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Frequently Asked Questions

Members of the news media interested in visiting the San Diego Zoo or San Diego Zoo Safari Park on assignment for a story are required to make an appointment with a member of the Public Relations team to facilitate entry, interviews, and all appropriate arrangements. Please submit a request via the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance  Media Request form. Requests require a 48-hour processing time.

Members of a commercial production company (film, television, commercials, documentaries, etc.) and/or a location scout wishing to film must gain approval through our Licensing department. Please submit a request via the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance  Media Request form, and select the “Commercial Production” option.

Yes, we have photos and video available for download in our press kits. Logos are also available for download for San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, San Diego Zoo, and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. You can find them here.  Members of a production company or non-news media representatives must gain approval to use our visual assets through our Licensing department. Please submit a request via the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance  Media Request form,

The Public Relations email box and phone line are monitored during business hours weekdays and on weekends. If you are on deadline and do not receive a response to your request, you can contact the Zoo’s security office at 619-744-3322 or the Safari Park ranger office at 760-802-8301, and ask to be put in touch with the public relations on-call representative.

Yes. Please submit a request via the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance  Media Request form.

Specific credentialed media are offered four complimentary admissions to the Zoo and Safari Park annually, to enjoy with their families. All requests must be submitted via the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance  Media Request form  at least three business days before the requested date of visit. Requesting media personnel must provide current photo media credentials, or have their director/station manager send verification. If approved, you will receive an email with a confirmation number to obtain your tickets on the day of your visit. Approved media personnel are required to accompany their guests during the visit.

As a nonprofit organization who raises funds for its wildlife conservation work through admissions and guests experiences, we do not offer discounts for additional media passes. You may purchase additional tickets online at sdzwa.org, by phone at 619-718-3000 , or in person at a Zoo or Safari Park ticket window.

Once confirmed, your tickets are available for your one-time visit for up to 30 days.

You do not need to be on a story assignment to receive your annual complimentary media admission passes.

The Zoo does not charge for parking. You will need to pay for parking at the Safari Park (currently $15 per vehicle, and $20 per RV). Preferred parking is available at the Safari Park for an additional fee on select weekends and holidays, weather and attendance permitting.

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Let us answer your questions and help create your day at the San Diego Zoo!  Search our extensive FAQ, or chat with our 24-hour virtual assistant.  

2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

From Interstate 5 (Los Angeles and Orange County), take the Pershing Drive exit and follow the signs. From Interstate 15 (Escondido and Riverside), take State Route 163 south to the Park Blvd./I-5 South exit. Exit at Park Blvd. Turn left on Park Blvd. and head north; Zoo parking entrance is off Park Blvd. at Zoo Place.

From Interstate 5 (Mexico), take the State Route 163 north exit, then the Zoo/Museums (Richmond Street) exit and follow the signs to the Zoo parking lot.

From State Route 94, proceed into downtown San Diego to 11th Avenue. Turn right on 11th Avenue and proceed north to A Street. Turn right on A Street, and then make a quick left onto Park Blvd. and head north; Zoo parking entrance is off Park Blvd. at Zoo Place.

Parking is free in the lot in front of the Zoo. Additional free parking is available throughout Balboa Park. For your convenience, the Zoo is offering additional free parking at the Inspiration Point parking lot (located at Park Blvd. and Presidents Way, just 5 minutes south of the zoo).

Ride our FREE SHUTTLE directly to the Zoo entrance from the Inspiration Point parking lot at Presidents Way. Our shuttle will run from 11:00am to 9:00pm weekends beginning May 25 through September 1 (except 6/15/24).

It’s easy to get here on public transit. Rapid 215 and Route 7 stop at the Zoo and are an easy connection in downtown from Amtrak and COASTER trains at the Santa Fe Depot, downtown hotels, the Cruise Ship Terminal, Blue, Orange, and Green Line Trolleys and other MTS bus routes. For fare and schedule information, call 511, or visit sdmts.com.

Families Save on MTS Family Weekends! On Saturday and Sunday, two children (12 and under) ride MTS Bus and Trolley routes FREE with a paid adult (18 and over)!

San Diego Zoo App

Apple iOS download here ▸ Android download here ▸

Visiting the Zoo has never been easier, with the San Diego Zoo app! Discover dining, activities, and more with the GPS-enabled map. Get ready for your visit by importing tickets and memberships to the digital wallet, adding your must-see wildlife to the day planner, viewing today's schedule, and much more.

View the San Diego Zoo's classic illustrated map on your mobile or desktop browser. Find your favorite wildlife, plan your visit, and check out all the San Diego Zoo has to offer.

Download the PDF here ▸

Guest Services

Our Guest Services booth is located inside the Zoo, to the left of the Bus Tour entrance. Open daily to closing.

Guest Services information ▸

Guests with Disabilities

The San Diego Zoo welcomes all guests. We have several services to help our guests with disabilities enjoy their visit. The Zoo provides dedicated parking, restrooms, and access to experiences, tour buses, and habitat areas for guests with disabilities. Please note there are steep grades in parts of the Zoo.

Our ADA shuttle service is available on an on-call basis for our guests with mobility-related disabilities and can accommodate all standard wheelchairs and the types of electronic conveyance vehicles (ECVs) allowed on grounds.

Contact any Zoo team member or volunteer to request service and get directions to the nearest pickup location. Space is limited and reserved for those who need it most. Guests who use mobility assistive devices may also refer to the Zoo map for ADA pathways and elevators.

Guest accessibility services and policies▸

Download Accessibility Map for Guests with Disabilities (PDF)▸

Safari Park

15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027-7017

The Safari Park is the San Diego Zoo’s sister park to the northeast in Escondido. Distance between the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is 35 miles. Please allow 45 minutes to 1 hour travel time.

Purchase a two-visit pass ▸

PREFERRED HOTELS

Roar, White, and Blue

Picture Your Special Day at the Park!

NO outside animals allowed NO exceptions.

What to Expect / FAQs

San Diego Zoo Safari Park – What You’ll Want to Do & See – 2024

How to do San Diego Safari Park from Africa Tram to zebras. Here’s a gorilla-sized tips guide to animal exhibits, shows & tours. A day planner’s included with animal encounters and entertainment events pre-loaded. You’ll know what you want to do, and when to do it to have a great day.

At San Diego Zoo Safari Park you can have an African Safari experience without going to Africa. Walk and see wild animals in large natural field enclosures and exhibits like Lion Camp. Enjoy activities like Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, overnight camping, ziplining, ballooning, playgrounds, and shows.

* Save with a secret promo code on each San Diego Zoo or Safari Park 1-Day Pass. Go any day. Go directly to the gate. Click  HERE  to get your code, instructions & discounted tickets by email. By clicking the link above you agree to receive an automated email message. Valid only at aRes Travel , San Diego’s local authorized ticket seller. Read my full privacy policy .

If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated. Read my Advertising Disclosure for more info. Thanks! ~ Nancy

That’s the quick summarized version of what there is to do at Safari Park. But there’s a lot more to discover below. Also, check out my Safari Tours reviews to discover how much time each takes to make organizing your day easier.

What Can You Do At San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

At safari park you’ll walk…a lot .

You’ll be getting your steps in during your day at San Diego Safari Park. It was designed first as a breeding facility for rare and endangered species. Because of this, the animal exhibits have more room here than at a ‘normal’ zoo. And thus you’ll be strolling a bit further between them. 

Safari Park is 1800 acres large. But the area that is open to general admission ticket holders is only about 80 acres ( Link to my page with the maps ). Still, that’s a lot of ground to cover.

If you have limited mobility there are wheelchairs and electric scooters for rent. There’s also an ADA (American With Disabilities Act) shuttle bus to get you around the park. Those who have difficulty with standing in line may request an “Easy Access” pass at the entrance to Safari Park. The pass offers you and 3 more members of your group preferred boarding and seating if needed. Download the park’s “ Guests With Disabilities ” guide for more information.

You Can Take a Safari Tour

There are 9 different types of Safari add-on experiences, and 27 different variations.They range from animal photo and feeding opportunities to sleepovers and activities like zip lining that will get your adrenaline going. You’ll need to make reservations well in advance. They fill up quickly and you can plan your day around them.

TIP: Make sure that you arrive at least 10 minutes early for your Safari. If you’re late or miss it you will not be given a refund or a raincheck in most cases. Cancellations for full refunds must be done 5 days in advance.

Below you’ll find quick summaries of all 9 Safari tours. For detailed information including how much time you’ll need, costs and other requirements see my page on Safari Park Tours .

Caravan Safari Is the Most Popular Paid Tour at San Diego Safari Park

This is our favorite Safari, we’ve taken it several times. You ride a flatbed truck out into the wild animal herds in their large field enclosures. These include even the dangerously unpredictable cape buffalo who are sometimes called “ the black death ”. Fortunately, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide familiar with their behavior to keep you out of trouble. The guides also point out other (safer) animal behaviors and answer your questions. 

They’ll also help you feed the giraffes and sometimes rhinos if the critters are feeling curious and hungry. There are always so many great photo opportunities on this trip it’s sometimes hard to choose where to point your camera. 

Roar & Snore Safari Is More Than Just Camping Overnight

Experience the sights and sounds of an African safari without the killer plane ticket cost. You get to fall asleep to the sounds of elephants snorting and giraffes walking by. And the sounds of lions roaring may wake you the next morning. You get a tasty, filling dinner and a hearty breakfast. There’s also a night campfire where you can make gooey s’mores. There are guided night walks through some behind-the-scenes areas and a morning keeper presentation. 

For more information, here’s my review of our Roar & Snore evening .

The biggest downside of the Roar and Snore experience is if you need to sleep on a good mattress. If that’s the case, this is not the tour for you. But don’t worry. I’ve written a guide to the best local hotels around Safari Park . There, your sleeping problem is solved!

Behind-the-Scenes Safari Shows You San Diego Safari Park’s Secret Places

Explore behind the scenes into areas not accessible to the general public. This guided safari’s a  great way to get an insider’s view of some of the animals at safari park and the organization’s conservation efforts. You’ll also get a chance to meet and maybe feed some of the Safari Parks animal ambassadors. There are 7 different types of Behind-the-Scenes safari; platypuses, elephants, tigers, rhinos, kangaroos, cheetahs or butterflies. 

Cart Safari is a Relaxed Tour Around the Large Field Enclosures

On the Cart Safari tour you get a chance to observe herds of giraffes, rhinos, antelope and other animals in a natural setting. Your driver is also an experienced guide. They’ll point out significant behaviors and would love to answer your questions about what you’re seeing. 

It’s a more relaxed trip than the Caravan Safari and offers lots of photographic opportunities. 

Flightline Safari -Fly Over San Diego Safari Park

Get your pulse pumping, and feel the wind in your face as you fly 2/3rds of a mile over herds of antelope, rhinos and giraffe. 

You’ll get a training session from professional staff and take a short practice flight to get your landing technique down. Then you’ll take a truck up to a high ridge above the park and fly down. 

TIP : Pay the little extra for a helmet camera to record your trip down. Using your cell-phone to make your own live video is not possible. You’ll need your hands free to hold your harness when you land.

Cheetah Safari – Meet the Spotted Speedsters

Watch the Cheetah Run at speeds close to 70 miles per hour from a prime reserved trackside spot. Then meet the speedy sprinter afterward for an exclusive close-up experience. 

There will be plenty of opportunities to take amazing cheetah close-ups. But don’t waste your time trying for the perfect selfie with a cheetah. The Safari Park employees will make sure that you get a great shot with the big cat. 

Another African animal ambassador will also be brought out for you to meet before the run. This Safari is relatively inexpensive so it fills up fast. Make your reservations early. 

Balloon Safari – Get Above It All

Soar 400 feet above the scenic San Pasqual Valley and the herds of wild animals below. This is a tethered ride, so you don’t have to worry about floating away and landing within Lion Camp. This safari is very dependent upon favorable weather conditions.  

Try to schedule your ride between 9 AM and noon. Winds tend to pick up speed in the valley during the afternoon. And the balloon safari does not fly during the Cheetah Run. It can spook the cats.

Ultimate Safari – Wish Fulfillment for Animal Lovers

Build yourself a custom safari experience with the assistance of the Safari Park’s professionals. Visit off-exhibit areas. Have close encounters with the animal ambassadors that interest you most. Make it as adventurous as you wish, zipline, balloon ride and rope courses, cape buffalo, feeding an elephant. Dream big. Explore Safari Park with your personal tour guide for up to 8 hours.

Board These Safari Park Rides

Africa tram is a must-do safari park activity.

Africa Tram is a must-do activity especially if you aren’t going on one of the paid safaris. When you hop aboard it’s like you’ve been transported to the plains of Africa. You’ll see herds of giraffe, rhino, antelope and birds living together just as you would there. The tour guide drivers are very knowledgeable and quite often funny. They’ll point out unique animal survival tactics and adaptations and new babies in the large field enclosures. 

TIP: The animals are most active when it’s coolest. On hot days try to catch the earliest tram rides or the latest ones. The tram starts running at 10 AM. It stops 45 minutes before the park’s closing. I’ve written an in-depth review with extra tips on my Safari Tours page . 

Conservation Carousel

Have your kids (or you)  ever dreamed of riding a tiger, a bear, or maybe even a zebra? You can do it on this merry-go-round. It features 60 endangered animals and was opened in 2005 . There’s a $6 fee to ride the carousel. (open 10 AM to closing).

Watch Shows and Keeper Talks at San Diego Safari Park

Shiley’s cheetah run is a must-see at safari park.

Don’t even THINK about visiting San Diego Safari Park without attending Cheetah Run . See one of these leggy cats explode out of its carrier and sprint after its prey (a stuffed animal on a motorized tether) at speeds close to 70 miles an hour. Six or 7 seconds later it comes to an abrupt halt at the end of the 100 meter run. It’s long tail whips around for balance and dirt goes flying as its feet dig into the turf. Spectacular. Hang around. Depending upon how the cheetah feels they sometimes run the course twice.

TIP : Get to the Shiley’s Cheetah Run track at least 30 minutes ahead of time. Good viewing areas are on the bridge close to Savannah Cool Zone and on the walkways closest to it. The entire presentation lasts about 20 minutes and usually starts at 3:30 PM. Confirm the time when you arrive at Safari Park.

Tiger Keeper Talk

Get close-up views of tigers and inside information on how they’re cared for at Safari Park. The keepers use this time to provide enrichment to the tigers as well as give them a quick physical exam. The Sumatran tigers are the smallest tiger. But they’re still intimidating as you see them stretch up on their hind legs to reach a meaty treat. 

TIP : Arrive at least 20 minutes early for the 11:45 AM Tiger Keeper Talk. The 15-minute tiger training session is very popular. 

Frequent Flyers Bird Show

(Temporarily canceled due to avian flu)

This is an entertaining show, perfect for an afternoon sit-down break. You’ll experience exotic birds like owls, parrots, and large vultures flying just inches above your head. They’re close enough to reach up and touch (but don’t).

They’re not caged or tethered in any way. It’s an impressive example of the power of positive behavior conditioning and the patience and kindness of the keepers. The 20-minute show is presented twice, once at noon and again at 2:00 PM. 

Animal Ambassador Stage 

Get within a couple of feet of various Animal Ambassadors here. You never know what the keepers will bring out. I’ve gotten up close to tiny Kestrel hawks, echidna (an Australian spiny anteater which has spines like a porcupine, a beak like a bird, a pouch like a kangaroo, and lays eggs like a reptile) to a golden eagle and African serval cats. 

Training Talk

Get an up-close look at free-flight bird training. Most people don’t bother with this presentation. That’s what makes it so good. You can often sit in the front row and see firsthand how expert animal trainers establish trust with their charges. Aside from being able to view exotic birds up close, it’s easier to ask questions in this forum. If you pay attention you can pick up tricks that can be applied to your cats, dogs, and maybe even kids to encourage them to do what you want them to.

Talk with Robert the Zebra

Chat with a digital, interactive zebra. He’s snarky, and clever and will keep your children occupied for 20 minutes with stories about what it’s like to be a zebra. Kids are fascinated by this cartoon zebra that carries on a conversation with them from a large-screen TV. You can talk to Robert every hour on the hour from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Visit These Can’t-Miss Safari Park Animal Exhibits 

The platypus are a must-see at safari park in san diego.

These are the only platypus on exhibit outside of Australia…anywhere. So go see them. Give yourself some time and exercise a bit of patience in this exhibit.

First, it’s dark and you’ll need to let your eyes adjust to the bright San Diego sun.

Second, platypi move fast and rarely stay put in one spot. Getting a good photo can be a challenge. Just have fun looking at these energetic creatures. 

Gorillas have always been one of the most popular animals at Safari Park and the Zoo. Go anytime. They are fed five or six times per day with leaves, stems, fruit, seeds, and roots. Be sure to check out the Gorilla Activity Center. Compare your arms to those of an adult male gorilla on a drawing, listen to their vocalizations, and watch a video on how the keepers care for them. 

Elephant Valley

(Elephant viewing may be limited due to the construction of the new, larger ‘Elephant Valley’ exhibit.)

There are few things as wonderful as seeing elephants playing in the water. There are two swimming pools for the San Diego Safari Park herd in this 5-and-a-half acre habitat.

There are two main yards. One is usually open while the other is being cleaned of copious amounts of elephant dung and stocked with treats. In most cases, the Elephant Viewing Patio will be the best place to watch them. 

NOTE: Open observation points may differ during the construction of the new Elephant Valley exhibit.

The lion exhibit at San Diego Zoo is justifiably famous for its design. It’s both visitor friendly and great for the lions themselves. There are many places to view lions from the large windows by the air conditioned rocks, to rock piles and an ‘abandoned’ jeep that sometimes hosts a very large sleeping feline. The lions have wonderful views of the large field enclosures filled with tasty meals on the hoof. Think of it as must-see cat TV. 

Tiger Trail Sambutan Longhouse

If you love tigers, you’ll love Tiger Trail. It’s green and lush and the perfect place to watch tigers watching you. For more information on what’s there and why you should go there, check out my “ 11 Coolest Reasons to See San Diego Safari Park Tiger Trail ” page. 

Kangaroo Walk in Walkabout Australia

At Kangaroo walk you can go inside the exhibit and see wallabies and kangaroos go bounding by on all sides. And if you’re lucky, maybe one will stop within petting distance. They’re super soft and feel like they’re covered is fuzzy wool. 

Petting Kraal

Kids love brushing and petting the three types of small African goats here. One word of caution. Goats will try to eat ANYTHING. So make sure that your cameras, purses and wallets are tucked away safely. Any children that are intimidated by the rambunctious kraal critters can relax next door at the Village Playground. Because of their proximity, it’s easy to keep an eye on both areas. 

Kids Love These Playgrounds At San Diego Safari Park

Samburu jungle gym .

This will be your favorite playground at Safari Park. Your kids can climb on a rhino or pretend to be driving a jeep across the African plains. And you can watch their antics while relaxing in the shade at Samburu Terrace. Sip a cold one and have lunch while your offspring work off their excess energy. 

Savanna Cool Zone

Your kids can have a wet and wild time here while you sit in the shade and keep an eye on them from tables by Lion Camp Slush and Snacks.. It’s perfect for hot summer days. There are play statues shaped like lions and tortoises with squirt fountains coming from their heads on a soft spongy play surface.

Camp Play Area

Kids climb, slide and run on tree trunks in a simulated logging camp hidden within the lush wooded landscape of Tiger Trail. There are also statues of a tiger mom and her cubs where you can take memorable photos of the kiddos. 

Village Playground

KIds have fun experiences in this interactive play area designed as an African Village. It’s located next to the Petting Kraal in Nairobi Village. This is great planning because some children are frightened by the curious goats poking their noses everywhere looking for treats. It’s much easier for parents with several kids to keep an eye on everyone here. 

Jameson Research Island

Your kids will have buckets of wet fun here…literally. Buckets periodically dump cooling water in one of the play areas on the island. Even though the African Loop that goes past the flamingos and colobus monkeys goes over water, the path can get very warm in the summer and early fall. 

Explore These Gardens at San Diego Safari Park

Bonsai pavilion is the best garden at san diego safari park.

The Bonsai Pavilion at San Diego Safari Park is fascinating even to those who aren’t into gardening.  These aren’t just plants, they’re art.

Bonsai is a Japanese word that roughly translates into “tree in a tray”. Ordinary young trees are shaped by pruning and cutting to mimic the natural effects of centuries of wind and weather on a small scale. 

Baja Gardens, Old World Succulent Gardens, and California Nativescapes Garden

Take a walk on the wild and spiky side in the World Gardens. These three gardens will amaze you with the wide variety of plant shapes, colors, and sizes found in the world’s arid areas. It’s like a journey through a Dr. Seuss book with elephant trees , euphorbias , and over 200 boojums . 

TIP: Bring a water bottle. These gardens are located at the highest elevations in the park that are open to the public. They can be physically challenging, especially during the hot afternoons in August and September. The best time of the year to see these exhibits is early May when many of the plants are blooming.

Epiphyllum Trail

The blooms in this garden are spectacular from April through early July. At other times this garden is rather boring.  

Epiphyllum are cacti indigenous to central America and Mexico. They live in the crooks of trees and get water from the moisture in the air. Almost all of the plants are hybrids that combine the characteristics of several different naturally occurring species. 

Herb Garden

Give your nose a treat. Take the thyme to smell the roses, it won’t cost you a mint because entry to this garden comes with your San Diego Safari Park admission, Herbs have been used for centuries to flavor food, treat illnesses and make us smell good. There are over 20 different species of herbs here. 

Hidden Jungle

Wander through a tropical rainforest complete with towering trees, flowering vines, and exotic birds. Many of the birds are named for their colors like the blue-capped cordon bleu, pink pigeon, and purple grenadier. 

In springtime, half of this exhibit is home to Butterfly Jungle and you’ll see many more colorful wings than usual. The other half of Hidden Jungle is reserved for birds that eat butterflies and other insects. It’s a natural way to keep the butterflies inside.

TIP: Visit this exhibit in the morning or late afternoon. This is an enclosed greenhouse. It can be hot and humid. 

Mombasa Lagoon

Even though this area is listed by Safari Park as a garden, the major attraction here is the birds, not the plants. At any given time there are over 150 avians here from about 25 different species. There are cormorants fishing, storks, ducks, and my favorite, the shoebill. It looks like something out of Jurassic Park. 

If you see some of the birds taking off and flying away, don’t worry. They’re most likely local freeloaders like great blue herons, egrets or migratory birds like mallards. 

Additional Tips for Visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park

How long does San Diego Zoo Safari Park Take?

People in online forums say that it’s possible to see Safari Park in two hours. They’re wrong.

San Diego Zoo Global recommends allocating at least 4 hours . The only way to “do” Safari Park in 2 hours is to just walk to Africa Tram to ride it and then walk back to the parking lot. Keep in mind that the park is at least 45 minutes of travel time from downtown San Diego…each way. Then add another 30 minutes for parking and walking to and from the entrance. 

If you’ve only got 2 hours and you’re near downtown San Diego, just go to the Zoo in Balboa Park. Take the money that you’d have spent for getting to Safari Park and buy a nice dinner with some wine at Albert’s Restaurant .

What’s the best day to go to San Diego Safari Park?

The best days to visit Safari Park are typically Tuesdays and Wednesdays on weeks without a major holiday. The park is less crowded on these weekdays . If you’re going on a holiday weekend, get there at 9:00 AM when it opens .

Click HERE to check your date(s) to see if Safari Park will be crowded. 

Safari Park can get very warm in late August and September. These are the days when temperatures can be over 100°F (38°C). It doesn’t happen very often, but make sure that you’ve packed hats and refillable water bottles if you decide to go then. 

Don’t let a bit of rain keep you from going to Safari Park. It can be a delightful experience. Here’s a page that I wrote giving you tips and hints for enjoying Safari Park in the rain . 

What’s the Best Time to Arrive at San Diego Safari Park?

It’s best to arrive at San Diego Zoo Safari Park just before opening at 9:00 am. Many of the animals at Safari Park will be more active when it is cool. Also, keepers generally put out enrichment and treats first thing in the morning. That encourages the animals’ natural foraging behaviors and keeps them from getting bored.

Where’s the Best Place to Eat in Safari Park?

The best restaurant in San Diego Safari Park is The Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook. But it may not be the best for you. So I’ve written an entire page about all the restaurants and eateries at and around Safari Park . Chow down!

7 Things You Should Wear to San Diego Safari Park

Closing thoughts.

I hope that you’ve found this post on what to do at San Diego Safari Park useful in planning your day. Because this attraction is not your ordinary zoo, some people can get overwhelmed by all the options and just decide not to go. I didn’t want this to happen to you. Let me know if you have questions on any of the Safari tours, rides, activities, play areas or if you know of a great tip for visiting San Diego Safari Park.

Nancy Ulrich

I'm nuts...about animals, polymer clay, mixed media art & husband Bob. Happily planted in San Diego among good friends, family that I would have chosen if given the choice and optimism for a bountiful future for us all.

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Birth of rare baby rhino captured on safari park security camera

By Adam Dutton via SWNS

This is the amazing moment the birth of a baby rhino was captured on security cameras at a United Kingdom safari park.

Zookeepers were left thrilled after they watched the arrival of the southern white rhino live from behind the scenes at West Midland Safari Park on Jan. 11.

However, staff were forced to step in following a tricky breach birth for 15-year-old mother Keyah after noticing the calf struggling to stand.

After keepers helped the newborn to its feet, she was able to tentatively walk over to her mom to have her first feed.

CCTV cameras captured the baby rhino's first wobbly steps and being gently nestled by his mom. A week on she is said to be doing "really well".

The calf has been given the African name Malaika, meaning ‘angel’, and will join eight other rhinos at the attraction in Bewdley, Worcs.

Lisa Watkins, headkeeper of ungulates, said: “The team are absolutely over the moon with the safe arrival of a female white rhino calf.

"After a long wait, having had two male calves born in 2021, a female was a very welcome addition to the crash.

"Mum, Keyah, is doing a fantastic job of caring for the newborn with older brother Jumani eager to meet his little sister.

“I am really proud of the team for all their daily hard work and dedication, to allow this calf to arrive safe and healthy.

"We all look forward to showing the new arrival off in the near future, but for now, both mum and calf are spending some important time bonding in the warmth and comfort of their house.”

Malaika's arrival at 1.48 am last Thursday made her the sixth baby white rhino to be born at the attraction in the last eight years.

The park is part of a European breeding program aimed at protecting the species classed as ‘near threatened’ by the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature).

Around 16,000 individuals remain in the wild in Kenya, Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa.

The population of white rhinos has recovered greatly since almost becoming extinct in the early 1900s, but are still the subspecies of rhinos most threatened by poaching.

Katie McDonald, research and conservation officer, said “Like all wildlife attractions, we believe it is extremely important for us to contribute to the conservation of the species we hold.

"White rhinos are one of the species for which there is a European-wide breeding program and WMSP has been a strong contributor.

"This is the sixth white rhino calf born since 2016.

“Having safe and healthy populations in zoos and parks is extremely valuable when the situation in the animal's natural habitat is precarious.

"White rhinos are threatened in the wild by poachers, who kill them so they can sell rhino horn on the black market.

“Through our amazing conservation partner, Save the Rhino International, we actively support rhino conservation by helping to fund anti-poaching activities in uMkhuze Game Reserve, South Africa, where dedicated ranger teams work every day to monitor and protect rhinos across the reserve.”

Malaika will be kept in the warmth of the house while she settles in, then will slowly be introduced to the rest of the herd, including brother Jumani, half-brothers Granville and Jambo and dad, Barney.

The post Birth of rare baby rhino captured on safari park security camera appeared first on Talker .

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Get ready for an experience you’ll always remember!

Want to get up close and personal with your favorite wildlife, sit back and relax, or tackle a challenging adventure? Choose your safari!

Wildlife Safari

• Ages 3 & up
• $92 & up per person

Travel in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck into our expansive savanna habitats, with an expert guide.  

Behind-the-Scenes Safari

These Safaris are guaranteed to thrill and amaze! Your guide will escort you to a variety of locations around the Park to see animals up close and share stories of wildlife care and conservation.  

Cart Safaris

• $60 & up per person

Sit back in the comfort of a Safari cart, as you enjoy a 60-minute guided tour of the Park’s spacious African or Asian savanna habitats, led by one of our knowledgeable guides. 

Ultimate Safari

• $710 & up per person

Enjoy a custom safari experience of a lifetime! The Ultimate Safari is your key to exclusive areas, wildlife interactions, and the very best in personalized service.

Roar & Snore Safaris

• $160 & up per person

Pack up your “trunk” for a sleepover adventure at the Safari Park! Choose from several age-appropriate sleepover categories with their own themes.  

Flightline Safari

• Ages 8 & up
• $81 & up per person

Soar as high as 130 feet above the ground, with a spectacular bird’s-eye view of rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife in the savanna habitats below you.

Wildlife Trek

• $29 & up per person

Walk through the Safari Park to see a variety of wildlife in this exciting walking tour!

Roar, White, and Blue

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Picture Your Special Day at the Park!

How WildCare Park plans to bring the safari to St. Louis

When the St. Louis Zoo’s new campus opens in 2027, guests will be able to experience a savanna adventure, explore woodlands, come face-to-face with exotic animals, and more.

by Ashlynn Perez

June 28, 2024

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

An all-new safari experience is coming to St. Louis in 2027. Get up close and personal with giraffes, rhinos, and kangaroos, take a stroll through native Missouri nature trails, or even spend the night in the wild. 

WildCare Park , a forthcoming safari park and conservation center from the St. Louis Zoo , will bring a fresh experience to its Midwestern visitors. The park sits on 425 acres of land near Spanish Lake, and will house 20–30 unique species and approximately 250 animals when it opens in three years.

“Being able to go on safari and into the wild to see these species in their natural habitat might not be possible for everybody,” curator Martha Fischer says. “To bring that opportunity and that experience to St. Louis, where you can go on a safari with giraffes and zebras and antelope—all the fun stuff you would see on a safari—and have it right here in St. Louis will be really exciting.”

Here’s what you can look forward to seeing and experiencing at WildCare Park.

The safaris

Guests will pile into open-air vehicles driven by trained zoo guides and embark upon either of two driving safaris: a savanna adventure or a journey into the woodlands. The savanna safari sits on 101 acres of grassland, where approximately 10–15 species and 100 adult animals will roam. Although the giraffes are expected to be the superstars of this safari, guests can expect to see large herds of exotic animals, such as zebras, addax, antelope, ostriches, eland, and others living together on the expansive land.

Can’t get enough of the giraffes? Try the giraffe feeding exhibit, where you’ll be at eye-level with the majestic creatures. Purchase greens and get up close and personal with these long-necked friends.

“There’s nothing quite like having a big giraffe come up to you,” Fischer says with a laugh. “They’re beautiful. To be able to have that experience is really memorable, which is what we’re trying to do at WildCare Park: build memories.”

The woodland safari’s crowning jewel may be the white rhino, a new species for the St. Louis Zoo. The woodlands’ 63 acres will contain 8–10 white rhinos and 30 other hoofed mammals. 

Guests can choose to experience the safari in large, medium, or small safari vehicles—each at a different price point. The large vehicles will include multiple groups of guests and will last about 30 minutes. The smaller the vehicle, the longer the safari will last.

“Every time guests come out, it will be a truly unique experience, because the animals are always going to be doing something different,” architect Leslie Garner says.

Stretch your legs with a half-mile walking safari, where guests can meander at their own pace through a habitat housing red kangaroos and wallabies. Although guests will not be permitted to wander from the path, they may encounter one of these animals hopping across the walkway. Visitors will also be able to look into the kangaroo barn and witness how these creatures are cared for.

Other experiences at WildCare Park

WildCare Park isn’t merely home to exotic animals like giraffes, rhinos, and kangaroos. The park will help guests immerse themselves in a unique ecosystem created with native plants. In the northern region of the park, the Nature Play Area will feature 1.5 miles of trails featuring trees, shrubs, birds, and other creatures all native to Missouri.

The indoor Zoo Museum will offer a different kind of experience: a high-tech AR or VR interactive experience, designed to educate guests on the animals that will call WildCare Park home. 

Want to wake up with giraffes at your doorstep? Ten glamping cabins will reside on the park’s property, modeled after similar structures at a Kenyan safari. The cabins will give guests the chance to sleep comfortably in the wild.

A 300-person events center is also being constructed on the park grounds. This space, surrounded by lush landscapes and roaming animals, will be available to rent for work conferences, weddings, and other events.

And, after a long day, grab a bite to eat at the park’s on-site restaurant.

Making an impact

WildCare Park—which could fit the St. Louis Zoo on its property four times—will bring an entirely new experience to St. Louis. Fischer and Garner are proud of the park’s extensive conservation efforts and excited for the day it finally opens to the public.

“I’m excited for the guests to see it when we open,” Garner says. “I’ve loved seeing the vision of WildCare Park develop as we head towards 2027.”

In a recent press release by the St. Louis Zoo, it was also estimated that WildCare Park would generate over $660 million in economic activity across the St. Louis region over a 10-year period. The report estimates that 421,900 guests will visit each year, and the park will generate an annual average of 384 jobs.

“WildCare Park will bring with it a major tourism boost for our region and an economic boost for north St. Louis County,” St. Louis County Executive Sam Page said in the release. “The Zoo is a favorite of locals, as well as a national tourist destination, and WildCare Park will join the list of must-sees when in the St. Louis region.”

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Woman mauled by wolves while jogging at zoo, reports say

(Gray News) - A woman visiting a French safari park and zoo was reportedly attacked by several wolves over the weekend.

According to multiple reports, a 37-year-old Paris woman was visiting the Thoiry Zoo Safari in France when she decided to go out jogging after spending the night at the lodge.

But the woman accidentally entered a safari zone Sunday morning that is usually only accessible by car.

French news outlets, including TF1 , reported, that the area has open spaces where animals, wolves and bears roam freely.

TFI reports that while the woman was running the wolves “pounced” on her as she was about 900 feet outside of the lodge.

The woman, whose name was not immediately released, sustained “serious” injuries and was bitten on the neck, calf and back.

“Luckily the medical staff intervened very quickly, and we were able to save this person,” CNN quoted the zoo’s CEO Christelle Bercheny from a press conference.

Bercheny added that there are signs posted at the zoo while noting that the animals may not be used to seeing humans.

The injured woman has since been stabilized at the hospital.

Zoo officials said its team has launched an investigation.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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Sergei Ryakhovsky

The balashikha ripper, the hippopotamus,   active for 6 years (1988-1993) in russia, confirmed victims, possible victims.

• Serial Killer Profile
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Sergei Ryakhovsky (Sergei Vasilyevich Ryakhovsky) a Soviet-Russian serial killer known as the Balashikha Ripper and The Hippopotamus. Ryakhovsky was convicted for the killing of nineteen people in the Moscow area between 1988 and 1993. Ryakhovsky's mainly stabbed or strangulated his victims, he mutilated some bodies, mainly in the genital area. Allegedly Ryakhovsky carried out necrophilic acts on his victims and stole their belongings. Ryakhovsky standing 6’5" tall and weighting 286 pounds, gaining him the nickname, The Hippo. Sergei Ryakhovsky died on January 21st 2005 from untreated tuberculosis while serving his life sentence in prison.

Sergei Ryakhovsky Serial Killer Profile

Serial Killer Sergei Ryakhovsky (aka) the Balashikha Ripper, The Hippopotamus, was active for 6 years between 1988-1993 , known to have ( 19 confirmed / 19 possible ) victims. This serial killer was active in the following countries: Russia

Sergei Ryakhovsky was born on December 29th 1962 in Balashikha, Moscow Oblast, Soviet Union. He had a physically defect. During his education he had academic, social or discipline problems including being teased or picked on.

Sergei Ryakhovsky a necrophile male citizen of Russia.

Prior to his spree he had killed, commited crimes, and served time in jail.

In 1988 (Age 25/26) Sergei Ryakhovsky started his killing spree, during his crimes as a serial killer he was known to rob, commit acts of necrophilia , torture , strangle , rape , mutilate, and murder his victims.

He was arrested on April 13th 1993 (Age 30), sentenced to death by firing squad at a maximum-security penal colony in Solikamsk, Perm Oblast, Russia. He was convicted on charges of murder and other possible charges during his lifetime.

Sergei Ryakhovsky died on January 21st 2005 (Age 42), cause of death: natural causes, untreated tuberculosis at a maximum-security penal colony in Solikamsk, Perm Oblast, Russia.

Profile Completeness: 62%

Sergei Ryakhovsky has been listed on Killer.Cloud since November of 2016 and was last updated 4 years ago.

Sergei Ryakhovsky a known:

( 651 killers ) serial killer.

The unlawful killing of two or more victims by the same offender(s), in separate events. Serial Killer as defined by the FBI at the 2005 symposium.

( 308 killers ) RAPIST

Rape is usually defined as having sexual intercourse with a person who does not want to, or cannot consent.

( 60 killers ) NECROPHILIAC

Necrophilia, also called thanatophilia, is a sexual attraction or sexual act involving corpses. Serial Killer Necrophiliacs have been known to have sex with the body of their victim(s).

( 89 killers ) TORTURER

Torture is when someone puts another person in pain. This pain may be physical or psychological. Tourturers touture their victims.

( 251 killers ) STRANGLER

Strangulation is death by compressing the neck until the supply of oxygen is cut off. Stranglers kill by Strangulation.

Sergei Ryakhovsky Serial Killer Profile:

Updated: 2019-06-30 collected by killer.cloud, 8 timeline events of serial killer sergei ryakhovsky.

The 8 dates listed below represent a timeline of the life and crimes of serial killer Sergei Ryakhovsky. A complete collection of serial killer events can be found on our Serial Killer Timeline .

Back to top Serial Killers Active During

The following serial killers were active during the same time span as Sergei Ryakhovsky (1988-1993).

Pedro Lopez 110 Victims during 34 Years

Gilberto chamba 9 victims during 17 years, chester turner 15 victims during 12 years, lesley warren 4 victims during 4 years, serial killers by active year, books that mention sergei ryakhovsky.

Kevin Smith

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External References

• Sergei Ryakhovsky on en.wikipedia.org , Retrieved on Sep 18, 2018 .
• Juan Ignacio Blanco , Sergei Vasilyevich RYAKHOVSKY on murderpedia.org , Retrieved on Sep 18, 2018 .
• Q372816 on www.wikidata.org , Retrieved on Oct 9, 2018 .

Sergei Ryakhovsky is included in the following pages on Killer.Cloud the Serial Killer Database

• #3 of 45[ Page 1 ] of Serial Killers with birthdays in December
• #10 of 60[ Page 1 ] of Serial Killer Necrophiliacs sorted by Confirmed Victims
• #10 of 29[ Page 1 ] of Serial Killers active in Russia
• #10 of 55[ Page 1 ] of Capricorn Serial Killers sorted by Confirmed Victims
• #11 of 89[ Page 1 ] of Serial Killer Torturers sorted by Confirmed Victims
• #27 of 250[ Page 2 ] of Serial Killer Stranglers sorted by Confirmed Victims
• #35 of 307[ Page 3 ] of Serial Killer Rapist sorted by Confirmed Victims
• #63 of 651[ Page 5 ] of serial killers sorted by Confirmed Victims
• #264 of 651[ Page 18 ] of serial killers sorted by Years Active
• #381 of 651[ Page 26 ] of serial killers sorted by Profile Completeness
• #516 of 651[ Page 35 ] of the A-Z List of Serial Killers