Discovering Slovenia's wildlife

Discover Slovenia's rich biodiversity through a variety of experiences, including observatories and themed trails featuring fascinating wildlife species.

Slovenia's colourful flora and fauna

Slovenia is renowned for its biodiversity, characterised by numerous endemic, rare and endangered plant and animal species. This wealth is largely due to the country's strong conservation efforts, with protected areas covering more than a third of its territory. Home to some 15,000 animal species and 6,000 plant species, Slovenia hosts a diverse range of ecosystems, from vast forests and aquatic habitats to deep caves and lofty mountain peaks. Embark on a journey to explore this unique world of plants and animals and enjoy a variety of experiences designed to minimise their impact on natural ecosystems.

Forest coverage

almost 60 per cent

Protected areas

more than 1/3 of the Slovenian territory

Biodiversity

more than 22,000 plant and animal species

Number of endemic plant species

over 100

Number of endemic animal species

850

Nature parks

Nature parks are the best place to discover the world's rich biodiversity. Each park has its own unique environment and a treasure trove of different species of plants and animals. Triglav National Park stands out as the largest, home to almost half of Slovenia's animal species and around 1,600 plant species. Enter the colourful world of authentic nature with respect and responsibility, and you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring scenes that will stay with you forever.

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Triglav National Park – The majestic realm of the Goldhorn

The realm of Slovenia's only national park is a world of mighty peaks of the Julian Alps, adorned with lush green valleys carved deep into the mountains. Surrounded by mysterious green forests and vast alpine meadows, this world is also graced by the presence of crystal-clear waters meandering through streams, rivers and lakes. Teeming with biodiversity, the park reveals a harmonious relationship between man and nature, reflected in its cultural landscape and time-honoured traditions.

Triglav National Park – The majestic realm of the Goldhorn

Embrace authentic nature as a responsible visitor

The beauty and richness of our natural environment are priceless treasures, but they are also incredibly fragile. Any irresponsible behaviour can have irreversible consequences. After all, we enter the homes of the indigenous species, like guests in their homes. Just as we wouldn't tolerate inappropriate behaviour in our own homes, we must extend the same courtesy to nature. To preserve all this authentic beauty for future generations, it is essential to follow the rules of good behaviour in nature.

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A stroll through blooming meadows and botanical gardens

Prepare to be amazed by the vibrant colours that adorn Slovenia's meadows, some of which still create a breathtaking symphony of flowers, especially in the spring months. In addition to the natural settings, botanical gardens and arboretums highlight delightful displays of flowers and other plants. In the Soča Valley, you can discover the endemic plants of the alpine realm, while during the May holiday week, a visit to the botanical park Volčji Potok Arboretum promises a dazzling sight with its kaleidoscope of tulips.

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International Wild Flower Festival

Did you know that Bohinj is home to more than 1000 different plant species? This diversity is due to intensive environmental preservation and the millennia of human coexistence with nature in the Julian Alps, which has shaped the landscape and thus the habitat of many plants. Inspired by this wealth of botanical treasures, the people of Bohinj have organised the International Wild Flower Festival, which offers a wide range of activities and events, including botanical excursions, workshops, lectures, cultural performances and flower-inspired culinary delights. It is well worth visiting Bohinj at the end of May or the beginning of June to see the meadows blanketed with a vibrant tapestry of flowers during this enchanting festival.

International Wild Flower Festival

Experience the green wilderness

Wherever your adventures take you in Slovenia, you will discover priceless natural treasures just waiting to be explored. Some areas remain virtually untouched, offering unparalleled opportunities to see wildlife in its pristine habitat. Discover the green oases of tranquillity in Slovenia's Green Destinations and support sustainable efforts to preserve these amazing habitats.

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A wonderful world of wildlife

Vast forests, meadows, aquatic ecosystems, even the seemingly uninhabitable rocky world above the tree line or dark cave systems are teeming with life. Among the myriad species that live or are occasionally sighted in Slovenia, some are rare and endangered. Majestic large carnivores such as the lynx, wolf and brown bear roam freely in the forests. Did you know that more than 380 bird species have been identified in Slovenia? All the more reason to discover its rich wildlife for yourself. Here are some of the country's most fascinating animal inhabitants, waiting to be discovered through unforgettable experiences.

Brown bear

Although brown bears can be found in forests in many parts of Slovenia, they are most common in the forests of Kočevje and Notranjska. These areas offer the best opportunity to get closer to this furry creature, as well as other carnivores such as the lynx and wolf. Observation posts are ideal vantage points from which to observe and record their behaviour in their natural habitat.

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Discover the natural habitat of bears

Enter the world of the mysterious forests of Kočevje and explore the nature in all its primal glory. This area is home to the largest brown bear population and the highest number of primeval forest remnants...

SlovenianBears – in the footsteps of the brown bear

Get ready for a boutique photographic encounter with the brown bear.

Carniolan honey bee

The Carniolan honey bee, an autochthonous Slovenian bee, is known for its docility, diligence, humility, and excellent sense of orientation. Today it is one of the most widespread honey bees in the world. Its harmonious relationship with man has fostered the growth of beekeeping, which is deeply rooted in Slovenian culture. In addition to the production of honey and other bee products, bees play a central role in various experiences – from apitherapy to folk art. Here are some ways to get to know these industrious creatures.

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Bird watching

Slovenia's diverse fauna includes a rich variety of bird species. With several rare and endangered species, Slovenia is an ornithologist's paradise. Some of the most fascinating places for birdwatching are aquatic habitats, most of which are protected. If you are a bird lover, you are welcome to visit some of the most popular birdwatching sites.

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Proteus

Although it is difficult to imagine life in total darkness, Slovenia's underground world is home to extraordinary animal species. The largest and most famous of these is the proteus, also known as the white olm, a unique vertebrate endemic to the Dinaric Karst. Best seen in places such as Postojna Cave, these creatures have become a source of fascination, with the recent discovery of what were dubbed 'baby dragons' in the cave system. Some 80 kilometres to the north, a special laboratory is dedicated to the conservation of these remarkable cave dwellers. Its relative, the black proteus, lives underground in the Bela Krajina karst.

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Visit the human fish at Postojna Cave

Explore the fascinating world of human fish at the Postojna Cave Vivarium, where you can admire these extraordinary creatures alongside their cave-dwelling companions and witness their remarkable adaptation...

SOS Proteus Information Centre

In the tunnel under the old town of Kranj there is a special laboratory dedicated to human fish, where visitors can learn first-hand from researchers about the lives of human fish and the importance of...

Black Proteus Information Centre

The black proteus, a fascinating relative of the white human fish, lives in Bela Krajina. Characterised by a short snout, black skin and partially developed eyes, this unique creature captivates visitors...

Themed and nature trails

Slovenia has around 5,000 themed trails that give an insight into the country's rich natural and cultural heritage. Some of them are dedicated to showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the area where you are taking a walk.

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Top educational themed trails in Slovenia

Themed trails that help you to discover the local natural and cultural heritage in a fascinating way.

Water trails in Slovenia

Take a refreshing stroll along the most beautiful water trails.

Best themed hiking trails for families

Make your family holiday in Slovenia more exciting with a hike along picturesque themed trails.

Flora and fauna in exhibitions

Explore some of the fascinating information centres and exhibitions throughout Slovenia where you can learn about the diverse plants and animals of various regions.

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Cuisine from nature

What grows naturally can often be much more delicious and intense in flavour. Mushrooms, berries and herbs picked in forests and meadows are welcome ingredients in even the most prestigious kitchens, and many chefs love to use them. But it is important to exercise caution and have a thorough knowledge of plants, as edible and poisonous varieties are often very similar.

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Slovenia for nature lovers

Slovenia's great outdoors offers so many different sounds, smells and colours that it's easy to fall in love.

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Discover nature

Feel the beneficial effects of the green natural environment in Slovenia.

Countryside

The countryside – in the middle of nature, with locals, and enjoying local food.

Visit zoos, farms and ranches

Visit adorable mini zoos in Slovenia and spend some time with animals at farms.

The best stories from Slovenian forests

Choose an unforgettable forest experience in a land where nearly 60% of the surface area is covered by forests.

A family holiday at Slovenia's tourist farms

Spend your family holiday at Slovenia's tourist farms.

Top summer adventures in nature

Experience authentic nature as you embark on unforgettable adventures in Slovenia.

Celebrate World Bee Day with us

Why is 20 May World Bee Day, who is Anton Janša, and what is the role of beekeeping in Slovenia?

Travelling with a pet

We say that a dog is man's best friend. But what if you want your dog or other pet to keep you company on a trip or travel to Slovenia?

Stories from Slovenia

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Discovering Slovenia's wildlife