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Lion Country Safari – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect, FAQs

Lion Country Safari, located in West Palm Beach, is a leading tourism destination in Palm Beach County, providing a unique and affordable opportunity to explore the largest drive-through safari in Florida.

Lion Country Safari spans nearly 600 acres of natural area and is home to hundreds of animals.

It is believed to be the first cageless zoo in the country, introducing a new concept in zoology.

This article covers everything you must know before buying tickets for Lion Country Safari in Florida.

Table of contents

What to expect, where to book tickets, how online ticket works, lion country safari ticket prices, lion country safari tickets, how to reach, how long does the tour take, best time to go to visit, food and drinks at lion country safari , map of lion country safari, lion country safari camping, animals at lion country drive-through safari , rides, attractions, and encounters, faqs about lion country safari.

Come and witness ostriches, wildebeests, and impalas in their natural habitat, get up close to a pride of lions, or observe the endangered rhino on the Lion Country Safari.

Get ready to have a personal safari and learn about animal conservation! Enjoy pontoon and paddle boat rides, mini-golf, slides, and other fun attractions on-site.

Explore seven areas, each packed with creatures great and small, from the Serengeti Plains to Gorongosa Reserve and Hwange National Park.

The park has rides, a water play area, and a walk-through section. Kids will love it along with three feeding encounters, including the most giraffe feeding.

The park has also recreated the animals’ natural habitats down to the last detail. So, grab your khaki pants and binoculars; it’s time to go on a safari!

Tickets for the Lion Country Safari are available to be purchased at the ticket office or online in advance.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the attraction.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, they may sell out during peak days. Booking online also helps avoid last-minute disappointment and delays.

Go to the Lion Country Safari booking page, select your preferred date, and the number of tickets, and buy the tickets right away.

After the purchase, you will receive the tickets via email.

You don’t need to carry printouts.

Show the smartphone tickets on the day of your visit and begin your tour.

Lion Country Safari tickets cost US$52 for all visitors aged 10 years and above.  

Tickets for children between three to nine years of age can be purchased for US$40. 

Infants up to two years of age can join for free.

The ticket provides access to various exciting attractions at Lion Country Safari.

You can enjoy the drive-thru safari experience along with admission to the Adventure Park.

The ticket also includes access to all the rides, including the Flying Elephant Ride and Rio Grand Train.

You can explore seven different areas, each featuring a variety of creatures from the Serengeti Plains to Gorongosa Reserve and Hwange National Park.

Moreover, you can have fun at the Safari Splash Sprayground Water Park, enjoy pontoon and paddle boat rides, and play mini-golf.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (10+ years): US$52 Child Ticket (3 to 9 years): US$40 Infant Ticket (up to 2 years): Free

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Lion Country Safari spans over 600 acres in Loxahatchee, Palm Beach County, Florida.

Address : 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470, USA. Get Directions

You can reach the Lion Country Safari by both public and private transportation.

Take Bus Number 40 and get off at Southern BL at Lion Country Safari Rd , 2.3 miles (4 km) from the attraction. 

If you’re traveling by car, turn on Google Maps and get started!

You will find metered parking lots inside Lion Country Safari.

Lion Country Safari opens daily at 9.30 am and closes by 5.30 pm.

However, the last car admission to the attraction is at 4.30 pm. 

Visitors should plan for around 5 hours to enjoy Lion Country.

It takes around an hour and a half for the drive-through and around three and a half hours for the walk-through.

The best time to go for Lion Country Safari is as soon as it starts at 10 am.

In the early morning, it’s typically cooler, and the animals are usually more active.

The best season to visit Lion Country Safari is the rainy season. 

The animals are typically more active during this time of year because they enjoy the cooler, rainier weather. 

During adverse weather, including lightning alerts, rides, and some attractions are closed until it is safe to reopen.

Lion Country Safari has Café ROAR, a Cones ice cream shop, a Safari Food Truck, a Base Camp refreshment trailer, and a Safari Snacks outlet.

You can bring your favorite foods and dine in the outdoor picnic area near the Safari World walk-through park. 

On-site barbecues and alcohol are not permitted.

There are several picnic areas available around the walk-through park.

Tables are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Lion Country Safari also offers a pavilion that must be reserved ahead of time.

The Lion Country Safari spans over 600 acres, so download the map to plan your visit.

The map will help you identify enclosures and services such as restrooms, restaurants, picnic areas, medical facilities, locker rooms, and souvenir shops.

They are useful for families who want to see their favorite animals first instead of whatever is on the route.

Where else can you hear a lion’s roar in the morning and African music while you sleep?

Only at the 320-acre drive-through wild animal sanctuary and adventure park, part of the acclaimed Lion Country Safari KOA!

The well-known Lion Country Safari introduced a new full-service KOA campground to serve visitors looking for an outstanding wild animal experience in the safari region.

The campground offers RV sites with full hookups, rustic cabins that accommodate up to four people, and tent sites.

You will find out various exotic species from all over the world.

Las Pampas: Aldabra Tortoise, Alpaca, Brazilian Tapir, Greater Rhea, Marabou Stork

Ruaha National Park: Greater Kudu, Impala, Ostrich

Kalahari Bushveldt : Eastern Bongo, Gemsbok, Nile lechwe, Waterbuck, Wildebeest

Gir Forest: Asiatic Water Buffalo, Blackbuck, Lowland Nyala, Nilgai, Scimitar-horned Oryx

Gorongosa Reserve : African Lion

Serengeti Plains: Common Eland, Common Waterbuck, Watusi/ankole cattle, Wildebeest

Hwange National Park : Giraffe, Greater Kudu, Plains zebra, Southern white rhinoceros, White Handed Gibbon

Rides: Flying Elephant ride, Carousel, Rio Grande Train

Water park: Safari Splash Sprayground, Safari Water Slides, Safari Falls

Animal Encounters: Giraffe Feeding, Petting Zoo, Lorikeet Feeding

Other attractions: Gemstone Mining, Maze, Mini Golf, Fun Slide, Safari Queen Pontoon Boat, Paddle Boats

Here are a few questions visitors to the Lion Country Safari usually have.

Lion Country Safari tickets are US$52 for tourists aged 10 and above, while kids aged 3 to 9 years pay US$40.

There are two ways to experience Lion Country Safari: You can bring your own car or get a vehicle for rental for a fee from the main office of the attraction. 

Convertibles, motorcycles, or any open-air vehicles are strictly NOT allowed. Vehicles cannot have broken windows. Windows and sunroofs must always be closed while driving through the preserve.

Infants up to 3 years old are admitted free of charge at the Lion Country Safari.

There is no need to take the printout of your Lion Country Safari tickets. You can show tickets on your smartphone and walk in.

Lion Country offers animal feeding experiences for a minimal fee at the walk-through attraction Safari World. Giraffe Feeding Encounter, Lorikeet Feeding, and Petting Zoo are among them.

The wildlife facility is handicap accessible, with a few exclusions owing to architectural constraints. You will be in your vehicle or one of the rental vans in the drive-through section.

Yes. You will find a few rides inside the walk-through park, such as the Rio Grande Train ride, animal carousel, pontoon boat tour, and flying elephant ride.

The rides at Lion Country Safari are included with all entry tickets.

Smoking is permitted only in guest vehicles and in the main parking area of Safari World, a walk-through adventure park.

There are numerous picnic areas spread around the walk-through park. Tables are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. It also has a pavilion that may only be reserved in advance.

Guests can enjoy their own food in the outdoor picnic area located inside Safari World. Please note that alcohol and barbecues are not permitted.

Yes, it is best to buy tickets in advance to ensure availability and have a hassle-free experience.

Pets are not allowed on the tour because of safety reasons.

Popular attractions in Maimi

# Miami Seaquarium # Miami Zoo # Jungle Island # Everglades National Park # Millionaire’s Row Cruise # Graffiti Museum # Thriller Miami # Museum of Illusions # Miami Duck Tour # Sawgrass Recreation Park # Flamingo Gardens # Skyviews Miami # Superblue Miami # Jungle Queen # Lion Country Safari # Wynwood Walls

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This article was researched & written by

Devyani Bhattacharjee

Devyani Bhattacharjee enjoys traveling to new, exotic locations. She is always waiting to step out and explore the amazing historical structures, delectable cuisines, magnificent cultures, and gorgeous people worldwide. She believes in frugal travel - where she can have endless fun without spending too much money. Favourite Cities: Buenos Aires, Auckland, Montreal, Port Louis, St. Petersburg

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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West Palm Beach Parks

Fun, leisure and relaxation.

• Chillingworth Park
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Lion Country Safari

• Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge
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Located about 20 miles west of West Palm Beach off Southern Blvd. Open Monday through Friday at 9:30 a.m. Admission close at 4:30 p.m. Park close at 5:30 p.m. Weekends and holidays: Opens at 9:30 a.m., last admission at 4:30 p.m., park closes at 5:30 p.m. Annual pass available

Admission : $45.00 plus sales tax ages 10-64 $34.00 plus tax ages 3-9 Free for age 2 and under

Parking : $8.00. Parking included in price for online tickets.

Safari restaurant as well as ice cream stand and snack shop on premises.

For more information, please visit their website below: http://www.lioncountrysafari.com

Lion Country Safari: What to Do, What to See for Your Safari Experience

by floridaculture | Sep 26, 2022 | Things to do in Palm Beach |

Lion Country Safari in Florida’s Palm Beach area gives you a safari experience without the price of a plane ticket to Africa. This drive-thru safari park began in 1967 with several free-roaming lions and other animals. Nowadays, there are nearly 1,000 animals on site that roam among the preserve’s 320 acres.

Just what can you expect if you visit Lion Country Safari? Are you really going to get up close with some of the animals there? Here’s the scoop on what to expect, the cost to visit Lion Country Safari, and some tips for your visit.

What to Expect When You Visit Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari is a bit off the beaten path in Palm Beach County. In other words, rhinos and giraffes are not crossing your path while you’re shopping for Louis Vuitton bags in downtown West Palm Beach. Expect to drive about a half hour along 98 from downtown West Palm to get to Lion Country Safari, which is in the town of Loxachatchee. It’s about an hour from Miami.

Lion Country Safari tickets run about $41 per adult and $31 per child. Prices may fluctuate, and you may be able to find discounts for tickets online. Everyone must get a ticket except those age 3 and under. You can buy tickets online or at the gate.

When you enter the park, you can go to the drive-through safari area or the Safari World Adventure Park , which includes lots of kid-friendly activities. From a water playground (bring a bathing suit and sunscreen) to mini golf and a petting zoo, there’s plenty to entertain the kiddos at the Adventure Park. There are also ways to interact with other animals, including giraffes. The park also has a couple of places to eat. Although we didn’t make it to Safari World during our visit, it looks like a fun place for kids. We’ll focus on the safari portion of the park here.

The park also has premium experiences, such as a VIP guided tour . Advanced registration is required.

When preparing to enter the park, you’ll be reminded to keep your car doors and windows closed. This is for the animals’ safety and your own. You can also rent a vehicle from Lion Country Safari for $25 for 1 1/2 hours.

For all the reasons you can imagine, your pets also are not allowed on the drive-through safari. Lion Country Safari has kennels available for $5.

When you enter the park, you’ll be given a brochure and directed to a QR code that provides a link to an audio narration of your safari. You can also find a link to the audio tour here , both in English and Spanish. It’s a little over an hour long and follows the different reserves you’ll drive through (we name them below). It’s a lot of facts, but the narration and the map help you better appreciate what you’re seeing. Remember that the audio tour will use your cell phone data.

Here’s a video from Tom’s Road Trippin on YouTube that gives you a better idea of what to expect during a visit to Lion Country Safari and the Adventure Park. Here’s another video from Kayak7seas .

In the Safari at Lion Country Safari

The four-mile safari features acres upon acres of flat land where the many animals can roam. You drive through the park going through seven different areas (listed below in the order you encounter them….we also list some of the animals you’ll find in each area):

— Las Pampas, modeled after the area of the same name in Argentina. Find alpaca, brown pelicans, and marabou storks

— Buaha National Park from Africa, featuring ostriches and impalas

— Kalahari Bushveldt from southwest Africa, which includes ostriches, gemsbok (a type of antelope), and bongos (another type of antelope)

— Gorongosa Reserve, home to beautiful African lions

— Gir Forest, named for a national park in Gujarat, India. Find Asiatic water buffalo, scimitar-horned oryxes (they have very cool, long horns) and another type of antelope called nilgais

— Serengeti Plains, featuring wildebeests, watusi, and impalas

— Hwange National Park, named for the largest game reserve in western Zimbabwe and including some of better-known, beloved animals, like giraffes, Southern white rhinos, zebras, chimps, and giraffes.

Just how close do you get to the animals? It depends, but you can get pretty darn close. The animals seem pretty oblivious to the cars driving through but some of the more curious ones, like ostriches, will come up near the car. We had dozens and dozens of impalas crossing and walking ahead of our driving path (talk about a traffic jam). Because it’s the animals running the show, it all hinges on how close they feel like getting.

There are a couple of exceptions to this, including the chimps. The lions are behind protective, tall metal fences, and we noticed a couple of Lion Country Safari trucks nearby with staff. “They probably have tranquilizer darts,” someone said. “For the lions or the people?” we asked. Because after all, we are in Florida, where the people can be as unpredictable as the animals.

Seriously though, obey the rules and stay in your car. It may be hard to get a good lion shot with the protection there but you can get many other good animal shots.

You can take your time going through each protected area, even if the safari area is busy. That’s because there are many pull-off areas. So, if you want to stay and watch a certain group of animals and let some traffic go by, you can do so. Feel free to take your time, and remember that you can drive through the safari as much as you’d like on the day you buy your ticket.

If you’re in a bit of a rush, some of the areas, including Gorongosa Preserve (for the lions) have cut-through areas so you can skip them. Even if you’re doing this, just watch the speed limit signs as the animals have the right of way.

The park was an enjoyable visit on a sunny day. If you’re a photographer, bring your fancy camera or use your good phone camera. Some highlights included the curious and playful ostriches (at another safari park, we had ostriches chasing after our tram and then posing for us), the impalas crossing the road in droves, and the rhinos that were just eating and playing in the mud and grass. The zebras were pretty cool, too.

Going through the safari took about an hour and a half. If you add a visit to the Adventure Park, you definitely have a busy half-day visit or may be a full day if you stretch it out.

6 Tips for a Visit to Lion Country Safari

• Plan to visit when it’s raining or early on a sunny day. Surprisingly, the park itself recommends visiting on a rainy day as that’s when the animals are at their most active. If that doesn’t work, then early on a sunny day is their next recommendation (and ours). The park opens at 10 am on weekdays and 9:30 am on weekends. It’s open until 5 pm on weekdays and 5:30 pm on weekends.
• Consider staying at the adjacent KOA. Lion Country Safari KOA is adjacent to the park, and here’s the cool thing we’ve read: If you’re staying there, you can hear the lions roar. Otherwise, hotels are closer to West Palm.
• Watch out for other photo opps. The massive, open nature area that is Lion Country Safari naturally attracts other animals, so you may find other photo opps. For instance, we saw a heron snapping up and eating what we think was an eel or snake. It was a cool shot we could have missed had we not been paying attention.
• Use the map and audio narration to help you get to know the animals better.
• Drive slow and make use of those pull-off areas. Stay off your phone (unless you’re getting pictures with it) and look around.
• Remember that these are wild animals. The animals are part of a conservation effort, and they rule the roost, so to speak. Let them stay wild, and everyone will have fun and get along.

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Westpalmbeach.com official guide to west palm beach, florida, lion country safari.

Lion Country Safari opened in 1967, in rural Palm Beach County just west of West Palm Beach. At the time it was the first drive through safari park in the United States and introduced a new concept to animal lovers, The Cageless Zoo .  Lion Country Safari was originally developed by a group of South African and British entrepreneurs who wanted to bring the experience of an African game park, then and now an expensive and time-consuming trip, to South Florida families who would otherwise not be able to experience an African safari.

After visiting the four-mile drive-through safari, explore the Safari World Amusement Park.

WestPalmBeach.com : The Essential Guide to West Palm Beach, Florida!

Lion Country Safari

2003 Lion Country Safari Road West Palm Beach, FL 33470

(561) 793-1084

Get Directions

Overview: Accessible

• Cabin Rental
• Lodge/Central Building
• Pull-Through Sites
• 50 Amp Hookups
• Water Hookups
• Cable TV Hookup
• Electric Hookups
• Sewer Hookups
• Sanitary Dump Station
• Flush Toilets
• Hot Showers
• Supply Store
• Audio Assistance

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Lion Country Safari Map and Brochure (2021 – 2023)

Location: Loxahatchee, Florida

Years Active: 1967 – Active

Lion Country Safari in Florida promises a wild ride! It’s a drive-through experience, but not like your typical zoo. Animals wander freely – get ready for close encounters with lions, zebras, you name it. This place is all about getting you near the wildlife action.

They do the standard zoo stuff too – animal shows, feeding experiences, even a waterpark to cool off. Sometimes the best views happen outside the ‘official’ viewing areas. Park in the shade and see what wanders by!

Honestly, some of the animal areas can feel a bit cramped. Lion Country Safari has a long history, and those early enclosures aren’t huge. They’re working on it, but be aware it’s not all picture-perfect savanna.

Still, it’s Florida’s only drive-through safari, and the conservation work they do is important. Want something truly special? Check out their nighttime events. Seeing rhinos under the moonlight is an experience you won’t forget.

Who is the owner of Lion Country Safari?

Lion Country Safari is owned and operated by the Wildlife Management Company, Inc. This privately held company oversees the management and maintenance of the safari park.

What happened to Lion Country Safari?

Lion Country Safari, one of the first drive-through wildlife safari parks in the United States, continues to operate and provide visitors with the opportunity to observe a variety of exotic animals in a natural habitat setting. However, it is important to note that developments or changes in its status may have occurred after that date.

Who owns Lion Safari?

Lion Country Safari is owned by the Wildlife Management Company, Inc., which is responsible for the overall management and administration of the safari park.

Lion Country Safari Map 2023

Lion Country Safari Map 2022

Lion Country Safari Map 2021

Frederick Luna, is a a world traveler who has spent many family vacations at many different theme parks. Some of his favorites includes Legoland, Knotts Berry Farm, and Dollywood. Always ready to share info about his favorite theme parks!

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YESTER LION COUNTRY SAFARI (CALIFORNIA) HOURS:

Open every day of the year, rain or shine, at 9 a.m. until:

      Summer — June 1 to Labor Day — 6:00 p.m.       Fall — Day after Labor Day to October 31 — 5:00 p.m.       Winter — November 1 to March 31 — 3:30 p.m.       Spring — April 1 to May 31 — 5:00 p.m.

Prices and operating hours subject to change without notice.

According to the brochure, “Go Wild! Drive thru Lion Country Safari African Wildlife Preserve.”

You don’t have to go to Africa for this African Safari. It’s only a 20-minute drive from Yesterland. Lion Country Safari is 40 miles from Downtown Los Angeles or 64 miles from Downtown San Diego, according to the brochure. Just head down the San Diego Freeway to the Moulton Parkway off-ramp. Your safari awaits you right on the Irvine Ranch in Orange County, California.

You’ll be greeted by a sign that reads, “No Trespassing. Violators Will Be Eaten! Lion Country Safari.”

Drive up to a ticket window. Adults are $3.25; children five through eleven are $1.50; four and under are free. There is no charge for parking.

If you’re driving a convertible, you won’t be allowed to drive it through the safari. (They don’t really want the lions to eat you.) Park your convertible at the Hertz Hut and rent an air-conditioned sedan or safari-type vehicle at nominal charge.

Did you bring your pets with you? According to the brochure, “Domestic animals are not permitted in automobiles touring the preserve. First-rate accommodations are provided for them, free, at the Kal Kan Kennel Club.”

A ranger watches from a tower to make sure everything is okay.

You’ll see more than just lions at California’s Lion Country Safari. You can drive your Impala among the antelope. The cheetahs can outrun your Cougar—you have a speed limit, but they don’t. Giraffes will tower over your Pinto. Curious ostriches might peck at your Falcon.

Experience an authentic safari in your family car.

The animals have the right-of-way. Given the size of the elephants and rhinoceroses, nobody should debate this rule.

Camels and zebras and gnus, oh my!

The zebras are glad that they’re separated from the lions by fences. Park guests are glad that the fences are hidden in ditches so that it feels like driving through an African savanna, not through a series of fenced enclosures.

Keep your windows rolled up!

Over 400 animals call Lion Country Safari “home.”

The stars of the show

The highlight of your safari is being surrounded by lions. The only thing between you and the ferocious beasts is your car window. A lion might even jump on the hood of your car—but, more likely, the well-fed lions will all be on the ground taking it easy.

If a 500-pound adult lion dents the hood of your car, how will you explain it to your insurance company?

“Jambo!”

When you finish your drive-through tour of the preserve, the fun isn’t over yet. Park your car and visit the Safari Camp and Entertainment Area.

Map of Safari Camp

For a larger (1200x1400 GIF) version of this Safari Camp map, click here .

Lion Country Flamingos

Take a Zambezi River Cruise (adults 75 cents, children 50 cents)—the animals along the river are real, unlike those at the Jungle Cruise in that park in Anaheim.

Zambezi River Cruise

California’s Lion Country Safari entertained visitors from 1970 to 1984.

On June 16, 1970, Lion Country Safari in Irvine opened to the public. The location in Southern California had a lot going for it—a great climate, a large local population, and a significant tourist base. But Lion Country Safari had stiff competition from Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and the beach.

Lion Country Safari was given a big boost by an unlikely star attraction. An elderly, nearly toothless lion named Frasier came from a Mexican circus in February 1971. The old cat’s tongue dangled from one side of his mouth, and he had trouble walking. He may not have been much to look at as far as we humans were concerned, but the lionesses saw him differently. There was a population boom of lion cubs at the park. Frasier’s sorry visage adorned tee-shirts and other park souvenirs. Frasier sired 35 cubs until his death in June 1972 at 17-20 years of age, equivalent to a human age of 85-100 years. Frasier even inspired a 1973 feature movie, Frasier the Sensuous Lion , rated PG.

In 1981, Irvine Meadows Amphitheater was added to Lion Country Safari. It was Verizon Wireless Amphitheater from 2000 to 2014. Then it reverted to its original name, before closing permanently in 2016.

On October 27, 1984, in the Los Angeles Times , staff writer Bruce Horowitz wrote about the end of the drive-through safari at Lion Country Safari:

The roar of Lion Country Safari may soon be replaced by a gurgle.

Park officials announced Thursday that they intend to phase out the 100-acre animal preserve at the struggling tourist attraction and replace a portion of it with a major water-theme amusement park.

“This land is so valuable that it no longer makes sense to have these animals occupying 100 choice acres,” said Harry Shuster, president of Lion Country Safari Inc. Over the next three months, the park plans to begin converting operations and selling its estimated 300 “wild” animals—valued at more than $200,000—to other animal parks and zoos nationwide, Shuster added.

When the lions and tigers are gone, the only remaining animals at the park will be tame ones in its petting zoo and exotic birds. Nevertheless, Shuster stressed, the park will retain the name Lion Country Safari. “Why not?” he asked. “Magic Mountain doesn’t have any magic nor is it on a mountain. And Knott’s Berry Farm hasn’t been a real farm for many years.

In November 1984, after more than 14 years in business, Lion Country Safari closed permanently. In 1986, part of the former Safari Camp became Wild Rivers Waterpark.

Surprisingly, the “so valuable” land that was once the drive-through safari remained undeveloped for decades.

The water park operated until September 2011. It’s now the site of Los Olivos, the largest apartment complex in Orange County, with 1,750 units. More apartments are planned for the site of the amphitheater when its lease runs out in 2017.

The Lion Country Safari name has long been erased. Moulton Parkway adjacent to the site is now called Irvine Center Drive. (It’s still Moulton Parkway after Lake Forest Drive.)

Yes, Lion Country Safari is long gone—but you can still visit Lion Country Safari. It doesn’t require a time machine.

That’s because the original (1967) Lion Country in Loxahatchee, Florida, is still open for business.

There’s still a Lion Country Safari near West Palm Beach, Florida.

Over 900 animals live at the Florida park. The four-decade-old attraction has aged gracefully. In recent years, the owners have upgraded the facilities with new features such as a giraffe feeding station, a ferris wheel, and a children’s water-play area, Safari Splash.

Cars and animals still the share the road in Florida.

There’s a four-mile drive-through preserve which provides great views of many different species. Guests are lent a CD or cassette for commentary through the car’s stereo. The lions are now fenced in. Chimpanzees live on islands. The elephants, who had long ago been moved into an elephant enclosure, were removed from Lion Country Safari in 2006; they are now at facilities that provide better social and physical environments for them. (Lion Country Safari’s Bulwagi the elephant was at Disney’s Animal Kingdom for four years before moving to the Birmingham Zoo in December 2010.) But there are still plenty of species wandering around in surprisingly large herds.

Ostriches seem to enjoy seeing their reflections in car windows.

The Safari World area provides animal exhibits, demonstrations, and rides (including rather Dumbo-esque flying elephants). After visiting Safari World, guests are welcome to drive through the preserve again at no additional charge.

It’s worth visiting Florida’s Lion Country Safari if you like animals and you’re in the area. Don’t expect the spectacular art direction of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. (It doesn’t cost as much for admission either.) This is a lovely, old-fashioned Florida attraction for guests of all ages.

© 2007-2020 Werner Weiss — Disclaimers, Copyright, and Trademarks

Updated January 5, 2020

• Scanned image of lions on road at Lion Country Safari, Irvine, California, from a Lion Country Safari brochure circa 1971. Included here for historical illustration.
• Scanned cover of Lion Country Safari brochure circa 1971. Included here for historical illustration.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari sign: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Scan of Lion Country Safari exchange ticket: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari guard tower and giraffes: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Scanned image of rhinos and elephants at Lion Country Safari, Irvine, California, from a Lion Country Safari brochure circa 1971. Included here for historical illustration.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari camels: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari tigers: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari giraffes on road: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Photo of pride of lions at Lion Country Safari: courtesy of the Orange County Archives, Santa Ana, California.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari entrance to Safari Camp: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Scanned image of map of Safari Camp and Entertainment Area at Lion Country Safari, Irvine, California, from a Lion Country Safari brochure circa 1972. Artist: T. Smith. Included here for historical illustration.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari flamingos: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari boat ride: from the collection of Richard Harris.
• Photo of Lion Country Safari (Florida) sign: 2006 by Werner Weiss.
• Photo of animals and SUV at Lion Country Safari (Florida): 2006 by Werner Weiss.
• Photo of an ostrich at Lion Country Safari (Florida): 2006 by Werner Weiss.

Richard Harris is the author Early Amusement Parks of Orange County .

Modern Day Ruins

Modern Day Ruins is dedicated to the not-so-forgotten abandoned places we once loved.

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31 comments:.

Lion Country Safari can be seen on the TV show "More Things That Aren't Here Anymore." "A follow-up to the 1997 special recalls bygone Southland landmarks. Included: Hollywood's Brown Derby; Gilmore Stadium, a minor-league field; the steamships of Catalina Island; the original McDonald's restaurant. Host: Ralph Story." This program can be found on KCET.

The Irvine Company recently tore down Wild Rivers and are building a residential community on the site. The road going into the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater off of Irvine Center Dr. is still named Lion Country Safari road.

I forgot this part. The Irvine Company also extended Lake Forest Blvd. over some hills that are adjacent to the old Wild Rivers site. From the road you can easily see the entire area.

A twin engine Beach King Air also plowed into the Amphitheater during the 90s (?) on a final to El Toro.

I have a picture of me sitting on a lion. Not sure of the exact year, but early 70s. We loved that place as kids!!

I remember going to Lion Country Safari when I was a little girl. The ostrich tried to get the door lock on the inside of our vehicle. The other thing I remember is they had a machine that would make you a wax animal right there. It was so cool. Sad to see that it is no longer there. This was in the late 70's. Memories :-)

Wow so sad to have closed it down.We were there back in the 70's it was such a neat place to see.I have alot of pictures i took good thing i did.Im so sorry for the animals that were destroyed.Too bad they couldnt of did something to keep it open.Id really like to go through it again.):

I used to work at Lion Country Safari. Some of the detail left out is- The elephant that escape belong to Gentle Jungle. Who rented space from Lion Country Safari. There was accident involving the tiger from the show. Again the animal belong to Gentle Jungle. I was on duty that day. Here what happen. The show started (please remember this is Gentle Jungle equipment and animals). One Child was running all over the place, his father was to busying to control his child, it is ask parents please control your child at the beginning of each show. The tiger was having a bad day the trainer got him out of the ring somehow the tiger got out the cages and fences. The tiger attack a little boy. Where was his dad? To busy running leaving his child behind but did not forget his beer. I was one on the first one there. I will never forget this. Who gets sued? Lion Country Safari. Why? Lion Country Safari had money! Gentle Jungle didn't. I love working there. I have such great memories of Lion Country Safari

So glad to see your post. I am Dr. Dooley's daughter. I loved going to work with him back then. People are sue-happy and forget that animals are animals and to take care. I hate hearing the backlash. Lion Country was an amazing place!

There is an amazing episode of an old show called Cannon that I think was filmed there. Curious to know how much of it was.

I also worked there way back when as a apprentice to the magician who's name I can't remember. I think his first name was Lee. I can't remember his stage name either. If anyone remembers it please let me know..thanks

If you're going to tell the story tell the truth. These people were our upstairs neighbors and family friends. I KNOW what happened.

use to do the elephant show. One of the elephants is at LA Zoo. Many of the lions went to Shambala which at the time was owned by Teppi Heddren. Great place, good animals and lots of poor management from unknowing and uncaring executives.

I'm always grateful to hear these experiences from others, especially those of you who worked there. I remember the wax lion machine at the entry. I still have a souvenir from the gift shop of a plastic lion in a wooden cage with the LCS sticker on the bottom. I never could understand why this place dwindled on attendance but hearing from some of you, now I know why. They didn't seem to invest much back into the place. So sorry about the animals and the lawsuits. ...and the idiot people. It's hard for me to hear that Michael Crighton based Jurassic Park on the San Diego Zoo or Wild Animal Park when it was obviously much closer to Lion Country Safari.

Hi! I remember going on a school field trip to Lion Country Safari,I loved it and I still have my wax "Doc the Lion"Mold a Roma,I wish I could get information on"Doc the Lion"and I wish I could get a brochure of the park to go with my Doc the Lion.

went there in 1972? when Dad&Mom came out to see me.I was in the Navy.

I took my kids to Wild Rivers in the early 90s. Many great memories. When I visited CA in 1979, we drove through Lion Country Safari and had a great time. In October 1994, the lions were long gone when my fiance and I held our wedding there. We married near the water's edge and had our reception in the circular building nearby that had floor to ceiling windows - as I remember it. It was a beautiful place and I'm sorry that it is no longer around!

I lived in southern California for 11 years from 1980 to 1991. We went to many concerts a at the amphitheater. The last time we went to see Journey we snuck in via lion country safari! I remember going over the fence in a fairly inconspicuous spot and running down a hill to the walkway leading from parking to the amphitheater. Once down the hill we blended in with others walking to the show.

We took our three children there every year for many years we have such great memories great movies we watch them now with our grandchildren our grandchildren wish they could have seen the animals up close and see them as they should be saying you're free It was a great time we always look forward every year to go with my children got to Pat baby lions and they never will forget that so sad that it was not taken care of like it should've been it would be great for the children of today so so sad

I went to the summer camp. My grandmother ran the ropes challenge course there in the 90's. I loved exploring the park and old attractions.

that summer camp was great I attended from like 92-95, that was the highlight of every summer I was sad to see it go. They reopened as camp james in Newport Dunes apparently still highly rated as a summer camp.

I worked at camp Frasier during that time. Was a fun job

I went the summer camp called Camp Fraser about 3 times in the early 1990s ( I think from like 92-95ish) and it was a BLAST. We would go to wild rivers in the morning, and then have the whole lion country safari area as basically a playground with like ATV's and hiking and stuff (I don't really remember any exotic animals being around)

My sister worked there when it first opened in 1970. They had a brood of very young lion cubs to care for 7 days a week, and on weekends my sister would sometimes have to bring a couple of cubs home to bottle-feed and... uh... "wipe" every so often. Hungry little guys!

Mayfair High School Had Our 1977 Prom At Lion Country Safari. It Was So Fun. I Took My Good Friend Lauri Love. She Was The Most Foxy'st Girl There.

Was there in 1974 and love every minute of it. I am sorry to hear that is no longer open. I would like to have gone there again.

Went there only a couple of times, once as a field trip. My uncle helped develop a similar park in Puebla, Mexico, which I think is still open. I remember when Frasier was ill and passed away, I was delivering papers at the time. Every day was an update on the front page. Frasier was supposed to be buried up on the hills above the park. The guides would point it out. I remember also that Frasier was supposed have sired something like 23 cubs while he was at the park. Fond memeries.

I went there in the early 70's with my Aunt when we visited from Mn. I remember getting my photo taken with Gentle Ben, the bear. He stood up and had his paw on my shoulder. Was a great place..I remember my Aunt and her son rode the elephant. Too bad it closed.

I remember going through LCS in the 70s with my family. We were going through when they were feeding the Lions as the man was throwing them the raw meat he noticed dad was filming him. He threw a piece of meat on the hood of our car and when the lioness licked it off it scuffed up our paint because her tongue was so ruff. I will never forget that.

Hi Everyone, I'm a producer for ISH Entertainment, an award winning production studio in New York. We're casting a show for a big time network about LCR and are looking to talk to people with wild experiences from LCR. Please reach out to [email protected]. Thank you! Best, ISH Entertainment NYC

I was one of the first two counselors hired to run Camp Frasier in 1982. Within a few months of operating the camp we added a third counselor. The age range of participants was such that we "deputized" the older campers as junior counselors. We were always looking for activities for the kids to do. We talked the maintenance staff into helping us create fishing poles and the kids caught dozens of huge catfish which were displayed for parents when they came to pick up their children. Apparently, the jungle boat river had never been fished! [email protected]

Lake Mead Water Level Lowers, Finds Grow

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2024 Season

Open daily may 4 – september 15 & select dates september 18 – october 13.

We look forward to seeing you “On Safari!™”

Plan your visit

Admission & season passes, vehicle policies & accessibility, experiences  on safari™, conservation & research, a full day of family fun, educational opportunities, conservation initiatives, our animals, asian elephant, european white stork, fallow deer, greater one-horned rhinoceros, lion (white), rothschild giraffe, scimitar-horned oryx, experiences for your day "on safari™", presentations, safari tour bus, pets’ corner, children’s playground, “nature boy” scenic railway, “african queen” boat cruise, misumu bay wetplay, game reserves, common questions, what happens during inclement weather.

Some park features/tours/rides/presentations may close temporarily during severe weather conditions. As soon as conditions permit safe operation, these features will re-open.   No refunds or rain cheques provided due to inclement weather.

Do you have wheelchairs/wagons available for rent?

Yes, we have wheelchairs available to rent for $5.00 and wagons available to rent for $8 at our Safari Bazaar Gift Shop, located underneath Kenya Gate!  With each rental, a security deposit is applied, and refunded when the rental is returned.  All rentals will be cleaned and sanitized before each use.

Do you offer rain passes?

No, we do not offer rain passes or rain checks due to inclement weather.  African Lion Safari’s drive through Game Reserves operate rain or shine.

Why isn’t my credit card approved online?

Please ensure that all billing information is correct and accurately reflects the address that your issuing bank/credit card company has on file. Address verification requires an exact match and slight variations may result in a declined transaction.

Are food and beverage available?

Yes!  Select food locations are open throughout the park. Please refer to the park map for seasonal locations.

What methods of payment does the park accept at retail and food service locations?

VISA, MasterCard, Interac and cash are accepted at all locations throughout the park. 

Will you have washrooms available?

Washroom facilities are available at Jungle Junction, Mombasa Market Restaurant, Misumu Bay Wetplay and at the end of Tusker Trail. 

• The Best Parks In Moscow

The Best Parks In Moscow, Russia

The parks of Moscow, Russia, are the big green lungs of the city, where you can relax from the eternal hum of roads, work and noisy neighbors. Here is our selection of the best parks for a memorable afternoon.

Gorky central park of culture and leisure.

One of the oldest culture and leisure amusement parks in Russia, Gorky Park was created on the banks of the Moscow River in 1928. It is a perfect place for an active holiday, with lots to do – it even has several shooting ranges. Most notably, the original layout has remained intact to the present day. Gorky Park is always full of people: in the colder months fans of a winter skate queue patiently in order to go on the ice skating rink. In summer many visitors simply have lazy strolls along the alleys of the most famous park in Moscow. Golitsyn Pond is equipped with a boat station, where you can hire a pedalo or catamaran.

Museum-Reserve Tsaritsyno

Vorobyovy Gory

Vorobyovy Gory can be described as a huge green mass, lying on the bank of the Moscow river. The park can be seen at the exit of the metro station of the same name. Vorobyovy Gory features a high jump platform, which points to its history tied with sports facilities. Near the top of the jump, there is a viewing platform, which is visited by an enormous flow of people with cameras and easels. The panoramic view shows off the wonderful skyline of Moscow, the river, Luzhniki Stadium, Novodevichy Monastery, St Andrew’s Monastery and skyscrapers of the Moscow City complex. If you head towards the building of Moscow State University, in front of it you will spot an alley with the busts of great scientists and a lovely pond. The park also features wonderful slopes and access to the waterfront. Here you can enjoy nature and solitude, paint landscapes or read classical literature.

MSU Botanical Garden Aptekarskiy Ogorod

Aptekarskiy Ogorod is not quite a park but an oasis away from the stone and concrete of the city. At the beginning of 17th century Peter I decided to build a herb garden on this site. With that decree began the stormy history of the garden, which in Soviet times was essentially abandoned. Now it is a small cozy garden, and a lovely place to go during lunch or visit on a romantic date. The park features dozens of attractive, bright colors which cannot be found anywhere else in Moscow, and a beautiful pond dotted with water lilies. There is a shop with rare plants, where you can buy rare seeds of American blueberry or bog oak. During the winter the park hosts festivals of ice sculptures. In spring, exhibitions of orchids are perfect events for admiring their blossoming and a variety of floral crops. In the summer you can simply enjoy teasing fish in the pond, and sitting on a bench admiring the colorful nature.

Izmaylovsky Park

Izmaylovskiy Park of Culture and Leisure is a combination of nature and grounds for outdoor activities and cultural entertainment. Whenever possible, Muscovites try to get to the park to breathe in the fresh, clean air. Izmaylovsky Park was created in 1931, and since then its green doors have been open to visitors all year round. Spending a day out in the park with the family has became one of the good traditions for residents of Moscow. The park resembles more of a genuine forest, with green trees, rotten stumps covered with moss and lichen overgrown with tall grasses.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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THE 5 BEST Moscow Safaris

Safaris in moscow.

• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Gear Rentals
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• District Central (TsAO)
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District North-Eastern (SVAO)
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• Lomonosovskiy
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• Good for Couples
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• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Rybokhotsoyuz

2. Easy Russia Tour Guide

3. UTS GROUP

4. 365AltaiMongolia

5. #1 Russia -Tanzania | Zanzibar, Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Agency | BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS CO LTD

6. Aviashop.Ru

7. Transsib Moscow

8. BASK TOUR

• Easy Russia Tour Guide
• #1 Russia -Tanzania | Zanzibar, Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Agency | BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS CO LTD
• 365AltaiMongolia