San Diego Safari Park: Photo Highlights

This article highlights the San Diego Safari Park.

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, 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 will meet your expectations.

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 species.
• 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 I promised, the pictures!

Hope you enjoy it!

The Park

African Plains Seen From the Tram Safari

This is included with the cheapest ticket.

Other Animal Exhibits

Frequent Flyers Show

Details

The San Diego Safari Park is located 32 miles from Downtown San Diego and 120 miles from Los Angeles.  The area is located within a reasonable distance from many spots in Southern California and makes a great day trip.

In terms of tickets, one-day passes start at $60 per adult and $50 per kid.  You can try to find discounted tickets at websites such as Groupon or TravelZoo. Also, you can get discounted tickets if you are a member of AAA or Costco.

Keep in mind there are other costs involved with visiting the park (parking, food, souvenirs, etc.)

I recommend making the most of your visit by planning your day beforehand.  You can do this by checking the map located on the park’s website, or downloading the park’s app.

If you are visiting the park, wear comfortable clothes and shoes.  You will spend a considerable amount of time on your feet or walking around.

Also, it is essential to go prepared for the harsh sun.  Wear sunblock, lip balm, a hat or cap, sunglasses, and, possibly, long sleeves.  The positive factor is that there are tons of shade areas to rest and relax.

More of San Diego

San Diego Bucket List

One Day in San Diego

Things to Do in Ocean Beach

Things to Do in North Park

Things to Do in Solana Beach

More of Southern California

Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List

150+ Places to Go in Orange County

200+ Places to Visit in Santa Barbara

Ventura County Bucket List

What are our thoughts about the San Diego Safari Park? Is this a place you would visit?