wildlife safari georgia

Now Open 7 Days a Week!

Atlanta Safari  Park

Feed the animals, general admission adults (13-64)- $15.99 seniors (65+)- $14.99 children (3-12)- $12.99 under 2 - free.

DRIVE THRU SAFARI

Adventure so close you can touch it.

Atlanta Safari Park has your ticket to FUN!

156 Acres filled with animals from all around the world!

2 miles of roads

Something for everyone to enjoy!

Plan your experience now!

WALK THRU VILLAGE

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Come Spend Spring Break on Safari!

Wild Animal Safari

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Wild Animal Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Thu 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Fri - Sat 10:00 AM - 7:30 PM
• (9.84 mi) Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lagrange, an IHG Hotel
• (8.73 mi) Home2 Suites by Hilton LaGrange
• (9.78 mi) Wingate by Wyndham LaGrange
• (9.74 mi) La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham LaGrange / I-85
• (4.90 mi) Chipley Murrah Bed & Breakfast
• (4.92 mi) EatZ On The Corner
• (3.70 mi) Carriage & Horses Restaurant
• (4.93 mi) Oyster House
• (5.63 mi) Moore's Whistling Pig Cafe
• (4.70 mi) Eddie Mae's Kountry Kitchen
• (6.01 mi) Callaway Resort & Gardens
• (9.35 mi) Roosevelt Stables
• (3.25 mi) The Fields Golf Club
• (7.95 mi) Pine Mountain Trail
• (6.05 mi) Callaway Resort & Gardens Golf

Georgia Safari Conservation Park

(706) 342-4296 1761 Monticello Hwy, Madison, GA 30650

Explore the wonders of Africa without leaving Georgia! Located just an hour east of Atlanta, the Georgia Safari Conservation Park transforms the heart of Georgia’s piedmont region into a breathtaking 530-acre savanna, creating an interactive and one-of-a-kind wildlife experience for the whole family.

Embark on a thrilling guided safari drive through the open savanna, where you’ll ride alongside free roaming exotic animals such as zebras, giraffes, rhinos, antelopes, bongos and more. Experience the excitement of getting closer than ever before to giraffes and rhinos during an “animal encounter” led by knowledgeable keepers. Throughout your visit, the park’s adorable animal ambassadors and fun guides will keep you engaged and entertained.

Beyond providing an immersive safari experience for visitors, Georgia Safari Conservation Park is dedicated to wildlife preservation, education, and creating meaningful animal engagements. With interactive exhibits and educational programs, you will leave not only with memories to last a lifetime but also with a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

The park offers three unique Safari Drive Through Experiences catering to individuals, families, and small groups, as well as exclusive VIP experiences accommodating up to eight people.

• Safari Drive-Through Experience: $39/person
• Safari Drive-Through Experience + Giraffe and Rhino Encounter: $125/person
• Private VIP Tour: $2500/group

Visit GeorgiaSafari.com to schedule a tour today.

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider booking a stay in one of the park’s luxurious accommodations, and fall asleep surrounded by the sounds of nature.

For the most up-to-date information on pricing and hours, please refer to GeorgiaSafari.com .

Safari Drive-Through Experience

This expert-led adventure mimics a real African game drive. Guests ride in a customized vehicle alongside herds of animals on the open savanna. It includes a 1-hour drive-thru safari and a 30-minute up-close animal encounter.

Price : $39 per person; children two years and younger are free.

Duration : 90 minutes

Safari Drive-Through Experience + Giraffe and Rhino Encounter

This package encompasses everything in the Safari Drive-Through Experience as well as an up-close giraffe and rhino encounter, which includes feeding and photo opportunities with a keeper in the giraffe and rhino barn.

Price : $125 per person; children two years and younger are free.

Duration : 150 minutes

Private VIP Tour

This exclusive three-hour adventure is designed to immerse a small group in the wonders of the animal kingdom. This experience includes a private, guided safari in a VIP safari vehicle, a private giraffe and rhino encounter with feeding and photo opportunities, a behind-the-scenes tour of the giraffe and rhino barn, a special extended animal encounter with an animal ambassador, and complimentary souvenirs.

Price : $2,500 for a group of up to 8 Duration : 180 minutes

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Strange LaGrange Walking Tour

Spinning 101 class, the full event calendar, where to stay, where to dine, wild animal safari.

• Animal Adventures
• Family-Friendly

Located just south of LaGrange in Pine Mountain, Georgia, Wild Animal Safari features an array of wildlife from all over the world. Get up close and personal with over 550 animals and 70 different species while driving through the 500-acre park. Load up the family on a rented zebra van or drive your personal vehicle on a winding trail through the park, while enjoying the encounters of numerous exotic animals.

When you purchase your tickets, you can also purchase bags of grass pellets for the animals. As you drive through the park, animals will flock to your vehicle with their appetites wide open. After finishing the drive-through portion of the park, discover more animals in a self-guided walk. This allows you to see birds, reptiles and other animals in a zoo-like setting.

SEASON BEST ENJOYED

Insider tips.

• Discount available for military personnel and their families
• These animals are wild, don't risk scratching your new wheels, rent a zebra van for the drive through portion of the park
• Purchase one bag of food per two people, it goes fast
• Great for small and large groups
• Food available at the park

LAGRANGE, GEORGIA

There’s a lot to explore in LaGrange, so we’ve curated these trip ideas and itineraries to help you plan an unforgettable getaway!

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Visit LaGrange, Inc. 206 Ridley Avenue • LaGrange, GA 30240

706-668-5555 [email protected]

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• Things to Do
• Park Hours & Directions
• Tickets and Passes
• Animal Encounters
• FAQs & Animal Gallery
• Special Events
• Zootube & Conservation
• Park Information
• Wild Animal Safari – Pine Mountain, Georgia
• Wild Animal Safari – Strafford/Springfield, Missouri
• Aggieland Safari, Bryan-College Station, Texas
• Investor Relations
• About Us & Employment

FAQs (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS) Wild Animal Safari – Pine Mountain™

Are you ready to meet new animal friends? Our team of Zookeepers and Staff is happy to welcome you and your party to the park. Below is a list of FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) that may be valuable to ensuring a great experience. Enjoy the Wild Animal Safari – Pine Mountain ™ !

Park Information Details

• 40 Minutes N of Columbus, GA • 65 Minutes SW of Atlanta Airport • 95 Minutes NE of Montgomery, AL • 2 ½ Hours SW of Athens, GA • 3 Hours S of Chattanooga, TN • 3 ½ Hours W of Agusta, GA • 3 ½ Hours N of Valdosta, GA • 4 ½ Hours NE of Savannah, GA

• Wild Animal Safari – Pine Mountain ™  is open daily 7 days a week at 10:00 AM. We have extended hours several weekends such as Spring Break, various holidays, and Summer months. Please check the park operating hours calendar when planning your visit. All Drive-Thru Safari guests must enter the park at least 1 hour prior to closing.  The park is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
• See the park operating calendar for daily park hours.

Zero. Parking is FREE.

• The last car is admitted into the Drive-Thru Safari one hour prior to closing. It is strongly recommended that you arrive at the park earlier in the day, so you have enough time to see everything your party wants to see. All guests must leave the park at closing. We recommend 3-4 hours to enjoy the whole park. • Refunds will not be provided under any circumstance for failure to allow enough time to complete both sections of the park before closing time.

• You may bring your wheelchair. See the ADA Park Information .
• Some areas of the Walkabout Adventure Zoo ™  are represented by gravel and natural dirt pathways like you would experience in the wild.

Yes. Wild Animal Safari ™ – Pine Mountain has a full indoor airconditioned restaurant serving the highest quality foods including 100% Sirloin Hamburgers, Chicken Tenderloins, 100% Beef Hebrew National Hot Dogs, Nacho Platters, Grilled Chicken Sandwiches, succulent Buffalo Wings, Fresh-made Pizza with par-baked crust, and Fresh made Salads. We serve Coca-Cola products, giant New York Style Pretzels, Churros, and hand-dipped ice cream.

Permitted Items

No. Only feed sold on-site may be used for feeding experiences. Failure to adhere to this rule will result in immediate eviction from the park with no refund. Please understand that we have a strict feeding policy to protect the health and safety of our animal residents. We thank you for following our feeding policy.

Smoking and vaping are NOT permitted on the park grounds or inside any building.  We do have designated smoking areas in and/or near the parking lot.

You may bring your own food and drinks to consume in the parking lot or designated picnic areas at the park outside the main building. Outside food cannot be brought into the Walkabout Adventure Zoo™ areas.  Private parties and groups may arrange to bring their own food on a situational basis.  If you, or a member of your group, have specific allergy concerns please call and speak to a customer service representative before your visit.

Yes. Wagons and/or strollers may also be available to rent at our ticket counter, subject to availability.

Yes, however, certain policies have been implemented to ensure the safety of our animals and your service animal. Please see the Service Animal policy .

Weather Protocols

The park will remain open, rain or shine, in most circumstances. In cases of severe weather, the park may elect to close all or portions of the park for the safety of our guests and animals. If the park closes early due to severe weather, snow, or ice, you will receive a raincheck to return another day.

Updates regarding a rare park closure are announced on our Facebook page and our website.

No, ticket sales are final. If the park closes early due to severe weather, snow or ice, you will receive a raincheck to return another day.

Tickets, Annual Passes, & Memberships

Tickets are valid for one year from the purchase date.  If you purchased your ticket(s) for a select day and are unable to attend, your ticket(s) will still be valid for use for one year.

Tickets may be presented at the gate either on printed paper or on a smartphone.

No. Our staff can look up your purchase on-site via the last name of the purchaser or by the confirmation number.

No, all ticket sales are final.

Annual Passes / Memberships are now sold both online and at the park.

• If you wish to purchase an Annual Pass on-site, you do not have to purchase a ticket in advance for entry. You will be immediately directed to our Ticket Counter to complete your purchase(s).
• If you already purchased a ticket for entry, you may apply the cost of that ticket toward the cost of an Annual Pass / Membership during your visit…we call this an upgrade. An upgrade must be completed on the same day as you used the original ticket.

Annual Passes / Memberships are for individual use only. Each member of the family who wishes to visit the park multiple times should purchase an Annual Pass / Membership.

No, each person must have their own Annual Pass / Membership.

Drive-Thru Safari

Our animals are free-range throughout the 250+ acres of pasture and woods. In most cases, animals will come near the cars for feed. However, these animals ARE NOT PETS, and their behavior is unpredictable.  In other words, they will follow their instincts. We cannot guarantee that all animals will come to the road during every visit. The joy of our Drive-Thru Wild Animal Safari ™  is that your experience will be different each time you visit the park.

• Yes, guests can enjoy the Drive-Thru Safari in their own vehicles.
• Tour Buses - Guests may opt to ride in one of the provided Tour Buses, which are operating at full capacity. Tour Buses are first come, first served, and depart once an hour, or once every 20- 30 minutes depending on the park attendance levels. There is no charge to ride the Tour Buses, however, they run seasonally, so please check our park operating calendar when planning your visit.
• Rental Vans – The park has rental vans for up to 6 and up to 12 passengers for rent. These are windowless vans you can drive versus using your own cars. Rental vans can frequently have a 30 min to 1 ½ hour waiting list. It is best to get to the park just prior to opening to put your name on the list. There is a small fee to rent the safari vans. Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have personal auto insurance.
• Guests typically will put their name on the van rental waiting list then proceed to enjoy the Walkabout Adventure Zoo ™ , have some snacks or lunch, prior to having the rental Van reservation available. Rental Vans have a shorter wait time on weekdays.

Only fully enclosed vehicles are permitted. Large RVs and buses are not permitted without prior authorization by the management team. The following vehicles are not allowed under any circumstance:

• Motorcycles
• Convertibles
• Open Top Jeeps
• Vehicles without Doors
• Tow behind trailers

No, riding in the bed of a pick-up truck or in the trunk of a car is not permitted. Hanging out of windows or sunroofs is also not allowed.

• The last car is admitted into the Drive-Thru Safari is one hour prior to park closing. It is strongly recommended that all guests arrive earlier to allow enough time to complete the Drive-Thru and Walkabout Adventure Zoo ™ . All guests must leave the park at the posted closing times. We recommend 3-4 hours to enjoy the whole park.
• Refunds will not be provided under any circumstance for failure to allow enough time to complete both sections of the park before closing time.

It can take anywhere from 1 hour to 2 hours, depending on the number of guests in the Drive-Thru, your speed and animal feeding preferences.

Yes. You may experience the Drive-Thru Safari as many times as you would like during your visit! Many guests enjoy the Drive-Thru first, then visit the Walkabout Adventure Zoo™, eat lunch while enjoying the nature and amenities of the park, and then return to the Drive-Thru Safari again before leaving for the day.

Animals are typically most active in the morning hours of 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, then again in the late afternoon from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.  Animals are typically less hungry in the afternoon.  Every visit is a different experience.

• Yes, the Drive-Thru Wild Animal Safari ™  feed is available for purchase at the Ticket Booth and Gift Shop upon arrival. ONLY THE PROVIDED FOOD MAY BE FED TO THE ANIMALS. PLEASE DO NOT BRING YOUR OWN FEED.
• All animals in the pastures that the roads travel through can be fed. There are other pastures and paddocks visible from the roads that do not allow public access. Guests ARE NOT permitted to exit their vehicles to feed these animals.
• We recommend throwing the park-provided animal feed to the ground in front of the animal in the Drive-Thru Safari. This will entice the animals to come close to your vehicle.  DO NOT hand feed the zebras, EMUs, or the ostrich.  These species may accidentally bite thinking your fingers are food.
• Feeding animals is optional and at your own risk.

No, these animals are not pets. For the safety of our guests, direct contact is prohibited.

No. As stated above, we cannot guarantee that all the animals will be on the road at all times of the day.  You can return to the Drive-Thru Safari as many times as you would like (before one hour prior to park closing) to finish your feed!

Walkabout Adventure Zoo TM

Our park has a large and diverse variety of animals on exhibit for you to enjoy. We also have various off-exhibit animals that may make brief appearances when appropriate. To promote exceptional animal husbandry and welfare, there may be times when certain animals are not on display.

The Walkabout Adventure Zoo ™  takes a minimum of one hour to complete. However, it often takes longer depending on your interests, feeding experience participation, and time spent reading the provided information about the individual animals. It all depends on the preferences of your party and where they would like to go.

Guests may enter the Walkabout Adventure Zoo ™  any time from park opening to park closing. However, all guests must exit the park by park closing. Refunds will not be provided for failure to allocate enough time to complete both sections of the park.

• Participating in Animal Feeding Experiences is elective and at your own risk.
• You may feed park-provided lettuce to the giraffes and Sulcata tortoises. Lettuce fed to the tortoises should be placed on the ground in front of them in lieu of feeding them by hand.  Tortoises may accidentally snap little fingers if you get too close.  Lettuce is available for purchase in the Gift Shop or at the ticket counter.
• You may feed the barnyard/farmyard animals small feed pellets from your hand provided that your hand is flat. Feed is available for purchase in the Gift Shop, at the ticket counter, or at coin-operated feeders in the Walkabout Adventure Zoo ™ .
• Feeding animals is at your own risk.
• No other animals in the park may be fed under any circumstances. The Walkabout Adventure Zoo ™  animals are not to be fed any feed from the Drive-Thru Safari.

Groups, Company Outings, and Schools Field Trips

• Yes, Wild Animal Safari ™   accommodates all types of groups, family reunions, birthday parties, company outings, bus tours, and school field trips.
• Complete the Group Contact Form on our website and a park Group Coordinator will contact you.
• Call the park and request to speak to a Group Coordinator.

Drive-Through Safari Gallery

• Walkabout Gallery

We have more safari park information posted throughout the site. As always, if you have more questions we are here to help. Contact us to learn more about our animal park.

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Aggieland Safari

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

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

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

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SAFARI PARK

Wild Georgia Safari Park

If you love spending time outdoors partaking in activities that can suit your entire family, you’ll simply love all that Wild Georgia Safari Park has to offer.

Wild Georgia Safari Park has become a favorite stop on I-16 for thousands of travelers. Stop by to visit our four-legged and feathered friends! 

Wild Georgia Safari Park is a year-round Petting Zoo and a Safari Adventure. At Wild Georgia Safari Park we feel incredibly lucky that we get to do what we love. We’d love for you to take part in the Wild Georgia Safari Park experience. For more information, get in touch!

Come Visit!

PETTING ZOO

7 Days a Week, Daylight til Dark

No Appointment Needed

SAFARI RIDES

Monday- Friday

By Appointment Only

Saturday-Sunday

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Please contact Leigh Anna at [email protected] for all school and church groups, summer camps, and groups of 20 or more.

Tons of Family Fun

Feed $1.00 / Bag

Pay inside Chevron for everything first.

Petting Zoo $5.00 / Person

Our Petting Zoo features domesticated farm animals that are docile enough to touch and feed. Picnic tables are available.

Safari Ride (add-on oNLY) $10.00 / Person

A Truly Wild Adventure. Your rugged safari vehicle is driven by an expert guide, who helps point out animals and shares fascinating facts during this extraordinary adventure that you and your family will remember for years to come.

We are proud to be members of Georgia Grown, and offer many products from other Georgia Grown members. We have a variety of jams and jellies, pecans, cheese straws, and more!

$19.99 or 2/$30

Toddler, Youth, and Adult Sizes Available

We offer several different varieties of fashionable hats. Come add one to your wardrobe today.

Metter Pecans

Toasted, Chocolate Covered, and Sandies: $5.99/bag

Raw Shelled: $10.99/lb

Altamaha River Trading Company Products

Pickled Quail Eggs, Pickled Veggies, Peaches, and Hats

wgsp Canned Produce

Pick up your favorite canned items from Wild Georgia Safari Park! We offer the BEST salsas, jams and jellies, pickled veggies, salad dressings, bar-b-que sauces, and more!

Seasonal Produce

Vidalia Onions

Boiled Peanuts

Fresh Green Boiled Peanuts

Everyone's favorite seasonal item! Available mid-March through September each year.

H & J BBQ Sauce

H&J's Original BBQ Sauce is a favorite of ours and many other visitors - there's a reason it has had a permanent space on our shelves for nearly 15 years!

Farmhouse Wines

Farmhouse Wines are made from muscadine grapes at Still Pond Vineyard located in Arlington, Georgia. The Cowart family has been producing wine for more than 45 years - they see the process through all themselves, from planting the seed to labeling the bottle!

Mama E's Cheese Straws

MaMa E's cheese straws are a staple around here, and if you've tried them, you understand!

3.5oz box: $6.99

7oz box: $11.99

Give Us A Call  & Order Now!

(912) 685-5577

Thin Crust or Original Crust

Toppings: Pepperoni, Italian Sausage, Beef, Bacon, Mushrooms, Onions, Bell Peppers, Black Olives, Banana Peppers, Jalapeno Peppers

1 Pizza $11.99

Each Additional Pizza $10.99

Double Cheese $2.19

Hamburgers & Cheeseburgers

Toppings Include:

Ketchup, Mustard, Mayonnaise, Onions, Jalapenos

Sausage Dogs

Toppings: Ketchup, Mustard, Mayonnaise, Fresh Local Vidalia Onions, Jalapenos

Traditional:  Hot 'n Spicy or Southern Style 

Wing Bites:  Buffalo or Home Style

Testimonials

Wild Georgia Safari Park is proud to serve our local community and host visitors for fun family events year round. We have lots of regular customers who only buy the freshest products from us, as well as one-time visitors who come here in order to spend a day with family and friends. Check out what our past customers have had to say about our park, and start planning your visit!

Love love it the animals are so sweet and so cute and you cannot beat the price ❤️  Will definitely be back anytime we are through!!!

Eliza Richardson

Come on Down to

Wild georgia safari park.

26127 GA HWY 57 South, Metter, GA 30439 • I-16 Exit 98

[email protected]

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Prices and hours, planning your visit to wildlife safari.

Escape on a wild African Safari Drive Through Adventure and get up close to Ostrich, Watusi cattle, Lions and Zebra. Venture through the homes of hippos and the land of the scimitar horned oryx. Your Safari journey will take you through Southern Africa where the Rhino and Giraffe rule. Carry on to interpretive wetlands, cleaning the local waters in reaffirmation of our commitment to the soil before venturing into the land of bears, bison and elk within the sprawling canyon forests of North America.

Take a trip past the incredibly inspiring African elephants and prepare to enter the land of emu, yak and white-naped cranes as your tour of the incredibly diverse wildlife of planet Earth continues on in Asia. Dare yourself to end your journey with a trip through a carnivore loop featuring Wildlife Safari’s top cheetah breeding grounds and ferocious Sumatran Tigers. All from the comfort of your own vehicle, rain or shine, year-round.

Free Village Keeper Talks & Presentations

Check out the Always Free Safari Village and be sure to join us for keeper chats throughout the day!

General Admission Prices

Adults: 23.95, children: 17.95, seniors: 20.95.

Children 2 & under are FREE

Wildlife Safari is a 610-acre Drive-Thru animal park. Driving your own vehicle, it takes about 1-1/2 hours to complete. You will receive a map of the park to enhance your experience and help identify animals with your admission. Group rates are available for groups of 12 or more which you can learn more about by inquiring with guest services at 541.679.6761 or [email protected].

Seasons & Hours

Open 363 days per year.

March – September Drive-Thru, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Last vehicle admitted at 6:00p.m.) Village & Gift Shop 9:00a.m. to 6:00p.m.

October Drive-Thru, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Last vehicle admitted at 5:00p.m.) Village & Gift Shop 9:00a.m. to 5:00p.m.

November – March Drive-Thru, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Last vehicle admitted at 4:00p.m.) Village & Gift Shop 9:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m. Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas

Eat at Safari

Safari village cafe hours:.

March – September 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Grill closes at 4:30 p.m.

The Snack Shack is open until 5:30 p.m

October 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Grill closes at 4:30 p.m.

November – March 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Grill closes at 3:30 p.m.

For the safety of our animals and yours, NO animals are allowed in the Safari Village nor the Wildlife Safari Drive Through. Wildlife Safari offers free onsite (unsupervised) kennels for pets, and sells locks for the kennels for a $5 fee at guest services, inside of the gift shop. It is recommended to bring a water bowl as well.

Drive Thru Rules & Restrictions

• Wildlife Safari is located in Winston, Oregon, just minutes off of I-5.
• Animal Enrichment Encounter tickets do not include drive-through admission, which is required to participate in Animal Enrichment Encounters.
• Be sure to check out the Always Free Safari Village .
• Mothers get in free on Mother’s Day, fathers get in free on Father’s Day, veterans get in free on Veteran’s Day.

Wildlife Safari gives you the opportunity to take a trip to Southern Oregon to escape on a wild African Safari and get up close to ostrich, Watusi cattle, lions and zebra. Venture through the homes of hippos and the land of the scimitar horned oryx. Your journey will take you through Southern Africa where the Rhino and Giraffe rule. Carry on to interpretive wetlands, cleaning the local waters in reaffirmation of our commitment to the soil before venturing into the land of bears, bison and elk within the sprawling canyon forests of North America. Take a trip past the awe-inspiring African elephants and prepare to enter the land of emu, yak and white naped cranes as your tour of the incredibly diverse wildlife of planet Earth continues on in Asia. Dare yourself to end your journey with a trip through a carnivore loop featuring Wildlife Safari’s top cheetah breeding grounds and ferocious Sumatran Tigers. At Wildlife Safari, adventure rules daily.

• While ticket and enrichment encounter payments are non-refundable, should you need to reschedule our guest services department would be happy to assist you with an alternate time or an upgraded encounter.
• Encounter times subject to change, please call ahead for availability.
• Tickets for drive through admission do not expire, and are valid until redeemed.
• Enter the Wildlife Safari Drive Thru Animal Park at your own risk.
• No Open Top Vehicles (Convertibles must have tops up at all times)
• No Motorcycles
• No pets are allowed in the Safari Drive-Through, nor in the Safari Village
• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Planning the Perfect Wildlife Safari Georgia Adventure: Exploring the Natural Beauty of the Peach State

Are you ready to explore the wild side of Georgia? Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast in search of adventure or a nature lover looking to take in the sights and sounds of the Peach State, taking a wildlife safari in Georgia is the ultimate way to experience the beauty of the natural world. From breathtaking landscapes to exotic fauna, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the wonder of Georgia’s wild.

Where to Go on a Wildlife Safari in Georgia?

When it comes to planning the perfect wildlife safari in Georgia, the possibilities are endless. From the coastal marshes of Savannah to the rugged peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia is home to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful natural landscapes in the world. Whether you are looking to explore the coastal wetlands of the Golden Isles or the foothills of the Appalachians in North Georgia, there’s a wealth of wildlife and adventure just waiting to be explored.

What to Expect on a Safari in Georgia?

No matter where you decide to go on your wildlife safari in Georgia, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From the chance to observe the graceful flight of bald eagles soaring through the sky to the opportunity to catch a glimpse of white-tailed deer in their natural habitat, there’s no shortage of amazing wildlife encounters to be had in Georgia.

In addition to wildlife spotting, many safaris also offer activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing . This is a great way to get up close and personal with nature as well as to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

How to Make the Most of Your Safari in Georgia?

When it comes to getting the most out of your wildlife safari in Georgia, the key is to be prepared. Before embarking on your adventure, make sure to do your research and plan your route in advance. This will help you make the most of your trip and ensure you have the best possible experience.

It’s also important to be aware of the safety precautions you should take while out in the wild. This means making sure you pack the right gear for the terrain, dressing appropriately for the weather, and always keeping a watchful eye out for any potential hazards.

Where to Book a Safari in Georgia?

When it comes to booking a wildlife safari in Georgia, there are plenty of companies offering guided tours of the Peach State’s diverse terrain. Adventure Georgia is one such company, offering a wide range of incredible safaris that take in all the highlights of the state. What’s more, they offer a range of packages to suit all budgets and preferences, so you can be sure to find the perfect safari to suit you.

Taking a wildlife safari in Georgia is the perfect way to get back to nature and explore the breathtaking beauty of the Peach State. From breathtaking landscapes to exotic wildlife, a safari in Georgia is an experience that’ll stay with you for years to come. Whether you’re looking to take in the sights and sounds of the coastal marshlands or hoping to catch a glimpse of white-tailed deer in their natural habitat, there’s something for everyone in the wilds of Georgia. So why not plan your perfect wildlife safari today and start your journey into the natural wonders of the Peach State?

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Georgia Safari Conservation Park

A Community of Conservation

From its commitment to sustainability to its organizational partnerships, the Georgia Safari Conservation Park is dedicated to fostering an ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation and stewardship. The Park was developed to encourage responsible tourism practices while building a regional zoological culture dedicated to the conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife. Our overarching goal is to foster a greater appreciation, understanding, and connection to the natural world for our visitors.

We are proud to be a sustaining partner for The Georgia Zoological Society, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to save wildlife and their natural habitats through conservation, education, and creating meaningful animal engagements aimed at inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders.  Through a multifaceted approach that includes annual financial and in-kind donations, administrative support, the use of park grounds, and access to our education programming, we support their mission and strive to significantly contribute to their efforts.

Our Animal Wish List

Calling all animal lovers!  You can make a difference for animals under human care by checking out our Animal Wish List.  It's a treasure trove of goodies that can bring joy and enrichment to the lives of our animals.  From puzzle feeders that challenge their minds to interactive toys that keep them active and entertained, the Animal Wish List has something for every creature great and small.  It's like picking out the perfect gift for your favorite animal buddy but with the bonus of knowing you're directly contributing to their well-being. Together, we can ensure that our animal friends are showered with love and all the enrichment they deserve.

Our Community

At the Georgia Safari Conservation Park, we're not just passionate about wildlife and conservation; we're also dedicated to making a positive impact in our local community!  We believe in the power of partnerships and the importance of giving back to those who need it most.  We are committed to supporting youth programs through organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of America and Camp Twin Lakes, and serving our seniors in nursing and assisted living communities. Our goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities or background, can experience the thrill of encountering the incredible animals in our Park.

We believe that by instilling compassion, respect, and a sense of responsibility, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of people and animals that will reverberate far beyond the boundaries of our Park.

Our Partners

Our commitment to conservation extends far beyond the borders of our Park.  We will support local, regional, and international conservation efforts by partnering with reputable conservation organizations locally and abroad. Through these collaborations, we will help protect endangered species, contribute to critical research, support conservation education initiatives, and more.

Manatee Conservation in Georgia

Introduction

West Indian manatees ( Trichechus manatus ) live in marine, brackish, and freshwater systems in coastal and riverine areas through their range. Habitats in Georgia include nearshore ocean waters, tidal creeks, estuaries, and the lower reaches of the St. Mary’s, Satilla, Altamaha, Ogeechee, and Savannah Rivers. They feed along salt marsh salt marsh Salt marshes are found in tidal areas near the coast, where freshwater mixes with saltwater. Learn more about salt marsh margins with access to deep water channels, where they flee when threatened. 

During the summer, manatees expand their range, and on rare occasions are seen as far north as Massachusetts on the Atlantic coast and as far west as Texas on the Gulf coast. Manatees may travel hundreds of miles during a year’s time, preferring to travel along channels and shorelines. Manatees are most frequently sighted in Georgia waters from April through October in tidal waters of Camden, Glynn, and McIntosh counties.

However, they cannot tolerate temperatures below 68 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods of time, and during the winter months, these cold temperatures keep the population concentrated in peninsular Florida. Many manatees rely on the warm water from power plant outfalls to extend their time in Georgia as the temperatures begin to drop.

Manatee Determination Keys

Projects in Georgia that are permitted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Savannah District are reviewed for potential impacts to the West Indian Manatee using the Effects Determination Guidance for Endangered and Threatened Species (EDGES). This guidance is based on a programmatic agreement between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Savannah District and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Georgia Ecological Services Field Office. The EDGES guidance are publicly available on our website. A Determination Key will soon be available on the Information for Planning and Consultation ( IPaC IPaC Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) is a project planning tool that streamlines the USFWS environmental review process Learn more about IPaC ) system for project managers to use.

Special Permit Conditions for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Projects

The Special Permit Conditions for the West Indian Manatee apply to to the construction, modification, maintenance and use of single and multi-family private recreational docks (conditions A through J) and private community docks and commercial marinas (conditions A through P). Although the Special Permit Conditions were written primarily with dock and marina projects in mind, they can be appropriate for other types of projects that are permitted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Savannah District.

A. The permittee shall ensure that all personnel associated with construction of the authorized dock facility are informed of the civil and criminal penalties for harming, harassing or killing manatees, which are protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA) and the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972. The permittee and the permittee's contractor(s) will be held responsible for any manatee harmed, harassed or killed as a result of construction activities.

B. The use of siltation barriers in waters of the United States, below the high tide line, is not allowed in association with the construction of the authorized dock facility.

C. All vessels associated with project construction shall operate at "no wake/idle" speeds at all times while in the project area. All vessels will follow routes of deep water when entering or exiting the project area, and while operating in the project area, whenever possible. For the purposes of compliance with manatee conditions, the project area is defined as all areas of shoreline, marsh and open waters within 100 feet of the outermost perimeter of the authorized dock facility.

D. All contractors and other on-site personnel are responsible for observing for the presence of manatees in or near the project area. All in-water construction activities shall cease upon sighting of a manatee within 50 feet of any ongoing work in the marsh or open waters. Activities will not resume until the manatee(s) has moved beyond the 50-foot radius of the project operation, or until 30 minutes elapses if the manatee(s) has not reappeared within 50 feet of the operation. Animals must not be herded away or harassed into leaving.

E. Extreme care shall be taken when lowering equipment and materials below the water surface and/or to the water bottom. Equipment and materials include, but are not limited to: piles; sheet piles; casings for drilled shaft construction; spuds; pile templates; and anchors.  All such equipment/material shall be lowered as slow as possible, to avoid injury to any manatee that may have entered the project area undetected.

F. In the event of injury to or mortality of a manatee in the project area, the permittee or contractor shall immediately notify the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (Georgia DNR) at 912-264 -7218, or 1-800-272-8363 (weekdays between 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), or 1-800-241-4113 (nights and weekends). Within one hour of a manatee injury or mortality the permittee or contractor shall notify the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) at 1-800-448-2402 and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Georgia Ecological Services Field Office at [email protected] . Any dead manatee found in the project area shall be secured to a stable object to prevent the carcass from moving with the current. In the event of a manatee injury or mortality, all open water construction activity shall cease pending completion of consultation between the Corps and FWS, pursuant to Section 7 of the ESA.

G. The permittee shall ensure that the contractor keeps a log of sightings, collisions or injury to manatees that occur during construction of the dock facility.

H. Within 30 days of project completion, the permittee shall submit a report summarizing manatee sightings or incidents that occurred during project construction, to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at [email protected] or 4980 Wildlife Drive NE, Townsend, Georgia 31331. Submission of a negative report is not required.

I. All temporary or unused construction materials shall be removed from the project area upon completion of the work, and any impacted area of salt marsh shall be restored. No construction debris or trash is to be discarded in project area.

J. The permittee shall regularly inspect and maintain all hoses, faucets, and other potential sources of freshwater, to ensure that any freshwater leak is stopped and immediately repaired. Manatees are attracted to freshwater leaking from dock facilities, where boats are concentrated and there is an increased risk for manatee collisions.

K. Prior to initiating authorized construction activities, the permittee shall contact Georgia DNR at 912-264-7218 for assistance with development of temporary manatee awareness sign plan for the project area. The plan will include the types and number of signs; and locations where signs will be installed to be prominently visible to contractors entering the project area from uplands and from the water. The permittee shall install temporary manatee awareness signs in accordance with the Georgia DNR approved plan. See attached Appendix A for information about the size and appearance of temporary manatee awareness signs. Within 30 days of project completion, the permittee shall remove all temporary manatee signs.

L. Once construction activities are completed, and prior to use of the facility, the permittee shall contact Georgia DNR at 912-264-7218 for assistance with development of permanent manatee awareness sign plan. The plan will include the types and number of signs; and locations where signs will be installed to be prominently visible to all facility users entering the project area from uplands and from the water. The permittee shall install permanent manatee awareness signs in accordance with the Georgia DNR approved plan. See attached Appendix A for information about the size and appearance of permanent manatee awareness signs.

M. Within 30 days of installation, the permittee shall submit a notarized letter to the Corps confirming that required permanent manatee signs have been installed in compliance with the Georgia DNR approved plan. The permittee shall maintain all permanent manatee signs in a clearly visible condition for the life of the facility.

N. The permittee shall utilize the Georgia DNR video "Georgia Wildlife - Sharing the Coast - Manatee" as a manatee education awareness program. This video program focuses on educating boaters on manatee biology, how watercraft can adversely affect the manatee, and detail actions that boaters can take to avoid impacts to the manatee. The permittee shall insure that all boat operators view this video before using the permitted facility. The permittee shall continue a manatee education awareness program for the life of the facility. The permittee may develop and use a comparable manatee education awareness program upon approval by the Corps, FWS, and Georgia DNR.

O. After project completion, the permittee shall identify the individual, facility operator or homeowner's association representative to be responsible for reporting manatee sightings, boat strikes or other manatee concerns to the FWS and Georgia DNR. 

P. For facilities with oil/gas pumps and/or sewage pump-out equipment, the permittee shall develop and maintain spill contingency plans in accordance with the requirements of the Georgia DNR, Coastal Resources Division.

Guidance on Educational Signs

Permittees are required to post educational signs to offset adverse impacts to manatees associated with in-water construction work and increased boat traffic. Signs must be large enough and placed in areas for maximum visibility to personnel and visitors. They should be constructed with durable materials. They should be updated when faded, damaged, or outdated. Appendix A of the EDGES Guidance for the West Indian Manatee provides specifications on sign content, placement, and potential vendors. Please note that this list is not regularly updated. It is the responsibility of the permittee to obtain all appropriate temporary and permanent signs for a site.

Educational Resources

West Indian Manatee FWS Species Profile ( https://www.fws.gov/species/manatee-trichechus-manatus )

West Indian Manatee FWS Environmental Conservation Online System (ECOS) Species Profile ( https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp/species/4469 )

Georgia Department of Natural Resources West Indian Manatee Species Profile ( https://georgiabiodiversity.org/portal/profile?group=all&es_id=18397 )

Georgia Department of Natural Resources Manatee Recovery Website ( https://georgiawildlife.com/conservation/manatee )

Georgia Department of Natural Resources "Sharing the Coast - Manatees" YouTube Video ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whD8KX4PBNA )

Georgia Department of Natural Resources "Manatee Rescue in Savannah" YouTube Video ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqVVUbzFcbQ )

"It takes a Village to Save Manatees" FWS Story ( https://www.fws.gov/story/2023-05/it-takes-village-save-manatees )

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A safari through Botswana’s wildlife wonder

V eins of deep blue and algae green water intersect around parched islands, stretching as far as the eye can see like a complex train map. As we fly deeper into the heart of the Okavango Delta, the vast volume of water engulfs all but the highest points of land. This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 22,000 square kilometres in peak floods.

Within minutes of taking off from Maun, the tourism capital of Botswana, I’ve already spotted elephants, hippos, zebras, buffalos and giraffes from the plane window. Having contorted by body into one of only 12 seats aboard, it’s a thrilling start to my weeklong air-hopping safari. 

The first stop is Vumbura Plains Camp in the eastern panhandle, ideally located for year-round, water-based activities. Within hours of arriving in Botswana, I’m skimming across the spillways in a traditional dugout canoe. The mokoro gets you stealthily close to the minutia of the delta. It takes remarkable balance as my poler stands and propels us with a long bamboo pole. Wary of the danger of a hippo torpedo, I’m assured the shallow waterway has been scouted.

Switching pace, we swap for a speedboat and now the company of hippos is very welcome. Skipper Masco whips through a maze of towering papyrus reeds, riding the channels of trampled hippo highways. Bugs sandblast my face and a few are swallowed as I grin wildly on a ride crossed between a go-kart and waterslide.

As the fiery globe of the sun sinks to the horizon, we stop in a lagoon painted in perfect duplication of the sunset. Hollow grunting calls of the stirring hippos and the woodwind chime of frogs is the ideal twilight soundtrack. Masco cautiously navigates us home; dodging hippo heads bobbing up and down like a reverse game of whack-a-mole.

Another short flight delivers me to the private 311,353-acre Linyanti Wildlife Reserve on the border of Namibia. This corner of Botswana is home to Africa’s largest population of elephants, and Little DumaTau waterfront camp is ideally positioned to catch the most mesmerising show – the swimming elephant. My safari mode is a pimped-out brunch barge floating along the Osprey Lagoon with a mimosa in hand. I sip as an elephant herd appears one by one. 

The growing congregation frolics by the water edge, blowing bubbles through their trunks like a straw and hosing down their parched crinkled skin. The procession of 30 elephants sounds like the thunder of a waterfall as the log-like legs drag through the water. As the lagoon deepens, the body mass that labours on land in a rocking horse motion now gracefully glides with just the forehead and trunk snorkel staying dry. 

Keen to burn a few calories, my guide Kitso suggests a walking safari. Armed with a rifle and only the cover of the odd termite mound, he leads the way on high alert to every movement and nature call. Honing my tracking skills, it’s an up-close lesson in identifying animal prints and, most importantly, how recently they’d been left. I soon discovered even poo reveals a lot, based on its contents, shape, and location.

Back in the relative safety of an open-air jeep, I witness a circle-of-life lion brunch. An imposing male lion feasts on an infant elephant carcass, his stomach distending before our eyes. The lion pants then takes a micro nap, building energy for one more bite. We are just two metres from this documentary-worth spectacle. 

This encounter demonstrates why many consider Botswana the best place to go on safari. The country’s tourism model is simple: high value, low impact. The camps are premium and accommodate a few tourists; the reserves are privately operated, many in partnership with the surrounding communities; and sustainable tourism isn’t just a buzzword. There are no other jeeps sharing this experience and there’s no time limit on when I must leave.

The unique ecosystems within Botswana offer wildly diverse landscapes and wildlife experiences. So far, my safari has included plane, jeep, foot and assorted boat, and now I’m adding plunge pool at Mombo camp. Aptly known as ‘Place of Plenty’, it’s where the animals come to you. Located on Chief’s Island, the largest island in the heart of Okavango Delta, each of eight luxury tents overlooks a dry floodplain dotted with scarce waterholes.

From the vantage of my private pool, the bush TV keeps me entertained with grazing zebras, elephants painting themselves with cooling mud, warthog families scurrying by, and a broad-shouldered eagle catching a snake in a flurry of wings and swallowing it whole.

An ideal respite from the afternoon heat is Mombo’s new walk-in wine cellar, an impressive circular display of 2000 bottles. Managed by Botswana’s first and only sommelier, Alfred, I swiftly add wine safari to my list.

I’m like a kid in a candy store, and Alfred is equally excited to host a private tasting of seven very agreeable wines. The pinnacle is a bottle of the 2019 Sadie Family Palladius, a sublime blend of grapes from 17 vineyards in Swartland, South Africa. It’s very special and, in Alfred’s words, “A special occasion is the day I open it.” It’s an occasion I won’t soon forget.

The post A safari through Botswana’s wildlife wonder appeared first on The Australian Women's Weekly .