Up Close with Giants at Gårsjö älgpark: A Moose Safari Adventure in Sweden
Reading Time: 4 minutes Just outside Uppsala, there’s a rare opportunity to come face-to-face with Sweden’s most iconic animal. That Surprise Spot went there to experience it firsthand.
Index
Where can you meet the moose?
Ah, a trip to Stockholm, Sweden. You’ll indulge in meatballs, stroll through the archipelago, and admire well-dressed people. And of course: meet moose!
Wait, what? That last part sounds a bit dangerous.
And yes, for someone like me, born and raised in Sweden, encountering a wild moose on a forest walk isn’t exactly what you hope for. But what if you could meet gentle, friendly moose, ones that actually let you pet them? Well, that’s a whole different story.
Many visitors to Stockholm are aware of a nearby city called Uppsala, just about a one-hour drive away. It’s famous for its top-ranked universities and a student life that resembles something out of a college comedy movie. What many don’t realize is that Uppsala is also a charming summer destination. Think cozy cafés by the river, beautiful architecture, and a peaceful, idyllic atmosphere.
So what’s the connection between Uppsala and moose? Just 45 minutes from Uppsala lies a place called Heby. Getting there by car or taxi is highly recommended, it’s literally in the middle of nowhere! But that’s part of the charm. Because what do they have in Heby? Answer: A moose safari
What to Expect
The park offers one safari per day, usually in the late morning, and you must book in advance. Upon arrival, you’ll show your tickets and check in at the reception. While waiting for the tour to start, you can enjoy a light snack, typically a traditional Swedish fika at the on-site café.
When the gathering begins, you’ll be seated in a wagon and given a short introduction, including what to expect and the rules for the safari. You’ll then meet Leffe, aka “The Moose Man,” a charming Swede and the park’s owner. His passion for moose is immediately obvious, and you’ll feel like you’re in great hands.
The wagon takes you out onto the farm, and it won’t be long before you spot your first moose. Slowly, they’ll come closer, and before you know it, you’ll have a moose standing right next to you.
The staff will feed them, and you’ll get a chance to take photos and gently pet the moose.
Just as emphasized in the safety instructions: you may not leave the wagon, and under no circumstances should you pet the moose on the butt. (Yes, they specifically mention that!)
After spending time with the adult moose, the tour continues to another part of the farm where you’ll meet the calves. They’re incredibly cute, though I’ll admit, they didn’t quite capture my attention the way the grown moose did.
The ride lasts about an hour, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions throughout.
After the Safari
Once the tour ends, you’ll return to the reception and café area, where you can enjoy another fika, or do what we did: head home and continue your day, smiling from ear to ear.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely! I stumbled across this place by chance and couldn’t be happier that I went. It was a beautiful, sunny Swedish summer day, and the experience was truly special.
I highly recommend Gårdsjö Älgpark to anyone spending a bit more time in Stockholm, to anyone visiting Uppsala, or even to road trippers passing through the area. It’s a unique and heartwarming experience to bond with a moose, without the fear.
