The Big Cat Sanctuary - Exclusive Safari Experiences & Overnight Stays

Visit Yuna at The Big Cat Sanctuary


The Big Cat Sanctuary is open for exclusive, private pre-booked experiences only

Big Cats in Crisis


The Big Cat Sanctuary’s Big Cats in Crisis campaign is providing a forever home for five African lions caught up in the ongoing war in Ukraine.

In May 2024, in association with IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare), we announced our plans to evacuate five big cats – lionesses Yuna, Vanda, Amani and Lira, and lion Rori – from the Wild Animals Rescue Center (WAR) in Kyiv, Ukraine. A fundraising campaign to build a lion rescue centre at the Sanctuary, and to transport the cats out of the warzone, has raised over £450,000.

And in August 2024, Cross Border Animal Services (CBAS) evacuated our first two lions – Yuna and Rori – from Kyiv! Rori is currently at the Natuurhulpcentrum in Belgium, while Yuna has arrived safely at the Big Cat Sanctuary.

But we still need your help! Donating today will help to fund the completion of the rescue centre, as well as to to get Vanda, Lira and Amani to safety.

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About The Big Cat Sanctuary

Our Story

The Big Cat Sanctuary is set in the heart of the countryside at Smarden, near Ashford in Kent.


The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent is a centre dedicated to the conservation of wild cats, with the objectives of welfare, breeding, education and conservation. The initiatives undertaken are a vital part in saving some of the planet’s most endangered and iconic species from extinction. 

The Sanctuary is proud to have contributed to the accredited global breeding programmes as well as donating to in-situ conservation projects. The centre offers personal big cat experiences including overnight stays, afternoon teas, photography workshops, ranger days and educational tours.

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