Fodor's Expert Review Askania-Nova

The Kherson area's star attraction, Askania-Nova was among Europe's first wildlife reserves, dating back to the late 19th century when a local baron began importing exotic animals from around the world to live on his property in the Tavrian steppes. Today, this 520-acre park is home to zebras, wild horses, African and South Asian varieties of antelope, and a huge array of birds, from flamingos to emus. It’s a 90-minute drive from Kherson and the best time to spot animals is in the height of summer.