In the picturesque landscape of Huyện Nho Quan, Vietnam, lies a remarkable refuge for bears - the BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh. Established in 2017 by FOUR PAWS, an international animal welfare organization, this sanctuary is a testament to compassion and dedication towards ending bear farming in Vietnam. It offers a new lease on life for bears rescued from the cruel conditions of bile bear farms and private keeping.
BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh is more than just a shelter; it's a transformative space where bears, once confined to tiny metal cages and subjected to bile extraction, find freedom and peace. The sanctuary provides spacious indoor and outdoor enclosures, allowing these majestic creatures to behave naturally once again. Here, the bears can swim in wading pools, climb high platforms, bask in the sun, play, forage for food, or retreat to their dens for relaxation - simple joys they were once deprived of.
Visitors to BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh are in for an enriching experience. The sanctuary features a 300-meter-long skywalk, offering a unique vantage point to observe the bears as they engage in their natural behaviors. This is complemented by Vietnam's first interactive exhibition about bear species, providing educational insights into their lives. Guided tours allow visitors to walk near the outdoor enclosures, learning about the emotional stories of the bears and the importance of conservation efforts.
The sanctuary experience is enhanced by the on-site restaurant, where visitors can savor traditional Vietnamese vegetarian and vegan dishes while enjoying tranquil views across the sanctuary. Additionally, the sanctuary shop offers authentic souvenirs, allowing guests to take a piece of their memorable experience home while supporting the sanctuary's mission.
The journey of BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh began in December 2016, with its construction leading to the rescue of the first bear, Nhi Nho, a year later. Since then, the sanctuary has become a beacon of hope, rescuing numerous bears from bile bear farms and private captivity. Each bear's rescue is a step towards ending the sad existence of bears in captivity and a move towards a more compassionate world.
BEAR SANCTUARY Ninh Binh stands as a symbol of hope and change in animal welfare. It's a place where the saddest bears find happiness, where visitors gain awareness and empathy, and where the fight against bear bile farming finds strong support. This sanctuary is not just a home for bears; it's a catalyst for change, inspiring visitors and communities to join the movement towards a kinder, more humane world for animals.