Go on safari at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Roar & Snore Safari Experience

Spend the night with the animals on a Roar & Snore Safari. Guests sleep in comfortable tent cabins with cots and heaters, allowing them to experience the animals' activity after dark and enjoy roasting s'mores around the campfire. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

For those wanting more of the San Diego Zoo experience, the Safari Park in Escondido is a great destination located about 35 miles north. The park showcases a variety of Africa's most cherished animals such as lions, elephants, and cheetahs roaming relatively freely. In addition to these, visitors can see meerkats, zebras, gorillas, and bald eagles, among others. True to its name, the park presents several safari options, including zip line safaris and wildlife safaris in open-air trucks.

Operated by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the Safari Park consistently receives high praise from animal enthusiasts who appreciate the chance to observe a diverse range of creatures. Visitors often commend the staff for their friendliness and extensive knowledge.

Hours of Operation

The zoo is open every day, typically from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though these hours extend to 7 or 8 p.m. during select times of the year. The Safari Park follows a similar schedule.

Ticket Prices

Single-day ticket prices for the zoo start at $76 for visitors aged 12 and up, and $66 for children aged 3 to 11. These tickets include admission to the zoo as well as a bus tour and the Skyfari Aerial Tram. The Safari Park tickets are priced similarly and include use of the Africa Tram within the park. Note that individual safari experiences incur additional costs.

There are package deals available that combine admission to both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, as well as options that include visits to SeaWorld San Diego.

Transportation to Safari Park

To reach the Safari Park, visitors will need to drive or take a taxi since there is no efficient public transportation between the zoo and the park.

For more information, please visit the park's website.