Forget African safaris: discover Andalucía's hidden corner where wild bison roam

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The expat couple who have given the European bison a home on the El Encinarejo estate in Jaén's Sierra de Andújar Natural Park

Cecilia Gallo

Jaén

Monday, 20 April 2026, 16:58 | Updated 17:19h.

The Sierra de Andújar Natural Park, nestled in the northwest of Jaén province, spans 74,774 hectares and is celebrated for its immense biodiversity. This rugged territory is a sanctuary for the Iberian lynx, the wolf, and the Spanish imperial eagle - all species facing significant threats. However, on a 1,000-hectare estate known as El Encinarejo bordering the park, a new protagonist has emerged: the European bison.

Since 2020, this estate has hosted a herd that originally arrived from Poland under a protected species permit. While not yet included in the Spanish national register, these giants are protected at an EU level. Despite their hardy nature, bison require ample space to roam and express natural behaviours. At El Encinarejo, they have clearly found what they need.

"Their adaptation has been extraordinary," says Jessica Hohne, who owns the farm with her husband, Alex. She attributes this success to meticulous planning, constant monitoring, and a close partnership with specialists like herd biologist Yvonne Kemp and various global universities.

A natural rhythm

The proof of their comfort lies in the numbers: eight calves have been born since the herd’s arrival. One of the most fascinating developments, according to Hohne, is how the herd has shifted its reproductive calendar to better align with the Mediterranean climate.

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An adult male bison can weigh up to 1,000 kilos. Daniel Buron

They eventually partnered with the European Bison Conservation Center. Its founder, the late Fernando Morán, was instrumental in the project’s birth. Jessica notes that his passion was contagious, and his guidance helped shape the estate’s long-term commitment to the species.

Today, El Encinarejo offers guided "safaris," though access is strictly limited to ensure the animals' welfare. These educational visits are by appointment only and kept to very small groups. For those looking to catch a glimpse of these giants in the heart of Jaén, the estate’s website is set to relaunch this month with updated information.