De Zonnegloed

Dierenpark De Zonnegloed is Belgium's first wild animal sanctuary, tucked into the quiet countryside of Oostvleteren in the Westhoek region. Unlike a conventional zoo built around collecting species for display, this park exists to give a permanent home to animals that arrived here after years of neglect, illegal trade, or seizure by customs and veterinary authorities.

How did this place come to be?

The sanctuary was founded in 2011 by Karel Ackaert, together with his wife Lieve and their children. From the start, the goal wasn't to build another tourist attraction but to create a safe refuge for animals that can no longer return to the wild. In 2016, De Zonnegloed was officially admitted as a member of EARS (European Alliance for Rescue Centres and Sanctuaries), a European network of rescue centers and sanctuaries — a recognition that underlines the professional standard of care maintained here.

What animals live at the park?

The park is home to more than 400 animals, and the range is striking — from tiny pygmy marmosets and leopard geckos, through groups of meerkats and fennec foxes, to zebras and large brown bears. Most of the exotic animals arrive from recognized rescue organizations such as Natuurhulpcentrum Opglabbeek and various VOCs (wildlife care centers), and each one carries its own story of past exploitation, neglect, or improper captivity.

Who is Berros?

The sanctuary's most famous resident is Berros, a brown bear whose care has been taken on by Roos Van Acker. Berros has become something of a symbol for the park's mission, showing how an animal rescued from a difficult past can go on to live with dignity, in surroundings that mimic its natural habitat, under continuous care.

How is the sanctuary funded?

De Zonnegloed receives no government subsidies. Every part of its operation — feeding the animals, veterinary care, maintaining enclosures — depends entirely on visitor admissions and donations. That makes every visit to the park a direct contribution to keeping it running.

Frequently asked questions

Is De Zonnegloed a regular zoo? Not quite — it operates primarily as a rescue sanctuary, taking in animals from seizures, smuggling cases, or neglect, rather than acquiring or trading animals between zoos for breeding purposes.

Where exactly is the park located? In Oostvleteren, a village that belongs to the municipality of Vleteren, in the Westhoek region of the West Flanders province.

Is it a good place to bring children? The park combines wildlife education with close encounters with unusual species, which often leaves a strong impression on younger visitors and teaches respect for animal welfare.

Can visitors see the bear Berros? Yes, Berros lives permanently at the sanctuary and is one of the main draws for visitors.