Juraparc

Juraparc is a wildlife park on the Mont d'Orzeires pastures above the town of Vallorbe in the Swiss canton of Vaud. It covers around nine hectares at roughly 1,000 metres above sea level, between Vallorbe and the Vallée de Joux, and is a well-known family outing in the Vaud Jura.

What can you see at Juraparc?

The park focuses on animals of European mountains and forests. Bears, wolves and bison live in large, naturally landscaped enclosures, alongside deer and other wildlife. The best-known residents are the bears George and Ursina, who regularly raise cubs. Visitors watch from elevated walkways above the enclosures, so the animals can be observed without being disturbed.

A separate area is aimed at young children, with friendly farm animals such as goats, ponies, donkeys and alpacas. There is also a playground and a shelter for farm animals, which makes it easy to mix animal watching with play.

What is a visit like?

The route follows walkways over the enclosures and paths across Jura pastures. No special preparation is needed, but because of the altitude it is worth bringing a warm layer even in summer, and sturdy shoes if the weather is wet. From April to October there are feeding times: at 2:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. on weekends. Guided visits are also available.

According to regional tourism listings, the park is open daily, generally from 9:00 until dusk or 18:00. Ticket prices differ between sources, so check the official website for current rates before you go.

Where can you eat?

A chalet-style restaurant operates on site, serving fondue and other regional dishes, a fitting choice in the cool Jura air and a handy stop after your walk.

Frequently asked questions

Is Juraparc a dinosaur park? No. Despite a name that evokes the Jurassic, it is a wildlife park. Life-size dinosaur reconstructions are found elsewhere in the Jura, for example at Préhisto-Parc in Réclère.

Who is it for? Mainly families with children, but also anyone who wants to see bears, wolves and bison against a backdrop of mountain pastures.

Are animals fed every day? During the season, from April to October, yes: at 2:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. on weekends.

How long should I plan? A relaxed walk along the walkways, the farm animal area and a meal fill several hours.

What else is nearby? Vallorbe is known for its caves full of stalactites and stalagmites, and the whole area belongs to the Parc Jura vaudois nature park. The Vallée de Joux offers walks and views of Jura ridges.

Why visit?

Juraparc pairs the sight of large predators and herbivores with a simple, family-friendly day outdoors. The walkways keep the animals calm while letting visitors see them up close. Add mountain scenery, fresh air and regional food in a chalet, and it makes a good stop in western Switzerland between Lake Neuchâtel and the Vallée de Joux, especially with children and no appetite for a demanding trail.

When planning, take the weather at around 1,000 metres into account, and consider timing your visit to the feeding, when animals tend to be most active and easiest to watch.