San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Giraffe at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

There is no other experience in the world than seeing these astounding animals up close and personal in their naturalistic habitats.

Whether you choose to go on a safari tour or tackle the Park on foot, there are several different exhibits to enjoy! Meander over to the Africa Tram that runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and take a free excursion through African grassland exhibits. Visiting the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is featured in the Unique Things to Do in San Diego.

After you take a ride on the complimentary tram, you can stroll on over to the Gorilla Trail, where you'll feast your eyes on a family of beautiful gorillas. This exhibit also hosts an activity center on the left side where your kids can see how they compare to the size of an adult gorilla.

This local San Diego gem also offers impressive amenities in addition to the splendid exhibits of animals. Need a break? No problem! Stop for some delicious food at any of the 17 places available. There is everything from burgers to snack stands!

Next, visit the Animal Ambassador stage where you'll have a chance to pet a large cat, a camel, and several other amazing animals that call the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, home.

San Diego Zoo Global is a non-profit agency that collaborates with over 300 partners to protect wildlife from extinction. They work in over 52 countries to observe and study these wondrous animals in the field.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park works to provide naturalistic habitats for these endangered animals and help to increase the population by breeding them.

The Wild Animal Park site has ways to donate or adopt an animal now if you want to help with the conservation efforts and continue to save these magnificent animals.

Little Kid in a Bamboo Forest at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

At Wildlife Park, there are plenty of activities for your kids to enjoy. This is a family-friendly attraction that provides some areas that were created with your kids in mind.

The Conservation Carousel

For just $6, your child can take unlimited rides on the conservation carousel that features 60 rare and endangered animals to ride. Choose between a rhino, zebra, cheetah, and more!

This carousel is located right inside of the Safari Base Camp. This is a relaxing ride for the whole family to enjoy.

Unique Play Areas

Throughout the Park, there are several play areas to stop and let your children play freely at:

• Savanna Cool Zone near Lion Camp
• Village Playground over by Nairobi Village
• Tiger Trail Play Area at Tiger Trail
• Samburu Jungle Gym near African Woods

Educational Opportunities for All

The Safari Park has even more educational opportunities than the San Diego Zoo. Teach your child about animal conservation and take the time to read the information at each exhibit.

Red River Hogs at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Take a Journey on a Caravan Safari

Enjoy a 1-hour private tour of the African Savanna habitats with an expert guide on this caravan safari. This safari will give you a closer view of the newest babies of the exhibits, and you may even get to feed a giraffe or two!

Prices for the caravan safari start at $399 and up, perfect for all members of the family from kids to seniors. This price includes up to 6 members per truck.

Ride the Sky on a Balloon Safari

Float above the entire Wildlife Park in a hot air balloon! Enjoy the unobstructed 360 views of the spectacular landscape as the balloons lift you high above the ground.

The balloon has safety wire, so it's safe for anyone! At $14 per person, this is a fantastic deal. Children under 3 are free to ride.

Swing Through the Trees on a Jungle Ropes Safari

If you're looking for an active safari expedition, this one's for you!

For $105 per person, you can walk among the highest branches of the trees in this 90-minute adventure! You'll climb and swing from one spot to the other using rope bridges, tightropes, swinging logs, and a slew of other exciting tools to maneuver through the treetops.

Jungle Ropes if for children seven years and older. The best thing to do is to reserve your time beforehand on the website so you can save money and choose your time.

Fly on a Flightline Safari

Flightline Safari is one of the world's longest continuous ziplines. This zipline extends over two-thirds of a mile over the Asian and African animal exhibits.

For $71 per person, you can experience the adrenaline-pumping action of flying 160 feet above this while animals, at over 50 miles an hour! But be careful, don't scream, or you'll cause the rhinos to stampede.

Do be aware that prices for the adventures above are subject to change so check before your visit directly with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for any price changes.

No matter the direction you are traveling from, you will end up on Ranchero Parkway. From there, you will see signs for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

To travel by public transportation, you will want to check in with the transit information service of San Diego since routes continuously change.

Parking Information

To park, it costs $15 per vehicle. Are you driving through California in an RV? The parking fees for you will cost $20. Preferred parking is also available for an additional $18. EV charging stations are available as well.

San Diego Safari Park Hours

The San Diego Safari Park is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout the week. The time of operation is subject to change. Please check with the park before heading out for your adventure!

Best times of year to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Since Safari Park has a desert-like climate, the animals are active year-round! The typical offseason is during wintertime if you want to beat the crowds. Although, you do risk more rain, and other attractions shut down, such as the hot air balloon due to possible inclement weather.

However, if you're wondering about the best time of day, the morning is best! The weather is cooler, and you can beat the crowds.

Bring Sunscreen and Hats

There isn't a lot of shade when you're out and about on safari's or walking between exhibits. Be sure to bring some sunscreen and a hat to stay protected from the sun.

Get the App!

The app is a lifesaver when you look for a way to plan your day at the San Diego Safari Park. The app features a map of the Park, so you know where you are at all times.

Also, the app has this notable feature where you can select the animals you want to see. From there, it will tell you which exhibits you need to go to, so you don't spend most of your day wandering around!