited the experience for non-Dutch speakers. If language is a concern, it’s worth noting that this part of the tour might not be as accessible for English speakers.

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Car Safari: Self-Paced and Adventurous

Driving your own car through the park allows for a flexible, self-paced experience. The route takes you among lions, giraffes, sable antelopes, and other wildlife. This option is great for those wanting a more intimate encounter and to explore at their own pace.

Keep in mind, the car safari can be unpredictable — some animals may behave unexpectedly, and the experience involves a certain level of risk, especially since the animals are wild. One reviewer pointed out that the route has a “stand left, go right” rule, which is important to follow for safety and smooth navigation.

Additional Practical Details

Visitors should plan for parking (€9.50), which is not included in the ticket price. Some reviewers pointed out that parking can be challenging during busy times. The park is easily reachable by bus lines 142 and 143, departing from Tilburg Central Station, making public transport a viable alternative to driving.

What’s Not Included

Food and drinks are not part of the ticket, so packing snacks or planning to buy at the park is advisable. The experience is entirely at your own risk, especially when driving the car safari — animals can behave unpredictably, and damage to your vehicle is possible.

Accessibility and Booking Flexibility

The park is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all visitors to enjoy the experience. You can reserve your tickets with a “reserve now and pay later” option, offering flexibility in planning. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What the Reviews Say

While overall positive, reviews reflect some of the practical challenges. One reviewer noted that the English information was limited, making navigation difficult for non-Dutch speakers. They also mentioned the diesel smell on the boat was unpleasant, and the guide spoke only Dutch, which reduced the enjoyment for some.

Nevertheless, many appreciated the variety of safari modes, describing the experience as “giro” (fun) and highlighting that some animals are quite close from the car. The park’s natural setting and the opportunity to see a broad range of species make it a worthwhile day trip.

Practical Tips for Visiting Safaripark Beekse Bergen

• Plan for parking (€9.50) or use public transport. The park is a 20-minute bike ride from Tilburg, so biking is also an option.
• Book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred start time and take advantage of free cancellation.
• Consider bringing snacks or drinks; food is not included.
• If language is a concern, prepare by reviewing any available information beforehand, especially for the boat safari.
• Remember, the car safari is at your own risk — be cautious and follow the route instructions carefully.

Who Should Visit Safaripark Beekse Bergen?

This park is best suited for families with kids, animal enthusiasts, and those craving a hands-on safari experience without leaving the Netherlands. It offers a good balance between adventure and education, with plenty of opportunities for photo-worthy moments. However, if you’re not comfortable driving yourself or prefer guided commentary in English, some aspects could be less satisfying.

The variety of safari options makes it appealing, but be prepared for logistical considerations like parking and language barriers. For those willing to embrace the adventure, it’s a memorable day out with a solid mix of wildlife, nature, and interactive fun.

FAQs

Is the ticket valid for multiple days?
No, the ticket is valid for one day only, so you’ll want to plan your visit accordingly.

What animals can I expect to see?
You’ll see a broad range including lions, giraffes, hyenas, elephants, penguins, and many more species.

Can I drive my own car through the park?
Yes, the car safari is designed for self-driving visitors, following specific route rules.

Is there an option to cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the safaris accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring for the visit?
Bring essentials like water, snacks, and suitable clothing. Remember that food and drinks are not included.

Is the boat safari available in English?
No, the boat safari is only available in Dutch.

How do I get to the park?
By car (parking €9.50), or via bus lines 142 and 143 from Tilburg Central Station. The park is also a 20-minute bike ride from Tilburg.

In the end, Safaripark Beekse Bergen offers a genuine safari experience packed with diverse wildlife and multiple exploration options. While some logistical details and language barriers exist, the chance to see animals in a naturalistic setting makes it a worthwhile adventure for animal lovers and families alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby