The Lago Maggiore region has long been known for its elegance — calm blue water framed by mountains, picturesque towns like Cannobio and Stresa, and a relaxed rhythm that captures the best of Italy and Switzerland. But beyond the lakeside promenades lies another side of Lake Maggiore: a land of wild animals, tree-top adventures, and family excitement.
Two destinations stand out for travellers seeking fun and discovery — the Safari Park Pombia, one of Italy’s most spectacular zoos, and the Wonderwood Hochseilgarten, a mountaintop paradise of zip lines and forest fun. Both can easily be explored in a single unforgettable day from Cannobio or any camping Lago Maggiore site.
Morning: From Lake Calm to African Plains – The Safari Park Pombia
A Drive-Through Safari Experience
About 80 kilometres south of Cannobio, near the town of Pombia in Piedmont, the Safari Park Lago Maggiore spreads across hundreds of hectares of countryside. Here, more than 1 000 animals roam through vast open spaces designed to recreate the savannah, jungle, and desert.
Visitors begin the adventure with the park’s famous drive-through safari. You can enter in your own car or board a guided safari bus and follow a 5-kilometre trail through habitats filled with giraffes, zebras, lions, antelopes, and rhinos. Elephants flap their ears beside the road while ostriches strut past your window — it’s a moment that feels more like Kenya than northern Italy.
Beyond the Wheel – Walking Among Wildlife
After completing the car route, families can park and continue on foot through the zoological and amusement area. This section includes shaded paths, picnic tables, and themed pavilions that focus on conservation.
Children love watching the lemurs leap from branch to branch or the colourful macaws flying overhead. Reptile and insect houses provide close-up views of snakes, crocodiles, and tropical frogs. The daily animal presentations teach visitors about protection and rescue programs for endangered species.
For younger guests, there’s a mini amusement park with carousels, small rollercoasters, and water rides — plus plenty of places to grab pizza, panini, or gelato.
Why Families Love Safari Park Pombia
- 🦒 Interactive Encounters – Giraffe feeding and close-up viewing platforms.
- 🦁 Safe Adventure – Observe lions, tigers, and leopards from the safety of your car.
- 🎠 Play Areas & Rides – Perfect for keeping kids entertained after the safari route.
- ☕ Relaxation Zones – Restaurants, shaded picnic gardens, and cafés for parents.
- 🎟️ Accessibility – Family passes, free parking, and stroller-friendly paths.
Whether you’re a family with small children or animal-loving adults, Safari Park Pombia offers a full-day immersion in nature — and a refreshing contrast to the lake’s gentle elegance.
Afternoon: From Safari to the Sky – Wonderwood Lago Maggiore
The Road Back to the Mountains
After lunch in the park or a picnic stop by the lake, head north toward Cannobio again. About 20 minutes uphill from the town, the road climbs to the mountain village of Trarego Viggiona, perched high above Lake Maggiore.
Hidden in the forest here is Wonderwood Adventure Park, an eco-friendly high-ropes and zipline park that lets families experience the thrill of the Alps in total safety. The air is cooler, the pine scent stronger, and every clearing offers spectacular views of the shimmering lake below.
Adventure Among the Trees
Wonderwood was designed for families — not as an extreme sports park, but as a playground in harmony with nature.
The park features multiple climbing circuits separated by age and difficulty:
- Mini Wonder (ages 2–5): low-level balance bridges, tunnels, and nets with full safety harnesses.
- Junior Trails (ages 6–10): mid-height rope courses, small ziplines, and wobbly bridges for confident children.
- Adventure Trails (ages 11+ and adults): higher platforms, long ziplines, and adrenaline-filled crossings among the treetops.
Altogether, more than 80 elements challenge balance, courage, and teamwork — always under the supervision of trained instructors and continuous-belay safety systems.
More Than Climbing
Wonderwood is more than just ropes and cables. There’s a botanical trail through the forest explaining local plants, a mini animal farm where kids can pet goats and rabbits, and a panoramic café terrace serving espresso, mountain cheese platters, and homemade cakes.
Parents can relax here with a cappuccino while their children explore. Wooden benches and hammocks dot the forest floor, inviting visitors to slow down and breathe the fresh mountain air.
Safety and Sustainability
All structures are built from local wood and designed to have minimal environmental impact.
Before entering the courses, every participant receives a short briefing and professional harness equipment.
The park follows strict European safety standards (EN 15567), ensuring complete peace of mind for families.
Wonderwood also runs eco-education workshops for schools and groups, teaching children about forests, recycling, and wildlife — turning play into awareness.
Visitor Essentials
- Location: Trarego Viggiona (20 min from Cannobio).
- Season: April – October (weather dependent).
- Facilities: Free parking, restrooms, picnic tables, and café.
- Duration: 2–3 hours recommended.
- What to Bring: Comfortable clothes, closed shoes, sunscreen, and enthusiasm.
A Perfect Family Itinerary
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 8 a.m. | Breakfast at Lakeview Cannobio Camping & Resort | Enjoy the morning sun on Lago Maggiore. |
| 9 a.m. | Depart for Safari Park Pombia | Scenic drive along the lake to the south. |
| 10:30 a.m. | Arrive at Safari Park | Begin your safari adventure. |
| 1 p.m. | Lunch | Eat inside the park or picnic nearby. |
| 2 p.m. | Drive back north to Trarego Viggiona | Head toward Wonderwood. |
| 3 p.m. | Adventure time | Climb, zip, and explore among the trees. |
| 6 p.m. | Return to Cannobio | Dinner on the lake promenade. |
This route offers the perfect mix of excitement, education, and nature — all within a single day from your base at Lake Maggiore.
Why Cannobio Is the Ideal Base
Cannobio sits at the crossroads of adventure. From its colourful harbour, you can reach Safari Park Pombia in just over an hour, the Wonderwood Adventure Park in 20 minutes, and Swiss destinations like Ascona or Locarno in less than half an hour.
The town’s atmosphere blends Italian charm with Alpine purity — perfect for families who want both relaxation and exploration.
Staying at camping Lago Maggiore resorts like Lakeview Cannobio Camping & Resort allows travellers to enjoy direct lake access, modern facilities, and freedom to plan spontaneous day trips.
After a day filled with animals and adrenaline, you can unwind on the beach, grill dinner by the lake, and watch the sunset paint the mountains pink.
Travel Tips
- Tickets: Book online for Safari Park Pombia to skip queues.
- Timing: Visit Safari Park in the morning when animals are active; go to Wonderwood in the cooler afternoon.
- Budget: Both attractions offer family discounts and free parking.
- Weather: Safari Park is best on dry days; Wonderwood operates even with light rain.
- Souvenirs: Bring home local honey or handmade wood toys from Wonderwood’s shop.
Two Adventures, One Lake
| Experience | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Safari Park Pombia | African-style drive-through safari with real lions and giraffes. |
| Wonderwood Lago Maggiore | High-ropes adventure park with lake views and eco-play areas. |
| Cannobio Base | Easy access, lakeside charm, affordable family stays. |
| camping Lago Maggiore | Freedom, nature, and proximity to both attractions. |
