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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Like a journey to Africa, a day at this spectacular park lets you see some of the world’s most magnificent—and endangered—animals at close range and in expansive naturalized enclosures. A tram ride leads you past roaming groups of rhinos, gazelles, giraffes, and other species ranging freely through savannah-like expanses. African lions wrestle with their cubs in specially designed enclosures that look like part of the whole, but are safely contained from other animals. There’s plenty to see on foot too: the amazing Tiger Trail exhibit lets you get remarkable underwater views of Sumatran tigers swimming in the Tiger Trail exhibit.

"Static-line hot-air balloon rides and a long, long zip line ride offer great views of the park and surrounding region."

For even more up-close looks at the park’s animals, including premium behind-the-scenes tours, plus unique experiences such as the Cheetah Safari, where you can watch as these amazing cats reach speeds up to 70 mph/113 kph. Special Jungle Ropes Safaris are a great way for your little monkeys to burn off some steam. Static-line hot-air balloon rides and a long, long zip line ride offer great views of the park and surrounding region. And for a California-style hint of what sleeping in the African bush might be like, Roar & Snore Safaris let you spend the night in large tents (some even have beds and electricity) at a campground overlooking the African Plains exhibit.

Come for the animals; then take time to see the plants. The park has extraordinary landscaped areas, all worth strolling. Especially beautiful in spring is the Nativescapes Gardens, focusing on drought-tolerant species adapted to the region’s sunny, dry climate. Free, guided tours are offered at 10 a.m. the second Saturday in April and May.

Southern California

Spotlight: san diego zoo.

Visiting this expansive zoo in San Diego’s Balboa Park is more than a chance to see animals from all over the world: it’s a chance to see one of the world’s finest facilities for seeing and learning about rare and endangered species, all in carefully naturalized enclosures spread across 100 acres/40 hectares in Balboa Park. More than 3,700 animals from 650 species are showcased here, including crowd-pleasers like giant pandas and fuzzy koala bears and intriguing oddities like naked mole rats. (Visiting the San Diego Zoo soon? This  $4 OFF coupon  will save you money on a one-day pass.) 

Plan to spend at least a day at this extraordinary site, and wear comfortable shoes—you’ll likely do a lot of walking. If you have to cut your visit short, no worries: just log onto a collection of entertaining animal cams, which let you see what’s going on with the a variety of species—the koalas and pandas as well as Sumatran tigers, polar bears, California condors, and more—even if you’re not in the park.

Giant pandas

With their cartoon-cute looks and roly-poly gait, the zoo’s giant pandas are no-brainer favourites. The zoo’s resident trio—Gao Gao, Bai Yun and their child, Xiao Liwu (born in 2012)—lumber about in their bamboo-shaded enclosure, munching away on leaves (about 320 kilos of bamboo are harvested per week) seemingly oblivious to their adoring fans. It’s a rare chance to see these charmers—only an estimated 1,600 giant pandas are left in the wild, roaming the high mountains of western China. 

To avoid crowds, consider joining the Early Morning Panda Tour, which includes access to the park before gates officially open. You’ll see the bears get their breakfast, then take a guided shuttle tour of the zoo.

Conrad Prebys Australian Outback

Whether it’s a bounding kangaroo, a feisty Tasmanian devil or a stuffed-animal-cute koala, the fascinating animals of Australia are an entertaining assortment. The extensive Conrad Prebys Australian Outback exhibit at San Diego Zoo aims to let you see and learn about these intriguing creatures—some of them extremely rare—in attractive enclosures that mimic their natural habitats Down Under and provide clever viewing areas.

For example, wide decks wrapping around Queenslander House (a replica of an 1800s house from Queensland, Australia) overlook the koala colony, putting you at eye level with the bear-like creatures. Here you can watch the fuzzy marsupials groom, nap (which they do a lot), lord it over their designated areas (male koalas are territorial) and eat from their high perches in the enclosure’s trees. See if you can spy little koalas, called joeys, clinging to their mother’s backs.

Inside Queenslander House find out more about these animals with a peek inside the koala food prep kitchen, where the keepers prepare the tree-dwellers’ meals of the tender shoots, leaves and twigs of the eucalyptus tree. Walk to the nearby enclosures to hear cockatoos squawk, kookaburras (a bird known as the bushman’s alarm clock) trill, chortle and hoot and see wallabies hop.

If you’d like a more in-depth experience book the one hour Discovery Cart Tour to learn more about koalas, kangaroos and other animals from knowledgeable guides who will answer your questions and relate how the zoo’s conservation efforts are having an impact worldwide. These tours go to areas of the zoo not visited by the bus tours and groups are small so the guides can answer more of your questions.

Special Experiences at the San Diego Zoo

Whether it’s a chance to get an early-morning peek at pandas, or a special sleepover once darkness falls, special tours and insider activities take you from just looking at zoo critters to learning even more about them, and even meeting special zoo ‘ambassador’ animals. Inside Look tours let you learn more about the zoo’s elephants, polar bears and other creatures. Themed sleepovers let families and adults bed down in snug tents in a special area of the zoo, and take private tours and walks after dark. The ultimate way to go? It’s undoubtedly the Exclusive VIP Experience, a totally customised tour where you can design a special tour that best fits your own interests, so you can talk with animal experts, see off-exhibit areas and have special animal interactions. 

Other Exhibits

Sure you’ll want to see lions, tigers and panda bears, but take time to visit some of the zoo’s less familiar species too. In the tropical African rainforest exhibits of Lost Forest, you’ll expect to find gorillas and hippos, but bonobos? Believed to be one of the world’s most rare and intelligent animals, these primates have a fascinating and complex social structures ruled by females. In the Arctic area (fittingly situated at the north side of the park), you’ll find enormous polar bears, but also the beautiful arctic fox with unique features, like hair on the bottoms of its paws to help grip on ice, for living in a wintry world.

Balboa Park

From pandas and koala bears at its iconic zoo, to a remarkable collection of museums and gardens, this oasis in the heart of the city has been a vibrant part of San Diego culture for a hundred years. First and foremost, Balboa Park is a horticultural marvel: the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden alone has more than 130 varieties of rose (learn more about it and the rest of the park’s greenery on free 1-hour Offshoot Tours, offered on Saturday morning). 

Museums abound; local favourites include the Museum of Man, San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Natural History Museum, Fleet Science Center and the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Culture reigns supreme too: The Old Globe Theatre hosts its famed Shakespeare Festival each summer; live bands and outdoor film screenings abound. 

All this, plus one of the world’s finest zoos. Over 3,700 animals from 650 species—many of them extremely rare— are showcased at the San Diego Zoo, with naturalised exhibits covering roughly 100 acres. Get a special look at the zoo’s three giant pandas by signing up for ‘Early Morning with Pandas’, visiting the panda viewing area before it officially opens for the day. Check the Balboa Park website for special events, and for ticketing deals bundling zoo and museum visits. 

Like a journey to Africa, a day at this spectacular park lets you see some of the world’s most magnificent—and endangered—animals at close range and in expansive naturalised enclosures. A tram ride leads you past roaming groups of rhinos, gazelles, giraffes and other species roaming freely through savannah-like expanses. African lions wrestle with their cubs in specially designed enclosures that look like part of the whole, but are safely contained from other animals. There’s plenty to see on foot too: the amazing Tiger Trail exhibit lets you get remarkable underwater views of Sumatran tigers swimming in the Tiger Trail exhibit.

"Static-line hot air balloon rides and a very long zip line ride offer great views of the park and surrounding region."

For an even more up-close look at the park’s animals, try a premium behind-the-scenes tour, or unique experiences such as the Cheetah Safari where you can watch as these amazing cats reach speeds up to 70 mph. Special Jungle Ropes Safaris are a great way for your little monkeys to let off some steam. Static-line hot air balloon rides and a very long zip line ride offer great views of the park and surrounding region.  And for a California-style hint of what sleeping in the African bush might be like, Roar & Snore Safaris let you spend the night in large tents (some even have beds and electricity) at a campsite overlooking the African Plains exhibit.

Come for the animals; then take time to see the plants.  The park has extraordinary landscaped areas, all worth a stroll. Especially beautiful in spring is the Nativescapes Gardens, focusing on drought-tolerant species adapted to the region’s sunny, dry climate. Free, guided tours are offered at 10am on the second Saturday in April and May. 

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Tours & Safaris

Enhance your visit at both parks upgrade with a tour and safari.

San Diego Zoo Tours

• BOOK A ZOO TOUR
• San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, California 92101
• 619-718-3000

Upgrade your visit to the Zoo with one of our exclusive tours. Enjoy an entertaining and educational adventure with one of our knowledgeable guides.

Safari Park Safaris

• CHOOSE YOUR SAFARI
• San Diego Zoo Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027-7017

Want to get up close and personal with your favorite African Plains animals? Enhance your experience; add a Safari and get ready for an adventure you’ll always remember! 

• San Diego Zoo Tickets
• Safari Park Tickets

What’s the Best San Diego Safari Park Tour? Chart & Reviews

With 18 choices, how do you pick the best San Diego Safari Park Tour/Safari? After the quick summary below, check the comparison chart for prices, tour duration & age limits. Then read the individual tour reviews and about their refund policy if you have to cancel.

Africa Tram’s the best free San Diego Safari Park tour. The 1-hour Wildlife Safari truck trip into the African fields is the most popular paid one. But a 90-minute Twilight Wildlife Safari with lunch is a better deal. Roar & Snore Safari overnight stays are family favorites. All require separate admission.

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

* 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 .

Prices are given as a range because Safari Park charges extra for tours on peak days. Prices and availability can change without notice.

• Least Expensive: non-holiday Mondays and Tuesdays thru Thursdays
• Mid-priced: most Fridays
• Peak prices: Some Fridays. Usually Saturdays, Sundays, and 3-day holidays (best time for aRes discount tour deals )

You’ll need to buy a Safari Park admission in addition to your tour ticket. Why not take advantage of the best admission discount from aRes Travel , the San Diego-based authorized ticket seller? Click on the koala’s furry face below!

And finally, here’s what else you can do at Safari Park . That’s a page that I wrote that covers the animal exhibits, shows, and keeper talks. And if you’re wondering where to eat I’ve also written an article on where’s the best food ?

Wildlife Safari Tour

The 1-hour Wildlife Safari is the most popular tour at San Diego Safari Park followed by the 90-minute Twilight Wildlife Safari. You go inside the African animal enclosure in an open-air covered truck. Twilight tours add a light meal. Deluxe Safari is 90 minutes long and also tours the Asian enclosures .

The worst thing about these Safaris is that there are sometimes so many opportunities for close-up photos of animals that you won’t know where to point your camera first.  The best part of them is that you have the opportunity to feed giraffes if the animals are feeling hungry. Don’t worry, they’re ALWAYS hungry.

There are 3 different variations of this Safari plus an alternative for those with teenagers:

Wildlife Safari

• Duration: 1 hour
• Price: $89 – 105 per person. Admission is separate for each person and required.
• Age restrictions: Ages 3+. Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult
• What’s Special: The overwhelming SIZE of a 4-foot long giraffe head next to yours. And how daintily they take the acacia leaves from your fingers.
• Deals : Check HERE for discounted tours for SanDiegoing readers from aRes Travel — San Diego’s local authorized ticket source.

Twilight Wildlife Safari

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Price: $109 – 129 per person. Admission is separate for each person and required.
• Age restrictions: Ages 3+. Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult 
• You’ll also enjoy a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic drink with some tasty nibbles at a stunning overlook.

Deluxe Safari

• What’s Special: The Deluxe Safari provides you with your best chance to pet a rhino. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s more likely than on either of the other truck safaris. Why? Maybe because the One-Horn rhinos in the Asian fields are a bit smaller than the White rhinos in the other safaris? Still, stroking the soft snout of a 3,500-pound animal instead of a 5,000-pound one is ok with me. And there are always hungry giraffes!

Combine A Truck Safari with a Zipline Experience

If you’ve got teenagers or other adrenalin junkies in your group, try the Deluxe Flightline Safari (further down this page). It combines a shorter truck caravan safari with a 3,520-foot zipline ride. Same cost, but more experiences!

Wildlife Safari Tips

Feed giraffes, but don’t touch them . Keep your hands low during feeding. Raise your hand just a bit so that they can see the acacia leaves. Then let them reach down for the leaves.

Why? They use their heads as battering rams in dominance contests. Your friendly hand reaching towards their head can be viewed as an aggressive gesture. So no high-fives with giraffe horns. That avoids misunderstandings with a creature 10 times your size and makes for better photos as well.

THIRSTY? Bring drinking water in a container with a closed lid. Sip, don’t guzzle unless you’ve got an iron bladder.

MOBILITY ISSUES : If anyone in your party has mobility issues or needs to use a wheelchair call 619-718-3000 after you purchase your ticket. They will make arrangements for you.

RESTRICTIONS

• Selfie sticks must be stowed away. They can scare animals.
• No outside food, beverages, or bulky camera equipment (small tripods are ok if they’re used as monopods)
• Admission is separate and required.
• 5 or more days before reservation – changes allowed but $15 Administrative Change Fee will be charged.
• Less than 5 days before reservation – changes not permitted

CANCELLATIONS

• 5 or more days before reservation – changes allowed but $25 Cancellation Fee will be charged.
• Less than 5 days before reservation – payment not refundable.

Sun-Up Cheetah Safari Tour

Do you love cheetahs? Then this is San Diego Safari Park’s best tour for you. It’s the very best way to get amazing cheetah photos like the one above.

• Duration : 1 hour
• Start Time: 8:00 AM on most Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
• Price: $99 – 105. Admission is separate and required for each guest.
• Age restrictions: All ages ok. There must be a responsible paid adult present for every 3 children. Children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Proof of age of children may be required.

You’ll get into the park early and meet your experienced guide for a walk down to Shiley’s Cheetah Run . There you’ll see a cheetah fly by at nearly 70 miles per hour from a prime viewing location.

After the cheetah chases the mechanical lure down the track you’ll head down to the Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook . There you’ll get to see another speedster, this one flying through the air. After all that rushing around, relax with a savory brunch. Enjoy coffee, tea, mimosas, and the only San Diego restaurant view that includes giraffes, rhinos, and antelope.

• Purchase your admission ticket(s) in advance online. You will be arriving before the ticket sale booths are open. Have your admission ticket printed or ready to be scanned on your cell phone.
• To get the best viewing locations for all of these tour events, arrive about 30 minutes before check-in so you get the first pick. But don’t worry if you can’t be early. There aren’t any “bad” locations.

Cart Safari Tour

A Cart Safari is the best tour at San Diego Safari park if you’ve got small children or babies. The cart is much lower to the ground than the truck used in the Wildlife Safari. It’s much easier to get in and out to view animals while carrying infants or toddlers. The ride is also much smoother since Cart Safaris only go on paved roads.

You’ll have a private tour driver/guide. They’ll be masked and the cart has special screens to social distance your guide from your household group. But they’ll still be able to hear and see you to answer just about any question and direct you to wildlife feeding opportunities and photo stops.

• Price: $55+ per person. Admission is separate and required for each guest.
• Age restrictions: None. Infants and children under the age of 2 are welcome as long as they sit on an adults’ lap. There’s a limit of two lap children per group. Children 15 years old and younger must be with a paid adult.
• Two Options: Asian Cart Safari or African Cart Safari

There Are 2 Flightline Safari Zipline Rides and Tours at Safari Park

Flightline safari.

• Duration : 1 hour. Includes orientation session and Fledgling flight
• Price: $77 – 85
• Age restrictions: 8+ years old. There must be one paid parent or guardian accompanying up to 3 children aged 8 to 15 at all times. If you’re 16 or 17 you may ride the flightline alone, but you must have a parent or guardian sign a liability waiver at check-in. 
• Deals : Check HERE for daily discounts for SanDiegoing readers from aRes Travel — San Diego’s local authorized ticket source. TIP : The deals are best when you need them most, on weekends and holidays.

Take an exhilarating flight down a zip line 2/3rds of a mile long. Soar up to 130 feet above herds of wild antelope, giraffes, and rhinos. 

You’ll take a training course on the Fledgling run. There you’ll become familiar with the procedures and safety equipment. Once you’re comfortable with the short Fledgling flight, you’ll be transported to the launch platform for the Flightline Safari. You land near the campground at Kilima Point.

Deluxe Flightline Safari

This tour is a very good deal for groups that include restless teenagers looking for a bit more action. It adds a truck caravan tour into the African plains exhibits before your orientation session and zipline flight. You can get up close with the animals, take great photos, and ride the zip line for the price of just the Wildlife Safari truck tour.

• Duration : 90 minutes.
• Price: $89 – 105

Safety Restrictions: You will be asked to sign a liability waiver. You must be able to understand the waiver and be able to follow instructions in English. There’s a weight limit of between 60 and 300 pounds (your weight may be checked). 

The safety harness must fit comfortably. Wear snug-fitting closed-toe shoes. Do not drink alcohol before the Flightline Safari. If the trainers or those assisting you think that you’ve been imbibing you will not be allowed on the zip line. 

If you don’t meet all of these qualifications you will be denied access to the zip line and there will be no refunds.

Behind the Scenes Safari Tour

If you’re looking for an insider’s view, these will be San Diego Safari Park’s best safaris for you. There are 3 different safari options available, each focusing on one animal or exhibit area. But no two Behind the Scenes Safari Tours are exactly the same. All of them provide an intimate look at off-exhibit areas that are inaccessible to the general population of Safari Park guests.

You’ll take a ride on a small electric cart and then explore on foot with a guide who’ll fill you in on the park’s animals and conservation initiatives. 

There are three Behind the Scenes Safari Tour s:

Elephants & Friends

Have a close encounter of the pachyderm kind! See the Safari Park elephant herd from a private viewing area. Discover how they’re cared for and what’s being done to protect their wild relatives. Selfie sticks are not permitted on this tour.

• Price: $89 – 105 per person. Admission is separate and required for each guest.
• Age restrictions: Children 3-15 must be accompanied by a paid adult. A maximum of 2 children per group.

Rhinos & Friends

Get close to rhinos. Explore behind the scenes at Nikita Kahn Rhino Rescue Center. Here the Safari Park staff is developing assisted reproductive techniques that may bring back the Northern White Rhino from functional extinction.

You’ll also take a trip around the park’s large field exhibits and view many other species there. You have to be able to stand or walk for at least 60 minutes to take this tour.  Selfie sticks are not permitted here.

• Age restrictions: Children 3-15 must be accompanied by a paid adult. A maximum of 2 children per group. A maximum of 2 children per group.

Roar & Snore Safari Tour

In my ever so humble opinion, and that of many others, this is the BEST safari at San Diego Safari Park. You can experience the sights and sounds of sleeping on safari in Africa without traveling there (no extra vaccinations needed!).

Fall asleep to elephants’ rumblings. Wake to the sound of lions roaring. But don’t worry about it being too noisy to sleep. Most of the time it’s so quiet that you can hear the footsteps of giraffes passing by. 

What happens at Roar & Snore? Close-up animal encounters, night-time guided walking tours, and a backstage look at some of the animal accommodations. You’ll also enjoy good food, and relaxing around a campfire.

The last time Bob and I went, we saw the inner workings of Lion Camp at night. Did you know that they sometimes put different colored glitter in each lion’s food? Me neither! The colored particles let keepers know which scat belongs to which cat. Examining their feces is just one way that keepers monitor lions’ health.

The sleepovers include a catered hot dinner and breakfast. They’ve got something for everyone with many gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan selections. For adults, there’s a cash bar. And everyone will enjoy sitting around the campfire eating s’mores and listening to the guides and campers trading stories of their wildlife experiences.

Most Roar & Snore Safaris include an evening or early morning Africa Tram ride. It’s magical. The animals in the African multi-species enclosures are at their frisky best. It seems as if they’re trying to get all of their sparring, running, and chasing done in the cooler weather. 

The campsite overlooks the African Plains multi-species enclosure loaded with antelope, giraffes, rhinos, gazelles, wildebeests, and many other animals. Clean restrooms and a limited number of showers are available. The tents are clean and spacious.

If you cringe at the thought of sleeping on a cot or the floor of a tent you’ll probably be happier spending the night at a nearby hotel. I’ve written a guide to the best local lodging close to Safari Park .

There are 3 different tent options:

Classic tent.

• $149 (Ages 3+)
• $30 (Ages 0 – 2)
• Price is per person. Single campers pay 2-person tent price. Maximum 5 people per tent. Admission is separate and required. 
• Size: 9 ft x 14 ft interior
• Tent Type: Canvas roof, vinyl-covered tent floor
• Furnishings: Sleeping bag pads. Bring your own sleeping bag, pillow, etc.
• $189 (Ages 3+)
• Price is per person. Single campers pay 2-person tent price. Maximum 6 people per tent. Admission is separate and required. 
• Tent type: Canvas roof, vinyl-covered tent floor. 
• Furnishings: 2 single cots, 2 chairs. Bring your own sleeping bag, pillow, etc.

Premium Tent

• $229 (Ages 3+)
• Price is per person. Single campers pay 2-person tent price. Maximum 4 people per tent. Admission is separate and required. 
• Great for couples looking for a special evening or families of 4.
• Size: 12 ft x 16 ft interior
• Tent type: Canvas roof. Wood floors with rug. Electrical outlets (charge your mobile devices!), storage/night-stand
• Furnishings: Queen bed with linens & pillows., 2 cots with sleeping bags, a fan and a space heater 

There are 5 different Roar & Snore Safari options:

All-Ages Roar and Snore

• Best sleep-over option for families with young children . 
• Age restrictions: For ages 3 and up
• What’s Special: There’s an evening, after-hours Africa Tram ride just for All-Ages Roar & Snore campers and an easy guided walk. Full cash bar for adults.

Adults-Only Roar and Snore

• Best option for couples . 
• Age restrictions: Ages 21+
• What’s Special: Adult topics like animal reproduction are presented by keepers. There are more animal experiences than during the All-Ages offering. The guided hikes are more strenuous. We went backstage at Lion Camp to see the big cats’ bedrooms and care areas.  It was dark in spots and the footing was a bit challenging. There was a cash bar for adults during dinner and the campfire experience.

Girl Scouts Roar and Snore

• Age restrictions: Ages 5+ with adults
• Pricing: $139+
• What’s Special: This is a troop oriented event. There are group guided walks, conservation related activities and animal-oriented crafts.

School Nights Roar and Snore

• Age restrictions: Ages 3-12 with adults
• What’s Special: This is a great field trip. The kids will get hands-on educational conservation & animal care experiences 

Supreme Roar and Snore

• Age restrictions: Aged 8 – 15 with adults.
• Pricing: $303+
• What’s Special: This is a great bundle of activities. Soar into the Roar & Snore camp on a zipline Flightline Safari. Spy on animals in the Night Vision Safari with vision-enhancing goggles. See the Sun Up Cheetah Safari with an exclusive viewing spot. And finally ride into the herds of giraffes, rhinos and antelopes on a morning Wildlife Safari.

For more detailed information on what to bring, how to prepare, and a menu, check out the Safari Park Roar & Snore Safari page on their website.

Ultimate Safari Tour

Assemble a Safari Park tour that is customized to your interests and desired activities. Full disclosure, we haven’t been on this safari, but we’re saving up for it! Because of that, I’ve asked a LOT of questions on the phone to the booking team. I hope that you’ll benefit from my research. And if you go before I do, send me pictures!

When you book your Ultimate Safari know the answers to the following questions before you call:

• What are your favorite animals?
• Are you interested in feeding any of these animals?
• Which animal exhibits would you like to see behind the scenes and find out more about how they’re cared for? 
• Do you have any dietary restrictions? They serve you lunch on this safari. You don’t want this experience spoiled by food that you can’t eat!

Duration: 5 hours. It’s easy to add too many activities and animal experiences to this safari. You’ll have to be selective so you don’t feel rushed. Your planner will help you decide how much to see in the time that you have.

Price: Varies depending upon day and seasonality

• $675+ for a 5-hour tour. Priced per person.
• $50 – children aged 2 and under
• Children aged 15 and under must be with a paid adult

Age and other restrictions: Depends upon the activities you choose.

You must book/reserve your tour at least 72 hours in advance . San Diego Safari Park usually only schedules one Ultimate Safari per day. The animals need to be fed and cared for daily and their keepers need to be notified so they can make special accommodations for Ultimate Safari visitors. 

Balloon Safari

Soar 400 feet up in a helium balloon. You’ll have great views of San Diego Safari Park and the San Pasqual Valley agricultural area that surrounds the park. 

Duration: About 30 minutes. You’ll spend 10 to 12 minutes at the highest viewing point.

Price: Varies depending upon peak hours and days. Plan on spending $20 or less. Reservations are NOT available online. Pay at the gate.

Ages restrictions:   All ages. 

Tips: The best times to fly are between 9:00 AM and noon, but it’s open until sunset. The ride may shut down due to windy or rainy conditions. Afternoons in Escondido can be windy. The balloon is grounded shortly before Cheetah Run at about 3:00 PM and afterward while any cheetahs remain near the Shiley’s Cheetah Run track. 

Africa Tram Tour

Africa Tram is San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s best tour if you’re on a budget . It’s one of the highlights of the park. And it’s free with your park entrance ticket! We’ve ridden this attraction hundreds of times and plan to do it many more.

You get to see dozens of species at once, and they’re always doing something new. The many thousands of rare plants surrounding you and the over 900 acres of open California Sage Scrub habitat make it even more appealing.

Duration: 25 – 30 minutes.

Price: FREE with your paid admission to Safari Park, except for children in school groups. Ride as many times as you want to.

Ages restrictions:   All ages. Children under 2 years of age must remain in their parent’s lap.

• Skip this one if you have booked a Caravan or Cart Safari, and you are feeling like you don’t have time to see everything on your list.
• In a rush? You can purchase priority boarding. Check the kiosk at the entrance to the Africa Tram queue. 
• When’s the best time to ride the Africa Tram? The peak hours are from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. So anytime before or after will be good. The animals are most active when the weather is cool. Many people try to take the first Africa Tram trip or one of the last ones for that reason. But there’s really not that much difference. You’re going to see spectacular creatures whenever you go. 
• Where’s the best place to sit? We like sitting in the 2nd or 3rd car. The first car can be a bit noisy. However, that car is the only one with accessible seating for those with mobility issues. So it may be best for you. 
• Which side of the tram is best? You’ll see animals on both sides. And you are encouraged to stand up if the vehicle is not moving. So you’ll be able to take great photos no matter where you sit. However, the cheetahs, zebras, and most giraffes and rhinos are on the right side.
• Expect long lines on weekends & holidays. There are signs that tell you approximately how long the wait times are. They are fairly accurate. The longest times are from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.The wait times are shorter during Cheetah Run (around 3:30 PM). We also like late afternoon trips because it’s getting cooler and they’re less crowded. The last trip of the day starts 45 minutes before the park closes. 
• Request an “Easy Access Pass” if you have difficulty standing for long periods or are of limited mobility. With this pass, any guest with a disability and 3 additional members of your group, can be directed to a separate boarding area. Park employees are glad to provide extra boarding and disembarking assistance (if requested), to those boarding from the Easy Access areas.

7 Tips for Better Safari Tours

• Save money by reserving in advance versus purchasing the same day in the park. Plus you’ll be more likely to be able to choose a convenient time. 
• Get the best deal by booking on non-peak days . Safari Tour tickets generally cost less on weekdays. Non-holiday Mondays and Tuesdays are the cheapest. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays are a bit more expensive. You’ll pay the most on weekends and holidays.
• Include parking fees in your budget. Parking is not included and must be paid upon arrival at the parking entrance to Safari Park. Parking costs $15 for passenger vehicles and $20 for RVs. You can have preferred parking by adding $18 to either of the parking fees. “Preferred parking” means that you get a spot close to the entry/exit and you don’t have to walk uphill to get to the Park entrance.
• Arrive a minimum of 45 minutes before your tour or safari . This will allow time for you to travel from your parking or drop-off point to your safari check-in location. Leave earlier during holidays and on Friday afternoons when the traffic is usually heavier.
• Check in 10 minutes before the beginning of your safari.
• Know where your safari check-in location is. Check their map from the San Diego Safari Park website before you arrive.
• Download their map app. It’s available for both Apple and Android. Apple iOS download here.
• Android download here.

About Refunds or Cancellations of San Diego Safari Park Tours or Safaris

• There are no refunds if you arrive late or are a no-show.
• Make changes or cancellations early! There are no changes or cancellations less than 5 days before the date of your safari.
• What if you get sick? Call them at 619-718-3000 as soon as you know that you can’t go. Their Reservations Sales Department is open every day at 8:30 AM. They will need your Order Number, so have it with you when you call.
• Pay attention to the age limits and other restrictions for certain safaris. You won’t be given a refund at the last minute because you didn’t read the tour descriptions.
• The park reserves the right to cancel any safari or tour because of bad weather, animal welfare concerns or concerns for your safety. If they have to cancel your safari they try to do it as soon as possible and do their best to reschedule your safari at your convenience. If you cannot reschedule, your money will be refunded.  However, if it’s raining and they don’t call to cancel, enjoy! The park can be wonderful when it’s wet. Check out my article on how to enjoy San Diego Safari Park if it rains.

Closing Thoughts

Take the Caravan Safari Deluxe or the Ultimate Safari if you’re visiting for the first time and may not be returning for a long while. Splurge a bit. If you’re feeling guilty about the extra expense, tell yourself that you’re spending the extra cash to help end wildlife extinction.

If one of the paid safari experiences is not in your budget, then take the Africa Tram. Maybe twice. Once in the morning and again right before closing time.

Maybe you’ve read all the way down this page and still aren’t sure whether the Zoo or Safari Park is a better fit for you? In that case, go to my page where I compare the differences between the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park and the pros and cons of each.

I hope that this has been a help for you to decide which San Diego Safari Park tour or safari will be best for you and your family.

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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Family-Friendly Animal Park in Pine Mountain, GA

Experience the thrill of meeting nature’s animal friends. Wild Animal Safari ® is your destination for breathtaking adventures. Bring the family to our drive-thru animal park in Pine Mountain, GA. You’ve never been this up close and personal to nature.

• Plan Your Visit

Ticket and Passes

Zootube/conservation, many ways to explore.

Drive-thru tours let you meet some of the world’s wildlife. Join the fun and see some of your favorite animals as you’ve never seen them before. Our park offers many ways to discover the beauty of nature. There are three ways to explore Wild Animal Safari ® :

Drive-Thru Safari

Travel down our 3.5-mile trail and see many different animals along the way. Some of them may even get close to meet you and your family! Choose from the comfort of your vehicle, our safari rental vehicles, or a bus with a guide for you and your group to experience the thrill of the safari.

Walkabout Adventure Zoo™

The Walkabout Adventure Zoo™ allows you to meet the animals in a zoo-like setting. Stretch your legs and make friends with our resident Bengal tigers, African lions, peacocks, exotic birds, lemurs, monkeys, and much more.

Visit our ticketing page to reserve your spot for one of our animal safari tours . We are open throughout the year and are located in Pine Mountain, GA.

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Have you herd? Don't miss out on any Wild Animal Safari news. Join our pack by signing up for our newsletter and get tips on the latest promotions, animal news and more!

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Aggieland Safari

GA (706) 663-8744 1300 Oak Grove Rd Pine Mountain, GA 31822 [email protected]

MO (417) 859-5300 124 Jungle Rd Strafford, MO 65757 [email protected]

TX (979) 599-5440 18075 FM 974 Bryan, TX 77808 [email protected]

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Tickets and Hours

Spend an hour or stay the day! Your paid admission grants access to the Safari Drive-Thru & Safari Village Walk-Thru for the entire day. Present your receipt to re-enter the park.

Ticket Prices

Law enforcement, active duty, and retired military receive a $4.00 discount on each paid admission *.

Law Enforcement, Active Duty, and Retired Military must show valid identification

KEEP IN MIND

No Animals Allowed

No Outside Animal Feed Allowed

No Smoking or Vaping Allowed, except in the designated area

Minivan Sliding Doors MUST Remain Closed in Drive-Thru Section of the Park

Guest must stay in vehicles at all times while on the Safari Drive-thru.

2024 Park Hours

Our season will end on sunday, december 1, 2024.

Explore Rockbridge County History & Beauty

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Group Visits

Field Trips

Tickets and Hours

Spend an hour or stay the day! Your paid admission grants access to the Safari Drive-Thru & Safari Village Walk-Thru for the entire day. Present your receipt to re-enter the park.

Alabama Safari Park is open 363 days a year!

Spend the day with us!

Ticket Prices

Animal feed, 2024 park hours.

January 1 - February 28, 2024 - Open Daily 9AM - 4PM (Last admission 3 PM)

March 1 - October 31, 2024 - Open Daily 9AM - 5PM (Last admission 4 PM)

November 1 - December 31, 2024 - Open Daily 9AM - 4PM (Last admission 3 PM)

Open 363 Days a Year! * * Closed Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024 and Christmas Day, December 25, 2024.

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Alabama Safari Park Groups

Field Trips

Wagon Rides

THEME PARK RIDES

Adventure theme park.

Ride Wristband Prices 2024: Ride Wristband – £12.00 Little Penguin Wristband – £7.00  (child between 0.8m-1.0m in height)

Ride Ticket Prices 2024: 1 Ride Ticket – £2.00 4 Ride Tickets – £7.00 6 Ride Tickets – £9.00

Please note: If your child is under 3 but tall enough to go on the rides, they will still need a wristband or ride tickets. These can be purchased on the day of your visit.

Explore our rides below and decide how to plan your day in our Adventure Theme Park!

African Big Apple Coaster

Congo Carousel

Desert Convoy

Dino Dashers

Dr Umboto's Catacombs

Flying Lion Kings

Hurtling Hippos

Jumbo Parade

Jungle Cat Dodgems

Jungle Swings

Monkey Mayhem

Pirate Ship

Rescue Fire Rangers

Rhino Rollercoaster

Serengeti Gallopers

Slippery Snake Slide

Zambezi Water Splash

Important information.

• We operate a time board system during off-peak dates (weekdays outside of school holidays), with rides running for 30 minutes before closing and then reopening 30 minutes later.  

Wristband and ride ticket prices are charged in addition to Park admission. Everyone, including under 3s, will need a wristband or ride tickets to go on the rides, if they meet the minimum height requirements.  

• If the ride requires 1:1 accompaniment of a child due to their height, each child would need to be accompanied by at least one person who meets the height requirements. On water rides, this person must be a person over the age of 18.

Wristbands and ride tickets are available to purchase separately on the day of your visit, from the Adventure Theme Park. Wristbands and ride tickets are only valid on the day of purchase and no refunds are available.

Wristbands must be fitted by the cashier at the point of purchase, are non-transferable and invalid if removed.

The Wristband Office will close one hour before the Theme Park rides close.

Safety Info

A shirt must be worn by all guests wishing to go on any of our Theme Park rides, and must remain on whilst on the rides.

Shoes must also be worn at all times to access our Theme Park rides. If you are wearing loose footwear (flip flops/sandals etc.), our ride operator will attend and advise where to leave your shoes on certain rides.

Long sleeved shirts must be worn if a guest would like to go on ‘Slippery Snake Slide’.

All guests must also be able to sit up and hold on unaided when on any ride.

Accessibility Info

We will issue an Essential Companion Wristband free of charge when accompanying the guest requiring support has purchased a wristband. You will need to show your Essential Companion Admission Ticket again at the Wristband Office. In order to qualify for a free essential companion, you must have applied through Nimbus, please  click here  for more information.

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Behind-the-Scenes Safari

$92 & up*.

Price is per person

At A Glance

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park? Get a special sneak peek into the secret lives of your favorite wildlife and meet the wildlife care specialists who care for them, while exploring otherwise off-limits areas with a knowledgeable guide. Choose from a variety of experiences below!

• Ages 3 and up
• $92 & up, per person
• Daily. Certain tours available select days only.
• 90 minutes or 2 hours

Ages 3 and up. Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult. Limit of 2 children per adult per group. All tour participants require a ticket, regardless of age.

Some walking required during tour. Selfie Sticks are not permitted on this tour and must be stowed away.

If anyone in your party requires the use of a wheelchair during the tour, after booking, please call 619-718-3000 so we can notate your order prior to your visit.

Behind-the-Scenes Safari: Elite Adventure

• Ages 3 & up
• $425 & up, per person
• Offered on select weekend dates

The check-in location for the Behind-the-Scenes Safari: Elite Adventure is at the Wildlife Safari check-in by Park Base.

Strollers and child car seats are not permitted on cart. Selfie Sticks are not permitted on this tour and must be stowed away.

Change/Cancellation: Reservations may be changed up to 5 days before the program and will be subject to a $50 Administrative Change Fee. Less than 5 days, changes not permitted. Cancellations received 5 days before scheduled program are subject to a $100 Cancellation Fee. Less than 5 days, payment is non-refundable. 



Come explore and enjoy the Safari Park on this 3.5-hour tour that includes some of the Safari Park’s most iconic experiences. Visit staff-only areas to learn about how we care for wildlife, such as platypuses and tigers, and then hop into a Safari truck and tour the savanna, surrounded by rhinos, giraffes and so much more!

What you'll do: •    See some of the Safari Park’s most notable species, and experience the iconic Wildlife Safari. •    Peek into some of the wildlife care areas, and learn what it takes to look after the diverse wildlife that call the Safari Park home. •    Hear stories about the Safari Park’s past, present, and future, while you travel in your tour cart with a personal guide. •    Enjoy a snack, and relax with views of the savanna. •    And more!    

This tour requires walking over uneven terrain. If anyone in your party requires the use of a wheelchair during the tour, after booking, please call 619-718-3000 so we can notate your order prior to your visit.

Deluxe Behind-the-Scenes Safari: Passport into the Wild

• $117 & up, per person
• Offered daily
• Noon, 2 hours

Ages 3 and older. Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult. Limit of 2 children per adult, per group. All tour participants require a ticket, regardless of age.

Change/Cancellation: Reservations may be changed up to 5 days before the program and will be subject to a $15 Administrative Change Fee. Less than 5 days, changes not permitted. Cancellations received 5 days before scheduled program are subject to a $25 Cancellation Fee. Less than 5 days, payment is non-refundable. 

 Strollers and child car seats are not permitted on the cart. For the health and safety of wildlife, service animals are not permitted on this tour.

Please call 619-718-3000 prior to your visit to inquire about accommodations, including wheelchair access.

Take this exciting two-hour journey through the Safari Park and discover amazing and unique wildlife from across the globe—no plane tickets required! You’ll journey across the Park to observe wildlife and explore exclusive behind-the-scenes areas to gain remarkable insights about different species. Find out how our collaborative global conservation efforts are making a difference around the world—and what you can do to help secure the future for wildlife.  This Safari runs through March, 2024.

This tour requires walking over uneven terrain. To inquire about accommodations, including wheelchair access, please call 619-718-3000.

Deluxe Behind-the-Scenes Safari: Born to Be Wild

• Visit exclusive areas

Change/Cancellation: Reservations may be changed up to 5 days before the program and will be subject to a $15 Administrative Change Fee. Less than 5 days, changes not permitted. Cancellations received 5 days before scheduled program are subject to a $25 Cancellation Fee. Less than 5 days, payment is non-refundable. 



Some walking required during tour. Tours board in African Outpost beyond Signpost #13, between the cheetah habitat and Okavango Outpost. Look for the red Behind-the-Scenes (jeep) icon on the lower right of your Safari Park map. 

Selfie Sticks are not permitted on this tour and must be stowed away. Service animals are not permitted on this tour due to the sensitive nature of these animals and the restricted access of this habitat and buildings.

Trek through the Safari Park to see some of our youngest residents! This two-hour experience will take you around some of the large savanna habitats and to behind-the-scenes areas to meet some of our animal families. You will learn how we care for our amazing wildlife, and hear their conservation stories.  This Safari begins April, 2024.

Deluxe Behind-the-Scenes Safari: Mission Wildlife Rescue!

• Ages 8 & up
• Selected dates

Ages 8 and up. Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult. Limit of 2 children per adult per group. All tour participants require a ticket, regardless of age.

Tours board in African Outpost beyond Signpost #13, between the Cheetah habitat and Okavango Outpost. Look for the red Behind-the-Scenes (jeep) icon on the lower right of your Safari Park map. 

Go behind the scenes to learn about the science of saving species like the northern white rhino and Przewalski’s horse, while also gaining insights on the high level of care we provide to all our wildlife at the Safari Park. This remarkable safari will take you on a rare tour of the Frozen Zoo®, a critical component of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Wildlife Biodiversity Banking efforts. Safari participants will also visit the Paul Harter Veterinary Medical Center and the Nikita Kahn Rhino Rescue Center.  Offered select days.

Walkabout Australia

Selfie Sticks are not permitted on this tour and must be stowed away.

Go on safari behind the scenes at the Safari Park’s Walkabout Australia! On this guided tour, you will meet a variety of beautiful birds and amazing marsupials. As you explore Walkabout Australia by foot, listen to the many stories your guide will share about unique Australian wildlife, and what it takes to care for them.

What you'll do: •    See some of Australia’s most exotic species, including platypuses and cassowaries. •    Peek into some wildlife care areas, and learn what it takes to look after these unique Australian animals. •    Enjoy a stroll through Walkabout Australia with your personal guide. •    And more!

Discover Africa

Discover some of the most iconic species in the world! Your guide will share the wonder of Africa, as you visit some amazing African animals. While learning about the challenges facing wildlife, you will also hear stories of hope and the amazing conservation work being done by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and our partners.

What you'll do: •    See some of the Safari Park’s most iconic African species. •    Peek into wildlife care areas, and learn what it takes to look after the diverse wildlife that call the Safari Park home. •    Hear stories about the Safari Park’s current conservation projects in Africa, while you travel in your tour cart with a personal guide. •    Have an up-close visit with unique African animals. 

Wildlife in Action

• Saturdays & Sundays; select additional dates

Come meet with passionate wildlife care specialists and amazing wildlife ambassadors to discover how they help other wildlife around the globe. Did you know that dogs were trained to assist in locating koalas during wildfires in Australia? Hear some of the amazing stories our wildlife have to tell. This 90-minute journey will take you on foot and by cart to various destinations around the Safari Park. 

Saving Giants

Ages 3 and up. Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult. Limit of 2 children per adult per group. All tour participants require a ticket, regardless of age.  Some walking required during tour. T ours board in Afr ican Outpost beyond Signpost #13, between the cheetah habitat and Okavango Outpost. Look for the red Behind - the - Scenes (jeep) icon on the lower right of your Safari Park map.  Selfie Sticks are not permitted on this tour and must be stowed away.

Discover what it takes to s ave g iants! This 90 - minute journey will take you by Safari Cart to behind - the - scenes areas , where you will hear firsthand conservation stories about how San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is saving elephants and rhinos around the world. Our story begins right here at the Safari Park, with our 50 - year history of ca ring for and saving these giants. You will join the story as you get a closer look!

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Wildlife Safari

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

RESERVATIONS

Let us answer your questions and create your day at the Safari Park!

Save the Chubby Unicorns

Gorilla Shadow

PREFERRED HOTELS

Come Travel with Us!

Travel with us to see Monarchs

Picture Your Special Day at the Park!