Call it safari, zoo or wild animal park. None of those names convince me.
In my opinion, the San Diego Safari Park is a research and conservation facility open to the public. Of course, the words “conservation” and “research” are not that advertisement friendly. They need to use more catchy words to attract the public.
The truth is that this park is small (we traversed it in less than 5 hours) and the activities are limited to the type of ticket you buy (which can get really expensive if you add and add activities). The cheapest admission option includes a ride in a tram circling the “African plains”, animal exhibits (way less than in a respectable zoo) and some shows.
I have wanted to visit this place forever. I am not going to get into an argument to determine if this park is worth your money and time. If you are an animal lover (like me), you will have a relaxing and educational time for sure. Just do your research and determine if the place meets your expectations and budget.
For me there is nothing like seeing the funny walk of a giraffe, buffaloes scratching their necks against a palm tree and birds of prey demonstrating their hunting skills. Here are some other reasons why I respect the efforts of those working in the park:
- They have worked in breeding programs of over 30 species (they have reintroduced many to the wild and saved some from extinction).
- The park houses species which are critically endangered or extinct in the wild. This may be your only opportunity to see one of these animals.
- The habitats are clean and spacious.
- There are a lot of babies. That means the grownups are in good health.
- Some animals in the exhibits have been found injured in the wild. It is comforting to know that these animals have a safe place to call home.
- Employees share their knowledge openly. You come out with more knowledge about African and Asian animals (fascinating facts!).
And I am sure there are more reasons to like this place. Now what a promised, the pictures!
Hope you enjoy!
The Park
San Diego Safari Park Entrance
Hang Out Area
African Plains Seen From the Tram Safari
This is included with the cheapest ticket.
Masai Giraffe
Rhinos
Gemsboks (family of the oryx)
Scimitar Oryxes (considered extinct in the wild)
Somali Wild Ass (critically engangered)
Zebras (isolated because of their bully behavior)
Sable Antelope
Antelopes in a Water Hole
Animal Habitat
Giraffes (apparently one was giving birth)
Other Animal Exhibits
Meerkats
Baby gorilla
African elephants
Elephant habitat
Rodrigues Fruit Bat (critically endangered)
Lorikeets
Lion
Red and Green Macaw
Frequent Flyers Show
Black Crowned Crane (vulnerable) and trainer
Secretary Bird (vulnerable) showing his hunting skills
Owl
Hawk
Female Andean Condor, my favorite animal of the day, she was huge
Red River Hog
What do you think? Is this a place you would visit?
Great photos! Would definitely love to visit there! Just got back from South Africa and did a safari in Kruger.. would love to experience this too!
Debbie recently posted..GeoPlaces theme is now mobile ready
Ahhh, I would love to visit Kruger. I guess nothing compares to a real safari.
Ruth recently posted..How to Find Good Priced Accommodations
Yup! Great pics!
-Rich
Rich Polanco recently posted..How to Create and When to Launch Your First Product Online
Thanks, Rich.