Lions Enter Larger Enclosure in Belgium

Why this is here: The park invested 20 million euros to modernize the animal park and improve animal welfare, beginning with the lion enclosure.

Alexandre Dallemagne, director of the Wild World of Aywaille in Belgium, opened a new 6,500 square meter lion enclosure on May 20, 2026. The expanded space is six times larger than the previous enclosure for Kali and Esmée, the park’s lions. This opening marks the first major step in a 20 million euro renovation of the 50-year-old animal park.

The new design prioritizes the lions’ well-being by allowing them more freedom of movement and the expression of natural behaviors. Landscape architect Luc Petit led the effort to create an immersive environment, concealing barriers with vegetation and integrating the enclosure into the existing safari landscape. The park addressed drainage issues to improve the area, previously prone to mud.

Future plans include lodges for close-up viewing and the introduction of virtual reality experiences. The park aims to increase annual visitors from 100,000 to 200,000 by 2030. The renovation and expansion are ongoing, with further improvements planned for the safari route.