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

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

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

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

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

Table of contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You don’t need to carry printouts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ticket Prices

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

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

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

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

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

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

You will find metered parking lots inside Lion Country Safari.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On-site barbecues and alcohol are not permitted.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ruaha National Park: Greater Kudu, Impala, Ostrich

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

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

Gorongosa Reserve : African Lion

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

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

Rides: Flying Elephant ride, Carousel, Rio Grande Train

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

Animal Encounters: Giraffe Feeding, Petting Zoo, Lorikeet Feeding

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Popular attractions in Maimi

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This article was researched & written by

Devyani Bhattacharjee

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

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Jetset Jansen

Travel Blogger

Drive-Thru the Lion Country Safari in Florida

By Ashley   |    Updated On: March 3, 2024   |   Leave a comment

This post may be sponsored or contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.

When you think of wildlife encounters in Florida, most people likely think of aquatic animals like sea turtles, dolphins and alligators. But Florida is actually home to the oldest drive-thru safari in the the United States. The Lion Country Safari in Florida was opened in 1967 and is a fun thing to do near West Palm Beach .

Lion Country Safari encompasses nearly 600 acres of land including 7 animal habitats you can drive-thru in your own vehicle. There are hundreds of animals and about 90 species roaming about freely in the preserves. While the drive-thru is a highlight, the Safari World Adventure Park provides additional wildlife encounters.

Aside from being a drive-thru safari in Florida, Lion Country Safari also works with several conservation programs to help save animals from extinction including 35 Species Survival Plan programs . These programs focus on conservation and breeding for the long-term survival of threatened species.

There’s a lot to see here and it’s a wildlife adventure for animal enthusiasts of all ages.

Getting There

This particular safari in Florida is located in Loxahatchee, Florida which is near West Palm Beach. It’s about 20 miles west of Downtown West Palm Beach, or a 30 minute drive. If you’re coming north or south on I-95, account for the drive west because it’s a little ways out there.

At a glance:

• Address: 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee FL 33470
• Hours: 9:30am-5:30pm (no entry to the preserve after 4:30)
• Tickets: $45 for Adults, $34 for Children (Ages 3-9), Children 2 and under are free. Purchase online or at the gate.

*If you only want to do the drive-thru safari and not walk through the Adventure Park, you can get a $29 ticket after 3:30pm.

Lion Country Safari

As soon as you present your ticket, you’ll follow the path of cars into the wildlife drive-thru. Driving through Lion Country Safari will take about an hour and a half to go through the 4-mile preserve. There are restroom facilities right after the ticket entrance if you need to stop before going through the preserve. Once you are through the gate, there’s no getting off the road.

Safari Rules: The speed limit is 5mph MAX while within the safari grounds and you must keep your vehicle doors and windows closed and locked at all times! You can stop or slow down and let other cars pass. Pets are not allowed in the car with you.

Best Time to Go : Animals tend to be more active in the morning, so going early is always a good time to visit. But we went around noon and had no problem. Animals were out and about and walking right past our car!

What to See

The drive-thru safari will take you through 7 sections. Before you start, make sure to play the audio tour as you drive through for information on the animal species and fun facts! There will be a QR code on the field guide they hand you. You can scan other QR codes on the field guide for short videos such as a lion roaring or an ostrich dancing. It’s a fun, interactive element for kids.

In the Las Pampas preserve, you’ll see grasslands animals from South America. Grasslands cover about 1/4 of the world’s land area!

Animals: Alpaca, Rhea, Lowland Tapir, Aldabra Tortoise

Ruaha National Park

The Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania and a great place for wildlife spotting, especially lions! But at Lion Country Safari, you’ll see lions a little further down the road.

Animals: Ostrich, Impala, Greater Kudu, Waterbuck

Kalahari Bushveldt

This preserve is named after a large, dry plateau in southwest Africa that covers 100,000 sq miles.

Animals: Bongo, Ostrich, Nile Lechwe, Gemsbok

The Gir Forest is actually a national park in Gujarat, India. In this preserve, you’ll see several animals from India and Asia, as well as some African animals.

Animals: Blackbuck, Asiatic Water Buffalo, Scimitar-horned Oryx, Nyala, Nilgai

Gorongosa Reserve

The Gorongosa Reserve is a famous wildlife area located in Mozambique. This reserve is where you’ll see the African Lion. It’s a smaller area and the lions were resting when we drove by. There are several fences that separate your car so it was a little harder to see them.

Animals: African Lion

Serengeti Plains

The Serengeti is one of Africa’s most famous national parks located in Tanzania. This was also our favorite section of Lion Country Safari. The preserve area is really large and there were animals all over. We stopped several times for animals right next to the road or crossing in front of cars.

Animals: Impala, Waterbuck, Wildebeest, Watusi, Eland, Marabou Stork

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe. In this section, you’ll see some of the more recognizable animals such as giraffes, zebras and rhinos.

Animals: Giraffe, Southern White Rhinoceros, Plains Zebra, Chimpanzee, White-handed Gibbon, Greater Kudu

Safari World Adventure Park

I knew there was a bit more to the park but I honestly thought the drive-thru safari was the main attraction. Turns out the Safari World Adventure Park is pretty big itself and has a lot of other things to do. You can walk through this part of the park to have other wildlife encounters, ride some rides and visit the splash areas. If you’re visiting as a family, plan to spend the day here!

Things to Do

Animal habitats.

There are quite a few smaller animal habitats within Safari World that you can walk around to see as well. You can expect to see several different monkeys, parrots and macaws, flamingos, large tortoise, an African porcupine, sloth and alligators to name a few.

My favorites were seeing all the colorful birds and watching the flamingos–there were quite a few!

Animal Encounters

• Feed the Giraffes – $5 for 5 pieces of lettuce. You’re on a platform at the giraffe’s height and if they’re interested, they’ll eat it right out of your hand. There were several giraffes in the enclosure but only one was hungry, and there were about 15 people with lettuce competing for its attention.

• Lorikeet Feeding – $2 for a small cup of liquid. One was plenty and we got to feed many birds with it. They’ll come right over to drink from your hand. And there were quite a few in the aviary.

• Petting Zoo – $2, There’s a small area with several goats that you can walk around and pet.
• Flamingos – $75/person which includes the cost of your ticket! There’s a small enclosure for flamingo encounters where you can sit in the enclosure with several flamingos and feed them from little buckets. This encounter needs to be booked in advance! No same-day bookings allowed.

• Fish Feeding – There’s a spot by the lake across from the Spider Monkeys where you can get fish food from a machine for a quarter or so, but you’ll need to have change on you.

Attractions

There are numerous attractions within the park for kids. You could quite literally spend all day here. We had a good time walking around without kids, but if you have kids, this place would be a ton of fun. Here are a few of the other attractions within the park:

• Safari Falls – Water playground with slides, water sprayers, buckets, etc.
• Safari Splash Water Playground – Splash pad for kids to run through water splashes and sprays.
• Water Slides – Loop slide and free fall slides to go down.
• Fossil Panning – Search for gems and fossils
• Pontoon + Paddle Boat Rides – To take out on the lake (no additional fee).
• Safari Maze – Tree-lined maze to wander through.

There are three rides for kids within the park that have no additional cost. There’s a carousal, the Rio Grande Train ride and a Flying Elephant Adventure ride.

Things to Know

If you plan on visiting this safari in Florida, there’s a few things to note:

• Some of the animal encounters and attractions don’t start until 11am.
• Premium animal encounters need to be booked a week in advance.
• Don’t sweat the rain! The animals actually love rainy weather and tend to be more active.
• If you buy a regular ticket, you can go through the drive-thru as many times as you want.
• If you’re local, check to see about their Summer Savings Pass which includes entrance to 4 South Florida attractions!
• You can book tickets in advance or find out more FAQs here !

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Lion Country Safari in Florida – A Drive-Through Or Walk-Through Experience

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• Yes! They offer a 20% discount for all current and former military members  

Lion Country Safari in Florida seems like a place where you can truly feel relief from the hustle and bustle of city life. This is a place you can get up close and personal with lions and tigers, as well as other animals such as zebras, giraffes, bears, and more.  

This is why I went there to see how it is and whether or not visiting this country-themed park would be worth visiting on your next trip to Florida. 

You can find out what animals you can see and what discounts are available. This park offers more than 900 species of animals!

To take advantage of these discounts, you should book your tickets online ahead of time. You can also call ahead to get the most current information about their discounts.

This article will tell you how to enjoy a drive-through or walk-through amusement park at Lion Country Safari in Florida.

Also, see the video below for some fun facts about the park.

The more information you have, the better prepared you’ll be to have an enjoyable day at Lion Country Safari.

Lion Country Safari Florida is a Drive-through Safari Park

The drive-through or walk-through amusement park Lion Country Safari is located on 600 acres in Loxahatchee, Palm Beach County, Florida.

Founded in 1967, Lion Country Safari claims to be the first cage-free zoo in the United States.

It features an array of exotic animals , such as tigers and elephants, and the entire family will enjoy the park.

The park offers animal habitats, rides, and a petting zoo. There’s also a restaurant , shops, and souvenir stores to purchase safari-themed items.

If you plan to bring your kids, make sure to schedule a minimum of four hours so you can enjoy the park as much as possible.

You can’t expect a lot of entertainment, but you will definitely be entertained!

The park offers a discounted Annual Pass that provides unlimited access for a year.

While the drive-through safari ends at the walk-through Safari World, you can stay the night at a campground adjacent to the park’s 320-acre preserve.

While you’re at it, you can feed the giraffes, and they’ll even grab a lettuce leaf with their tongues!

If you want to get closer to the animals, you can stay in one of the tent sites at the KOA campground next to Lion Country Safari.

Who started Lion Country Safari in Florida?

Founded in 1967 by South African and British entrepreneurs, Lion Country Safari is the first drive-through safari park in the U.S. and the first “cage-less zoo” in the country.

The park is open all year round thanks to the warm climate of Florida.

It is a great place to see wildlife, including lions and other exotic animals. Its long hours and secluded location are just two of the advantages.

In addition to lions, you’ll find other exotic animals. The park’s lions have been portrayed on TV in a series known as Frasier the Sensuous .

The series starred Sarah Vaughan as the titular lion and aired in the 1970s. But it didn’t make any money, and Lion Country Safari’s owners are now looking for ways to make money.

They plan to sell 300 “wild” animals worth more than $200000 each.

The park has grown considerably since the 1970s. The attraction now has more than 500,000 visitors a year, compared with only one fatality.

And that’s after adjusting for the fact that in its first few years, regulations were a bit more lax. In the late 1960s, the company had to reprimand a driver who decided to get out of his car and take a picture of a lion.

Driving Your Own Car at Lion Country Safari

Visiting Lion Country Safari in Florida may seem like a good idea, but it’s not as simple as driving around the grounds. While you’ll find plenty of people in a group, the drivers in this group usually drive independently.

You can also drive your own car, however, you should remember that if you don’t want to drive yourself, you’ll be stuck behind the wheel of another car!

There are plenty of other ways to see the animals at this park. Lion Country Safari also has a walk-through amusement park, an award-winning KOA campground, and a wildlife refuge, which is included in your admission to the park.

Another popular attraction is the giraffe feeding exhibit. In addition to viewing the animals, you can also enjoy the food and beverages in the main restaurant.

Guests who drive their own cars can take the scenic route through the park. The four-mile drive features herds of animals that you can get up close to.

There are also plenty of places to park your car for the day. Whether you want a safari-style car or a classic convertible, you can be sure to find one with ample parking. If you’re driving on your own, it’s important to know that your safety is the primary priority at Lion Country Safari.

It’s a Walk-through Amusement Park (If you choose)

This amusement park is fun for the entire family, but if you’re looking for an experience that’s a bit more adventurous, consider a zoo with no cages.

There are many ways to experience Lion Country’s wildlife up close, but it’s worth noting that you’ll need a car to do so. You can rent a vehicle or drive your own car.

For a fee, can rent a vehicle to get around the park. Once you’ve reached the park, you can take a drive-through safari on an audio tour.

This tour will take you through the different regions of South America and Africa .

The park has excellent public transportation, and the Metro Rail bus runs close enough for you to walk.

If you’re planning to bring a trailer, you’ll want to check with the park’s parking guidelines to make sure your rig is allowed.

These options may be especially useful if your rig is more than eight feet long.

Rides at the park include:

• Flying Elephant Ride
• Rio Grande Train
• Safari Splash Sprayground
• Safari Water Slides
• Safari Falls

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

• Giraffe Feeding

PETTING ZOO

• Lorikeet Feeding

OTHER ATTRACTIONS

• Gemstone Mining
• Safari Queen Pontoon Boat
• Paddle Boats

It’s Home to over 900 Animals

Lion Country Safari in Florida is a 4-mile wildlife preserve. It features more than 900 animals, including lions, giraffes, ostriches, apes, and chimpanzees.

Guests must keep their windows and doors closed and are not permitted to drive convertibles.

Picnicking is permitted at this animal park, which also provides a convenient place to eat.

The safari takes about three hours to complete.

You may encounter some of these animals as they drive through the zoo. This animal sanctuary offers over 900 different species of animals and features five rides that allow guests to see all of the animals.

You can also enjoy food and shopping at the zoo’s gift shop.

You may also see a male baby zebra at Lion Country Safari, which is part of the largest herd in the U.S.

This animal is a favorite among visitors and can be spotted from cars on the safari’s Hwange section.

The lions at Lion Country are also part of an SSP for endangered species , which helps protect these animals from poachers.

The Park is Wheelchair Accessible In Specific Areas

For the drive-through safari at Lion Country Safari in Florida, for visitors in wheelchairs or in a stroller, the park also features an audio tour of the animals.

The ride portion of the park is not fully wheelchair accessible, but there are multiple rides available for those with limited mobility.

However, visitors can still enjoy the water spray ground, food, and shopping.

There is no need to worry if you cannot ride all of the rides. Regardless of your ability, there are many activities for you to enjoy at Lion Country Safari Florida.

In addition to rides, this theme park has fun rides for the entire family!

The drive-through safari is wheelchair-accessible, and it features the largest herd of zebra outside of Africa.

The safari is accessible to those in wheelchairs, and visitors with disabilities can even enjoy the park’s campground.

Best Time of Day to Go to Lion Country Safari

The best time to go to Lion Country Safari is early in the morning or late in the afternoon because the animals move around more than at any other time of the day.

The park is fenced in to protect them from predators. The animals have the right of way, so don’t go overboard or you’ll endanger the animals.

It’s also best to visit during rainy or cooler days, as the animals are more active during these times. The park has had over 50 different animal births recently.

To make the most of your trip to the park, plan to spend four to five hours. You can spend a full day at the park if you plan to see everything.

A trip to the park is a wonderful way to experience wildlife up close.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Lion Country, you’ll probably want to plan a morning trip if you’d like to get the most out of the park.

You’ll have the chance to see the animals up close and get up close to them. They’re not likely to charge you, but they do sometimes jump out of the way of a convertible.

Make sure you stick to the rules and follow the kennel’s rules to ensure a successful visit.

How Long is the Ride Through Lion Country Safari?

The ride through Lion Country is 45 minutes, and the audio tour will guide you through the various areas.

The drive-through is a unique experience in and of itself, and it allows you to see the different lands of Africa and South America.

Once inside, you can get close to the animals. There are seven different areas to see these majestic animals.

Some of these areas are open and you can get up close to lions and giraffes. Because the animals are so close to the vehicles, you should keep the windows closed when you’re inside.

You’ll have a great time viewing the animals, but you’ll be exposed to a variety of sounds and sights.

If you’d rather walk through the amusement park instead, there are several options for you.

You can even visit during the rainy season to see the animals in action. You can spend as long as you’d like observing the animals.

If you’re going to be with young children, plan to go before dark.

A trip to the park is a wonderful way to experience wildlife up close The tour is approximately one and a half hours long.

You can spend a full day at the park if you plan to see everything. If you’re a first-time visitor to Lion Country, you’ll probably want to plan a morning trip if you’d like to get the most out of the park.

The best time of day to go to Lion Country is during the early morning hours, as they are the most active.

The park’s animals are more active during these hours, so the animals are usually not as aggressive.

The park is fenced in to protect them from predators.

The animals have the right of way, so don’t go overboard or you’ll endanger the animals.

Does Lion Country Safari Have Elephants?

Elephants are expensive and labor-intensive animals to care for, and they haven’t been in the park for a while.

Other zoos have also shut down elephant exhibits, including the Palm Beach Zoo at Dreher Park. The New York Zoo has also said it won’t take in new elephants, though it plans to build a larger facility for them.

If you want to see an elephant in person, you can visit the two sanctuaries in the U.S. that take these animals.

No open-air vehicles are allowed, and you should make sure that the windows are closed and that your sunroof is secured.

Lion Country Safari is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and offers a variety of activities and rides for families.

Visitors can also buy souvenirs from the store. The staff will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

You can book your visit in advance to avoid disappointment.

Lion Country Safari – Do Lions Roam Free at the Park?

You’ll have the opportunity to interact with the animals and take pictures of them as they go. During your drive-through, you may also spot some lions that might not be present on a regular basis.

The park’s lions are kept within a fence, to protect them from humans. It’s also possible to view other wildlife, such as water buffalo and antelopes.

This is a great way to learn about the habitats of these animals and enjoy the experience of seeing them.

Seeing lions is a thrilling experience, and you’ll be amazed at the sheer power and speed of these magnificent animals.

Feed Giraffes at Lion Country Safari in Florida

Did you know that the largest herd of giraffes in the United States lives at Lion Country Safari?

You can feed them too!

If you’re planning a Florida road trip, you should be sure to stop by the only drive-through safari in the area!

You can also enjoy a variety of other native wildlife at this park, such as lions and antelopes.

Many animals are often roaming around, wandering up to cars, or crossing the road without reason. Ostriches, the largest flightless birds, are extremely curious, and they’ll often cross the road in front of you.

They’ll peck at your window to see what’s going on, so be prepared.

When you’re ready, go ahead and feed them!

To make your trip more enjoyable, visit the park early in the morning. During the summer, you may be surprised to see many antelope eating grass right next to the road.

A few of these animals may hide in the grass, but they’re still around to eat. You might even get lucky and catch a glimpse of a giraffe or two.

There are plenty of other ways to interact with the animals and learn about them, so make sure you bring your camera.

The Park Offers Discounts

Park discounts can help you save money on your next visit. Read on to learn more about the available discounts.

The Lion Country Safari senior discount is dedicated to helping seniors save money while they enjoy their favorite products. This discount is valid for purchases made at any Lion Country Safari location.

This is a great way to show your respect and concern for the elderly and to save a few dollars.

The Lion Country Safari Florida offers discounts and specials that will make your visit even more enjoyable.

For example, you can get a free gift with your purchase.

You can also take advantage of Price Match deals to save up to 70% off your entire purchase.

To take advantage of Lion Country Safari discounts, remember to check out online travel sites that specialize in saving travelers money.

You can find discounts on flights and hotels through Booking.com. Make sure to book your tickets early!

There is only a limited number of these deals, so don’t miss out on your chance to save money!

Take advantage of the Lion Country Safari coupons and deals and make your trip even more affordable!

The Park is Involved in a Number of Sustainable Efforts

The park is committed to the conservation of endangered species and the park’s conservation programs include energy-saving devices and water conservation efforts.

The park uses eco-friendly products and has a water-metering system to measure usage.

All office buildings are equipped with recycling bins. Aluminum/plastic recycling bins are strategically placed throughout the park. Old cell phones and printer ink cartridges are also collected and recycled.

Guests who recycle their cell phones are offered a coupon for an animal encounter.

Lion Country Safari in Florida – Is it Ethical?

There is much controversy over whether or not to visit a Lion Country Safari. While some consider these activities to be ethical and allow guests to interact positively with animals, others see them as unethical.

Some argue that these safaris are not conservation efforts, but rather a way to take advantage of wild animals .

The Lion nation Safari has great landscaping, where lions lounge in the sun and monkeys chatter in the woods.

The setting is ideal for a romantic date – you can experience close-up wildlife viewing while enjoying the ambiance of a tropical vacation.

Couples have been going here for 50 years, and they’ve even gotten married at the safari! And, if you haven’t been yet, you can take advantage of the exclusive, private activities with the animals.

The summer camp program, which was designed for children ages six to 13, was held sporadically in 1997. It was a small program in the beginning, but attendance quickly jumped.

In addition to summer camp, the Lion Country Safari sometimes booked large corporate picnics. One such event brought together 1,000 people.

This was a big problem for Lion Country, and it’s a reason to make changes.

Wrapping Up

During the summer, Lion Country Safari hosts numerous special events and festivals and is a top local attraction.

While the park is open to everyone, visitors should bring plenty of water and sunscreen. If you need a quick snack, you can take bottled water or electrolyte drinks and eat them in the park’s restaurant.

Guests who visit Lion Country Safari are able to witness the incredible natural beauty of Africa.

Throughout the park, they will get up close to over 1,000 wild animals, including lions, giraffes, ostriches, chimpanzees, and giraffes.

In addition to these animals, visitors will find a variety of tropical birds, including flamingos, macaws, and parrots.

There will also be the opportunity to view snakes, alligators, turtles, and pythons.

The facility’s educational exhibits and conservation efforts are crucial to its ongoing success.

The zoo is home to over 1,000 wild animals from six continents, including lions, cheetahs, otters, and giraffes. During the holidays, the park hosts Santa, who drops by to give out gifts to the chimps.

Lion Country Safari in Florida is a unique experience for the whole family , so plan on spending at least four hours at the park.

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Lion Country Safari

West Palm Beach

The first cageless drive-through safari in the country, this incredible animal park puts you in the cage (ie your car) as 900 creatures roam freely, staring at you . Equal parts conservation area and safari, the park's 500 acres are home to bison, zebra, white rhinos, chimpanzees and, of course, lions. You tour in your car (unless it's a convertible, in which case short-term rentals are available), driving slowly, hoping the animals approach the vehicle.

The best time to go is when it rains, because the animals are more active when it's cool. The park is 20 miles west of downtown West Palm.

2003 Lion Country Safari Rd

Get In Touch

561-793-1084

https://www.lioncountrysafari.com

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• Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari Questions & Answers

Is it dangerous to drive your own car? Or do you recommend to rent a car from the zoo, so your car doesn’t damaged?

Thank you for your question and your interest in visiting the park! Our animals are quite accustomed to seeing a variety of vehicles rolling slowly past them as they go about their days, and the majority of our visitors drive through in their own vehicles. Drivers that don't concede the right of way to our animals may experience close encounters with certain species, but safety is our highest priority and we go to great lengths to maintain safety for all guests, animals and staff. We do have a limited number of vehicles available for rent on a first come, first served basis for those that are interested, and we hope to see you soon!

It is totally safe!!! we did have an ostrich pecking at the window.. but no damage.. and you just keep driving, they don't chase you,, they are so used to visitors.. totally safe for your car..

We did not find it dangerous, but yes, you can rent a car or van. An ostrich pecked at our windshield, no damage. And note you can go through more than once--there's a return to zoo sign. We went a second time to see specific animals. Earlier the better for the tour. Later in the day there can be a line of cars, and people do not always stay to the right as recommended, to leave a passing area.

no problems with our car! Staff moved the animals out of hiding so we could see them. Excellent presentation for adults as well as children. Walk around was fun too! Don't miss that!! Prices seemed reasonable to us.

It's safe to drive your own car. If your worried about your own vehicle, they do have vehicles to rent out

I have been there twice and never had a problem, I would only get a rental car if you had a very expensive car that you dont want scratched just in case. LOL

Our only challenge was giving right-of-way to an ostrich that was in the road, then pecked our window where a barcode was attached. A memorable moment but safe. Do as they insist--keep the windows up, don't leave the car, slowly back up if you feel an animal is a problem. Another advantage of driving yourself, you can go through a second or third time same day. We did.

Drive your own car, its very safe!

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Get quick answers from Lion Country Safari staff and past visitors.

How great is Lion Country Safari? Zoo made this USA top 10 list for the seventh time!

The results are in and once again Palm Beach County's Lion Country Safari has been named one of the top 10 Safari Parks in the country.

Taking seventh place on the list (which was released March 13), this is the seventh year in a row that the park has been named to the USA Today's "10Best" Readers' Choice list.

Opened in 1967 and situated on 600 acres, Lion Country Safari is Florida's largest drive-through safari and is home to hundreds of animals roaming wide open, natural habitats in large herds, prides and troops.

The four-mile-long, drive-through safari is divided into seven different habitats.

More: Say hello to Kandoro and Kianga! Lion Country Safari welcomes first baby giraffes in 5 years

What animals are in Lion Country Safari?

Those areas include Las Pampas, Ruaha National Park, Kalahari Bushveldt, Gir Forest, Gorongosa Reserve, Serengeti Plains and Hwange National Park.

Some of the animals that guests see during their trek through the seven zones include aldabra tortoises, alpacas, Brazilian tapirs, greater kudus, impalas, ostriches, gemsbok, wildebeest, Asiatic water buffaloes, blackbucks, African lions, common elands, impalas, giraffes, zebras, southern white rhinoceros and many more.

The park features the largest herd of zebra on record in the western hemisphere, one of the largest herds of giraffe in the United States and a large herd of rhinos with a long history of breeding success.

More: A banner year for wild-animal babies: Lion Country Safari says 31 births show its formula is working

Lion Country Safari not just a drive-thru zoo — best things to do on foot at this Palm Beach County park

Though the drive-through safari is the star of the park, there are many other fun things to do. Some of these include:

Kids can hop on some rides: Who could resist a Flying Elephant Ride? Also check out the Carousel and the Rio Grande Train.

On a hot day, get wet: A waterpark with fun features for cooling off including the Safari Splash Sprayground, Safari Water Slides and Safari Falls.

Feed the giraffe : At the Giraffe Feeding encounter, guests can stand on a platform (the better to get on giraffe level) to hand feed these majestic animals and maybe even get some great pictures.

Feed the birds: Check out the Lorikeet Feeding where participants can give these beautiful, charismatic birds a couple treats.

Get on a boat: A trip on the Safari Queen Pontoon Boat tour on Lake Shannalee and closer view of some of the park's birds and primates.

Get lost? : The park has a Safari Maze.

Play a round: This safari park has a 16-hole miniature golf course.

The nation's other top safari parks:

Taking seventh place on the list, the park was bested by The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio; Safari West in Santa Rosa, Calif.; San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, Calif.; Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas; Turpentine Creek Wildlife Center in Eureka Springs, Ark.; and, coming in at number one, Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park, in Ashland, Neb.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Lion Country Safari continuously strives to be a leader in animal care, conservation, and education to inspire people through connections with wildlife in a family-friendly environment.

Lion Country Safari

Where: 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee

Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 365 days a year

Information: lioncountrysafari.com

Eddie Ritz is a journalist at  The Palm Beach Post , part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at  [email protected] . Help support our journalism.  Subscribe today .

YESTER LION COUNTRY SAFARI (CALIFORNIA) HOURS:

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

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

Prices and operating hours subject to change without notice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Experience an authentic safari in your family car.

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

Camels and zebras and gnus, oh my!

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

Keep your windows rolled up!

Over 400 animals call Lion Country Safari “home.”

The stars of the show

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

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

“Jambo!”

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

Map of Safari Camp

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

Lion Country Flamingos

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

Zambezi River Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cars and animals still the share the road in Florida.

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

Ostriches seem to enjoy seeing their reflections in car windows.

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

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

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

Updated January 5, 2020

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

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

Safari Tours

Take a Tour of a Wildlife Safari Zoo in Central Pennsylvania

Guided safari tours in central pennsylvania.

The dry plains of Africa and the woodlands and forests of Australia have never felt closer thanks to the incredible safari tour at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park. Like our other amazing attractions , the safari allows you and your family to see first-hand the various animals native to those lands and learn about their natural habitats. Discover more about our animal safari in Central Pennsylvania and all you can expect to see on your journey.

Guided Safari offered May thru October.

Self Drive-Thru Safari Available Only in April and November

Guests who wish to enjoy our safari tour from the comfort of their vehicles can do so with our self drive-thru option. VEHICLES WITH HARD DOORS AND HARD TOP ROOFS ONLY. Those interested in this experience should first read the Self Drive-Thru Rules to ensure their safety and the wellbeing of our animals. You will be required to sign a vehicle waiver prior to entering the safari fields.   

SELF DRIVE-THRU RULES AND INFORMATION PER USDA:

All vehicles MUST have hard tops and doors. Sunroofs and trunks must be closed-USDA requirement (Mesh doors on jeeps are not permitted).

Strict 5 mph speed limit (USDA requirement for animal safety).

You MUST remain in your vehicle during the entirety of the tour.

Pets are not permitted in vehicles.

No riding in the bed of pickup trucks.

No motorcycles, motor homes, buses, or trailers are permitted.

Touching animals is not encouraged.

Feeding animals is prohibited.

LOUD NOISES --honking horns, music and yelling--are not permitted.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The drive-thru trail is an unpaved dirt trail with loose stones, possible animal dung, and occasional mud puddles.

Some animals may not be visible on every drive-thru.

No refunds will be given for any reason after entering the safari fields.

ZOO EXHIBITS ARE NOT AVAILABLE  during the weekends of the self drive-thru.

Admission for the self drive-thru will be $9/person ages 3 through adult.

The Self Drive-Thru Safari pre-season/post-season option is available on select weekends only in April and November

from 10:00 a.m.  to 3:00 p.m.  

Please note: Only the Safari Tour Fields are open for the Self Drive-Thru option. Zoo exhibits are open during our regular season May 1st through October .

Adventure Awaits at Our Wildlife Safari Zoo

Say Hello to Our Animals

One of the best parts about our safari zoo in Pennsylvania is all the different animals you may see. More than 500 animals roam the safari fields freely at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park. You may meet curious critters that are just as interested in you as you are in them — it is common for animals to approach the tour bus and get close enough for guests to reach out and touch them. Interacting with these animals is sure to be an unforgettable and highly beneficial experience for your party.

Our New Safari Station

Dedicated to providing our guests with the best possible experience, we are happy to introduce our safari station. Built and launched in 2015, the safari station includes the following:

• A comfortable holding area large enough to fit guests as they wait for their turn to hop aboard the cruiser
• A snack shop where you can grab a drink, some food for the ride, and even feed to give the animals while on the tour
• Well-maintained restrooms for your convenience

Things to Keep in Mind for Your Next Safari Tour

To help guests get the most out of their animal safari in Pennsylvania, we encourage all to be mindful of when the tours begin. Rides go out right when the park opens, and guests are welcome to come early to avoid crowds or waiting in long lines. Our tours last around 45 minutes, providing plenty of time to take in the entire tour without tiring out the youngest in your group. The last tour departs our Safari Station one hour before closing.

Please be advised that we do not accept reservations for our tours as they are offered on a first come, first serve basis. However, even if you miss your preferred time, another is coming up shortly!

Plan Your Visit Today to Our Safari in Pennsylvania

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park welcomes guests from Central Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas to enjoy a first-hand experience with animals from six continents. Our safari tour allows visitors to witness a variety of majestic animals and gain insight into their way of life. Contact us today to learn more about our Pennsylvania safari tours and rates , or to view our park hours .

Safari Times

• Safari tours begin when the park opens.
• Tours last approximately 45 minutes.
• Last tour goes out one hour before closing.
• Tours are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis and depart multiple times per day.

Attractions

Zoo Exhibits

Petting Zoo

Reptiles & Exotics

Baby Animal Program

J.R. Tobias Museum & Education Center

Catch & Release Fishing

Dining & Food

New Giraffe Exhibit

Visitor information.

Directions/Parking

Handicapped/Accessibility

Table Reservations

Groups & Parties

Accommodations

About/History

Educational Outreach

ZooVenture Summer Camp

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Site Map |  Employees

Search LakeTobias.com

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

In Transit: Notes from the Underground

Jun 06 2018.

Spend some time in one of Moscow’s finest museums.

Subterranean commuting might not be anyone’s idea of a good time, but even in a city packing the war-games treasures and priceless bejeweled eggs of the Kremlin Armoury and the colossal Soviet pavilions of the VDNKh , the Metro holds up as one of Moscow’s finest museums. Just avoid rush hour.

The Metro is stunning and provides an unrivaled insight into the city’s psyche, past and present, but it also happens to be the best way to get around. Moscow has Uber, and the Russian version called Yandex Taxi , but also some nasty traffic. Metro trains come around every 90 seconds or so, at a more than 99 percent on-time rate. It’s also reasonably priced, with a single ride at 55 cents (and cheaper in bulk). From history to tickets to rules — official and not — here’s what you need to know to get started.

A Brief Introduction Buying Tickets Know Before You Go (Down) Rules An Easy Tour

A Brief Introduction

Moscow’s Metro was a long time coming. Plans for rapid transit to relieve the city’s beleaguered tram system date back to the Imperial era, but a couple of wars and a revolution held up its development. Stalin revived it as part of his grand plan to modernize the Soviet Union in the 1920s and 30s. The first lines and tunnels were constructed with help from engineers from the London Underground, although Stalin’s secret police decided that they had learned too much about Moscow’s layout and had them arrested on espionage charges and deported.

The beauty of its stations (if not its trains) is well-documented, and certainly no accident. In its illustrious first phases and particularly after the Second World War, the greatest architects of Soviet era were recruited to create gleaming temples celebrating the Revolution, the USSR, and the war triumph. No two stations are exactly alike, and each of the classic showpieces has a theme. There are world-famous shrines to Futurist architecture, a celebration of electricity, tributes to individuals and regions of the former Soviet Union. Each marble slab, mosaic tile, or light fixture was placed with intent, all in service to a station’s aesthetic; each element, f rom the smallest brass ear of corn to a large blood-spattered sword on a World War II mural, is an essential part of the whole.

The Metro is a monument to the Soviet propaganda project it was intended to be when it opened in 1935 with the slogan “Building a Palace for the People”. It brought the grand interiors of Imperial Russia to ordinary Muscovites, celebrated the Soviet Union’s past achievements while promising its citizens a bright Soviet future, and of course, it was a show-piece for the world to witness the might and sophistication of life in the Soviet Union.

It may be a museum, but it’s no relic. U p to nine million people use it daily, more than the London Underground and New York Subway combined. (Along with, at one time, about 20 stray dogs that learned to commute on the Metro.)

In its 80+ year history, the Metro has expanded in phases and fits and starts, in step with the fortunes of Moscow and Russia. Now, partly in preparation for the World Cup 2018, it’s also modernizing. New trains allow passengers to walk the entire length of the train without having to change carriages. The system is becoming more visitor-friendly. (There are helpful stickers on the floor marking out the best selfie spots .) But there’s a price to modernity: it’s phasing out one of its beloved institutions, the escalator attendants. Often they are middle-aged or elderly women—“ escalator grandmas ” in news accounts—who have held the post for decades, sitting in their tiny kiosks, scolding commuters for bad escalator etiquette or even bad posture, or telling jokes . They are slated to be replaced, when at all, by members of the escalator maintenance staff.

For all its achievements, the Metro lags behind Moscow’s above-ground growth, as Russia’s capital sprawls ever outwards, generating some of the world’s worst traffic jams . But since 2011, the Metro has been in the middle of an ambitious and long-overdue enlargement; 60 new stations are opening by 2020. If all goes to plan, the 2011-2020 period will have brought 125 miles of new tracks and over 100 new stations — a 40 percent increase — the fastest and largest expansion phase in any period in the Metro’s history.

Facts: 14 lines Opening hours: 5 a.m-1 a.m. Rush hour(s): 8-10 a.m, 4-8 p.m. Single ride: 55₽ (about 85 cents) Wi-Fi network-wide

Buying Tickets

• Ticket machines have a button to switch to English.
• You can buy specific numbers of rides: 1, 2, 5, 11, 20, or 60. Hold up fingers to show how many rides you want to buy.
• There is also a 90-minute ticket , which gets you 1 trip on the metro plus an unlimited number of transfers on other transport (bus, tram, etc) within 90 minutes.
• Or, you can buy day tickets with unlimited rides: one day (218₽/ US$4), three days (415₽/US$7) or seven days (830₽/US$15). Check the rates here to stay up-to-date.
• If you’re going to be using the Metro regularly over a few days, it’s worth getting a Troika card , a contactless, refillable card you can use on all public transport. Using the Metro is cheaper with one of these: a single ride is 36₽, not 55₽. Buy them and refill them in the Metro stations, and they’re valid for 5 years, so you can keep it for next time. Or, if you have a lot of cash left on it when you leave, you can get it refunded at the Metro Service Centers at Ulitsa 1905 Goda, 25 or at Staraya Basmannaya 20, Building 1.
• You can also buy silicone bracelets and keychains with built-in transport chips that you can use as a Troika card. (A Moscow Metro Fitbit!) So far, you can only get these at the Pushkinskaya metro station Live Helpdesk and souvenir shops in the Mayakovskaya and Trubnaya metro stations. The fare is the same as for the Troika card.
• You can also use Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.

Rules, spoken and unspoken

No smoking, no drinking, no filming, no littering. Photography is allowed, although it used to be banned.

Stand to the right on the escalator. Break this rule and you risk the wrath of the legendary escalator attendants. (No shenanigans on the escalators in general.)

Get out of the way. Find an empty corner to hide in when you get off a train and need to stare at your phone. Watch out getting out of the train in general; when your train doors open, people tend to appear from nowhere or from behind ornate marble columns, walking full-speed.

Always offer your seat to elderly ladies (what are you, a monster?).

An Easy Tour

This is no Metro Marathon ( 199 stations in 20 hours ). It’s an easy tour, taking in most—though not all—of the notable stations, the bulk of it going clockwise along the Circle line, with a couple of short detours. These stations are within minutes of one another, and the whole tour should take about 1-2 hours.

Start at Mayakovskaya Metro station , at the corner of Tverskaya and Garden Ring,  Triumfalnaya Square, Moskva, Russia, 125047.

1. Mayakovskaya.  Named for Russian Futurist Movement poet Vladimir Mayakovsky and an attempt to bring to life the future he imagined in his poems. (The Futurist Movement, natch, was all about a rejecting the past and celebrating all things speed, industry, modern machines, youth, modernity.) The result: an Art Deco masterpiece that won the National Grand Prix for architecture at the New York World’s Fair in 1939. It’s all smooth, rounded shine and light, and gentle arches supported by columns of dark pink marble and stainless aircraft steel. Each of its 34 ceiling niches has a mosaic. During World War II, the station was used as an air-raid shelter and, at one point, a bunker for Stalin. He gave a subdued but rousing speech here in Nov. 6, 1941 as the Nazis bombed the city above.

Take the 3/Green line one station to:

2. Belorusskaya. Opened in 1952, named after the connected Belarussky Rail Terminal, which runs trains between Moscow and Belarus. This is a light marble affair with a white, cake-like ceiling, lined with Belorussian patterns and 12 Florentine ceiling mosaics depicting life in Belarussia when it was built.

Transfer onto the 1/Brown line. Then, one stop (clockwise) t o:

3. Novoslobodskaya.  This station was designed around the stained-glass panels, which were made in Latvia, because Alexey Dushkin, the Soviet starchitect who dreamed it up (and also designed Mayakovskaya station) couldn’t find the glass and craft locally. The stained glass is the same used for Riga’s Cathedral, and the panels feature plants, flowers, members of the Soviet intelligentsia (musician, artist, architect) and geometric shapes.

Go two stops east on the 1/Circle line to:

4. Komsomolskaya. Named after the Komsomol, or the Young Communist League, this might just be peak Stalin Metro style. Underneath the hub for three regional railways, it was intended to be a grand gateway to Moscow and is today its busiest station. It has chandeliers; a yellow ceiling with Baroque embellishments; and in the main hall, a colossal red star overlaid on golden, shimmering tiles. Designer Alexey Shchusev designed it as an homage to the speech Stalin gave at Red Square on Nov. 7, 1941, in which he invoked Russia’s illustrious military leaders as a pep talk to Soviet soldiers through the first catastrophic year of the war.   The station’s eight large mosaics are of the leaders referenced in the speech, such as Alexander Nevsky, a 13th-century prince and military commander who bested German and Swedish invading armies.

One more stop clockwise to Kurskaya station,  and change onto the 3/Blue  line, and go one stop to:

5. Baumanskaya.   Opened in 1944. Named for the Bolshevik Revolutionary Nikolai Bauman , whose monument and namesake district are aboveground here. Though he seemed like a nasty piece of work (he apparently once publicly mocked a woman he had impregnated, who later hung herself), he became a Revolutionary martyr when he was killed in 1905 in a skirmish with a monarchist, who hit him on the head with part of a steel pipe. The station is in Art Deco style with atmospherically dim lighting, and a series of bronze sculptures of soldiers and homefront heroes during the War. At one end, there is a large mosaic portrait of Lenin.

Stay on that train direction one more east to:

6. Elektrozavodskaya. As you may have guessed from the name, this station is the Metro’s tribute to all thing electrical, built in 1944 and named after a nearby lightbulb factory. It has marble bas-relief sculptures of important figures in electrical engineering, and others illustrating the Soviet Union’s war-time struggles at home. The ceiling’s recurring rows of circular lamps give the station’s main tunnel a comforting glow, and a pleasing visual effect.

Double back two stops to Kurskaya station , and change back to the 1/Circle line. Sit tight for six stations to:

7. Kiyevskaya. This was the last station on the Circle line to be built, in 1954, completed under Nikita Khrushchev’ s guidance, as a tribute to his homeland, Ukraine. Its three large station halls feature images celebrating Ukraine’s contributions to the Soviet Union and Russo-Ukrainian unity, depicting musicians, textile-working, soldiers, farmers. (One hall has frescoes, one mosaics, and the third murals.) Shortly after it was completed, Khrushchev condemned the architectural excesses and unnecessary luxury of the Stalin era, which ushered in an epoch of more austere Metro stations. According to the legend at least, he timed the policy in part to ensure no Metro station built after could outshine Kiyevskaya.

Change to the 3/Blue line and go one stop west.

8. Park Pobedy. This is the deepest station on the Metro, with one of the world’s longest escalators, at 413 feet. If you stand still, the escalator ride to the surface takes about three minutes .) Opened in 2003 at Victory Park, the station celebrates two of Russia’s great military victories. Each end has a mural by Georgian artist Zurab Tsereteli, who also designed the “ Good Defeats Evil ” statue at the UN headquarters in New York. One mural depicts the Russian generals’ victory over the French in 1812 and the other, the German surrender of 1945. The latter is particularly striking; equal parts dramatic, triumphant, and gruesome. To the side, Red Army soldiers trample Nazi flags, and if you look closely there’s some blood spatter among the detail. Still, the biggest impressions here are the marble shine of the chessboard floor pattern and the pleasingly geometric effect if you view from one end to the other.

Keep going one more stop west to:

9. Slavyansky Bulvar.  One of the Metro’s youngest stations, it opened in 2008. With far higher ceilings than many other stations—which tend to have covered central tunnels on the platforms—it has an “open-air” feel (or as close to it as you can get, one hundred feet under). It’s an homage to French architect Hector Guimard, he of the Art Nouveau entrances for the Paris M é tro, and that’s precisely what this looks like: A Moscow homage to the Paris M é tro, with an additional forest theme. A Cyrillic twist on Guimard’s Metro-style lettering over the benches, furnished with t rees and branch motifs, including creeping vines as towering lamp-posts.

Stay on the 3/Blue line and double back four stations to:

10. Arbatskaya. Its first iteration, Arbatskaya-Smolenskaya station, was damaged by German bombs in 1941. It was rebuilt in 1953, and designed to double as a bomb shelter in the event of nuclear war, although unusually for stations built in the post-war phase, this one doesn’t have a war theme. It may also be one of the system’s most elegant: Baroque, but toned down a little, with red marble floors and white ceilings with gilded bronze c handeliers.

Jump back on the 3/Blue line  in the same direction and take it one more stop:

11. Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). Opened in 1938, and serving Red Square and the Kremlin . Its renowned central hall has marble columns flanked by 76 bronze statues of Soviet heroes: soldiers, students, farmers, athletes, writers, parents. Some of these statues’ appendages have a yellow sheen from decades of Moscow’s commuters rubbing them for good luck. Among the most popular for a superstitious walk-by rub: the snout of a frontier guard’s dog, a soldier’s gun (where the touch of millions of human hands have tapered the gun barrel into a fine, pointy blade), a baby’s foot, and a woman’s knee. (A brass rooster also sports the telltale gold sheen, though I am told that rubbing the rooster is thought to bring bad luck. )

Now take the escalator up, and get some fresh air.

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21 Things to Know Before You Go to Moscow

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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