Celal Acar Wildlife Rescue & Bear Rehabilitation Sanctuary
Situated in Karacabey's Ovakorusu oak forest across 10 hectares, this is Turkey's first and only brown bear sanctuary and wildlife rehabilitation center, offering unique educational nature encounters.
Celal Acar Wildlife Rescue & Bear Rehabilitation Sanctuary
Turkey's Only Bear Sanctuary: Celal Acar Wildlife Center
Established in 1996 within Karacabey's Ovakorusu oak forests, this 10-hectare wildlife refuge provides sanctuary for rescued Eurasian brown bears. Managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, it serves as a leading rehabilitation center and educational reserve.
Insider Tip
"Visit during morning feeding hours (10:00 to 11:30 AM) when bears are most active roaming through their forest enclosures."
Bursamız Local Guide Notes
Google E-E-A-T Verified Visitor Experience & Insights
Ayşe Gökçen
Çevre, Doğa & Sürdürülebilirlik Yazarı • Doğa & Şehircilik Masası
Uludağ Milli Parkı ekosistemi, Bursa'nın sulak alanları, gölleri ve park projeleri üzerine çevre araştırmaları yürüten çevre bilimci ve serbest yazar.
This content has been prepared in compliance with Bursamız Editorial Standards, cross-verified with official city data.
Photo Gallery
Celal Acar Wildlife Rescue & Bear Rehabilitation Sanctuary 360° Virtual Tour & Earth 3D Station
Satellite 3D telemetry, terrain topography, and 360° street panoramas are fully calibrated. Fly in 3D orbit or tour inside step by step.
Add to Your Route & Stamp in Culture Passport
Plan and optimize your Bursa trip on the interactive map; check in on-site via GPS to collect digital stamps and earn the official Bursa City Ambassador award.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there an entrance fee for the bear sanctuary?
A nominal National Parks admission fee is charged per person or vehicle at the gate.
What are the visiting hours?
The center is open daily from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
Can visitors feed the bears?
No, feeding the animals is strictly prohibited for their health and guest safety.
Is this suitable for families with children?
Yes, the forest trails and informational placards make it an inspiring educational excursion for children.
How do you drive there from Bursa?
Follow the Bursa-İzmir highway towards Karacabey, then turn off onto the Ovakorusu forest road; drive takes about 50 minutes.
Are picnic areas available?
Yes, the adjacent Ovakorusu Nature Park offers picnic tables, though open fires are prohibited.
How many bears live in the sanctuary?
Over 70 rescued Eurasian brown bears roam and hibernate within the expansive oak forest enclosures.
Is parking available?
Yes, a free outdoor visitor parking area is located right at the gate.
Where is Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı located and how can I get there via public transport?
Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı is located within the Karacabey district of Bursa. It can be easily reached using municipal buses, shared minibuses, or transfers from the BursaRay metro line.
Is there an admission fee for Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı, and is Museum Pass accepted?
Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı is accessible under municipal or cultural foundation guidelines; historical monuments and spiritual sites are generally open free of charge to the public.
What are the visiting hours for Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı and what is the best time of day to visit?
Generally accessible from 08:30 in the morning until sunset. Early morning and late afternoon offer the most peaceful ambiance and optimal photographic lighting.
How much time is typically needed to explore Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı?
Exploring the architecture, historical inscriptions, and grounds takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Combined with neighboring sights, it fits easily into a half-day itinerary.
Is parking available for private vehicles near Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı?
Yes, municipal BURBAK parking bays and private lots are situated within easy walking distance throughout the Karacabey area.
Is photography and videography permitted at Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı?
Personal and souvenir photography is permitted. Flash photography is discouraged to protect historic surfaces, and commercial filming requires prior municipal authorization.
Is Celal Acar Ovakorusu Yaban Hayatı Kurtarma & Ayı Barınağı accessible for wheelchairs and baby strollers?
The primary entrances and courtyard walkways are largely level and accessible, though occasional historic steps may require a ramp or companion assistance.
Visitor Information
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Celal Acar Wildlife Rescue & Bear Rehabilitation Sanctuary
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