Couple weekends ago we went to Parco Natura Viva in Verona. I had been wanting to go there for a while because it had been many years since my last visit, and since my son is now at the age where he enjoys seeing animals other than the usual dogs and cats in real life, it seemed like a good opportunity.
The most interesting and unusual part was definitely the safari, where you drive your own car into a designated area with the animals free to walk around you. Obviously there were no lions or aggressive animals roaming freely; those were still separated by rivers or small lakes. Seeing giraffes, zebras, and other animals from so close while staying inside the car is a different experience compared to a traditional zoo where they are behind cages.
After that we did the walking route. The areas are divided by the animals' continent of origin, and the park is large enough to give the animals decent spaces that are not too cramped. My son stopped at practically every enclosure. He was interested in pretty much all the animals except birds and monkeys. I have no idea why, but in the end, as long as he had fun, that's what matters.
There is also a dinosaur-themed area where, of course, there are no real dinosaurs, only life-sized realistic replicas. This part wasn't very exciting for an adult, but my son got scared a few times when he saw them.
I have to say it was incredibly hot. Even though there were trees and shaded areas, with these temperatures it was tough. We drank a lot of water and also took electrolyte supplements. It wasn't until around 6:00 p.m. that the temperature started to become more bearable.
In the end, it was a pleasant day spent outdoors and without any rush, and we came home with a new stuffed toy.
