🦒 A Day at San Diego’s Safari Park: Tips & Highlights

🦓  History & Background

Located in Escondido, about 35 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, the Safari Park opened in 1972 as an expansive space for animals that needed more room than the city zoo could provide. Originally called the Wild Animal Park, it was designed to mimic natural habitats and give animals the space to roam. Today, it covers 1,800 acres, with large, open-range enclosures where herds of giraffes, rhinos, antelope, and other species live together. The park has become a global leader in wildlife conservation, breeding endangered species such as California condors and white rhinos.

🔗  San Diego Zoo Safari Park website
🔗  San Diego Tourism website 

🦁  Highlights & What to See

• The Safari Park offers experiences unlike any other. Visitors can hop on the Africa Tram to glide past herds of animals in a savanna-like setting.
• Special tours like the Caravan Safari let you ride in open-air trucks, sometimes even feeding giraffes by hand. Families love the Lion Camp, Elephant Valley, and the new Walkabout Australia, home to kangaroos and wallabies.
• Bird lovers can explore the Lorikeet Landing, where colorful birds land right on your shoulder. Everywhere you turn, there’s a sense of adventure, as though you’re stepping into a different continent.

🦜  Best Tips & When to Visit

• This park is massive, so plan to spend most of the day here. Arrive early to enjoy the cooler morning hours when animals are most active.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as you’ll be walking long distances. The Africa Tram is included with admission, but special tours, such as the Caravan Safari or Flightline Safari (a zipline experience), require additional reservations — book those in advance.
• Spring is a wonderful time to visit when the hills are green and the weather is mild.

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☀️  Family & Solo Travel Notes

Families find the Safari Park thrilling because kids can get so close to animals in a way that feels like being on a real safari. Play areas and kid-friendly dining options make it easy to spend the entire day. For solo travelers, the park is equally rewarding, offering peaceful walking trails, photography opportunities, and the freedom to book immersive tours. Whether you’re watching cheetahs run at top speed or feeding a giraffe, the experience is unforgettable, no matter who you’re with.

🐃  Accessibility Info

• The Safari Park is very accessibility-friendly, although its large size means that some areas require more planning.
• Wheelchair and electric scooter rentals are available, and most paths are paved or hard-packed. The Africa Tram is wheelchair accessible, and accessible parking and restrooms are provided throughout the park.
• Guests with sensory sensitivities may want to bring headphones during busier hours, as some areas can become loud due to crowds or animal calls. With its wide-open design and inclusive services, the Safari Park ensures all guests can enjoy their wild adventure.