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San Diego Zoo & Safari Park Discounts & Coupons

LAST UPDATE: 5/20/24

The world-renowned San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are on opposite ends of San Diego County but are both operated by the San Diego Zoological Society.

There are many promotions that can save you money on your visit to the Zoo or Safari Park. Check below for the latest San Diego Zoo discounts and  San Diego Zoo Safari Park discounts .

If you need tickets to the San Diego Zoo or the Safari Park and other Southern California attractions , it’s worth checking out the available multi-attraction ticket discounts under both attractions to see if they can save you extra money. Be sure to compare the final cost of a multi-park pass to the combined cost of the individual tickets; the best deal varies depending on the specific attractions and the discounts that are currently available.

All offers are subject to change without notice. Always call ahead and confirm before driving out of your way to take advantage of a particular offer! 

San Diego Zoo Gate Prices

San diego zoo ticket discounts.

• Discounts on Multi-Attraction Tickets that include the San Diego Zoo

Hotels near San Diego Zoo

• San Diego Zoo Safari Park Gate Prices
• San Diego Zoo Safari Park Ticket Discounts
• Discounts on Multi-Attraction Tickets that include the Safari Park

Please note: San Diego Zoo charges a $2.00 fee per ticket for online orders.

1-Day “Any Day” Pass is $72 per adult (age 12 and up) and $62 per child (age 3-11), if purchased online in advance. It includes admission plus unlimited use of the Guided Bus Tour, Kangaroo Express Bus and Skyfari Aerial tram (if available). 

1-Day “Value Days” Pass is $68 per adult (age 12 and up) and $58 per child (age 3-11), if purchased online in advance. It includes admission on Value Days (blackout days include weekends, late March/early April and most holidays), plus unlimited use of the Guided Bus Tour, Kangaroo Express Bus and Skyfari Aerial tram (if available). 

1-Day “Any Day” Pass Plus is $79 per adult (age 12 and up) and $69 per child (age 3-11), if purchased online in advance. It includes all features of Any Day Pass, plus admission to 4D Theater Experience. 

1-Day “Value Days” Pass Plus is $75 per adult (age 12 and up) and $65 per child (age 3-11), if purchased online in advance. It includes all features of Value Days Pass ( see above ), plus admission to 4D Theater Experience.

2-Visit Pass is $124 per adult (age 12 and up) and $114 per child (age 3-11) and includes two 1-Day Passes that can be used at the San Diego Zoo and/or San Diego Safari Park.

San Diego 3-for-1 Pass is $199 per adult (age 10 and up) and $189 per child (age 3-9) and includes one admission to each of San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari and SeaWorld San Diego. Must be used by the same person within seven consecutive days from the first visit.

San Diego Resident Membership , valid only for those who live in San Diego County, is $99 per adult (age 18-64) and $89.10 per Senior (age 65+). Includes limited weekday admission with blockout dates to the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park for one full year (excluding weekends and holidays); 2 coupons for 50% off regular admission to either park; 5% off food and merchandise and other benefits.

San Diego Resident Premium Membership , valid only for those who live in San Diego County, is $129 per adult (age 18-64) and $116.10 per Senior (age 65+). Includes unlimited admission to the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park for one full year; 2 coupons for 50% off regular admission to either park; 5% off food and merchandise and other benefits. 

Wildlife Protector Membership is $149 per adult (age 18-64) and $134.10 per Senior (age 65+). Includes limited admission with blockout dates to the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park for one full year; 1 FREE guest pass; FREE parking at the Safari Park; special early hours; 2 coupons for 50% off regular admission to either park; 10% off food and merchandise and other benefits.

Wildlife Protector Premium Membership is $169 per adult (age 18-64) and $152.10 per Senior (age 65+). Includes unlimited admission to the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park for one full year; 1 FREE guest pass; FREE parking at the Safari Park; special early hours; 2 coupons for 50% off regular admission to either park; 10% off food and merchandise and other benefits. 

Wildlife Explorer Youth Membership is $74 per child (age 3-17). Includes unlimited admission to the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park for one full year.

Additional levels of membership are available, see their website for details.

Parking at the Zoo is free.

Discount Tickets from Undercover Tourist

Aaa ticket discounts, costco ticket discounts, senior ticket discounts.

• Airline /Cruise Line Employee Ticket Discounts

Military – FREE Tickets & Discounts

October is kids free days, san diego zoo ticket discounts from undercover tourist.

Undercover Tourist, a great ticket vendor we’ve recommended for many years, offers significant discounts on San Diego Zoo tickets and tickets for other California and Florida attractions. We really like Undercover Tourist because they constantly strive to have both the best prices and best customer service in the business. That’s a tall order, but we have years of experience and feedback from our readers that tells us they really deliver!

• Get great deals on San Diego Zoo tickets and other attraction tickets from Undercover Tourist!

Exclusive Discounts for MouseSavers Newsletter Subscribers

Undercover Tourist offers its best prices to subscribers to the FREE MouseSavers Newsletter and Hot Deals announcements! By using the exclusive link located in every monthly MouseSavers Newsletter, you always get an extra discount on most tickets, and the lowest prices Undercover Tourist offers, across the board! In addition, Undercover Tourist puts a handful of individual tickets on sale every month, and those tickets are offered only to Hot Deals subscribers! (It’s a different set of tickets every month, and can include any combination of Disneyland, Walt Disney World and/or other California or Florida attractions.) The MouseSavers Newsletter and the Hot Deals emails also contain exclusive hotel and other discounts not found anywhere else. Remember, it’s completely FREE.

• Sign up today for the FREE MouseSavers Newsletter and optional FREE Hot Deals emails!   The main newsletter comes out on the 15th of each month (or the next business day) and the Hot Deals announcement with the special Undercover Tourist sale prices comes out on the final Monday of each month (or the next business day). We do not send out the private links separately from the newsletters, so please plan ahead.

AAA is a loosely associated group of clubs that each cover a small geographical area, usually a single state or portion of a state. Different clubs have different offers, so it’s worth checking both your own AAA state club and the Southern California AAA club websites. To check your own state club, just go to AAA.com and you will be redirected (usually) to your local club. If you haven’t yet set up your online access, you’ll sometimes need to do that to see your local club’s discounts.

To check the Southern California site, use this link and enter zip code 92112. Once you get to the club home page, select the “Discounts & Rewards” tab and then select “Theme parks & attractions.” If a particular discount on the Southern California site involves booking online through the club site, you will usually need to be a Southern California member. Discounts that involve showing your card at the gate are available to any AAA member. If you can get to a Southern California AAA club office, you can usually take advantage of offers that must be bought in person, even if you’re a member of a different AAA club.

AAA members get 10% off a 1-Day Pass, and sometimes discounts on other things such as food or merchandise.

Costco.com sometimes offers a very good discount on San Diego Zoo tickets and you don’t have to be a Costco member to buy through their site. (Non-members pay a 5% surcharge, however.) There is a shipping charge when ordering from Costco.com.

Seniors (65 and older) get 15% off a 1-Day Pass. Available at the ticket booth only (not in advance).

Airline / Cruise Line Employee Ticket Discounts

Airline and cruise line employees presenting a company-picture identification badge or CLIA at the ticket windows receive a 10% discount off the 1-Day Pass.

Active duty military personnel with valid military ID card receive FREE regular admission. Spouses and dependents receive 10% discount on 1-Day Pass only. Valid military ID required. Available at the ticket booth only (not in advance).

Children ages 3-11 receive FREE regular admission to the Zoo during the entire month of October (must be accompanied by a paying adult). The Zoo’s Guided Bus Tour is not included with Kids’ Free entrance and must be purchased separately at the Zoo.

Discounts on Multi-Attraction Passes that include the San Diego Zoo

If you know you want to visit other attractions as well as San Diego Zoo, there are a number of discount pass options available that can save you a lot of money, and eliminate the hassle of buying all of your tickets individually. We’ve scouted out some of the best discounts you can find from reputable companies and describe them here. For more details and pricing, just select the pass name.

Go City San Diego All-Inclusive Pass

Balboa park multi-day explorer pass.

Go City San Diego All-Inclusive Pass allows you to visit as many attractions as you want within a set number of days (usually 3 to 7 days). You pay one discount price for the number of days you choose, and can save up to 40% off gate prices with some planning! These work well if you are visiting at least two major attractions plus some less expensive attractions. The more attractions you visit, the more you save.

Go City San Diego Pass : If you want to fit in as much as you can in 1 to 7-days using one simple pass for one price, consider this all-inclusive pass. This pass includes the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park , Legoland California ,  SeaWorld San Diego on 3+ day cards,  Knott’s Berry Farm , plus multiple other attractions in the San Diego area. Plus, MouseSavers readers get an extra 5% off total pass purchases!

If you also plan to visit Balboa Park, consider the Balboa Park Multi-Day Explorer Pass , which includes one admission to each of the 17 participating Balboa Park museums (valid for 7 consecutive days) and 1-day admission to the San Diego Zoo.

Looking for a place to stay near the San Diego Zoo ? Choices are plentiful in the San Diego area near the San Diego Zoo, and getting around San Diego is fairly easy by car. If you don’t have a place in mind, we suggest checking out the hotels below. Our recommendations are not the cheapest places you can find– there are plenty of those out there– but we feel they offer a very good value for your dollar. As with our Preferred Hotels for Walt Disney World (Florida) , we suggest accommodations that will enhance your stay while not breaking the bank. That said, if you are used to Orlando area pricing, you will be in for some sticker shock. Low rates for decent but average hotels start at around $80-$120/night, mid-range hotels start at around $120 and can run upwards to $275/night or higher in peak seasons.

The San Diego Zoo is located at 2920 Zoo Drive in Balboa Park, just north of downtown San Diego. Zip code is 92101.

If you don’t know where to start, we suggest checking out:

• Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown – 1.2 miles from the Zoo, 15 minute walk to USS Midway Museum; historic hotel with contemporary amenities.
• Hilton Garden Inn Downtown – easy walking distance to the Zoo and one block from the bay, new property with interior courtyards and heated rooftop pool. Note: self parking is not available – valet only.
• Best Western Cabrillo Garden Inn – Good value option if you are on a tight budget. Great location, exterior corridor style hotel, includes free continental breakfast.

Hotel Websites

Sometimes the best offers are directly through the hotels’ own websites, and if you are a member of a specific loyalty program, you probably want to search across all of that hotel company’s brands. For example, Hilton owns DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Waldorf Astoria, etc. Here are links to the overall parent company websites where you can search their whole portfolio– use Balboa Park, San Diego, California to find hotels closest to the San Diego Zoo:

• Hilton Hotels (DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Hampton, Homewood Suites)
• Marriott Hotels (Westin, Sheraton, Four Points by Sheraton, Courtyard, Fairfield, Residence Inn, SpringHill Suites, TownePlace Suites)
• Intercontinental Hotel Group (IHG)  (Candlewood Suites, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites)
• Choice Hotels (Clarion, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites)
• Wyndham Hotel Group (Howard Johnson, Ramada, Super 8, Travelodge)

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Regular Gate Prices

Please note: San Diego Zoo Safari Park charges a $2.00 fee per ticket for online orders.

1-Day “Any Day” Pass is $72 per adult (age 12 and up) and $62 per child (age 3-11), if purchased online in advance. It includes admission plus the Africa Tram. 

1-Day “Value Days” Pass is $68 per adult (age 12 and up) and $58 per child (age 3-11), if purchased online in advance. It includes admission on Value Days (blackout days include weekends, late March/early April and most holidays), plus the Africa Tram. 

Parking is $20 per vehicle; RV parking starts at $38. Preferred parking (available on weekends and holidays) starts at $38.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Admission Discounts

San diego zoo safari park ticket discounts from undercover tourist.

Undercover Tourist, a great ticket vendor we’ve recommended for many years, offers significant discounts on San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets and tickets for other California and Florida attractions. We really like Undercover Tourist because they constantly strive to have both the best prices and best customer service in the business. That’s a tall order, but we have years of experience and feedback from our readers that tells us they really deliver!

• Get great deals on San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets and other attraction tickets from Undercover Tourist!

Costco.com sometimes offers a very good discount on San Diego Zoo Safari Park discount tickets and you don’t have to be a Costco member to buy through their site. (Non-members pay a 5% surcharge, however.) There is a shipping charge when ordering from Costco.com.

Seniors (age 65 and older) get 15% off a 1-Day Pass. Available at the ticket booth only (not in advance).

In February 2024, seniors (age 65 and older) get FREE admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Parking is not included. Available at the ticket booth only (not in advance); must show valid ID. 

Children ages 3-11 receive FREE regular admission to the Safari Park during the entire month of October (must be accompanied by a paying adult). The Safari Park’s Africa Tram is included with Kids Free entrance.

Discounts on Multi-Attraction Passes that include the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

If you know you want to visit other attractions as well as the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, there is a discount pass option available that can save you a lot of money, and eliminate the hassle of buying all of your tickets individually. 

• Go City San Diego Pass

Top 10 Legit San Diego Zoo Ticket Discounts – Chart

Find your best San Diego Zoo discount ticket deal instantly. My price chart is auto-updated for AAA, Groupon, Tripadvisor, Costco, etc. Plus two more that consistently offer the best zoo and Safari Park deals and how they do it. Save hours of web searching. But first a few basics…

Buying San Diego Zoo discount tickets online from the zoo and approved sellers saves money. Deals greater than 9% off have restrictions. Be cautious with extreme deals. 50% Coupons and Guest Passes are bundled with some memberships. Seniors get 10% off. Active US military, and kids in October get in free.

If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated. Read my Advertising Disclosure for more info. Thanks! ~ Nancy

* Save with a secret promo code on each San Diego Zoo or Safari Park 1-Day Pass. Go any day. Go directly to the gate. Click  HERE  to get your code, instructions & discounted tickets by email. By clicking the link above you agree to receive an automated email message. Valid only at aRes Travel , San Diego’s local authorized ticket seller. Read my full privacy policy .

Today’s Top Discount San Diego Zoo Tickets Chart

I’ve included the URLs in this chart so that you can quickly check my figures for their discount on a 1-day pass to San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

This comprehensive guide also provides the best tips and strategies for scoring discounted San Diego Zoo tickets in 2023. I’ll cover when discounts are available, who is eligible, authorized sellers, memberships, combo deals, and more. Follow these methods to save up to 50% or more on zoo admission!

aRes – Best San Diego Zoo Ticket Deal for Anyone

Get an exclusive 9% discount on aRes Travel’s 1-Day Pass in San Diego with an unpublished San Diego Zoo discount code , available only for SanDiegoing.com readers. Buy anytime before entry without the restrictions often seen in other deals.

You do not have to be a member of a particular association, work at a specific employer, or get lucky in your purchase timing.

How can aRes offer cheaper tickets?

Because aRes Travel has worked with the San Diego Zoo since 1996. They helped the zoo develop its first Internet ticket-selling system. This long-standing partnership continues to their mutual benefit. And since their president is a nice guy, he’s allowing me to pass this on to you.

Here’s why I like them:

• They’ve helped many thousands of San Diego visitors just like you save money with worry-free discounted Zoo tickets
• 100% guaranteed authentic tickets. Obtained directly from the Zoo, Safari Park, and other attractions like LEGOLAND, SeaWorld San Diego, Disneyland, and many other southern California attractions
• They’re always cheaper than San Diego Zoo gate prices Ask for your exclusive SanDiegoing discount code HERE .
• Automatic email delivery to your inbox. 
• Go straight to the gate . No endless waiting in line at the ticket sales window
• Up to 30% savings on accommodation/ticket bundles for multiple theme parks and 100’s of hotels
• They’re a San Diego company so they’ve got long-standing relationships with the zoo, local hotels, and attractions
• Their CEO is a nice guy who took the time to answer my questions when I stopped by their office in Pacific Beach. At that time this website had exactly 3 regular readers, and one of them was my mom.

They charge a $2 online convenience fee ($1 + the Zoo’s $1 online fee) for Zoo tickets. But that’s ok because  you can talk to a real person if you need help by calling 800-719-8961 . Google them to check out their great online reviews.

FunEx Has Very Cheap San Diego Zoo Tickets But…

You have to be working at an employer that is partnering with FunEx. Ask for an Employee Access Code (EAC) from your Human Resources department. Then you can log onto the FunEx website and use it to get almost 24% off of the zoo adult gate price.

How can Funex offer such inexpensive tickets for access to the zoo?  They utilize the zoo’s corporate rates for groups of 100+ to offer you admission tickets at a considerable discount. 

How San Diego Zoo AAA Discount Works

10% off a 1-Day Pass – This discount ticket offer is only good at the park. You must present your American Automobile Association (AAA) Club card at the zoo ticket window before paying to get your ten percent off. The deal is good for you and 5 more in your party.

Keep in mind that you cannot combine a AAA discount with any other coupons or offers. So you can’t use it during the Kids Free in October event. 

But you CAN use my aRes Travel discount code (Just ask me and I’ll automatically email it to you. Save yourself a bit of cash. Load the ticket onto your mobile device (or print it). Skip the ticket window line!

Costco San Diego Zoo Tickets

1-Day Pass – Costco discount San Diego Zoo coupons are a bit like Bigfoot. Everyone’s heard about people who have seen them. And it’s plausible because Costco sometimes has insane deals. But they vanish into the mist when you go looking for them. Here are a few helpful facts:

• Due to the Zoo’s policy of equal pricing among authorized sellers, these Costco discounts might not be available anymore. The last online reference is from 2010 .
• Check Costco’s T i cket Savings page for current offers, but be aware that special deals are unicorn rare. Non-Costco members can buy tickets on their website with a 5% surcharge and shipping fees.
• An old PDF for the Go San Diego Card is on Costco’s site, but recent searches mostly yield restaurant discounts. For the Go San Diego Card , visit aRes, a local authorized ticket seller.

Groupon’s “70% Off” Headline is Misleading Clickbait

When Groupon says, “Deals Up to 70% Off” they’re correct. Especially the “up to” part. Their price is the same as the zoo’s ‘buy it online’ one. You’ll only save 2.8% off the gate price. Get my exclusive Coupon Code to save almost 10% instead.

Should You Buy At The Rest of the Top 10?

Tripadvisor, Undercover Tourist, and Tripster often have the same posted 1-Day Pass prices. They are always the same as what the San Diego Zoo offers for online purchases.

Tripadvisor and Viator are both the same company.

If getting the best discount isn’t important to you, buy directly through the zoo’s website. More money will go towards caring for the animals than into some big corporation’s bank account.

How to Get San Diego Zoo Free Tickets

The best-discounted deal at San Diego Zoo is free entry, right? Here’s a chart that shows you your options, eligibility details, and when tickets are valid.

Kids Free Under 3 Years Old

All children up to 35 months old are always free with a paid adult. They’ll love their experience at the San Diego Zoo. If you’re going on any guided tours, the Skyfari, Kangaroo Bus, or the free bus tour you’ll have to have them on your lap. You may also have to leave your pram behind. Read my article on what you can bring into the zoo for more details.

How Kids Free October at the San Diego Zoo Works

During October, kids under 12 years old can get in free to the San Diego Zoo. They must be accompanied by an adult. There’s a limit of 5 children per paid adult. The best deal for this month is to buy a discounted adult ticket that allows you to bring in children for free. My exclusive discount code from aRes Travel is ideal because it can be combined with the free kids offer.

Unfortunately, your Southern California CityPASS, Go San Diego , and Balboa Park Explorer Passes are not eligible for special events like this. You also can’t use a AAA discount because it cannot be combined with any other offers. You’ll have to purchase a separate adult ticket.

EXPECT LONGER WAIT TIMES ON OCTOBER WEEKENDS . I recommend that you get to the Zoo early in October. Preferably when it opens. Wait times on Saturdays & Sundays can be up to 30 minutes.

Discover more kid fun for less! Check out my page where I uncover all the discount ticket deals at Sesame Place San Diego for you.

Is February Free for Seniors at San Diego Zoo?

San Diego Zoo does not have a February Free month for people over 65. 

However, San Diego Zoo Safari Park has done this. 1-Day Passes are free there for seniors all through February. But these tickets have to be purchased at the gate. Present a valid photo ID with a birthdate showing that you’re over 65 at a ticket window in the Escondido animal park. Only one pass per senior. Standard parking fees still apply.

San Diego Zoo Guest Passes – Finding & Using Them

Complimentary Guest Passes (aka guest admission coupons) are a terrific way to see the San Diego Zoo for free. But you have to know someone who’s a zoo member with guest pass privileges. And they have to like you enough to give you one (or two) of the free San Diego Zoo entry coupons that they got with their annual membership.

You do NOT have to be with a member to enter the park using a San Diego Zoo Guest Pass.

If you know a member, express your interest and consider offering a favor in return for their free entry coupons. It’s best to ask close to when their membership renews, as they’re more likely to have unused passes towards the end of the year.

Avoid buying Complimentary Guest Passes being resold online. Reselling them is considered fraud by the San Diego Zoo and may result in the passes being rejected without refund or compensation. Zoo members who do this may have their membership revoked.

San Diego Zoo Military – Active Duty Status Free

FREE 1 Day Pass to the San Diego Zoo

All active duty US military personnel can get 1 Day Passes free when they present their Common Access Card (CAC) or Uniformed Services ID Card at the Zoo gate. Complimentary admission will not be granted without that ID. 

See my notes below for Military Family Discounts.

San Diego Zoo Memberships – Save More

You can save up to 99.6% off the standard 1-Day Pass price if you enjoy the zoo daily for a year with the Resident Adult Premium San Diego Zoo membership. The cost is 29 cents per daily visit.  But what if you don’t want to come every day?

If you want to visit often on weekends, buy the San Diego Resident Premium Adult membership ($109). If you plan to see the animals during the week, purchase the San Diego Resident Adult Membership ($95). This membership level has all weekends and major holidays blacked out, that’s 123 days. Yes, I counted them all on their blackout date calendar. You can find the current year’s blackout dates calendar in the membership sections HERE .

Here’s the link to the San Diego Zoo annual membership page . It contains options from $85 to $10,000 per year for renewing members. Your annual membership card is good for both the Zoo and Safari Park.

Bob and I are Wildlife Protector Premium members. We find that’s the best deal for us because we often visit Safari Park as well and that membership level gives us free parking there. We usually visit the San Diego Zoo at least once per week. We always visit the giraffes, cheetahs, koalas, Amur leopards, and penguins in Africa Rocks . Stopping for a bowl of ice cream at Sabertooth Grill and elephant-watching in their shaded courtyard tops our exotic mini-weekend getaway.

One of the primary benefits of the annual memberships at the Protector level and above is that they come with free Guest Admissions coupons. Each of these printed passes is good for one person for a one-time visit. Guests using these coupons can enter without the member being present. 

A San Diego Zoo Shoppers’ Pass Will Get You In Free, But…

The catch is that you must pay for the 1-Day Pass. You’ll only get a refund if you return to the ticket booth window and ask for the Shoppers’ refund within 30 minutes. Or you can tell any shop employee that you need more time and they’ll extend your time to 60 minutes. 

Remember to leave for the gate about 10 minutes early. It can take that long to go from the Zoo exit to the ticket sales booth. And sometimes you’ll have to wait in line at the ticket sales booth.

50% Off Tickets for San Diego Zoo®

This half-off San Diego Zoo admission deal is for real. But you can only get them from someone who has an annual membership.

These discounted tickets are easier to find than the free Guest Passes. Most of the annual membership options include 2 of these per year. Ask the zoo members in your family, friends, and acquaintances if they have coupons that they have not used or plan to use.

My warning against purchasing Guest Passes online applies to these as well. It’s a good way to get scammed.

San Diego Zoo Group Discounts Help You Save More

10% Off the 1-Day Pass for groups of 15 or more paying visitors. This is great for large family gatherings, social group excursions, business team-building, or networking events. For youth group discounts, see the Zoo’s Field Trip page .

15% off the 1-Day Pass for groups of 100 or more. But make sure that you call the Zoo’s Reservation Sales Department at 619-718-3000 beforehand. They’ve also got meal vouchers that can be purchased at participating Zoo restaurants. this may help your group members save on purchasing entrees à la carte.

San Diego Zoo Tickets Senior Discount

Get 10% off a 1-Day Pass for guests over 65 at the gate . Seniors, present your valid ID with your birth date at a zoo ticket window. It’s that easy!

How Much Are San Diego Zoo Tickets At The Gate?

San Diego Zoo 1-Day Passes purchased at the gate are: 

• $71 for adults
• $61 for children up to 12 years old
• FREE for toddlers and infants under 3 years old with a paid adult

There are also tickets that include the 4D Theater Experience — San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass Plus

• $78 for adults
• $68 for children up to 12 years old

What do San Diego Zoo tickets include?

San Diego Zoo 1-day passes include:

• Free Parking
• Guided Bus Tour
• Kangaroo Bus
• Keeper Talks
• Animal Encounters
• Zoo Zones Animal Exhibits
• Shows (except 4D Theater)

For more details, I’ve written everything you’d want to know about what you get with your zoo admission fee. It’s on my page comparing the zoo vs. Safari Park .

1 DAY PASSES

Save up to 9% off their published price for 1-Day Passes to the San Diego Zoo.

The tickets are easy to use. 

• Click HERE and I’ll send you a one-time email with the promo code
• Click this link to go to the aRes Zoo Tickets page. 
• Use the promo code at checkout
• Your tickets will be emailed to you after purchase
• Print out your tickets or show them on your mobile device at the gate
• The Zoo ticket attendant will scan the QR code
• You enter the Zoo and have a wonderful time 

Discounted 1-Day San Diego Zoo Passes

2 VISIT PASS

Save $20 off buying each adult pass separately at the gate. It allows you to spend 2 days at either San Diego Zoo or Safari Park or 1 day at each. And you

You do have to use both tickets within 1 year of the purchase date. Parking fees at San Diego Safari Park are not included. San Diego Zoo parking is free.

San Diego Zoo 2 Visit Pass:  

• $118 per adult
• $108 for children under 13 years old

ZOO MULTI-ATTRACTION TICKET BUNDLES

Legoland California, San Diego Zoo & Safari Park Combo Deal

Save $24.80 for each adult and child vs buying each of these tickets separately. You get a 1-day pass to each of these popular attractions. Parking at Safari Park is not included.

This is a great bundle for a 3-day weekend getaway. Each of these attractions has enough to hold your interest for a full day. And kids will love it. 

Legoland California, San Diego Zoo & Safari Park Combo:

• $224.99 per adult
• $204.99 for children under 13 years old

Or call 800-719-8961 and let them help you make arrangements for your trip.

HOTEL AND ZOO MULTI-ATTRACTION PACKAGES

I’ve written about the best 3 kid-friendly, budget hotels near San Diego Zoo . All of them have the following hotel packages.

Fab4 – The Best of San Diego Adventure Package

SAVE up to 30% when you customize and build your own San Diego vacation package.

This package comes with a fantastic selection of tickets to four of San Diego’s most exciting theme parks: SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and LEGOLAND California, all bundled together with comfortable hotel accommodations for your convenience.

It’s simple. Click to the Fab4 offer page . Then 1) choose the dates you’ll be staying. 2) Select your hotel and room. Here are my picks for family-friendly, cheap hotels near San Diego Zoo . 3) Select the number of tickets for your group.

Lions, Tigers, and Baby Elephants, Oh My! – The San Diego Zoo or Safari Park Package

You can save up to 30% off if you book your hotel and a San Diego Zoo 2 Visit Pass together. Of course the discount depends upon which hotel you choose. 

This deal is perfect for a short staycation for locals or a quick getaway for those traveling from Los Angeles or Orange counties. Choosing a hotel may be a difficult choice though, there’s over 110 to choose from. My advice is stay close to where you’d like to spend your evenings. 

If you’re looking for more of San Diego’s wild side, stay in the Gaslamp Quarter at the Horton Grand Hotel (scroll down the linked aRes page a bit to find this one). This historic boutique hotel has fireplaces in every room. And you’ll be right in the middle of our nightlife district. 

Or call 800-719-8961 and let them help you create a memorable weekend.

San Diego Family Fun Vacation Package

This bundle is kid-friendly and up to 30% off on your hotel plus San Diego Zoo and other attractions. This build-your-own custom package includes the Safari Park and the Old Town Trolley hop-on, hop-off tour, and many more San Diego sights. Many of the hotels have FREE breakfast and parking. 

One of the over 125+ hotels featured in this deal is the very family-friendly Paradise Point Resort & Spa (scroll to the bottom of the hotel page). It’s a tropical-themed resort with a restaurant, 5 pools, a spa, and activities including those at a private marina where you and the family can enjoy kayaks, jet skis, and sailboats. It’s the perfect spot to recuperate after a long day walking through the Zoo. 

Or call 800-719-8961 and let them help you customize great family memories.

Other Hotel and attractions bundles from aRes Travel.

Public Service & Associations

Military family discounts.

10% Off 1 Day Pass at the gate for spouses and immediate family members when you present your valid dependent ID card at any ticket window.

But your family members can get a larger discount (15% – 20%) if you purchase your tickets from your local base’s Ticket and Travel Office. The amount varies by location.

Your base’s travel office also offers cheaper prices on 2-Day San Diego Zoo Admission Bundles and annual memberships. Check the current price list from Camp Pendleton HERE . Scroll down to the “ Download ITT Price List ” button to see it.

San Diego Zoo Discounts for Veterans & Retired Military

15% – 20% off 1 Day Pass – MUST BUY ON BASE. The 100% discount at the San Diego Zoo gate is only offered to active military. San Diego Zoo Tickets for retired military must be bought them directly from your local base at the Ticket and Travel Office. 

You can also find cheaper prices on 2 Day San Diego Zoo Admission Passes and annual memberships. Here’s the link to the Camp Pendleton list HERE . Scroll down to the “Download ITT Price List” button to see it.

San Diego Zoo Tickets Law Enforcement San Diego Zoo Discount

18% off 1 Day Pass – MUST BUY THROUGH SDPOA.org. There are no direct San Diego Zoo discounts for San Diego law enforcement personnel and their families. But there is a significant price reduction if you purchase your tickets through the San Diego Police Officers Ass ociation website. Login, click on the Members tab and you’ll see the Theme Park Tickets category.

Once on the SDPOA.org members’ tab you’ll see these ticket deals:

1 Day Passes:

• $49 for Adults 
• $39 for children 3-11 years old

2 Day Admission Passes:

• $89.60 for Adults
• $79.60 for children 3-11

Tickets purchased through SDPOA.org will be delivered via email or sent to your mobile device. 

Are There Any San Diego Zoo Ticket Discounts for Firefighters?

There are no firefighters’ discounts for the San Diego Zoo. But…

Active US firefighters with a valid ID can get a free 1 Day Pass for the San Diego Safari Park during September “Firefighters Appreciation Month”. This is in honor of all the work that they’ve done protecting that park from local brush fires. 

For complimentary entry to Safari Park, you must present your active firefighter ID with a photo (could be either a department ID or Union ID) and a matching personal valid identification like a driver’s license at a ticket window. You cannot get this discount by phone or online.

Firefighters’ Family Discounts at San Diego Zoo

There are no 1 Day Pass San Diego Zoo discounts for the families of firefighters.  

However, during September, San Diego Safari Park offers 10% off each admission for up to 6 people accompanying an active duty US firefighter who has a valid department or union photo ID.

Are AZA Member Discounts Available at the San Diego Zoo?

There is no AZA member discount at the San Diego Zoo . SDZ Global is not part of the reciprocal American Zoological Association program. 

It is a member in good standing of AZA. But unlike many of the other member zoos, it is fully self-supporting and does not receive any city, state or federal funding. It’s conservation mission is funded primarily through gate admissions and sales within the zoo and Safari Park. 

Travel Industry Ticket Deals at the San Diego Zoo

San diego zoo airline and cruise lines employee discounts.

Airline and cruise company employees and one guest get 10% off 1 Day Pass at San Diego Zoo. You cannot get this deal if you pay online or by phone. To take advantage of this offer present your company-issued photo ID or CLIA card before paying at the zoo ticket window. 

San Diego Zoo Travel Agent Discounts

People in the travel industry get 10% off 1 Day Pass to the San Diego Zoo. This also applies to one guest. It doesn’t matter if you’re a travel agent, wholesaler or tour operator. All you need to do is show your up-to-date IATAN ((International Airlines Travel Agent Network) or IATA card with a photo ID prior to paying at any Zoo ticket window. 

Educators Can Get in Free at the San Diego Zoo If…

They bring their students.

Teachers who are supervising students on a curriculum-focused field trip can get in free. In fact, 1 free supervising adult is allowed for every 4 students. There’s a 15 student minimum. Please check the Zoo’s education and field trips link HERE for information and online applications. Double-check for black-out dates, geographical limitations, and other restrictions that you need to know about.

California educators are encouraged to check the CTA Member Benefits website for discounts and offers that you can use to visit the zoo on a personal trip or vacation.  

How to Get Your San Diego Zoo Student Discount

Students get 10% off 1 Adult 1 Day Pass to the San Diego Zoo . This deal is available for all students 12 years of age and older. These passes can only be purchased in person. You must present your valid student ID before payment at any ticket window.

They are good for high school students as well as college and those pursuing graduate degrees. And to answer your question before you ask, the following university IDs are valid for the reduced price entry.

Is There A Residents’ Discount for San Diego Zoo Tickets?

There are no 1-Day Pass San Diego Zoo deals for locals. However, San Diego Zoo Global does have annual memberships that offer significant savings for California residents in San Diego County zip codes. These zip codes cover southern California from the Mexican border up through Anaheim. 

How to Avoid Online San Diego Zoo Ticket Scams 

1) The first rule to avoid being the target of a fraudulent San Diego Zoo discount ticket scheme is DON’T GET GREEDY. If the deal sounds too good to be true it probably is.

2) Deal locally, face to face. You can avoid most scams this way according to the Craigslist About Scams page . 

3) Pay with a system that protects your identity and offers buyer protections like Google Wallet, Apple Pay, or Payoneer. If you use PayPal, make sure that you add on the Buyer Protection fee. That’s only a per-transaction fee of 3.1% + $0.30. That’s a very cheap price for peace of mind. 

San Diego Zoo Prohibits Ticket Resales

The San Diego Zoo states on every ticket that they are non-refundable and are not supposed to be re-sold. Unused memberships, complimentary tickets, and guest coupons cannot be transferred either per the legal terms of the San Diego Zoo annual membership agreement.

While I do recognize that sometimes people buy tickets in advance and cannot use them due to emergencies I also realize that it doesn’t happen often. There’s a good chance that the cheap zoo ticket listing that you’re looking at is a scam.

Buying unused memberships is especially foolish . Members must show a photo ID along with their annual membership cards at the gate to enter. If you’ve bought an unused membership online your ID won’t match what’s in the Zoo’s membership database. 

Is Craigslist a Safe Place to Buy San Diego Zoo Tickets?

Purchasing cheap San Diego Zoo tickets on Craigslist is a gamble . I am not aware of any authorized ticket sellers that list their inventory online on Craigslist.  Even if they are legitimate, unused tickets you’re dealing with someone who has already broken their agreement with the Zoo. 

If you do choose to purchase your San Diego Zoo ticket on Craigslist PLEASE read this page first! Here’s a link to Craigslist’s Avoiding Scams page .

Some people have had success if the Craigslist post says “pay after entry”. That usually means that the person selling the entry pass is a member who is selling their guest passes. The zoo member brings you in through the gate as their guest and you pay them the agreed amount after you’re inside. 

eBay – Looking for cheap San Diego Zoo tickets on eBay is risky. Go to their Security Center page and their   How to recognize scams section and stay safe when you buy online.

Reddit –  I’ve seen a few meet-ups and deals for San Diego Zoo passes made in these forums. However, they’ve been mostly the “pay after entry” variety. 

Where to Find Printed San Diego Zoo Coupons

Local magazines and coupon newsletters sometimes offer significant coupon deals. If you live in San Diego check your mailbox. Staying at a hotel? Take a look at the brochures and flyers near the front desk.

The almost 10% discounts in this type of publication may be a thing of the past. It may be due to cost-cutting measures instituted by the Zoo after the COVID-19 closures. Or it could be because of the new policy of price parity among authorized ticket sellers. 

Clipper Magazine – This direct-mail publication has printed $5 off coupons for the Zoo in the past. But I haven’t seen any coupons there since late 2019. 

Get1Free Coupon Magazine is another direct mailer that’s also printed fiver discounts off for the San Diego Zoo. And like the Clipper , those coupons have not been available since the COVID lockdowns. 

Closing Thoughts on San Diego Zoo Discount Tickets

I’m a member of the zoo, so I save every time I visit. But I totally understand the desire to buy cheaper tickets. Saving money makes my inner frugalista happy. You’re probably the same.

But please keep in mind that the Zoo is a fully self-supported non-profit that is dedicated to ending extinction world-wide. It’s able to do it’s conservation work because you contribute by buying tickets. So take legitimate discounts, but don’t cheat. Bragging about stealing from animals facing extinction is not a good look on your social media feed.

I hope that between my San Diego Zoo Discount Tickets chart and the detailed explanations of each savings option, you can find a cheaper entry pass that works for you. Now go and get a great deal for yourself with one of these San Diego Zoo discount ticket options.

Nancy Ulrich

I'm nuts...about animals, polymer clay, mixed media art & husband Bob. Happily planted in San Diego among good friends, family that I would have chosen if given the choice and optimism for a bountiful future for us all.

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San Diego Local Discounts for Top Attractions

Every single day spent in San Diego offers another opportunity to create lifelong memories with your friends and family. The city and surrounding area are full of epic things to do. Choose between surfing the famous Pacific Ocean waves, relaxing on the beaches, hiking the rugged trails, or visiting one of the world-class local attractions.

Within minutes of the downtown area, you can visit famous San Diego attractions like Balboa Park , the San Diego Zoo , the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum , and so much more. After a jam-packed day of adventure, head to one of San Diego's excellent restaurants for a mouthwatering meal and then hit the city to check out some of the local nightlife in neighborhoods like Gaslamp Quarter which is packed full of trendy clubs and hip music venues.

With so many fun things to do, you'll want to squeeze in as many experiences as you can during your San Diego vacation, which can be challenging if you're trying to stick to a budget. Southern California is notoriously pricey, especially compared to other parts of the country. Despite the higher prices, you can still enjoy all of the fun America's Finest City offers and stick to your budget by taking advantage of the many local discounted tickets, deals, and coupons.

If you want to make the most out of your time in San Diego without breaking the bank, check out this guide to the best San Diego deals for theme parks, tours, and restaurants to save money without skipping popular attractions during your trip.

What kind of prices to expect in San Diego

If you're visiting San Diego for the first time or haven't ventured back to our shores for a few years, you may be curious about what the current prices look like in the city. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a meal in San Diego at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $25, although it is totally possible to find cheaper meals - especially at the taco stands and food trucks around San Diego. A three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant ranges from $65 to $160. A beer will run you around $8; for a latte, you can expect to pay at least $3.50.

The costs to visit museum and attractions varies greatly. Some popular activities in the San Diego area can be seen for free, while others, like a trip to a popular amusement park, can cost over $100 per person. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to save during your visit, both on food and entertainment. Before your trip, spend some time planning what you'd like to do so that you score the best deals.

San Diego Discounts for Top Attractions

If you're looking for tips on finding San Diego discount coupons, we're here to help! From multi-day passes that give you access to all of the major theme parks with one convenient virtual ticket to vouchers for local restaurants, plenty of great deals can help you stretch your budget during your San Diego vacation.

San Diego CityPASS®

The San Diego CityPASS is an excellent option to make the most of your time and visit as many attractions as possible. It will allow you to save 40% on many of the top attractions and activities around the city. It's convenient because you can snag your tickets online with the pass and pull them up on your cellphone - perfect for on-the-go travelers. The key is valid for up to nine days. With the pass, you can choose to visit theme parks like SeaWorld San Diego and LEGOLAND California as well as admission to three more attractions, including; the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Museum, or a harbor tour through City Cruises.

Go City San Diego Pass

Go City San Diego offers the best all-inclusive pass for all of the city's top destinations -- on top of the convenience, it will save you 45%. You can choose between purchasing 1,2,3,4,5,6, or 7-day passes, including all the activities you can squeeze into your day. 1-day passes start at $119, and a 7-day pass costs $389 -- the more you do, the more you save!

Go City also offers an Explorer Pass, which allows you to choose how many activities you want to visit. You can select seven attractions for $199.

Combo Tickets

Combo tickets are available for some of the best San Diego attractions like the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and Seaworld San Diego. One option allows for one day at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and up to 7 days at Seaworld. It will save you about $33 if you plan to visit all of the attractions.

Another excellent combo ticket is the Fab 4 Combo Deal; the deal offers you admission to 4 major amusement parks, including the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Safari Park, LEGOLAND California, and SeaWorld.

Costco San Diego Discount Tickets

Costco is a great place to get discount tickets for San Diego attractions. Simply visit a local Costco for discount tickets to major tourist attractions like Seaworld, LEGOLAND, Hornblower Cruises, and the USS Midway Museum, and it also has some deals for local restaurants that can save you around 30%.

California Explorer Pass

If you're planning on traveling around California outside of San Diego, the California Explorer Pass could be an excellent money-saving option as it includes attractions in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Drive around the great state of California, where you can visit major attractions within 30 days. Pass options range from 3 - 5 attractions, including Universal Studios Hollywood , Knott's Berry Farm, Six Flags Magic Mountain, and so many more.

Balboa Park Explorer Pass

Balboa Park is home to some of San Diego's best museums, and it's an absolute must-visit spot if you're staying in San Diego, especially for the first time. Locals and tourists fall in love with Balboa Park - an iconic local landmark.

The Explorer Pass is a fantastic option if you plan to explore the museums. You can walk from museum to museum without worrying about purchasing different tickets each time.

Several pass options include the Limited Pass, which provides for museums for $56, and a Parkwide Pass, which consists of 16 museums for seven consecutive days for $67. A museum/zoo combo pass offers admission to all the museums and the zoo for $117. For locals or tourists staying for an extended period, consider purchasing the Annual Explorer Pass, which allows you to visit as much as you want for $129 per person or $229 per family.

Other Ways to Get San Diego Discounts and San Diego Coupons

This list offers a great starting point for finding coupons, passes, and deals in San Diego, but there are plenty of other places to check. Savings in the San Diego Entertainment Book offer discounts to all sorts of smaller local attractions as well as restaurants.

Hometown Pass San Diego

If you're a San Diego resident looking to save on attractions, check out the Hometown Pass. This money saver is only available to locals and residents and includes attractions like San Diego SEAL Tours and Old Town Trolley. You can get a buy one get one free deal to help make your summer extra special.

Amanda Morgan

Amanda is a freelance writer, a travel enthusiast, and a digital nomad. She loves exploring unique destinations and writing about local culture and cuisine. When she isn’t traveling, she enjoys hiking with her dog, reading, yoga, rock climbing, and hunting for vintage clothes.

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Tips for Visiting the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego / May 1, 2013 by Allison / 23 Comments This article may contain sponsored content or affiliate links.

Hey there! Planning a trip to San Diego? 

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is different from any other zoo my family has visited. We made a special trip for it – along with LEGOLAND California and plenty of beach time – right after my son successfully completed cancer treatment. It was a much-needed vacation for our entire family. My kids were ages 6 and 8.

We visited the San Diego Zoo on a previous trip, and were excited to see what makes the Safari Park special. Here's what you need to know to plan a great day at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

It's Not in San Diego

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is NOT in San Diego. It's in Escondido, California, about an hour's drive (30 miles) north of the San Diego Zoo, which is in downtown San Diego.

The Safari Park is a little nearer to Carlsbad, home of LEGOLAND California. We booked a hotel in Carlsbad and enjoyed activities nearby. We never set foot in San Diego on this trip.

Related: My Top Tips for Visiting LEGOLAND California

It's a Big Zoo

The official website calls the Safari Park an “expansive wildlife sanctuary.” Half the park's 1,800 acres has been set aside as a protected habitat for native species of plants and animals.

What does that mean to you? The Safari Park has fewer animals and larger habitats than the San Diego Zoo. The animals have more space to roam like they would in the wild. 

You'll probably walk a lot more at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. You can also enjoy experiences that aren't available at most other zoos.

Related: Tips for Visiting the San Diego Zoo

Safari Tours

The thing that sets the San Diego Zoo Safari Park apart its Safari Tours. These are not included in basic admission. If you want to feed giraffes, meet a cheetah, zip line over the zoo or even camp overnight, check out tour options and prices on the Safari Park home page .

Safaris may fill up, so consider making reservations in advance. Most have minimum age limits.

We would have booked the Cheetah Safari , but our cheetah lover was too young. I asked about the age limit and was told that they didn't want the cheetah to mistake a small child for a meal. I couldn't argue with that rationale.

Related: What to Expect at SeaWorld San Diego

What's Included in Basic Admission

We bought the basic 1-Day Pass and it easily filled our entire day at the Safari Park. The basic ticket includes all of the animal exhibits, Africa Tram, shows and play areas. 

The Africa Tram tour is 20-30 minutes long and good for all ages. You'll see African animals roaming freely through acres of open space, including giraffes, rhinoceros, zebras, cape buffalo, gazelle, various birds, and more. You'll also see lions and cheetahs in separate habitats.

Arrive around opening time and walk directly to the Africa Tram at the back of the zoo to avoid long waits during peak season. Africa Tram tours typically start at 10 AM. If you can't be there early, consider riding the tram in the late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.

Related: October Deals in San Diego – Kids Get in FREE

The best show at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is Shiley's Cheetah Run in the late afternoon. This is your chance to see a cheetah run at top speed, and it's pretty cool. If the day is not too warm and the cheetah is feeling good, he may run twice. My son loves cheetahs, so this was one of our top priorities. 

Arrive up to an hour early if you want to stand right next to the fence for the Cheetah Run. There is no seating for this show unless you purchase the Cheetah Safari. The show is 15-20 minutes long. 

There is a bird show , which is similar to bird shows we have seen at other zoos. We found it educational and entertaining, and the amphitheater is large enough that we had no trouble getting good seats just a few minutes before the show.

Our children enjoyed feeding the lorikeets . It costs nothing to go inside the habitat, but plan to spend a few dollars if you want to feed the birds.

We visited this exhibit in the afternoon and were warned that the lorikeets had already been well fed. We successfully fed a few, but the experience was not ideal. Visit early in the day to get the most from this activity.

Related: Where to See Wild Seals and Sea Lions in San Diego

Playgrounds

Our children (ages 6 and 8) enjoyed brushing goats at the petting zoo and learning about the activities of African villagers in the Village Playground . Here, my children carried pots on their heads, “built” a hut and beat on drums. The Safari Park has three other play areas, including a splash pad in the summer.

Like many zoos, this one has a carousel , where you can purchase a single ride or all-day wristband. We skipped it this time.

Related: Best Activities for Families at Balboa Park

Dining and Shopping

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has several restaurants and lots of gift shops. We bought healthy sandwiches and kids meals at Okavango Outpost , which were good.

You can bring your own food into the zoo in a day pack or stroller. Large coolers are not allowed inside. Packing in your own sandwiches, drinks and snacks is a good way to save money.

Related: Best Beaches in San Diego for Families

Safari Park vs. San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is larger than the San Diego Zoo, but has fewer animals. It has more unique activities and safari tours. It is farther away from most other San Diego activities.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has a lot of favorite African animals like lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, gorillas, rhinos and zebras. Pandas, polar bears, koalas and monkeys can only be seen at the San Diego Zoo.

If your family really loves zoos, then consider both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park on the same trip. My family visits San Diego every few years, so one zoo per trip was plenty for us. 

You cannot do both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park on the same day. They are too big and too far from each other to get your money's worth. One full day per zoo is about right.

If you can only visit one zoo, I'd pick the San Diego Zoo over the Safari Park. It has more animals and the location is more convenient. However, if you'd rather ride the Africa Tram, see the Cheetah Run or try any of the unique Safaris, then choose the Safari Park.

Ways to Save

There are several reliable ways to save money on San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets. Remember that kids ages 2 and under get in free any time. 

Go in October – Kids age 11 and under get in free to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and dozens of other San Diego attractions during the month of October. Learn more at https://www.sandiego.org

Bundle with San Diego Zoo – Planning to visit the San Diego Zoo AND the Safari Park? A two-day ticket costs a lot less than two single-day tickets. Save even more when you choose the 3-for-1 deal, which includes both zoos and SeaWorld. Learn more at www.sdzsafaripark.org/tickets

Get Away Today – You can save about $5 per ticket through Get Away Today. Bundling discount tickets with hotel deals is where this travel agency really shines. Save an extra $25 on a San Diego vacation package with my exclusive coupon code: SDFAMILY. Learn more at getawaytoday.com .

Go City – Save up to 55% on admissions when you use this pass at 35+ San Diego attractions. The Safari Park will take one full day, so a Build-Your-Own pass or an All-Inclusive pass for 5 or 7 days are probably your best deal. Compare prices and do the math before you buy. Learn more at gocity.com .

CityPASS – Bundle and save when you build your own Southern California CityPASS. Choose from San Diego Zoo/Safari Park, LEGOLAND California, SeaWorld, Disneyland and Universal Studios. Compare prices and do the math before you buy. Learn more at www.citypass.com .

Groupon – You may find discount ticket vouchers to the San Diego Zoo/Safari Park on Groupon.com . As of August 2019, The Groupon price was the same as the official San Diego Zoo website, so be sure to compare before you commit. 

Special Groups – The following groups can save 10-15% with valid ID. Must be purchased at the ticket window. Learn more at https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/help-center

• Students over age 12
• Active U.S. Military – Military member gets in free. Spouse and dependents save 10%.
• AAA Members
• Travel agents, airline and cruise ship employees

Our children are animal lovers and my 6-year-old son has a passion for African animals. As parents, we appreciate fun and educational outings like this, so the San Diego Zoo Safari Park was perfect for our family.

I hope these tips help you plan the perfect San Diego Zoo Safari Park day for your family.

Happy travels!

Good to Know

Where:  15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California.

When: Open every day, including holidays. Open every day at 9:00 a.m. Closing time ranges from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., depending on season.

How Much: Tickets start at $56 for adults (ages 12+), and $46 for children (3-11). Parking is $15 per vehicle (updated August 2019).

How Long:  One full day

Amenities:  Bathrooms, restaurants, shopping, stroller and wheelchair rentals

Website:   www.sdzsafaripark.org

Planning a trip to San Diego?

We recommend booking your trip through Get Away Today Vacations . They are the family travel experts for Southern California, and if you find a lower price on your vacation package, they will beat it by $10. Read more about our partnership with Get Away Today here .  

ANYTIME! Save $25 on any San Diego vacation package of 2 nights or more that includes 2 tickets (San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, etc) when you use the coupon code SDFamily .

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Reader Interactions

wanderingeducators

May 3, 2013 at 10:02 am

what a cool place! we’d love to visit.

Colleen Lanin

May 5, 2013 at 2:17 pm

I surprised my husband last year with the Zipline Safari at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. It’s the longest continuous zipline in the continental U.S. So awesome!

May 6, 2013 at 8:27 pm

That sounds so fun! That’s the kind of surprise I’d like.

May 7, 2013 at 10:33 am

thanks for the info, heading there this weekend for Mother’s day.

Keryn @ walking on travels

May 8, 2013 at 11:53 am

GORGEOUS photos lady! Great info for any family headed that way too.

May 8, 2013 at 8:34 pm

Thanks, Keryn! That was our first big outing with our new DSLR camera and I too was impressed with the results.

October 3, 2013 at 1:20 pm

We LOVED the San Diego Wild Animal Park. For us- the most sense with the tickets was to buy a year long membership before we left home. I don’t recall what the price was then, but it is $114 now for 2 adults. So if you only plan to go to the Wild Animal Park, that’s an extra $26, but if you plan to go to the zoo too, or more than one day at each park- it is a steal. Since we also went to the Wild Animal Park twice and the San Diego zoo twice (over the course of 3 days): it saved us a ton of money. And because we had unlimited entries, we went back to the zoo for just an hour before we had to get to the airport, just to get a chance to see the Pandas in the early morning. It was nice and relaxing to know we didn’t need to ‘get our money’s worth”. (Plus we got free parking, and then we got a magazine sent to our home for a year!)

October 3, 2013 at 3:03 pm

That’s a great tip! We bought an annual pass to Sea World San Diego once for the same reason. It’s sometimes worth looking at the price of an annual membership, even if you don’t live in the area. Look at the reciprocal benefits too. You may get free or discounted admission to other attractions in that area or in your home city!

September 18, 2014 at 9:19 pm

Is it worth going to the safari park zoo ?

Allison Laypath

September 19, 2014 at 7:34 am

I thought that the San Diego Zoo Safari Park was worthwhile. If you want a traditional zoo experience and you have to choose between the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park, choose the zoo. If you have been to the zoo and you want something a little different, try the safari park. Unless you love zoos, you may not want to do both on the same vacation.

Did I answer your question? If not, please let me know!

October 11, 2014 at 11:39 pm

do you have to buy the zoo entrance ticket to go to the Safari Park?

October 12, 2014 at 9:39 am

The Safari Tram is included in the basic entrance pass for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. You do not need to visit or purchase a pass for the San Diego Zoo in San Diego to visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido. They are different zoos in different locations and their admissions are separate, though if you do want to visit both on the same trip, you can save a few dollars by bundling the two admissions.

Nathan Bell

February 11, 2015 at 11:33 am

How long can you wait to use your 1-day pass for the Safari Park?

February 11, 2015 at 11:52 am

If you purchase a 1-day pass online through the zoo’s website, it is good for one year from the date of purchase.

May 25, 2015 at 12:20 pm

Thank you so much for the tips, we are visiting this summer and can not wait!

May 25, 2015 at 7:33 pm

Glad we could help. Have a great trip!

March 6, 2016 at 6:46 pm

I’m assuming the safari tour costs are in addition to the basic entrance fee???

March 6, 2016 at 7:33 pm

The Africa Tram is included in the basic ticket. The various safari experiences do cost more, but are optional. We had a great day with only the basic ticket. It’s a big place with some fun included activities like the Africa Tram.

Cesar perez

June 16, 2016 at 2:22 am

Thank you. This is what i wanted to hear. How long does it take for the basic safari

June 16, 2016 at 8:26 am

Glad to be helpful! I don’t recall the exact time for the Africa Tram, but I’d guess it was around 30 minutes. The last tram leaves 45 minutes before the park closes. 11-3 are peak times on busy days.

May 11, 2016 at 10:53 pm

which safari experience is worth it? I’m thinking the bikes anyone suggest it?

November 22, 2017 at 5:10 pm

How much does it cost to zipline at the Safari Zoo?

November 27, 2017 at 8:59 am

The Flightline Safari currently starts at $79 per person.

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San Diego Safari Park Discount Code: 5 Ways to Save Up to 78% Off

San Diego, with its sunkissed beaches and laid-back vibe, is also home to a wildlife gem–San Diego Safari Park! Make the most out of your visit to this extraordinary destination with our ultimate guide.

Unlike traditional zoos, San Diego Safari Park offers a unique experience where animals roam in vast, open habitats, providing a glimpse into how they might live in the wild. Due to the park’s commitment to conservation and animal care, tickets aren’t cheap. But don’t worry! Our ultimate guide shares all the ways you can score San Diego Safari Park discounts.

From affordable San Diego Zoo Safari Park discount tickets to all-inclusive vacation packages and special deals, each moment spent at the park is worth every penny.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Discount Tickets

Looking for San Diego Safari Park discount tickets? Visitors ages 12 and above must pay the regular admission, but you can get tickets for less on Tripster!

A 1-day pass is valid on any day within one year from the date of purchase. It includes entry to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Africa Tram, and all regularly scheduled experiences on your date of visit.

Dreaming of year-round adventures at both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park? The San Diego Wildlife Protector premium membership is the key.

The San Diego resident premium includes unlimited admission, a free guest pass, complimentary parking, and 10% off food and souvenirs.

Related Post:  San Diego Zoo or Sea World – Which is Better?

Plus, you get early access on select days, exclusive animal encounters, and invitations to special events. It’s the ultimate pass for animal lovers who want the most out of their visits!

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Coupons and Discounts

San diego zoo safari park military discount.

If you’re active duty U.S. military personnel, you’re in for a treat! To show appreciation for your service, you’re treated to free admission to San Diego Safari Park every day, holidays included.

Related Post: Best Time to Go San Diego – Discover the Perfect Time of Year for Your Vacation

That’s more than what any San Diego Safari Park military discount can give! You don’t need San Diego Zoo tickets. Just show a military ID at the ticket booth.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park AAA Discount

If you’re an AAA member, you don’t need a San Diego Safari Park discount code to get admission tickets for less! You can save 10% on the 1-Day Pass at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park year-round. Just show your valid membership card at any ticket window.

Up to six people per card can enjoy discounted Zoo Safari Park tickets, making it a great way to save money on a family outing. So pack your sunscreen and sense of adventure, and get ready for a wild time at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park!

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Senior Discount

There’s no free admission for adults, but seniors 65 and older can snag a whopping 50% off the regular 1-Day Pass price! Just be sure to bring a valid photo ID to prove your golden years status and enjoy a wild day of animal adventures at a fraction of the cost.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Group Travel Deals

Planning a trip with a sizable group? Then you’re in luck! San Diego Safari Park is offering a fantastic 10% discount on admission for groups of 15 people and above.

Whether you’re organizing a family reunion, a school field trip, or an outing with friends, you can experience a thrilling exploration of the world-class safari park while pocketing some savings.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Vacation Packages

Tripster offers an exciting opportunity to explore its renowned wildlife attractions with the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park vacation packages . These packages are ideal for those who find themselves pondering Zoo or Safari Park? Why choose when you can experience both?

With the specially curated vacation packages on Tripster, you can visit both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park at an affordable rate. This is a cost-effective way to enjoy the diverse animal encounters and unique experiences each park offers without straining your budget.

Hotels Near San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Thinking of staying at a hotel near San Diego Safari Park ? That’s a brilliant idea! After a day of thrilling encounters, soothe your tired legs and buzzing mind with a dip in the pool, a rejuvenating spa treatment, or a scrumptious meal, all conveniently at your fingertips.

Here are some of the most affordable quality hotels near San Diego Safari Park:

• Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk
• Riviera Oaks Resort & Racquet Club
• Hampton Inn Carlsbad North San Diego County
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad – Legoland Area

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Hotel Packages

For those planning a visit to the renowned wildlife haven, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Hotel Packages on Tripster offer an excellent solution.

These packages bundle comfortable accommodations within San Diego County with discount tickets to the Safari Park. This not only provides value but also convenience, ensuring that you can maximize the Safari Park San Diego hours without worrying about long travel times!

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Immerse yourself in the Safari Park’s experiences, from the early morning sights to the enchanting evening ambiance, all while enjoying a comfortable stay.

San Diego Attractions

Sesame place san diego.

For families with young children, Sesame Place San Diego is another must-visit attraction.

This immersive theme park brings to life the beloved characters of Sesame Street with rides, shows, and a variety of interactive experiences.

From Big Bird’s whimsical spin on Abby Cadabby’s magical carousel to a lively dance party with Elmo, Sesame Place offers a perfect blend of fun and edutainment for your little ones!

San Diego SEAL Tour at Seaport Village

For first-time visitors to San Diego, embarking on the Seal Tour at Seaport Village should be high on your list.

Related Post: LEGOLAND Discount Tickets California – Ultimate Savings Guide

This unique, amphibious adventure offers an unparalleled view of the city from both land and sea! See America’s Finest City on San Diego’s only amphibious sightseeing tour.

LEGOLAND California Resort

LEGOLAND California Resort is a family-friendly destination that’s a must-visit for LEGO® enthusiasts and fun-seekers alike. With over 60 interactive rides, shows, and attractions, it’s a place where imagination becomes reality!

Whether you’re a fan of the colorful bricks or simply seeking a day filled with joy and adventure, the LEGOLAND® California Resort promises a unique San Diego experience.

Insider San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tips

What to bring.

Dreaming of an unforgettable San Diego Safari Park adventure? Our San Diego Zoo Safari Park tips give you a list of things to bring:

• Camera – take home the most amazing San Diego Zoo Safari Park photos!
• Comfortable walking shoes – especially if you’re planning to walk the Tiger Trail, the habitat for Sumatran tigers, of which fewer than 400 exist in the wild.
• Raincoat – in case of unpredictable weather.
• Portable battery pack – to avoid a dead battery mid-safari.
• Credit or debit card – some vendors only accept cashless payments.

Can I Bring Food to San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

Yes, you can bring food into the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. However, there are some restrictions. Large coolers, glass containers, and alcohol are not allowed into the park.

Related Post: Phils BBQ San Diego – A Must-Stop Restaurant to Add to Your List

As part of our San Diego Safari Park tips, we recommend bringing your own snacks, sandwiches, fruits, vegetables, and bottled water for more savings. If you run out of munchies, you can also try to check out snack stands at the park, all of which are available during San Diego Safari Park hours.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Parking

Wondering if the San Diego Safari Park pass includes free parking? We regret to inform you that there is no free parking at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

San Diego Safari Park parking for automobiles and motorcycles costs $20 per vehicle. Parking is available during San Diego Safari hours.

Sana Diego Zoo Safari Park located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027 is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week.

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Once you’ve parked, you can start your wildlife exploration using the Africa tram ride. The Africa Tram stop is located at the main entrance of the park, near Gate 1.

The trams depart every 10-15 minutes, so you shouldn’t have to wait too long to board one. The ride is included in the price of admission to the park.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park FAQs

Do you need to buy tickets in advance for the san diego zoo.

While it's not strictly necessary to buy tickets in advance for the San Diego Zoo, doing so can certainly give you some peace of mind. You're free to simply breeze in with a spring in your step, with no waiting lines and no fuss! Remember, you can buy tickets at the gate, should spontaneity be more your travel style.

Do I Need Reservations for San Diego Safari Park?

Are you wondering if you need to book your spots ahead for the San Diego Safari Park? Take a deep breath and relax because when it comes to this thrilling adventure, no reservation is required.

Yes, that's right - you read it correctly! You can saunter right in and soak in the awe-inspiring diversity of wildlife without a modicum of stress about pre-bookings.

How Long Do People Spend at San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

Planning a trip to the famed San Diego Zoo Safari Park? Well, you're in for a wildly exciting day! Most visitors typically set aside a minimum of four to six hours to fully immerse themselves in the array of incredible animal exhibits and entertaining experiences the park has to offer!

Is It Worth Going to the San Diego Safari Park?

Well, that answer may vary as it is a personal choice, especially since you are getting up close views on your day at the zoo as well.

The Park offers an exotic blend of wildlife experiences, from guided safari tours to a thrilling zip line, providing a packed day with unique adventures.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Reviews

Want to find out what other readers think of San Diego Zoo Safari Park? Check out the most recent San Diego Zoo reviews . San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers an unforgettable adventure where wildlife roams freely in vast, naturalistic habitats.

It’s a unique opportunity to witness a range of animals, from majestic African elephants to graceful cheetahs, in settings that mimic their native environments.

And with the San Diego Safari Park discount tickets you’ve scored on Tripster, there’s no reason not to go! Enjoy a safari experience without breaking the bank.

What Did We Miss?

Have anything to add to our guide? Leave us a comment below!

Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...

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10 Wild Adventures at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Discover wide-open wonder.

If you’re looking for the ultimate animal experience, then check out the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. You’ll find tours that take you through beautiful habitats, guides who can introduce you to the animals, and even adrenaline-filled excursions. It’s all about getting acquainted with your wild side. Check out these 10 adventures at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Wildlife Safari

Venture into one of the expansive savanna habitats to get an up-close view of a variety of birds and mammals—including some of park's newest babies! You'll travel in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck, with an expert guide.

Behind-the-Scenes Safari

Get a special sneak peek into the secret lives of your favorite wildlife alongside the specialists who care for them, while exploring otherwise off-limits areas with a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy private viewing areas in the "Elephant and Friends" or "Rhino and Friends" behind-the-scenes safaris!

Jungle Ropes Safari  

Get your Tarzan on with this fun and daring challenge. Test your skills as you navigate rope bridges, aerial tightropes, swinging log steps and moving platforms. Swing, climb, balance and hold on, as you experience life in the treetops.

Flightline Safari  

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has many wonderful winged animals, but on the Flightline Safari, YOU are the one flying. Soar 130 feet above the ground on a zip line that gives you a bird’s-eye view of rhinos, giraffes and other wildlife.

Cheetah Safari  

Witness the fastest land mammal up close, doing what it does best: running! The spotted sprinter races on a straight 330-foot-long track that allows the cheetah to stretch its legs and reach an astounding speed: 0 to 70 miles per hour in just 4 seconds!

Lion Camp  

There’s no animal quite like the king of the jungle. Watch as these lions go through their natural behaviors, romping in the grass, exploring the rocks and resting in the cool shade. Come right up to the large glass panels for some eye-to-eye moments with these majestic animals.

Walkabout Australia  

Take a trip Down Under! Follow the eucalyptus-lined path as you walk among kangaroos and wallabies. You'll also see the large, eye-catching cassowary and the unique and rarely seen platypus.

Tiger Trail  

Follow the Tiger Trail and find yourself deep within the forests of Sumatra, where you’ll encounter the stunning Sumatran tigers. Learn all about these giant cats and watch as they saunter around their habitat—which includes a cooling waterfall.

Africa Tram  

All aboard! This open-air expedition brings you closer to a wide variety of animals throughout the expansive African Plains. Rest your legs as you cover some serious ground and see some amazing animals.

Elephant Valley  

Who isn’t awestruck when watching elephants? Observe these gentle giants (and two adorable youngsters!) lumbering around, eating and playing in their two large habitat areas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Find a place to stay

Related articles and features, the best beaches, according to kids.

San Diego's 70 miles of coastline offer families a variety of beaches that are perfect for swimming, surfing, sandcastle building, and any other family beach activity.

San Diego's Water Wonderland

If it's the water that you love, nowhere in Southern California gives you more choices to get out on the water and play than Mission Bay and the surrounding beaches. From sailing and fishing to surfing and tide pooling, you'll find it all here.  

Action Packed 3-Day Itineraries

The following suggested 3-day itineraries are perfect for sightseeing the more outlying areas of San Diego, which are home to scenic mountains, deserts and a picturesque 70-mile coastline.

San Diego Music Scene for Teenagers

Teens on a San Diego vacation will enjoy all-ages music venues, record stores and a unique tour where teens can get caught up in San Diego’s local music scene.

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San Diego Safari Park Discount Tickets 2024: $55

Looking for a San Diego Safari Park Discount Code? We’ve listed all the different ways you can buy San Diego Safari Park Discount Tickets 2024 so you can save on admission tickets, safari upgrades, or if you wish to bundle tickets with other San Diego attractions. Plus, check out our Tips for Visiting San Diego Safari Park based on our past experience visiting.

We also just recently visited San Diego Zoo, check our San Diego Zoo Tips and San Diego Zoo discount tickets as well. The zoo and the safari park are located 35 miles away from each other.

DISCOUNTS FOR SAN DIEGO SAFARI PARK:

1. cheapest san diego safari park discount tickets: $55 – $65 using promo code.

Safari Park tickets cost $62 for a 1-day child ticket (ages 3 to 11) and $72 for an adult ticket (ages 12+). To save, use our San Diego Safari Park promo code “SPRING” to save $7 off per ticket bringing down your ticket to $55 for a child ticket and $65 for an adult ticket.

A$2 convenience fee applies but tax is already included. When buying directly from the park, they charge a $1 convenience fee as well so this deal saves you a total of $6 per ticket.

1-Day Pass includes admission, unlimited rides on the Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, and all shows and exhibits.

San Diego Safari Park 1-Day Discount Ticket

• 1-Day Child Ticket (ages 3 – 11): $55 using promo code SPRING
• 1-Day Adult Ticket (ages 13+): $65 using promo code SPRING

Note: If you are wondering whether AresTravel is legit, we bought Valleyfair discount tickets during our trip to Minnesota and they definitely worked. I didn’t have to print our tickets and just had the code scanned from my mobile phone when we got to the theme park.

2. San Diego Safari Park 2-Day Pass: $114 – $124

San Diego Safari Park is big so if you have the time, I recommend visiting for 2 days especially if you are traveling with kids. You can take advantage of the 2-Day Pass which is $114 for a child ticket and $124 for an adult ticket .

You can use the 2-Day Pass for 2 days at either San Diego Safari Park or San Diego Zoo or use it for one day at the Safari Park and one day at the Zoo. The 2 zoos are only a 30-minute drive from each other.

3. Kids Free San Diego

Every October in San Diego, kids can enter San Diego attractions for free including San Diego Safari Park.

The San Diego Safari Park Kids Free San Diego offer is free admission for up to 10 children (11 and under) with the paid admission of one adult between October 1 to 31. Check other attractions included in the Kids Free San Diego promotion.

Children 2 and under can always visit San Diego Safari Park for free. Qualifying kids do not need a ticket to enter for free during the October Kids Free San Diego promotion. Kids ages 3 to 11 usually have to pay $59 to enter San Diego Safari Park so you are saving a lot when visiting in October.

To save on the adult ticket, buy a San Diego Safari ticket discount, only $62 when you use our promo code WINTER to save $7 off per ticket.

Discounted Adult Tickets – $65

Use promo code WINTER to save $7 off the $72 adult ticket.

4. Groupon San Diego Safari Park – $59 to $69

San Diego Safari Groupon tickets are available starting at $59 to $69 for single-day admission . Since ticket deal #1 is cheaper – only $55 to $65 , I would only recommend buying your Safari Park tickets from Groupon if you have Groupon Bucks to use.

Groupon Bucks are credit dollars you can use towards your next purchase. You earn Groupon Bucks with certain ticket purchases from Groupon.

San Diego Safari Park Groupon Tickets

Recommended if you have Groupon Bucks to use.

5. Safari Upgrade Discount

The African Safari Tram is free and is included with your admission ticket to the park but if you want to add more activities, you can partake in other safaris as well. The Behind the Scenes Safari, Wildlife Safari, and Flightline Safari are available at a discount, you can buy them on top of your San Diego Safari Park discount ticket.

Note: These 4 are safari upgrades (extra activities), make sure you also buy your admission ticket to enter the park. Ticket deal #1 above for discounted San Diego Safari Park.

Behind the Scenes Safari – During this 90-minute safari, your guide will escort your group to a variety of locations around the Safari Park to see animals up close and share stories of wildlife care and conservation. For ages 3 and up.

Tickets to Behind the Scenes Safari cost $92 on weekdays, $105 on Sundays, and $115 on Saturdays and holidays so if you are visiting on a Saturday and/or holiday when tickets are $115, take advantage of the Behind the Scenes Safari discount, only $105 per person to save $10 each.

Behind the Scenes Safari Discount – $105

Wildlife Safari – The 1-hour safari takes you into the Safari Park’s expansive, multi-species savanna habitats for up-close views of wildlife including a variety of birds and mammals. Each tour visits one or more habitats representing areas of Africa and/or Asia.

You’ll travel in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck, with an expert guide. It is 1 hour long and is for ages 3 and up.

Tickets to Wildlife Safari cost $92 on weekdays, $105 on Sundays, and $115 on Saturdays and holidays so if you are visiting on a Saturday and/or holiday when tickets are $115, take advantage of the Wildlife Safari discount, only $105 per person to save $10 each.

Wildlife Safari Discount – $105

Flightline Safari – Ride the zipline at San Diego Safari park and soar as high as 130 feet above the ground, with a spectacular bird’s-eye view of rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife in the fields below you. The minimum age to ride is 8.

Tickets to the Flightline Safari cost $81 on weekdays, $87 on Sundays, and $99 on holidays and weekends so when visiting on Saturdays and/or holidays when tickets are $99, take advantage of the Flightline Safari discount, only $87 per person to save $12 each.

Flightline Safari Discount – $87

6. san diego safari park + other attractions all-in-1 pass.

If you’re visiting San Diego for the weekend or a whole week, get a Go City San Diego All-Inclusive Pass to visit San Diego Safari Park and other San Diego Attractions to save up to 55% off.

The Go City San Diego All-Inclusive Pass allows you to choose over 50+ San Diego attractions to visit using a 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7-day pass. You don’t need to keep buying separate tickets and you can access your digital pass through your phone. Choose how many days you want your pass to be valid for, and then visit as many attractions as you wish.

The San Diego attractions you can visit using an All-inclusive pass include:

• Safari Park
• SeaWorld Theme Park
• Legoland California
• San Diego Zoo
• USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum
• Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass
• San Diego Speed Boat Adventures
• One Hour San Diego Harbor Cruise by Hornblower Cruises
• Whale Watching
• Birch Aquarium at Scripps
• The Fleet Science Center with IMAX
• San Diego Natural History Museum
• Air & Space Museum
• San Diego Hiking Tour
• PETCO Park Tour
• Speed Circuit
• La Jolla 90 Minute Kayak Rental
• Full-Day Snorkel Rental
• iFly San Diego
• One Way Coronado Ferry
• Knott’s Berry Farm in Orange County , and many more.
• Check the  complete list of San Diego attractions you can visit.

San Diego Multi-Attraction Pass

Note that you can’t use this Go City San Diego Pass to get a child-free in during the Kids Free San Diego in October.

7. San Diego Safari Park + other Theme Parks Combo Ticket

Save on admission tickets to multiple San Diego attractions by buying combo tickets. Check out various combo deals below.

A. San Diego Safari Park + Legoland California Combo Ticket – $157.99

• Child Ticket (ages 3 -11) – $157.99
• Adult Ticket (ages 12+) – $167.99

B. San Diego Safari Park + San Diego Zoo + Legoland California Combo Ticket

• Child Ticket (ages 3 – 11) – $214.99
• Adult Ticket (ages 12+) – $234.99

C. Safari Park + Zoo + SeaWorld Combo Ticket

• Child Ticket (ages 3 – 11) – $188.99
• Adult Ticket (ages 12+) – $209.99

8. Vacation Packages

Save on hotel and attractions tickets by buying vacation packages. Choose from a number of hotels and which San Diego attractions you wish to visit.

A. San Diego Safari Park Vacation Package – Save up to 20% off

• Choose from 18 hotels
• Choose from 1-Day Pass or 2-Day Pass

B. The Best of San Diego Adventure Package – Save up to 30% off

• Choose from 117 hotels
• Choose your attraction/s: SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park and LEGOLAND California.

C. San Diego Family Fun Package – save up to 30% off

• Choose from 122 hotels
• Choose your attraction/s: San Diego Zoo, San Diego Safari Park, USS Midway or Old Town Trolley.

SAN DIEGO SAFARI PARK TICKET PRICES (REGULAR PRICE)

These are the regular-priced Safari Park tickets if you buy them online via their website plus a $1 convenience fee per ticket.

• San Diego Safari Park tickets cost $72 for adult tickets (ages 12 and older), $62 for a child ticket (ages 3 to 11), while kids 2 and under can enter for free.
• San Diego Safari Park Value Days tickets are also available for only $68 for an adult ticket and $58 for child tickets which can be used for certain weekdays but ticket deal #1 above is still cheaper.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. AnyTots.com has made every effort to confirm the information in this article and we try our best to update as often as possible but things can often change so we urge you to confirm every event detail like date, time, location, ticket price from the host of the event or attraction, and actual savings calculation in case of an error on our part. AnyTots is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while visiting an attraction or event posted on our website and you assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our post.

BUY DISCOUNT TICKETS TO SAN DIEGO SAFARI PARK: $55 TO $65 (Use Promo Code SPRING)

Things to do in san diego:.

• Legoland California Discount Tickets
• SeaWorld San Diego Discount Tickets
• Sesame Place San Diego Discount
• Tips for visiting San Diego Safari Park
• San Diego Getaway Guide
• Belmont Park Discount
• Kids Free San Diego October
• San Diego SEAL Tour Discount Tickets

DISCOUNT TO THEME PARKS AND ATTRACTIONS:

• Legoland Arizona Discount  (Discovery Center)
• Aquarium of the Bay Discount (San Francisco)
• Aquarium of the Pacific Discount (Long Beach)
• California’s Great America Discount
• Castle Park Discount
• Disneyland Discount
• Gilroy Gardens Discount
• Knott’s Discount  &  Knott’s Soak City Discount  &  Knott’s Scary Farm Discount
• Legoland California Discount
• Medieval Times Discount
• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Discount
• Pirate's Dinner Adventure Discount
• Raging Water Los Angeles Discount
• Raging Waters San Jose Discount
• San Diego Safari Park Discount
• San Diego Zoo Discount
• SeaWorld San Diego Discount  &  Howl-O-Scream Discount
• Universal Studios Hollywood Discount  &  Halloween Horror Nights Discount
• Warner Bros Studio Tour Discount
• Wild Rivers Waterpark Discount

Connecticut

• Lake Compounce Discount
• Busch Gardens Tampa Discount  and  Adventure Island Waterpark Discount
• Disney World Discount
• Kennedy Space Center Discount
• Legoland Florida Discount
• SeaWorld Orlando Discount and  Aquatica Waterpark Discount
• Universal Orlando Discount &  Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights Discount
• Wild Adventures Discount
• LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta Discount
• Adventureland Discount
• Kentucky Kingdom Discount
• Michigan’s Adventure Discount
• ValleyFair Discount
• Worlds of Fun Discount
• Legoland New York Discount

North Carolina

• Carowinds Discount  &  SCarowinds Discount
• Columbus Zoo Discount
• Kings Island Discount
• Monsoon Lagoon Waterpark Discount
• Zoombezi Bay Discount

Pennsylvania

• Dorney Park Discount
• Dutch Wonderland Discount
• Idlewild Discount
• Kennywood Discount
• Sesame Place Philadelphia Discount
• George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Discount
• LBJ Presidential Library Discount
• San Antonio Zoo Discount
• SeaWorld San Antonio Discount
• Schlitterbahn New Braunfels Waterpark Discount
• Busch Gardens Williamsburg Discount
• Kings Dominion Discount
• Noah’s Ark Waterpark Discount
• Canada’s Wonderland Discount

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. AnyTots.com has made every effort to confirm the information in this article and we try our best to update as often as possible but things can often change so we urge you to confirm every event detail like date, time, location, ticket price from the host of the event or attraction, and actual savings calculation in case of an error on our part. AnyTots does not sell any tickets but only lists reliable sources where you can buy discounted tickets, make sure to check the refund or exchange policy before buying tickets through them .   AnyTots is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while visiting an attraction or event posted on our website and you assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our post.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - KAT

For over a decade, Kathleen has been chronicling her family's travel adventures to assist travelers in planning their vacations while staying on budget through firsthand experience and insider tips. She also shares recipes and free printables. For inquiries, reach out to [email protected].

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Wildlife Safari

$92 & up*.

Price is per person

At A Glance

• Ages 3 & up
• $92 & up per person
• Savanna habitat

Ages 3 and older. Ages 15 and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult. Maximum 3 children ages 15 and younger per adult. 

A separate admission ticket or membership is required for Safari Park entry; parking is not included.

Wildlife Safaris are an all-weather event, however during periods of inclement weather please call 619-718-3000 to check the status of your tour. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park reserves the right to cancel or reroute a tour due to inclement weather, animal health, and/or safety concerns. In the event of cancellation, efforts will be made to reschedule you on a later tour. 



For the safety of our animals and the comfort of our guests, outside food and beverages, selfie sticks, and tripods (except tripods used as monopods) are not permitted. Drinking water in closed-lid containers is recommended.

If anyone in your party requires the use of a wheelchair during the tour, after booking, please call 619-718-3000 so we can notate your order prior to your visit. ​​​​​​​ Change/Cancellation:   Reservations may be changed up to 3 days before the program. Changes made 3 days or less prior to the program are not permitted. Cancellations received more than 3 days before the scheduled program are subject to a $25 Cancellation Fee. Cancellations made 3 days or less prior to the program, payment is non-refundable.



Wildlife Safari Deluxe Twilight

• Ages 6 & up
• $142 & up per person
• Select weekends and holidays
• Savanna habitats

Ages 6 and older. Ages 15 and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult. Maximum 3 children ages 15 and younger per adult. 

A separate admission ticket or membership is required for Safari Park entry; parking is not included. 

If anyone in your party requires the use of a wheelchair during the tour, after booking, please call 619-718-3000 so we can notate your order prior to your visit. Change/Cancellations: Reservations may be changed up to 3 days before the program. Changes made 3 days or less prior to the program are not permitted. Cancellations received more than 3 days before the scheduled program are subject to a $25 Cancellation Fee. Cancellations made 3 days or less prior to the program, payment is non-refundable.

This 90-minute adventure takes you into the Safari Park’s expansive savanna habitat during the twilight hours.  Your expert guide will share stories and insights while you experience this exclusive opportunity to be the only ones in the savanna at twilight. The tour also includes a stop to visit some of our nocturnal wildlife that can only be seen at dusk.

Each tour visits one habitat representing areas of Africa. Tour routes vary; you may have the opportunity to view species of giraffe, rhinos, antelope, gazelle, cattle, birds, and more.

The tour also includes a stop to visit one of our nocturnal species.

Feeding and/or touching of wildlife is not offered or permitted.

Mimosa Wildlife Safari

• Ages 21 & up
• $140 & up per person
• Offered select dates

Ages 21 and older. Guests will be required to show ID or proof of age at check-in to be served alcohol. A separate admission ticket or membership is required for Safari Park entry; parking is not included.

Wildlife Safaris are an all-weather event, however during periods of inclement weather please call 619-718-3000 to check the status of your tour. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park reserves the right to cancel or reroute a tour due to inclement weather, animal health, and/or safety concerns. In the event of cancellation, efforts will be made to reschedule you on a later tour.

For the safety of our wildlife and the comfort of our guests, outside food and beverages, selfie sticks, and tripods (except tripods used as monopods) are not permitted. Guests may bring drinking water; closed-lid containers are recommended.

If anyone in your party requires the use of a wheelchair during the tour, after booking, please call 619-718-3000 so we can notate your order prior to your visit. For the health and safety of wildlife, service animals are not permitted on Wildlife Safaris.

Restrooms are available during the stop at Amani Point. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended. Change/Cancellations: Reservations may be changed up to 3 days before the program. Changes made 3 days or less prior to the program are not permitted. Cancellations received more than 3 days before the scheduled program are subject to a $25 Cancellation Fee. Cancellations made 3 days or less prior to the program, payment is non-refundable.

Enjoy sipping mimosas among the wildlife of the African savanna! Begin with a meet & greet mingle and your first mimosa in a souvenir aluminum glass. Next, board a covered, open-air safari truck and venture into an expansive habitat for up-close views of giraffe, antelope, and more. Then it’s off to a breathtaking viewpoint for more yummy mimosas and pastries while taking in the sights and sounds of African wildlife. A scrumptious way to start your day!

Deluxe Wildlife Safari

• $117 & up per person
• Offered daily

Spend even more time with your favorite wildlife! On this 90-minute safari, you’ll venture into habitats representing Africa and/or Asia for up-close views of giraffes, rhinos, and many other species. Enjoy amazing photo opportunities while learning about how caring for wildlife here helps us to conserve wildlife around the world.

• Age 3 & up

Venture into one of our expansive savanna habitats to get an up-close view of a variety of birds and mammals—including some of our newest babies! You'll travel in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck, with an expert guide.

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Behind-the-Scenes Safari

These Safaris are guaranteed to thrill and amaze! Your guide will escort you to a variety of locations around the Park to see animals up close and share stories of wildlife care and conservation.  

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Let us answer your questions and create your day at the Safari Park!

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Picture Your Special Day at the Park!

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tips and Fun Things to do

The San Diego Zoo in southern California had an idea for a new park. They wanted to create a wild animal park that allows the animals to roam free with plenty of room to run. The Zoo wanted to mimic their natural habitat as much as possible.

At the same time, they wanted to still give the guests ways to get up close to them. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is what they came up with.

This post has been sponsored by the San Diego Zoo . As always, my opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through the site, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for the support. 

The Safari Park is a one-of-a-kind exhibit. It does an amazing job of immersing you in the diverse habitats you are visiting. From the trails to the landscaping, you are transformed into another world.

The only thing I’ve seen that came is Disney Worlds Animal Park. But there are some differences between this park and the San Diego Zoo .

San Diego Safari Park Tips

A lot of the tips I gave regarding the San Diego Zoo apply to the Safari Park too. But there are a few other things that make this park stand out.

Planning Your Day

Get there early, wear good walking shoes and make a plan for the animals you want to see first. For me, it was the Tiger Trail. This trail has ADA walking paths. It was one of the nicest trails I’ve seen.

Since we got there so early, we were able to see very active tigers enjoying their enclosures. They also had a secondary trail you can take that goes off the beaten path.

If you are up for the adventure, I recommend taking this loop for a unique experience.

Some of the other favorites are the gorillas, elephant odyssey, rhinos, and giraffes. The park spends a lot of time educating its visitors about the animals. Each has its own unique world.

As of Spring 2018, they are working on a new exhibit in this part of the zoo, the Walk About Australia. Because of this, some birds on California Condor Ridge have been relocated during the construction.

They should have it back open to the public this summer. Don’t let this detour you from visiting the Tigers. It was unforgettable.

How much walking is required?

This park didn’t feel as big as San Diego Zoo, but it was definitely comparable. We logged 4.7 miles of walking. If you have young kids, make sure to bring a stroller.

The biggest difference was the space between each animal enclosure. Because they have given the animals more space to roam, they filled in with additional landscaping and added enrichment opportunities for the younger guests.

Want to see a mix of animals from everywhere? Don’t forget to check out the San Diego Zoo. It’s a blast! Essential Tips For Visiting the San Diego Zoo Before Going Buy Tickets for the San Diego Zoo by Clicking here.

The food situation is the same. Pricing is at a premium, and the quality is mediocre. They have a wide variety of options including gluten-free and vegan options.

They also allow you to bring in your own food and snacks, which will save you a lot of money. I also recommend bringing in a water bottle or hydration backpack too just to keep the costs down.

My favorite backpack is the Rupumpack because of its extra storage space. I take it with me everywhere. The longest lines for food are right around 12-1 and right next to the tram tour.

If you walk a few food joints away, you’ll be able to walk right up.

Animal Encounters

One of my favorite parts of the zoo was getting to see an animal encounter. These encounters are more than just a Zoo Keeper talking about animals.

They come right out into the park and talk with the guests. These encounters are at various times of the day and can be found all over the park. Some of my favorites were the Nairobi Village, Lion Camp, and the Walkabout Australia.

The Africa Tram

The Safari Park’s Africa Tram is included with admission. This ride is incredibly popular. It gives you a 30 min highlight tour of the African plains. The busiest time is between 11-3.

You’ll be looking to wait for about 1hr in line during peak times. The wait goes down significantly if you go during the Cheetah Run show. The first train starts at 10 am, so I recommend getting on this one if you can.

The Cart Safari Tour

The cart safari tour is a great way to see the animals if you are traveling with younger kids. With a maximum capacity of 12 people, the tour was practically private.

They take you on a complete perimeter of the facility. The Asian plains tour gives takes you to the far end of the park.

Getting the opportunity to get up close and personal with the San Diego safari park animals was an experience I will never forget. Our guide gave us all kinds of information about the different species and their history with the park.

Visiting in springtime gave us a rare opportunity to see some of the babies, including a 2-day old Dik-Dik. Witnessing the baby’s unstable steps and a mama protective of her new baby was just like wanting a Discovery Channel Special.

The tour thought us so much about the park and its extensive steps to ensure survival and conservation efforts. Including their work to help endangered species.

Other Safari Tours to Take

The least expensive tour is the $15 balloon safari. Taking you up 400 feet above the prairie, to witness the animals from above. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes high above the Serengeti.

There is a Wildlife Safari Caravan Tour for people six years and older. Everyone piles into the open-air safari truck, and you all get the opportunity to hand feed different animals.

The trip is anywhere from 2-3.5 hrs long depending on the trip you choose. You must be 13 years old. They also do a Twilight Wildlife Safari. Same thing but during the nighttime magic.

Love Flamingos? You gotta try the Mimosa Wildlife Safari. Start off with enjoying a drink next to the flamingos. THen board the open-air safari truck to see giraffes, antelope, and other African Savana wildlife.

With all the differnet Safari Tours, they have something for every age group. They are a must-see for any trip to the San Diego Safari Park.

My only criticism of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the add-ons. They sell express passes tickets to get in the front of the line at a few of the different features. And a few extra dollars to feed the birds.

It also seemed like in order to really see the Safari Animals; you need to pay the extra money for the safaris tours. These experiences are great and well worth the money.

We opted to spend the extra money on the Cart Safari Tour, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I recommend doing at least one while you are there.

The problem I had was that everywhere you turned it seemed like another amazing experience you can do for a fee. If you have small kids, make sure to prepare them for this.

Decide which add-ons you want to or get them involved in the planning. This way they aren’t begging to do all the cool attractions.

Getting the Best Deal on Tickets to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

I recommend skipping the line by purchasing your tickets online. There are a few different options for tickets. A standard one-day ticket or a two-day ticket is an incredible deal.

You can choose to get into either the Safari Park one day or the San Diego Zoo the next. Or spend both days at the Safari Park! Groupon also has some incredible deals you can check out too.

The other option is to get a Go City Card . This pass is a great deal. You can purchase a pass for the exact number of days you want to do attractions.

The pass includes admission to over 40 different attractions, museums, and a lot of California favorites, including both Zoo’s , SeaWorld , and the USS Midway .

If you plan in outright, you can save yourself a lot of money using this pass. But you may need a few days poolside to recover.

Get your tickets before you leave for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The lines can get long and you don’t want to miss out on anything. San Diego Zoo Safari Park Go City Card Bundle

Final Thoughts

We had a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. It was something that I will never forget. The steps they have taken to improve the quality of life in the zoo and their conservation efforts are out of this world.

If you are trying to decide on which zoo to visit between the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park, it would depend on what your interests are. If you’re looking for variety and value, the San Diego Zoo is where you want to go.

If you are looking for something a little different and have the money for some extra safari add-ins, go to the Safari Park!

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Minnesota native and Midwest travel expert Jennifer provides insider tips and budget-friendly trip ideas for families looking to explore the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Through her travel blog DayTripper28, she draws on first-hand experience to recommend the best hidden gems, outdoor adventures, road trips, and weekend getaways around Minnesota and the Midwest. With her passion for uncovering local flavors and culture along the backroads, Jennifer shares affordable itineraries for creating memorable experiences across the region.

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One easy purchase saves big on admission to San Diego's top attractions and theme parks, including San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld®, and LEGOLAND®. 

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