Sofia Zoo rapidly became popular a place for recreation, entertainment and education, with world-renowned specialists and breeding valuable and rare animals. In 1984, the zoo was moved from its small place in the center of the capital to the present location in the foot of Vitosha Mountain within the District of Lozenets, situated on more than 36 ha. The zoo is at 15 minutes from the ideal center of Sofia, connected by convenient transport links to different parts of the capital.