san diego safari zoo lockers

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

2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

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

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

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

Parking is free in the lot in front of the Zoo. Additional free parking is available throughout Balboa Park.

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

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

San Diego Zoo App

Apple iOS download here ▸ Android download here ▸

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

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

Download the PDF here ▸

Guest Services

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

Guest Services information ▸

Guests with Disabilities

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

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

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

Guest accessibility services and policies▸

Download Accessibility Map for Guests with Disabilities (PDF)▸

Safari Park

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

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

Purchase a two-visit pass ▸

PREFERRED HOTELS

Save the Chubby Unicorns

Gorilla Shadow

Picture Your Special Day at the Park!

Come Travel with Us!

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Jambo a safari adventure in san diego.

 Welcome to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where life-changing moments happen daily. Set out on safari and discover 1,800 acres of sprawling savannas teeming with wildlife as well as world-class botanical gardens—there’s no place like it on Earth. Encounter rhinos, giraffes, wildebeest, and large herds of wildlife roaming together. Journey through bamboo forests and come face-to-face with Sumatran tigers. Hop alongside kangaroos and dive underwater to meet the only two platypuses outside of Australia. And experience the awe-inspiring giants of Elephant valley. When you’re here, you’ll discover adventure is in every moment. And a moment can change a lifetime. 

Neighborhood: North Inland

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd Escondido, CA 92027-9614

Contact Info

(619) 718-3000 Toll-Free: (800) 407-9534

Please check our website for current hours.

Spring Safari Featuring Butterfly Jungle

Spring brings the perfect chance to get outdoors, spend time with family, and experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season! From special entertainment and culinary creations to amazing...

More To Know:

• Located 30 miles north of downtown San Diego - and well worth the trip!
• The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is open 365 days a year
• Plan a full day & bring walking shoes, sunscreen and water for your adventures
• Safaris do fill up; book online ahead of time to ensure your spot
• Lovely facilities for catered weddings, parties and other group events!

Special Events:

• Marvel at eagles, owls and an Andean condor at Frequent Flyers
• Visit the World Gardens to see amazing and rare plants
• Autumn Festival On The Weekends From 10/7 -10/29
• Kids Free month with free admission for kids 11 and younger during October

More Information

• Destination Weddings
• Historic Landmark
• General Admission - Adult
• General Admission - Child
• Parking (RV)

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What Can You Bring Into San Diego Zoo? — Food? Drink? Pets?

What are you allowed to bring into the San Diego Zoo? Which food, drink, coolers, strollers, luggage, camera equipment or pets are ok? After a few calls and a lot of reading, here’s what I found out.

San Diego Zoo permits bringing in items that are animal-safe. Food and non-alcoholic drinks are ok. No straws or glass containers. Coolers, strollers & luggage are fine but must be sized correctly or stored. Camera accessories like tripods must be compact. No pets, only working service animals.

Read on for more details. Some of the Zoo’s requirements are not intuitively obvious because of its status as a quarantine facility for endangered species. And even if you cannot bring certain things into the Zoo, I’ve found alternatives that may work for you.

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 .

Outside Food Is Ok to Bring Into the San Diego Zoo

You can take any personal food into the Zoo that a single person can carry, within reason. It’s a great way to save money because Zoo food can be rather expensive (looking for more savings? Check out my San Diego Zoo cheap tickets page). Bring in items like sandwiches, chips, restaurant take-out containers, even yesterday’s casserole in Tupperware. However…

There are no food storage facilities for the edibles that you bring into the Zoo.

You should have no trouble taking food inside the Zoo if:

• Food is pre-prepared and ready to eat. 
• Consumption is unlikely to disturb their animals or other guests. No flaming desserts , ok? 
• Each person is only taking in enough food for one, or at most two meals for themselves—and anyone in their group who cannot carry their own.

If you decide that you want to buy a meal or get a snack in addition to the food that you’ve carried in, there’s plenty of good choices. Here’s a link to an article that I wrote on the best food at San Diego Zoo .

What you’d rather eat outside of the zoo? Here’s another page on this website where you can find the best places for you to eat in Balboa Park .

You Can Carry Water Bottles and Other Drinks into the San Diego Zoo

Take your favorite water bottle with you into the Zoo. Bring that venti sized Starbucks mocha Frappuccino inside the gates. And that unfinished Gigantor Gulp cup of soda from a corner store is ok too. Let your child bring in their favorite sippy cup. All of these are allowed. 

However, you cannot bring in the following :

• No alcoholic beverages or containers
• No glass containers

Small Food Coolers and Containers are Ok to Bring into San Diego Zoo

A 6-pack-sized cooler carried either in your hand, on a shoulder strap, or within a backpack is ok. Small Tupperware-style containers with individual portions are also allowed. 

If you’re looking for a well-designed small cooler for your San Diego Zoo picnic try the Jaxx FitPak Insulated Cooler Lunch Box . It’s got more than 2,700 reviews on Amazon with a high rating.

I was surprised at how good a value it is. It’s got 6 seal-able, leak-proof containers. There are 2 one-cup sized smaller ones and 4 two-cup ones. There’s also an ice pack to keep them all cool. It also has a 28-ounce beverage container/shaker with an agitator for mixing shakes. It’s durable and easy to carry. 

Large family-sized coolers are not allowed inside the park . Keep them inside your car and retrieve them when you’re ready to eat. There’s a picnic area set up outside the Zoo. Get your hands stamped for re-entry. That way you and your group can go outside, feast on your provisions then return to complete your visit.  

NOTE: The usual picnic area is fenced off due to the construction of the new children’s zoo. Until the picnic is open again I suggest that you take your group to the plaza within Spanish Village Art Center. I’ve drawn a path showing you how to get there on the Google map above.

It’s only a short 2-minute walk away. The colorful artists’ colony is a wonderful attraction all by itself. They have umbrella-covered tables in the central patio. And it doesn’t hurt that everything at Daniel’s Coffee (also located in the patio) is terrific. 

Backpacks Are Allowed Inside San Diego Zoo

You can bring almost any standard-sized backpack into the zoo , from your little tyke’s rucksack to models with child seats in them. Call 619-231-1515 if you are concerned that your backpack may be too large. You can always store it in the Zoo’s Luggage storage.

You may have to leave a larger backpack in a secured storage area if you wish to ride the Guided Tour Bus , Inside Look Tours, or Discovery Tours (check HERE for discounted tour deals). And you’ll have to take it off to ride the Kangaroo Bus and the Skyfari.

If you can live with those conditions, then you’ll be happy that you brought your backpack.

What Camera Equipment Can You Bring into the San Diego Zoo?

Bring your camera, the photos you get will be amazing! You can bring any accessories, tripods or monopods into the Zoo as long as they’re small enough (or collapsible) to fit into a standard-sized backpack. 

To keep yourself out of overwhelm, check out my page on the San Diego Zoo’s best animal exhibits and attractions . Because there’s way too many to visit them all in one day.

Camera & Photo Policy : Professional photographers and videographers who intend to use any images taken within the Zoo commercially must get prior permission from authorized San Diego Global representatives. This includes taking photos or footage of any people, branded icons or anything on the San Diego Zoo Global property. To get permission email them here or call them at 619-231-1515 .

Drones cannot be brought into the Zoo

Drones (or flying toys) and aerial photography are not permitted at San Diego Zoo. There are at least 3 good reasons for this according to Federal Aviation Administration rules :

• The Zoo is less than 3 miles as the crow flies to Lindbergh Field airport. Federal Aviation Administration rules state that drones cannot fly within 5 miles of an airport without prior approval from the airport operator.
• San Diego Zoo is responsible for keeping their animals healthy and calm (which is why you can’t hold a koala there ). A drone buzzing their enclosure may make animals nervous or agitated. The big cats or elephants might get ticked off enough to knock an offending drone out of the sky if they can reach it. And then they could get injured trying to bite or otherwise incapacitate the “intruder”. 
• FAA rules state that you are not supposed to fly a drone over groups of people. 

Just know that drones are forbidden unless you get authorization from the Zoo and the airport operators. 

Bring Your Big Stroller Into the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo allows almost any kind of baby carriage, kid wagon, pram, or perambulator inside the grounds. They also have baby stroller rentals on-site (see Luggage section below). But if you plan to ride any of the extra paid tours, buses or the Skyfari gondola there are a few things to keep in mind.

Guided Tour Bus If you’re going to take this 35-minute narrated round-trip tour you’ll have to leave your baby carriage inside the designated parking area. This is not a problem because the tour is a loop and you can pick it up at the end. While you’re on the double-deck bus keep your child on your lap.

The Skyfari /gondola has stroller size limits. For one-way trips, all baby carriages must fold smaller than 23.75 inches (60 cm) wide. Larger jogging, double stroller models or those rented from the Zoo will have to be left in the parking space close to the tram. You’ll have to make your Skyfari a round trip in that case.

Discovery Cart & Inside Look Tours You cannot bring your stroller with you on the carts. But the Zoo has a nearby parking place for them. You can pick it up when you’re finished with your tour. hcirluycnan. You will be asked to keep infants and toddlers in your lap or sitting beside you while you’re on the cart. 

What’s the San Diego Zoo Bag Policy?

You can take your luggage or travel bags into the San Diego Zoo. But you’ll have to store them. You can’t drag them around with you while you visit the animals.

Luggage/large-item storage is available at Front Street Rentals. Smaller bags or backpacks can be placed in rented lockers. The locations of both of these are found if you take a left on Front Street after you enter. See the map and photos above. 

The lockers may be hard for you to find. They’re to the right of San Diego Craft Beer & Margaritas .

Locker rental payment is by credit card only because it is done with an automated kiosk. All bags must be picked up before the Zoo closes. They will not be kept overnight.

Which Pets are Allowed Inside San Diego Zoo?

You can only bring your pet into the Zoo if it’s a working service animal . Emotional support, comfort animals, or service animals still in training are not allowed. 

There are 2 reasons for this. Both the Zoo and Safari Park are considered quarantined facilities because they are home to many rare and endangered species. And also the zoo is full of wild animals which may by scent, sound, or sight trigger aggressive or erratic behavior in pets.  

Do NOT leave your pets in your car in the Zoo’s parking lot . If you’re visiting San Diego with your pet, leave them with friends or relatives, at an animal daycare center, or in your hotel room while you visit the Zoo. 

San Diegans are very conscious of the dangers of leaving pets in cars, especially zoo-goers. Even if you think that it is not going to get warm enough to harm your animal, a passer-by might. And they will call the police. You will probably return to a busted-out window in your vehicle and an expensive ticket…if you’re lucky. 

Animal Day Care Services Close to San Diego Zoo

Here are 3 nearby facilities that will care for your pet for the day. All of them have certain vaccination requirements that you may want to read now. They all also have a short temperament test before you are allowed to leave your pet with them. Contact each care facility at least 4 days before you plan to arrive.

Dog Days (6:30 AM – 7:30 PM). Group play environment. Totally FREE for 1st day (see HERE for requirements)

• 619-546-8390
• 811 13th St, San Diego, CA 92101
• DogDaysSanDiego.com

Bark Boulevard (6 AM – 10 PM). Group play environment or individual private care for less socialized dogs.

• 619-255-0980
• 2144 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104
• See their requirements . 
• BarkBoulevard.net

Camp Run-A-Mutt (7 AM – 7 PM). Group play environment.

• 619-873-4932
• 3265 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
• See their requirements HERE .
• CampRunaMutt.com/missionhills

Pet-Friendly Hotels Close to San Diego Zoo

Here are 4 pet-friendly hotels that are about 3 miles from the San Diego Zoo. They do not have on-site animal daycare facilities. But all will allow your pet to stay in your room while you are visiting the Zoo.

Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego welcomes any pet, regardless of size, weight, or breed for no additional fees or deposits. This is an updated and renovated urban chic hotel with a rooftop pool and a lively Mexican restaurant.

Some of the rooms have spectacular San Diego Bay views with balconies. But to get one of these you’ll need to talk to a human being. Call the aRes Travel Reservation Center ( 800-719-8961 ). Tell them that you want to book one of the “Skyline View” rooms at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar in San Diego. These rooms are all on or above the 16th floor.

• 2.4 miles to San Diego Zoo by car (9 minutes)
• 2 miles walking distance to the Zoo (37 minutes)

The Keating Hotel allows dogs up to 25lbs for just a $25/night fee. I like this hotel’s architecture. They renovated and modernized the interior of one of the oldest buildings in San Diego. But they left the old-fashioned 1890’s facade intact. They also kept some interior details like old brick walls, wood banisters, and a large skylight over the main lobby.

• 2.6 miles to the San Diego Zoo by car
• 2.2 miles walking distance to Zoo

Motel 6 San Diego Downtown is a budget-priced option where service animals and well-behaved pets always stay free. All pets and Service Animals need to be declared at check-in. The rooms are clean, if not terribly stylish. And they have free parking, which is almost as rare as a rhino in downtown San Diego.

• 2.1 miles to the San Diego Zoo by car
• 1.8 miles walking distance to the Zoo

Town and Country Resort is a family-friendly, budget lodging that I reviewed HERE . It’s been a San Diego vacation destination since the 1960s. It’s been recently renovated with a mid-century surfer vibe. If you have kids they’ll love the Twister water slide, kiddie pool, and games.

Pet-Friendly Downtown San Diego Restaurant – Whichever of these hotels you stay in, I recommend going to Werewolf for a lip-smacking breakfast or brunch. Kids and critters are welcome. Weekends are always busy. Use their Waitlist at the bottom of their home page so you don’t end up standing in line too long.

It’s also open 3 PM – 2 AM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. They serve salads, burritos, burgers, and appetizers then.

What Items are Not Permitted in the Zoo?

The Zoo has posted an extensive list of items that are not allowed in the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park. Check this link on the Zoo/Safari Park FAQ page under FACILITIES & SERVICES for the latest additions. If you have any questions about whether you can bring any item into either attraction, call 619-231-1515 . ,

Closing Thoughts

The primary aim of the San Diego Zoo is to end extinction through conservation and education. Anything that would interfere with that aim will be forbidden. You’ll be ok if you keep that in mind when carrying anything into the Zoo. And don’t hesitate to contact them and ask if you should bring something else into the San Diego Zoo.

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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• Help Center
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• MARCH 16–MAY 12, 2024 SPRING SAFARI
• Safaris Wildlife Safari
• San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

SAFARI EXPERIENCE

Butterfly Jungle Safari

Wildlife Safari

Behind-the-Scenes Safari

Cart Safaris

Sun Up Cheetah Safari

Ultimate Safari

Roar & Snore Safaris

Flightline Safari

Live cameras.

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Platypus Cam

Giraffe Cam

Elephant Cam

Enchanted by Edward

As a wildlife care specialist at the Nikita Kahn Rhino Rescue Center, I get to work with the rhinos and scientists every day. Witnessing groundbreaking science unfold in the name of rhino conservation is incredible.

READ MORE ▸

#1 of 54 things to do in Escondido

 The park is immaculate, the animals are up close and personal many of them, there are many options. . .such an awesome place to teach people and children about animals in a safe and nurturing environment for the animals. . .

GETTING HERE

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

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

Get Directions ▸

Gorilla Shadow

Save the Chubby Unicorns

PREFERRED HOTELS

Come Travel with Us!

Travel with us to see Monarchs

Picture Your Special Day at the Park!

Jungle Ropes Safari

• 1 About Jungle Ropes at the Safari Park
• 3 Admission
• 4 Age Restrictions
• 6 Change / Cancel Policy
• 8 Frequency
• 9 Miscellaneous
• 11 Program Advisements: (Mandatory)

About Jungle Ropes at the Safari Park

Climb, balance, swing, and walk through the trees on the Safari Park’s Jungle Ropes Safari!

Challenge yourself with this daring experience that offers unique trails to test your "jungle" skills.

With rope bridges to cross, aerial tightropes to navigate, swinging log steps to negotiate, and moving platforms to cross, among many other thrills, Jungle Ropes Safari is for adventure seekers ready to try out life in the treetops.

During your 90-minute adventure, you’ll use a Smart Belay system to travel through the trails at your own pace, with staff available for assistance if necessary.

Each trail offers a different challenge, and there are three to choose from.

You’ll put on a safety harness and be given instruction by trained staff prior to entering the trail—then it’s up to you to make like a monkey and swing!

• The Jungle Ropes Safari is a challenge activity
• Jungle Ropes Safari is comprised of trail challenge courses
• Trails have approximately twelve (12) challenge elements
• Participants will be given instruction by trained staff prior to entering the course
• Staff will also monitor participants while on the course and be available for assistance if necessary
• Jungle Ropes Safari is for those looking to challenge themselves with balance and daring experiences, featuring rope bridges, log bridges, and MANY other elements to satisfy adventure seekers!

Participant must be:

• physically able to climb up and down a short vertical ladder and stairs, balance on ropes and other course elements.
• able to comprehend and follow all safety instructions in English.
• able to read, sign and comprehend the liability waiver.
• Participant must:
• weigh between 50 and 275 pounds and fit comfortably in harness.
• have a reach of 55 inches (measured from the sole of the foot to the up-stretched tips of the fingers)
• wear secure, closed-toed shoes (required)
• Must have full use of legs and arms and
• Must be able to properly demonstrate the use of the Smart Belay system
• The Jungle Ropes course takes the participant up to 50 feet off the ground.
• Admission is NOT included in the price of Jungle Ropes Safari and is required. Please ensure each guest has a valid Admission ticket or Membership.

Age Restrictions

• Minimum age: 7 (no exceptions)
• Children ages 7–11 must be accompanied by a paid parent or guardian 18 years or older during the entire experience and sign a liability waiver.
• Children 12–17 may participate alone but must have a parent or guardian 18 years or older present at the orientation to sign the liability waiver.
• There is a maximum of 2 children ages 7–11 per adult in a party
• Join-in Tour
• 1 - 15 guests per tour time.

Change / Cancel Policy

• Changes or cancellations are not permitted.
• 15 minutes prior to scheduled time
• Location: Safari Ticket Booth between signpost numbers 5 and 6, near Lorikeet Landing.

*NOTE: Please allow suffient time for travel to the Safari Park, parking, and to find Check In location inside park. Allow additional time for busy peak and holiday periods.

Miscellaneous

• ADA: Must have full use of legs and arms and must be able to properly demonstrate the use of the Smart Belay system.
• Late arrivals : If the guest can be accommodated on the tour they are scheduled for, they will, but more than likely they will be admitted with the next tour time.
• A nominal parking fee is paid upon arrival.

Program Advisements: (Mandatory)

Pre-Reservation Advisements Do they qualify?

• The Jungle Ropes course takes the participant up to 50 feet off the ground
• Minimum age: 7 years old
• Weight: Must weigh between 50 and 275 pounds and fit comfortably in harness
• Footwear: Secure, closed-toed shoes are required
• Have a reach of 55 inches (measured from the sole of the foot to the up-stretched tips of the fingers)
• Be able to comprehend and follow all safety instructions in English
• Be able to read, sign and comprehend the liability waiver.
• Participant must be physically able to:
• Climb up and down a short vertical ladder and stairs, balance on ropes and other course elements
• Put on safety harness
• Must have full use of legs and arms and must be able to properly demonstrate the use of the Smart Belay system
• For the safety of our expecting guests and their children, we can not allow pregnant women on Jungle Ropes Safari

Post-Reservation Requirements

• Admission or Membership is separate and required
• Allow sufficient time for travel to the Safari Park, parking, and to find Check In location inside park
• Allow additional time for busy summer and holiday periods
• Parking fee is not included and is paid upon arrival
• Please, no large or bulky camera equipment
• For the safety of our animals and guests, no food or beverages
• Medical exceptions can be made
• Water is provided in-between courses
• No backpacks
• There are lockers nearby for their items
• Program may be modified or cancelled due to safety reasons
• Adult to Child (ages 8 through 15): 1 Adult for every 2 Children (no exceptions)
• Ages 12 and up: no accompanying adult required; cannot be chaperone for riders ages 7 - 11 years

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San Diego Zoo Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

San Diego Zoo is more than one hundred years old and boasts more than 12,000 animals consisting of 600 different species. It is run as a non-profit conservation organization and that conservation ethos lies at the heart of all that they do.

Set in Balboa Park, it is less than a twenty-minute drive from the city to get there. The zoo covers over one hundred acres. When it opened in 1916 it entered uncharted territory by becoming the first zoo to keep animals in open air, free-roaming, exhibits. Today it is renowned for its breeding program which has a particular focus on endangered species such as tree kangaroos, Tasmanian devils , and of course, the iconic panda.

This is a visit that you will be hard-pushed to complete in under four hours. Even then, you will just have scratched the surface of all that is on offer. Drop off your bags at a rental locker near San Diego Zoo so that you are able to make the most of this adventure unencumbered.

San Diego Zoo bag policy

Although you are allowed small backpacks and coolers, there are no locker facilities in the zoo itself, so you will need to carry whatever you take in. On a visit that will, by its very nature, require you to keep moving, traveling light is probably your wisest move.

There are some small lockers to be rented in the zoo, but they are geared more towards small valuables than bags or backpacks. Fortunately, there are baggage storage facilities within easy reach, and this might make your day a whole lot more enjoyable.

San Diego Zoo food policy

You are welcome to bring your own food or picnic with you.  This includes water and beverages, but only non-alcoholic ones. Any drinks must be in non-glass containers, and it is worth mentioning that disposable straws and lids are not permitted. The problem is that the zoo authorities only allow small coolers no larger than a six-pack, and once you have enjoyed your snack, you are left having to carry whatever you transported it in.

If having to lug a cooler with you all day doesn't appeal to you, you will be pleased to learn on-site food concessions and restaurants abound. There is something for everyone here, including vegans, vegetarians, and of course the kids. There are even locally brewed draft beers on sale.

San Diego Zoo camera policy

For starters, if you are planning on shooting photos or videos for commercial purposes, this will not be permitted. If you just want to take photos as souvenirs of your visit, however, then you are more than welcome. The only restrictions to this are that tripods must fit in a backpack and drones may not be used at all.

San Diego Zoo rules

As with any organization hosting large numbers of public visitors each day, there are rules in place, and the San Diego Zoo is no exception. Here are some of the more important ones.

• Smoking, including e-cigarettes and Vapes, is banned throughout the zoo grounds. If you are a smoker, the good news is that you can have your hand stamped, leave the property for your nicotine fix, and then enter again.
• No alcohol, drugs, or glass containers may be brought in.
• No pets are allowed and there are no kennels available.
• No balls, frisbees, skipping ropes, or yo-yos.
• No remote-controlled toys.
• Finally, this is one you may want to remember; no cremated remains can be brought into the park, even if they are being kept in a container of some kind.

San Diego lockers

This is a world-class zoo. It certainly goes the extra mile in that you are able to see rare animals in open-air environments, and you will be supporting this organization's renowned conservation efforts when doing so.  There is so much to see and do that you will need to be selective as to what your priorities are. It is also a good idea to get there early.

There is free parking at the zoo and public transport access is easy. The Rapid 215 and Route 7 both offer stops at the zoo itself.

With no baggage-sized lockers available on-site, you are well-advised to find a luggage locker facility nearby. Fortunately, there are many options to choose from and it is probably wise to opt for one that allows online booking so that you can be assured of finding an available locker when you get there.

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San Diego Zoo FAQs

Is the zoo open every day of the year.

Yes! The San Diego Zoo is open every day of the year, rain or shine, including ALL holidays!

Does the Zoo have lockers for guests to use?

The San Diego Zoo has rental lockers located between the San Diego Craft Beer and the Front Street Café on Front Street, near the Exit sign. Payment is by credit card only and payment can be made at the Kiosk on site. No cash is accepted for locker rentals, which start at $8. Sizes are as follows:

Small locker: 12" x 20" Medium locker: 15" x 18" Large locker: 18" x 27"

In addition to this guest storage amenity, the Zoo has a larger secure storage area inside Front Street Rentals, where guests can rent strollers, wheelchairs, and ECVs. This area can accommodate suitcase storage and larger items that will not fit inside the large lockers. The cost for this storage area is $15 per piece, and comes with unlimited access.

Does the Zoo have access for the disabled?

We have a variety of options to assist you and your family. The Zoo offers an “Easy Access Pass” that allows you to go to the head of the lines at the Zoo’s Bus Depot and Skyfari aerial tram. In addition, there are complimentary shuttles to assist you and your party in accessing our lower canyon areas. Please stop in at Guest Services to request our ADA Packet that will include information on these services as well as descriptions of exhibits and show access. If you have other specific questions, we will be happy to assist you.

Does the Zoo have baby nursing stations?

The Zoo has a First Aid office, located next to the Reptile house, which is often used by mothers to nurse their infants. There is a privacy curtain to allow mothers complete privacy. We also have a microwave for preparing your child’s meal. Some mothers prefer to sit just outside the First Aid office on one of the benches provided. It is semi-private as the vegetation growth is considerable. Diaper changing stations are also available in most restrooms.

Does the Zoo have stroller rentals?

Yes!  The Zoo have strollers available for rent. The daily charge for a single stroller is $14 and a double stroller is $18. There is one size of stroller, made of molded plastic, to fit a variety of children; you may check the fit before renting. Strollers have cup holders and a storage pouch in the back. Our double strollers offer side-by-side seating. We have a limited inventory and provide these items on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations are available. We recommend arriving early to secure one.

Can the Zoo store my luggage?

Luggage is not permitted on Starline Tours theme park transportation buses.

The San Diego Zoo has lockers and a secure storage area inside Front Street Rentals, where guest can rent strollers, wheelchairs and EVCs. This area can accommodate suitcase storage and larger items that will not fit inside the large lockers. The cost for this storage area is $15 per piece and it comes with unlimited access. Unfortunately, the Safari Park does not have accommodations for luggage storage.

Does the Zoo have recycling facilities?

We have recycling containers for aluminum cans and plastic bottles located throughout our parks. In addition, both the Zoo has cell phone recycling drop boxes.  A large Plexiglas drop box is located next to the re-entry hand stamp station at the Zoo’s exit.

Does the Zoo offer wheelchair rentals?

Yes!  San Diego Zoo have wheelchairs and electric scooters available for rent for a nominal fee. Guests must provide a valid driver's license. The park has a limited inventory and provide these items on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations available. We recommend arriving early to secure one.

What is the smoking policy at the Zoo?

Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted anywhere on Zoo grounds or parking lots. Zoo guests should know smoking is not permitted in Balboa Park. Guests who wish to smoke are welcome to have their hands stamped for same-day re-entry when leaving our grounds to smoke.  Please keep your ticket!

Can my child enter the Zoo without an adult?

Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult age 18+ to enter and throughout their visits to our parks. "Paid adult" includes adults 18+ with valid, unexpired admission, membership, or complimentary tickets.

Will food service work with my allergies/special dietary needs?

The Zoo recognizes the seriousness of food allergies and although we would like to accommodate all guest requirements, as a not-for-profit organization we are unable to do so. Our kitchens are not equipped to prepare food separately for guests who are sensitive to certain ingredients.  Each restaurant can provide an ingredient list for the items available for purchase; however, we cannot assure that other ingredients may not be in the preparation environment. Guests are welcome to bring personal food items into our parks.  Large food storage containers such as coolers are not permitted on grounds and no facilities are available for food storage.

Are drones allowed at the Zoo?

No. Drones are not permitted on or above Zoo grounds at any time.

Are backpacks allowed?

Guests are welcome to bring a backpack into our parks.

Can I bring food into the Zoo?

Yes! Guests may bring personal food items into the Zoo. Large food storage containers such as coolers are not permitted on grounds, and no facilities are available for food storage. Zoo guests who have already entered our parks may get their hand stamped for re-entry on the same day of their visit during operating hours. Special accommodations for school groups may be made. For the safety of guests and the animals in our care, please do not bring glass, alcohol, or straws into our parks.

Are pets allowed in the parks?

No.  Pets, comfort animals, and emotional support animals are not permitted at the. Because the Zoo houses significant populations of rare and endangered species, the Zoo and are considered to be quarantined facilities. State and federal regulations for such facilities do not allow for the access of pets, comfort animal or emotional support animals accompanying guests to these facilities.  The Zoo does offer kennel service at either park. If you will require kennel service during your visit, please use the Contact Us link at the bottom of this page so we may provide a list of local kennels.

How can I get close to animals?

The Zoo's Animals in Action Experience and Inside Look Tours get you VERY close to exotic animals Also at the Park is Lorikeet Landing, where you lend a hand—literally—in feeding the lorikeets! The Park's interactive Animal Encounters program gives you an opportunity to have face-to-face contact with the Park's animal ambassadors like a cheetah, alligator, serval, and other rare and exotic animals. You may interact with trainers and ask questions about the species. Interactions happen throughout the Park; check a Zoo map insert for times and locations. And (most of) our Special Experiences at both parks are uniquely designed to get you closer to animals!

How can I find out about a particular animal on exhibit?

Go to the San Diego Zoo Animals website or use the website's Search function to look for your animal. If the animal is part of our collection, its location will be noted on the response page.  While we work hard to provide an exceptional guest experience, occasionally exhibits, tours, restaurants, rides, entertainment or other services change or close without notice and without liability due to refurbishing, capacity, weather or special events.   A daily listing of changes or closures can be found at the main entrance of both parks. Please check upon arrival.

What time of day will I see more animals?

There really isn't any special time that more animals are in view, although many of our animals are early risers and may be a bit more active in the morning. In our concern for the many endangered species that we house at our facilities, we have built exhibits that mimic natural environments. Like natural environments, these areas give the animals plenty of room to hide. We have found the ability to hide is important to the well-being of many species.

Animals may be taken off exhibit for a variety of reasons including environmental conditions, health issues, and behavioral concerns. In addition, many of our exhibits are designed to allow animals to remove themselves from visitor view at any time. For these reasons, it is not always possible to predict or note these exceptions before the fact. Refunds or exchanges are not possible in cases of inclement weather or exhibit closure.

While the Zoo work hard to provide an exceptional guest experience, occasionally exhibits, tours, restaurants, transportation, entertainment or other services change or close without notice and without liability due to refurbishing, capacity, weather or special events.   A daily listing of changes or closures can be found at the main entrance of both parks. Please check upon arrival.

Is it possible to leave the Zoo and be re-admitted?

Yes!  Guests who are on grounds at the Zoo and wish to leave and return the same day at no charge during open hours may have their hand stamped at the Exit Gate turnstiles. Be sure to keep your ticket! Refunds or exchanges are not possible in cases of inclement weather or exhibit closure.

How do I lodge an ethics or misconduct complaint regarding San Diego Zoo Global business practices?

The Zoological Society of San Diego does business as San Diego Zoo Global. We are committed to high standards of ethical, moral, and legal business conduct. San Diego Zoo Global is further dedicated to acting in good faith with those clients or employees who raise concerns regarding incorrect financial reporting, unlawful activity, or otherwise improper conduct. The audit committee, board, and management team at San Diego Zoo Global value your input. This is why we have selected Ethics Point to provide us with an anonymous and confidential method to hear your suggestions, concerns, or report of misconduct. The information you provide will be sent to us by Ethics Point on a totally confidential and anonymous basis. You have our guarantee that your comments will be heard.

Tell me a bit about the San Diego Zoo.

The Zoo, located adjacent to downtown San Diego in Balboa Park, is 100 acres in size. It is well known for its lush, naturalistic habitats and unique animal encounters and is home to more than 3,700 rare and endangered animals representing approximately 660 species and subspecies and a prominent botanical collection with more than 700,000 plants. It is viewed in several ways, first and foremost by walking along pathways, into aviaries, and through bioclimatic zones. There is a 35-minute Guided Bus Tour that gives a good overview of the Zoo, along with an Express Bus that stops at several locations to assist guests in accessing different areas. We suggest taking the Guided Bus Tour upon your arrival to acquaint yourself with the various areas where you would like to spend additional time. The Zoo is a unique walking experience that exhibits animals in the most natural way possible, adding shows and animal presentations throughout the day for additional enjoyment. We recommend a minimum visit time of at least three to four hours.

Well known for its 100 acres of lush, naturalistic habitats and unique animal encounters, the San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,700 rare and endangered animals (including pandas, koalas, tigers, polar bears, and more) representing approximately 660 species and subspecies and a prominent botanical collection with more than 700,000 plants.

The 1,800-acre Safari Park is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 300 species, many living in open field habitats. In addition, the Park has a renowned botanical collection with more than 1.7 million plants. Since there is so much to see and experience at our parks, and to get the most from an unhurried visit, we recommend planning a multi-day visit. Because each park requires a separate admission ticket, there are several multi-day ticket options that allow you to enjoy both parks at a relaxed pace!

Top San Diego Zoo Tips

1. Arrive Early

So it goes without saying that our first San Diego Zoo tip is to arrive in the morning and ride the bus tour with the shortest line. The earlier you arrive, the more you can see and experience.

2. Grab a Park Map

You’ll want a map to locate your must-see animals and navigate this zoo (plus, it has a lot of helpful information on the back). There are also large maps located throughout the zoo and plenty of zoo employees willing to help you find your way. The map is also available on the San Diego Zoo app.

3. Avoid Visiting on a Hot Day

We know this is not always in your control, but many animals are a lot more active when the temperatures are in the 50s, 60s and 70s. If you can visit in late fall, winter or spring, you’ll find the most comfortable temperatures.

4. Wear Walking Shoes

The San Diego Zoo has a lot of walking and hills. Be prepared for climbing or plan to use some of the park transportation options. The zoo rents wheelchairs for $14 and shaded electric scooters for $55 on a first come, first served basis if walking distances or hills is challenging for guests in your party. The dotted paths on the map are wheelchair accessible.

5. Bring Hats, Sunscreen and Water

The Southern California sun is strong, and the climate is dry.  Be sure to stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun.

6. Rent or Bring a Stroller

Those hills and distances can be very tiring for little legs, so using a stroller for babies, toddlers and even preschoolers is highly recommended and one of our top San Diego zoo tips if you have tadpoles. Single strollers rent for $14 and double strollers are $18. Here’s a hop tip: If you are taking the Skyfari, you can take a stroller up to 23 ¾ inches wide with you. Rental strollers do not fit, but you can leave your rental stroller at the Skyfari and pick up a fresh one at the other end!

7. Hop on the Kangaroo Bus

All admission tickets, donor level memberships and purchased Guided Bus Tour tickets include the use of the Kangaroo Bus, which offers four stops marked with a yellow kangaroo. Busses arrive every 15 minutes. We managed to hop about without using it because the Skyfari was so efficient. There is a free shuttle bus for guests with disabilities that accesses some parts of the zoo. The regular bus tour allows you to bring and store folding wheelchairs. Non-folding wheelchairs can be stored at the loading facility.

8. Take a Guided Bus Tour

Taking a 35-minute Guided Bus Tour takes you around the perimeter of the zoo and can help you get your bearings for the zoo and share some interesting information about animals and the zoo itself. It is no substitute for actually seeing the animals up close, but you will see a lot of animals from the bus and maybe get an idea of areas you want to revisit later. We recommend riding it first thing in the morning before the line gets long. We sat on the top deck in the morning and enjoyed a great view, but if you do ride in the afternoon on a sunny day, choose the bottom deck for shade. The bus tour is included in zoo admission.

9. Utilize Volunteers

There are many volunteers wearing red shirts located throughout the park. They are a wealth of information and can help point you in the right direction or tell you more about the animals.

10. Take Skyfari Aerial Tram

Skyfari (included in your admission ticket) offers you a ride and a shortcut between the entrance and back of the park, flying you above the forest and hills. It's a way to get to the back of the park early, and closer to the Northern Frontier. We found it the easiest way to avoid climbing high hills.

11. Reserve Special Experiences

If your budget allows, you can purchase upgraded special experiences in addition to admission, such as seeing animal ambassadors and trainers in action, going behind the scenes, touring the zoo in a VIP cart, taking a tour with cats or being a zookeeper for a day. The zoo also offers a VIP experience.

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Luggage storage San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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Indeed, thanks to our network of partners in San Diego, drop off your luggage whenever you want near San Diego Zoo Safari Park and enjoy your visit serenely and luggage-free. Storing your luggage is now so easy with Eelway!

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Luggage Storage in +25 locations around San Diego

Store your bags in a certified local shop from $1/hour, a guide on how and where to find lockers and places to store your luggage in san diego as of [year]:, your 2024 guide to finding luggage lockers and storage in san diego.

LuggageHero provides numerous stores for convenient luggage storage in San Diego , offering flexible pricing with options to pay per hour or choose a daily rate. To enhance your experience, we recommend downloading the app below, which is designed for use in ALL LuggageHero’s cities.

Use LuggageHero anywhere with the official app for iPhone and Android.

Best-rated luggage storage San Diego: LuggageHero

LuggageHero redefines convenience for travelers. Take advantage of our generous baggage allowance and leave your luggage and carry-on bags in our secure, innovative, and environmentally friendly locker storage. You can quickly bounce into our store and embark on adventures unburdened by heavy luggage!

• Pricing models
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LuggageHero has more than 25 stores in San Diego alone, so you can always find a luggage locker store nearby. Also, LuggageHero is the only service that offers an hourly AND daily price for maximum flexibility.

Use our map to find which stores are near San Diego

By simply searching for a luggage store or luggage storage facility in your search bar you can easily find the closest storage near you.

Luggage storage with LuggageHero

Featured in Lonely Planet and New York Times .

LuggageHero offers storage options all over San Diego which means you can stow away your belongings for hours or even days if you need to.

Easy, quick, budget-friendly

• When using LuggageHero in San Diego, you only pay $1/ hour. No worries, we always keep your budget in mind – you never pay more than $4.5.
• If you store your luggage for several days, you only pay a maximum of $4.5/bag on the first day and only $4.5/ day afterward.
• You will only pay for the time you actually store your luggage. You don’t pay anything if you don’t show up for your booking.
• Book online and receive your directions OR download the app

Safety is our no. 1 priority

per bag, the highest insurance coverage in the industry.

Quality-checked partner locations

Luggage storage sites are located inside existing businesses, including retail outlets, hotels, cafes, and more. All are vetted by LuggageHero’s local employee, who performs regular quality checks. Every piece of luggage is stored away from any public access.

Enjoy San Diego with no time limit

If anything, you should be the boss of your own schedule while on vacation. This is why we have partnered up with locations that are open around the clock, so that you can make the most of your visit without having to think of closing times.

Traveling with friends and family made easy

Traveling with friends or family? Then don’t pass up the chance to get a special discount for storing 10 or more pieces of luggage. Write us a quick message and you’re all set to go.

Four simple steps to leave your luggage with LuggageHero

• When booking online you are always guaranteed space
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• Pick up your luggage and stop the storage timer on your booking page.

Costs and Discount Voucher

Want to know more about LuggageHero? Get to know the concept by reading this FAQ and or read about the team behind it here .

Download LuggageHero’s free luggage storage app:

For even more comfort and ease, you can download LuggageHero’s bag storage app where you can see all our locations around San Diego.

All these companies can offer you bag storage in San Diego- We’ve listed them below:

Santa fe depot (train station).

If you have a valid Amtrak train ticket, you can store your suitcases at the station for up to 24 hours at the price of $10. As a non-customer, the price is $20. In case you have any questions or need help with your bags, keep an eye out for the Amtrak “Red Cap” employees, who will happily assist you.

• Opening hours: 03:00 – 19:00 (Monday – Sunday)
• Address: 1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 Open in Google Maps

Five Star Tours Visitor Center

This company chares flat daily fees: $7 for one bag, $12 for two items or $20 for three pieces of luggage

• Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 (Monday – Sunday)
• Address: 1050 Kettner Blvd Suite D, San Diego, CA 92101 Open in Google Maps

San Diego Bus Station

You can store your bags at the bus station for up to 24 hours. For more details related to pricing, refer to the company’s customer service agent.

• Opening hours: 05:00 – 23:45 (Monday – Sunday)
• Address: 1313 National Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 Open in Google Maps

San Diego Zoo

The Zoo is equipped with lockers, which come in three different sizes. Rental prices start at $8 per locker. Additionally, there is a storage area for bulkier items, which you can find inside Front Street Rentals and which costs $15 per item. Only credit card payments are accepted.

• Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00 (Monday – Sunday)
• Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 Open in Google Maps

Luggage storage in San Diego Airport

Baggage Nanny

This company charges $20 per bag per day and an additional fee for overnight storage. For an extra charge, you can also choose to have your bags delivered to and from the airport to a location situated within a 15 mile (24 km) area of the airport. Luggage pick-up is also available around the clock, for an additional fee.

• Opening hours: 08:00 – 20:00 (Monday – Sunday)
• Address: baggage claim area in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Open in Google Maps

Great Tip for how to get yourself FREE luggage storage in San Diego:

TIP: The demand for luggage storage in San Diego is high and therefore it can be tricky to find places where you can store your belongings for free, but it is possible!

Travel Hack: Walk into a random hotel and act as you are staying there. Some hotels offer luggage storage for their guests and sometimes even for people who are not staying at the hotel, just ask! And remember to give a great tip in case they want to store it.

Alternative: Luggage storage at museums and galleries in San Diego

With countless sights to see, San Diego has a very rich and diverse cultural life. However, it might be more difficult to enjoy it, if you suddenly find yourself unable to enter a place you’ve been dying to visit because of your trolley.

We’ve made a quick list of all the main tourist attractions in San Diego and their locker situation so that you’re up-to-speed:

• USS Midway Museum – no bag deposit available; best not have any large items with you, as the passageways are quite narrow and
• San Diego Zoo – lockers are available on site (for more information see above)
• Petco Park – small, soft-sided bags are allowed in the Park; no storage options onsite
• Timken Museum of Art – complimentary coat check available on the premises
• San Diego Museum of Art – you can deposit your backpacks and carry-on luggage at the museum’s coat check
• San Diego Air & Space Museum – you’re welcome to take your backpack with you while visiting
• Museum of Photographic Arts – no information available
• San Diego Natural History Museum – you can find cubbies on level 1, at the back of the atrium; to deposit larger items, refer to the Admissions Desk for help

Most hotels do offer to keep your bags for a few hours before your check-in or after checking out. Your best bet is to simply ask. If your hotel is a bit out of the way from your sightseeing itinerary or means of transportation, you’d want to consider a luggage storage service that is more conveniently located.

Half the price of station lockers and airport lockers

Luggage lockers, also called city lockers, are generally at least twice as expensive on a daily basis as LuggageHero’s luggage storage service. Until relatively recently, travelers could only stow their bags in these luggage lockers, which offer very little flexibility in regard to pricing and location. where to go and luggage deposit. Today, LuggageHero offers countless stores in various cities to ensure you always have the option of dropping off your luggage in a protected environment. Unlike luggage lockers in stations and airports, LuggageHero also offers both an hourly and daily rate for maximum flexibility. LuggageHero tries to offer safe and cheap luggage storage near you at all times. 

Luggage storage facility for suitcase, baggage and odd-sized luggage

We check all our hotels and local shops in order for us to be able to offer space for whatever you need; ski equipment, photo equipment, backpacks or whatever. This is simply another method for us to give you the most flexible baggage storage, suitcase storage and luggage deposit.  

Our service is similar to hotel luggage storage

Many travelers who have been customers at hotels have asked the staff at the reception if they could store their luggage until they depart the city later in the day. For the most part, we offer the same service for everyone – no matter if they stay at a hotel, Airbnb or anywhere else. We are always ready to help you out. 

Stow your bags in verified stores with discount codes

We offer our loyal customers and new customers a discount code for two hours of FREE luggage storage. The discount code works the rest of 2024 in ALL cities and ALL stores – including Premium Partner stores!

Why are you searching for luggage storage in San Diego?

Maybe you have to check out of your Airbnb apartment, rental place, or hotel and your flight isn’t until tonight?

Or… You just arrived in San Diego, ready to explore everything the city has to offer, but your rental place isn’t ready for you for 5 more hours? Most travelers have been in similar situations and experienced the struggle of luggage first hand.

San Diego offers a range of possibilities when it comes to luggage storage and we have gathered everything into this guide to help you.

Sightseeing and attractions just aren’t the same with a suitcase in each hand and a backpack on your shoulders. Free yourself from baggage to fully enjoy your time in San Diego.

• Luggage Storage Old Town Station
• Luggage Storage La Jolla
• Luggage Storage Pacific Beach
• Luggage Storage Petco Park
• Luggage Storage Marina
• Luggage Storage Gaslamp Quarter
• Luggage Storage Convention Center Station
• Luggage Storage Downtown San Diego
• Luggage Storage Santa Fe Train Station

For more info about luggage storage in San Diego, click here to read more from KnockKnock.

+1M bags safely stored

Faq about luggage storage in san diego.

Here are some of the most often asked questions and answers on storing luggage in San Diego

Is there luggage storage at San Diego airport?

Due to security reasons, there are no self-service lockers or any kind of luggage storage facilities at the airport. If you're staying in San Diego for a short layover, you might want to leave your bags with a luggage storage company.

Are there storage lockers in San Diego?

Yes, there are many storage lockers in San Diego. Most train stations and airports provide facilities to store luggage. Also, nowadays there are numerous luggage storage companies that provide storage lockers all over San Diego. It is therefore easy to find luggage storage nearby if you have access to the internet.

How do I find luggage storage near me?

The easiest way to find luggage storage in or near San Diego is by searching online for a luggage storage company. This will make your search easier because luggage storage companies have maps that show where their different stores are throughout the relevant city.

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park Package

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park Package

Maritime Museum & San Diego Zoo Combo

SeaWorld San Diego Zoo Ticket Package

San Diego Natural History Museum + San Diego Zoo Safari Park Combo Tickets

Flagship San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise + San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Sunday Dinner on the Bay + San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise + San Diego Zoo Safari Park

OC Evening Wine Cruise + San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour + San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Safari Park boasts 1,800 acres of land in the San Pasqual Valley area and is among the biggest tourist attractions in the county. The park features more than 2,600 endangered animals from countries across the globe, as well as 3,500 plant species. Guests can experience a variety of safaris, including Cart Safari, Cheetah Safari, Behind-the-Scenes Safari, Flightline Safari and more. 1 or more people

Good To Know

• Africa Tram is free with park admission.
• Balloon Safari provides a birds-eye-view of the park.
• Up-close encounters available in a safari-style zoo setting.
• Expect wait times during busy peak periods.
• Open 365 days a year.
• Smoke-free property.
• Make time for the safari tour.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Stroller and wheelchair rentals available for a nominal fee.
• Africa Tram is busiest from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on peak attendance days.

Discover More With Us

The Balloon Safari ride features an awesome aerial view of the park and the animals. Walking Tiger Trail and seeing the giraffes from the tram is amazing. The 2-Day / 2-Park Pass is the best value for two entries to either the San Diego Zoo or the Safari Park.

Description

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Reviews

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd • Escondido , CA 92027

Nearby Things to Do

• LEGOLAND® California Resort
• Taste of Carlsbad Food Tour
• South O Side Walking Food Tour
• North OSide Walking Food Tour
• Go San Diego All-Inclusive Pass

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

• Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk
• Riviera Oaks Resort & Racquet Club
• Hampton Inn Carlsbad North San Diego County
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad - Legoland Area
• Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa

Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Does the san diego safari park have stroller rentals.

Strollers are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance. You are also welcome to bring your own stroller. Rental prices are $16 for a single stroller and $20 for a double stroller. Availability and prices subject to change without notice.

Does the Safari Park offer wheelchair rentals?

Both the Zoo and the Safari Park have manual wheelchairs and electric scooters available to rent on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance. Rental prices are $16 for a manual wheelchair and $60 for an ECV. Prices are subject to change without notice. Guests must provide a valid driver's license or San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance membership card.

Does the Safari Park have access for guests with disabilities?

Safari Park offers a variety of options to assist you and your family. Guests who have difficulty standing in line at the Africa Tram may request an “Easy Access Pass” at the Tram Host podium, across from the Africa Tram ticket booth. In addition, there are complimentary shuttles to assist you and your party in accessing the lower canyon areas. Please stop in at Guest Services to request an ADA Packet, which includes information on these services, as well as descriptions of habitats and show access.

Does the San Diego Safari Park have lockers for visitors to use?

Outdoor lockers will be available at the Safari Park. At the Zoo, self-service lockers are available at Front Street (please note this does not include luggage check). Guests may carry small backpacks and bags into the parks.

How much is parking at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

Safari Park parking fees are $15 per vehicle and $20 for RV parking. Preferred parking is available on select weekends and holidays for an additional $18 ($15 + $18 = $33 total to park in preferred parking).

Is it possible to leave the Safari Park and be re-admitted?

Yes. For same-day re-entry, guests should have their hands stamped at the exit, and re-enter through the main turnstiles, showing their tickets and hand stamps. Safari Park guests should keep their parking receipts to avoid having to pay twice for same-day parking.

What time of day will I see more animals?

There isn't any special time that more wildlife are in view, although many of Safari Park's animals are early risers and may be a bit more active in the morning. Out of concern for the many endangered species housed at their facilities, San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have built habitats that mimic natural environments. Like natural environments, these areas give the animals plenty of room to hide. They have found the ability to hide is important to the well-being of many species.

Are pets allowed in the park?

No. Pets, comfort animals, and emotional support animals are not permitted at the Zoo or Safari Park. Because they house significant populations of rare and endangered species, both the Zoo and Safari Park are considered to be quarantined facilities. State and federal regulations for such facilities do not allow for the access of pets, comfort animals, or emotional support animals accompanying guests to these facilities.

Can I bring food into the park?

Yes! Guests are welcome to bring their own single-person food, in small containers, into the parks. No coolers, glass containers, alcohol, party trays, birthday cakes, or decorations are allowed on grounds, and no facilities are available for food storage. For the safety of guests and the wildlife in their care, please do not bring glass, alcohol, or straws into the parks.

Are backpacks allowed?

Guests are welcome to bring a backpack into the parks.

What is the smoking policy at the Safari Park?

Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted anywhere on Zoo or Safari Park grounds or parking lots. Guests who wish to smoke are welcome to have their hands stamped for same-day re-entry when leaving park grounds to smoke. Please keep your ticket! Safari Park guests should also keep their parking receipts to avoid having to pay twice for same-day parking when leaving the parking lot for and returning from smoke breaks.

Can my child enter the San Diego Safari Park without an adult?

Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult age 18+ to enter and throughout their visits to the parks.

Do I need to wear a facial covering to take a Tour or Safari?

Facial coverings are not required for visitors. However, due to the proximity of wildlife, some tours and safaris require all guests ages 2 and older to wear a facial covering during a portion of the experience.

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NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:         San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Public Relations 619-685-3291 [email protected] sdzwa.org

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Welcomes 250th California Condor Chick, a Significant Milestone for the Critically Endangered Species

Chick’s Father Is Xol-Xol, One of the Last 22 California Condors Alive in 1982 and the First Brought Into Human Care as Part of the Recovery Program

SAN DIEGO (April 11, 2024) – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has welcomed the 250th California condor to hatch at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The chick’s parents are Xol-Xol (pronounced “hole-hole”)—the first California condor brought into human care under the California Condor Recovery Program in 1982—and Mexwe (pronounced “mex-weh”). More than 40 years since the California condor population dropped to a low of just 22 birds, this milestone is a significant success.

Before hatching, the egg was placed in an incubator to be closely monitored by wildlife care team. Due to a suspected malposition, the egg was taken to Paul Harter Veterinary Medical Center for computed tomography (CT) imaging. After examining the results, the chick’s position was determined to not be of concern. The chick successfully pipped and was returned to Xol-Xol and Mexwe for hatching. The pair’s nest is equipped with infrared cameras, allowing the team to monitor the hatching process around the clock. The chick, whose sex is not yet determined, hatched in the early morning hours of March 16 with the assistance of its very attentive parents and is doing well under their care. It was given the name Emaay (pronounced “eh-my”), a Kumeyaay word for “sky.” Xol-Xol’s name means “one of the sky people” in Chumash.

“Reaching this milestone feels incredible,” said Nora Willis, senior wildlife care specialist, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “Seeing the success that the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has had—and the success of the California Condor Recovery Program as a whole—is really inspiring. There’s still a long way to go but being part of this and helping the species recover is life changing.”

Xol-Xol, one of the last 22 condors remaining in 1982, was rescued from the Sespe Condor Sanctuary at three months old after being neglected by his parents, who were still rearing a chick from the previous year. He made his home at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as the first California condor brought into human care under the California Condor Recovery Program. Xol-Xol has fathered 41 chicks since 1993, and many of those chicks have been reintroduced into their native habitat. Emaay is expected to join the native population in 2025.  

In 1982, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance was given permission to begin the first zoological propagation program for California condors. The program included the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the National Audubon Society, and the Los Angeles Zoo, among others. As a result of the innovative techniques developed by San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and many partners, the resurgence of the California condor is a conservation success story. Today there are more than 560 living California condors, with over half free flying. The California condor is listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as Critically Endangered, with populations increasing. Major threats to their survival include lead poisoning, habitat loss and emerging diseases.

At least 50 California condors now join the population annually, and 12 to 15 chicks hatch in their native habitat every year. Condors hatched in human care are introduced across five reintroduction sites in the United States: one in northern Arizona at the Vermillion Cliffs and four in California, including Ventana Wilderness in Big Sur, Pinnacles National Monument, Yurok Ancestral Territory and Redwood National Park, and the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge in the Los Padres National Forest. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and its partners in Mexico—Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas, Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales, Instituto Nacional de Ecología y Cambio Climático and Espacios Naturales y Desarrollo Sustentable A.C.—have been managing a long-term program to restore California condors at a sixth site in the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park in northern Baja California, Mexico, where condors lived until the mid-1950s.

About San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, a nonprofit conservation leader, inspires passion for nature and collaboration for a healthier world. The Alliance supports innovative conservation science through global partnerships. Through wildlife care, science expertise and collaboration, more than 44 endangered species have been reintroduced to native habitats. Annually, the Alliance reaches over 1 billion people, in person at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and virtually in 150 countries through media channels, including San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers television programming in children’s hospitals in 14 countries. Wildlife Allies—members, donors and guests—make success possible.

Link includes:

• B-roll of parents Xol-Xol and Mexwe tending to their chick Emaay
• B-roll of wildlife care specialists examining the egg before it hatched
• Photos and video from the CT scan of the California condor egg
• Video interview with wildlife care specialist at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Press release in English and Spanish
• San Diego Zoo Tickets
• Safari Park Tickets

San Diego Zoo Safari Park welcomes okapi calf to the herd

The as-yet-unnamed calf will be able to be viewed by safari park visitors daily starting in april in the safari park's african woods area, by eric s. page • published april 8, 2024 • updated on april 9, 2024 at 4:25 pm.

The number of okapis at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park increased by one recently with the birth of a male calf of the unique species nicknamed the "forest giraffe," it was announced Monday.

The as-yet-unnamed calf, which was born on Feb. 18, will be able to be viewed by safari park visitors daily starting in April in the safari park's African Woods area.

The calf was the first born to Mahameli (“Meli,” mother) and Mpangi (Mm-pong-ee, father). Zookeepers say the young buck nurses several times a day and "likes to run circles around his mom and even playfully kick her once in a while," the safari park said in a news release sent out on Monday. "He also started taste-testing the [vegetation in his habitat], following Meli’s lead."

The safari park and zoo now share a total of eight okapi between them: There are four males (Nanoki, Mpangi, Upepo and the calf) and one female (Mahameli) up at the safari park, while the zoo has Zuri & Toby, both males, and a single female (Subira). 

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A reclusive species rarely seen in the wild, Okapi are native to central Africa and were discovered by Europeans in 1901. Although often confused with a zebra due to the black and white striped patterns on its front and hind legs, the okapi is actually the closest living relative to the giraffe.

Various causes, including habitat destructing and hunting, threaten the wild okapi in its native Central Africa, but, fortunately, "one-fifth of the okapi habitat within Africa’s Ituri Forest was designated as a wildlife reserve [in 1992,]" the news release also stated. "And since okapis are an 'umbrella species,' by aiding in their conservation, we also contribute to the protection of other wildlife that coexist in their African habitat."

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• Publications

San Diego Zoo Safari Park welcomes 250th California condor chick

The birth of this chick is a huge milestone for this critically endangered species

Trent Townsend/stock.adobe.com

The San Diego Wildlife Alliance announced it welcomed Emaay, the 250th California condor chick at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Emaay’s name comes from the Kumeya word for sky. The mother is MexWe and the father is Xol-Xol, the first California condor brought into human care under the California Condor Recovery Program in 1982.

According to an organizational release, the egg was placed in an incubator before hatching to be monitored by the wildlife care team. 1 The team began to suspect malposition and brought the egg to the Paul Hater Veterinary Medical Center for a CT, which determined the chick’s position was not a concern. The chick successfully pipped and was brought back to the parents for hatching. The nest for the family is equipped with an infrared camera so the team can monitor the hatching process 24/7. The San Diego Wildlife Alliance welcomed Emaay in the early hours of March 16, and their gender has not been determined yet. Emaay is doing well under the care of their very attentive parents, according to the release.

"Reaching this milestone feels incredible," said Nora Willis, senior wildlife care specialist, at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, in the release. 1 "Seeing the success that the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has had—and the success of the California Condor Recovery Program as a whole—is inspiring. There's still a long way to go but being part of this and helping the species recover is life-changing."

The California condor egg receiving a CT at the Paul Hater Veterinary Medical Center (Image courtesy of San Diego Zoo Safari Park)

Xol-Xol was rescued from the Sespe Condor Sanctuary at 3 months old after being neglected by his parents. He was then brought to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, making him the first California condor to be brought into human care under the California Condor Recovery Program in 1982. Now, Xol-Xol fathered 41 chicks in 1993 and many have been reintroduced into their native habitat. In 2025, Emaay is expected to join the native population.

The San Diego Zoo has a long history of helping the California condor. In 1929, the zoo received its first California condor after a couple found it with a damaged wing in Ventura, California. 2 Although the bird had to have its wing amputated, it has been active and healthy for over 10 years The US Fish and Wild Service and the California Department of Fish and Game gave the San Diego Wildlife Alliance permission to begin the first zoological propagation program for these birds when there was only 22 left in the world.

In 1983, the San Diego Zoo received its first condor egg after it was moved from the wilderness into human care for artificial incubation. Sisquoc was then the first California Condor to ever hatch in a zoo on March 30, 1983. 2 Now at least 50 California condors have rejoined their native habitat with 12-15 condors hatched in the habitat every year. The condors hatched in human care are reintroduced in the United States across 5 reintroduction sites: 1 in northern Arizona at the Vermillion Cliffs and 4 in California, including Ventana Wilderness in Big Sur, Pinnacles National Monument, Yurok Ancestral Territory, and Redwood National Park, and the Bitter Creek National Wildlife Refuge in the Los Padres National Forest. 1

• San Diego Zoo Safari Park welcomes 250th California Condor Chick, a significant milestone for the critically endangered species. News release. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. April 11, 2024. Accessed April 16, 2024. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/san-diego-zoo-safari-park-welcomes-250th-california-condor-chick-a-significant-milestone-for-the-critically-endangered-species-302114577.html
• San Diego Zoo. California Condor. San Diego Zoo Animals & Plants. Sandiegozoo.org. Published 2011. https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/california-condor

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First human case of avian flu reported this year in the US

The case was confirmed in Texas and the person was in contact with cows. CDC says the risk for infection remains low.

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