safari park zoo reviews

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Price & Hours

• Facilities 5.0
• Atmosphere 5.0

U.S. News Insider Tip: Spend the night with the animals on a Roar & Snore Safari. Guests sleep in comfortable tent cabins with cots and heaters. Witness the animals' activity after dark and roast s'mores around the campfire. – Sharael Kolberg

If you want more of the San Diego Zoo , head about 35 miles north to its Safari Park in Escondido. Here, you can view some of Africa's most beloved animals – including lions, elephants and cheetahs – roaming free (well, relatively). There are also meerkats, zebras, gorillas and bald eagles, to name a few. True to its name, the park offers a variety of different safaris, including a zip line safari and a wildlife safari in an open-air truck.

Like the zoo, the Safari Park is operated by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and regularly wins high praise from animal lovers, who say the facility offers an excellent way to observe the multitude of creatures. Travelers frequently describe the staff as very friendly and knowledgeable. Visitors acknowledge that it is an inconvenient trek from San Diego, but the unique habitat created for the animals is very fascinating to see. Some travelers even went so far to say that it felt like they were on a real African safari. Many point out that it can get extremely hot here in summer and advise you to plan accordingly.

Hours and Tickets

The park is open daily, usually from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. but extended hours at select times throughout the year may be until 7 or 8 p.m. Prices for single-day tickets start at $72 for visitors ages 12 and older and $62 for kids 3 to 11. This covers admission to the park and use of the Africa Tram that travels through it. Individual safari experiences cost extra.

Packages combining admission to both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park or blending visits to the two Wildlife Alliance institutions with a trip to SeaWorld San Diego are also offered. If you're hoping to visit the Safari Park, you'll either need to drive or take a taxi as the city doesn't offer an efficient mode of public transportation between the zoo and park. For additional information, see the park's website .

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More Best Things To Do in San Diego

#1 Balboa Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: Leave your car in one of the parking lots and take the free Balboa Park Tram that runs every 10 to 15 minutes to get around. Save money with a Balboa Park Explorer Pass, which offers discounts at park museums. – Sharael Kolberg

Home to the renowned San Diego Zoo , this 1,200-acre park is the city's cultural hub. Located in downtown San Diego (about 1 ½ miles north of the city center), Balboa Park is a great place for a stroll, a bike ride or a picnic. Wander around the park's many gardens while admiring the intricate Spanish-Renaissance architecture that permeates the grounds (the best examples are the California Building and the reconstructed House of Hospitality). The Botanical Building is a great starting point in Balboa Park. The building is one of the most photographed places in Balboa Park and is one of the largest lath structures in the world. But don't just look at it. The famous botanical building features more than 2,100 permanent plants, including striking collections of tropical plants and orchids. Balboa Park also features a cactus garden, a rose garden, a Japanese-style garden as well as a palm tree canyon, among many others.

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What’s the Best San Diego Safari Park Tour? Chart & Reviews

With 18 choices, how do you pick the best San Diego Safari Park Tour/Safari? After the quick summary below, check the comparison chart for prices, tour duration & age limits. Then read the individual tour reviews and about their refund policy if you have to cancel.

Africa Tram’s the best free San Diego Safari Park tour. The 1-hour Wildlife Safari truck trip into the African fields is the most popular paid one. But a 90-minute Twilight Wildlife Safari with lunch is a better deal. Roar & Snore Safari overnight stays are family favorites. All require separate admission.

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 .

Prices are given as a range because Safari Park charges extra for tours on peak days. Prices and availability can change without notice.

• Least Expensive: non-holiday Mondays and Tuesdays thru Thursdays
• Mid-priced: most Fridays
• Peak prices: Some Fridays. Usually Saturdays, Sundays, and 3-day holidays (best time for aRes discount tour deals )

You’ll need to buy a Safari Park admission in addition to your tour ticket. Why not take advantage of the best admission discount from aRes Travel , the San Diego-based authorized ticket seller? Click on the koala’s furry face below!

And finally, here’s what else you can do at Safari Park . That’s a page that I wrote that covers the animal exhibits, shows, and keeper talks. And if you’re wondering where to eat I’ve also written an article on where’s the best food ?

Wildlife Safari Tour

The 1-hour Wildlife Safari is the most popular tour at San Diego Safari Park followed by the 90-minute Twilight Wildlife Safari. You go inside the African animal enclosure in an open-air covered truck. Twilight tours add a light meal. Deluxe Safari is 90 minutes long and also tours the Asian enclosures .

The worst thing about these Safaris is that there are sometimes so many opportunities for close-up photos of animals that you won’t know where to point your camera first.  The best part of them is that you have the opportunity to feed giraffes if the animals are feeling hungry. Don’t worry, they’re ALWAYS hungry.

There are 3 different variations of this Safari plus an alternative for those with teenagers:

Wildlife Safari

• Duration: 1 hour
• Price: $89 – 105 per person. Admission is separate for each person and required.
• Age restrictions: Ages 3+. Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult
• What’s Special: The overwhelming SIZE of a 4-foot long giraffe head next to yours. And how daintily they take the acacia leaves from your fingers.
• Deals : Check HERE for discounted tours for SanDiegoing readers from aRes Travel — San Diego’s local authorized ticket source.

Twilight Wildlife Safari

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Price: $109 – 129 per person. Admission is separate for each person and required.
• Age restrictions: Ages 3+. Children 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult 
• You’ll also enjoy a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic drink with some tasty nibbles at a stunning overlook.

Deluxe Safari

• What’s Special: The Deluxe Safari provides you with your best chance to pet a rhino. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s more likely than on either of the other truck safaris. Why? Maybe because the One-Horn rhinos in the Asian fields are a bit smaller than the White rhinos in the other safaris? Still, stroking the soft snout of a 3,500-pound animal instead of a 5,000-pound one is ok with me. And there are always hungry giraffes!

Combine A Truck Safari with a Zipline Experience

If you’ve got teenagers or other adrenalin junkies in your group, try the Deluxe Flightline Safari (further down this page). It combines a shorter truck caravan safari with a 3,520-foot zipline ride. Same cost, but more experiences!

Wildlife Safari Tips

Feed giraffes, but don’t touch them . Keep your hands low during feeding. Raise your hand just a bit so that they can see the acacia leaves. Then let them reach down for the leaves.

Why? They use their heads as battering rams in dominance contests. Your friendly hand reaching towards their head can be viewed as an aggressive gesture. So no high-fives with giraffe horns. That avoids misunderstandings with a creature 10 times your size and makes for better photos as well.

THIRSTY? Bring drinking water in a container with a closed lid. Sip, don’t guzzle unless you’ve got an iron bladder.

MOBILITY ISSUES : If anyone in your party has mobility issues or needs to use a wheelchair call 619-718-3000 after you purchase your ticket. They will make arrangements for you.

RESTRICTIONS

• Selfie sticks must be stowed away. They can scare animals.
• No outside food, beverages, or bulky camera equipment (small tripods are ok if they’re used as monopods)
• Admission is separate and required.
• 5 or more days before reservation – changes allowed but $15 Administrative Change Fee will be charged.
• Less than 5 days before reservation – changes not permitted

CANCELLATIONS

• 5 or more days before reservation – changes allowed but $25 Cancellation Fee will be charged.
• Less than 5 days before reservation – payment not refundable.

Sun-Up Cheetah Safari Tour

Do you love cheetahs? Then this is San Diego Safari Park’s best tour for you. It’s the very best way to get amazing cheetah photos like the one above.

• Duration : 1 hour
• Start Time: 8:00 AM on most Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
• Price: $99 – 105. Admission is separate and required for each guest.
• Age restrictions: All ages ok. There must be a responsible paid adult present for every 3 children. Children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Proof of age of children may be required.

You’ll get into the park early and meet your experienced guide for a walk down to Shiley’s Cheetah Run . There you’ll see a cheetah fly by at nearly 70 miles per hour from a prime viewing location.

After the cheetah chases the mechanical lure down the track you’ll head down to the Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook . There you’ll get to see another speedster, this one flying through the air. After all that rushing around, relax with a savory brunch. Enjoy coffee, tea, mimosas, and the only San Diego restaurant view that includes giraffes, rhinos, and antelope.

• Purchase your admission ticket(s) in advance online. You will be arriving before the ticket sale booths are open. Have your admission ticket printed or ready to be scanned on your cell phone.
• To get the best viewing locations for all of these tour events, arrive about 30 minutes before check-in so you get the first pick. But don’t worry if you can’t be early. There aren’t any “bad” locations.

Cart Safari Tour

A Cart Safari is the best tour at San Diego Safari park if you’ve got small children or babies. The cart is much lower to the ground than the truck used in the Wildlife Safari. It’s much easier to get in and out to view animals while carrying infants or toddlers. The ride is also much smoother since Cart Safaris only go on paved roads.

You’ll have a private tour driver/guide. They’ll be masked and the cart has special screens to social distance your guide from your household group. But they’ll still be able to hear and see you to answer just about any question and direct you to wildlife feeding opportunities and photo stops.

• Price: $55+ per person. Admission is separate and required for each guest.
• Age restrictions: None. Infants and children under the age of 2 are welcome as long as they sit on an adults’ lap. There’s a limit of two lap children per group. Children 15 years old and younger must be with a paid adult.
• Two Options: Asian Cart Safari or African Cart Safari

There Are 2 Flightline Safari Zipline Rides and Tours at Safari Park

Flightline safari.

• Duration : 1 hour. Includes orientation session and Fledgling flight
• Price: $77 – 85
• Age restrictions: 8+ years old. There must be one paid parent or guardian accompanying up to 3 children aged 8 to 15 at all times. If you’re 16 or 17 you may ride the flightline alone, but you must have a parent or guardian sign a liability waiver at check-in. 
• Deals : Check HERE for daily discounts for SanDiegoing readers from aRes Travel — San Diego’s local authorized ticket source. TIP : The deals are best when you need them most, on weekends and holidays.

Take an exhilarating flight down a zip line 2/3rds of a mile long. Soar up to 130 feet above herds of wild antelope, giraffes, and rhinos. 

You’ll take a training course on the Fledgling run. There you’ll become familiar with the procedures and safety equipment. Once you’re comfortable with the short Fledgling flight, you’ll be transported to the launch platform for the Flightline Safari. You land near the campground at Kilima Point.

Deluxe Flightline Safari

This tour is a very good deal for groups that include restless teenagers looking for a bit more action. It adds a truck caravan tour into the African plains exhibits before your orientation session and zipline flight. You can get up close with the animals, take great photos, and ride the zip line for the price of just the Wildlife Safari truck tour.

• Duration : 90 minutes.
• Price: $89 – 105

Safety Restrictions: You will be asked to sign a liability waiver. You must be able to understand the waiver and be able to follow instructions in English. There’s a weight limit of between 60 and 300 pounds (your weight may be checked). 

The safety harness must fit comfortably. Wear snug-fitting closed-toe shoes. Do not drink alcohol before the Flightline Safari. If the trainers or those assisting you think that you’ve been imbibing you will not be allowed on the zip line. 

If you don’t meet all of these qualifications you will be denied access to the zip line and there will be no refunds.

Behind the Scenes Safari Tour

If you’re looking for an insider’s view, these will be San Diego Safari Park’s best safaris for you. There are 3 different safari options available, each focusing on one animal or exhibit area. But no two Behind the Scenes Safari Tours are exactly the same. All of them provide an intimate look at off-exhibit areas that are inaccessible to the general population of Safari Park guests.

You’ll take a ride on a small electric cart and then explore on foot with a guide who’ll fill you in on the park’s animals and conservation initiatives. 

There are three Behind the Scenes Safari Tour s:

Elephants & Friends

Have a close encounter of the pachyderm kind! See the Safari Park elephant herd from a private viewing area. Discover how they’re cared for and what’s being done to protect their wild relatives. Selfie sticks are not permitted on this tour.

• Price: $89 – 105 per person. Admission is separate and required for each guest.
• Age restrictions: Children 3-15 must be accompanied by a paid adult. A maximum of 2 children per group.

Rhinos & Friends

Get close to rhinos. Explore behind the scenes at Nikita Kahn Rhino Rescue Center. Here the Safari Park staff is developing assisted reproductive techniques that may bring back the Northern White Rhino from functional extinction.

You’ll also take a trip around the park’s large field exhibits and view many other species there. You have to be able to stand or walk for at least 60 minutes to take this tour.  Selfie sticks are not permitted here.

• Age restrictions: Children 3-15 must be accompanied by a paid adult. A maximum of 2 children per group. A maximum of 2 children per group.

Roar & Snore Safari Tour

In my ever so humble opinion, and that of many others, this is the BEST safari at San Diego Safari Park. You can experience the sights and sounds of sleeping on safari in Africa without traveling there (no extra vaccinations needed!).

Fall asleep to elephants’ rumblings. Wake to the sound of lions roaring. But don’t worry about it being too noisy to sleep. Most of the time it’s so quiet that you can hear the footsteps of giraffes passing by. 

What happens at Roar & Snore? Close-up animal encounters, night-time guided walking tours, and a backstage look at some of the animal accommodations. You’ll also enjoy good food, and relaxing around a campfire.

The last time Bob and I went, we saw the inner workings of Lion Camp at night. Did you know that they sometimes put different colored glitter in each lion’s food? Me neither! The colored particles let keepers know which scat belongs to which cat. Examining their feces is just one way that keepers monitor lions’ health.

The sleepovers include a catered hot dinner and breakfast. They’ve got something for everyone with many gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan selections. For adults, there’s a cash bar. And everyone will enjoy sitting around the campfire eating s’mores and listening to the guides and campers trading stories of their wildlife experiences.

Most Roar & Snore Safaris include an evening or early morning Africa Tram ride. It’s magical. The animals in the African multi-species enclosures are at their frisky best. It seems as if they’re trying to get all of their sparring, running, and chasing done in the cooler weather. 

The campsite overlooks the African Plains multi-species enclosure loaded with antelope, giraffes, rhinos, gazelles, wildebeests, and many other animals. Clean restrooms and a limited number of showers are available. The tents are clean and spacious.

If you cringe at the thought of sleeping on a cot or the floor of a tent you’ll probably be happier spending the night at a nearby hotel. I’ve written a guide to the best local lodging close to Safari Park .

There are 3 different tent options:

Classic tent.

• $149 (Ages 3+)
• $30 (Ages 0 – 2)
• Price is per person. Single campers pay 2-person tent price. Maximum 5 people per tent. Admission is separate and required. 
• Size: 9 ft x 14 ft interior
• Tent Type: Canvas roof, vinyl-covered tent floor
• Furnishings: Sleeping bag pads. Bring your own sleeping bag, pillow, etc.
• $189 (Ages 3+)
• Price is per person. Single campers pay 2-person tent price. Maximum 6 people per tent. Admission is separate and required. 
• Tent type: Canvas roof, vinyl-covered tent floor. 
• Furnishings: 2 single cots, 2 chairs. Bring your own sleeping bag, pillow, etc.

Premium Tent

• $229 (Ages 3+)
• Price is per person. Single campers pay 2-person tent price. Maximum 4 people per tent. Admission is separate and required. 
• Great for couples looking for a special evening or families of 4.
• Size: 12 ft x 16 ft interior
• Tent type: Canvas roof. Wood floors with rug. Electrical outlets (charge your mobile devices!), storage/night-stand
• Furnishings: Queen bed with linens & pillows., 2 cots with sleeping bags, a fan and a space heater 

There are 5 different Roar & Snore Safari options:

All-Ages Roar and Snore

• Best sleep-over option for families with young children . 
• Age restrictions: For ages 3 and up
• What’s Special: There’s an evening, after-hours Africa Tram ride just for All-Ages Roar & Snore campers and an easy guided walk. Full cash bar for adults.

Adults-Only Roar and Snore

• Best option for couples . 
• Age restrictions: Ages 21+
• What’s Special: Adult topics like animal reproduction are presented by keepers. There are more animal experiences than during the All-Ages offering. The guided hikes are more strenuous. We went backstage at Lion Camp to see the big cats’ bedrooms and care areas.  It was dark in spots and the footing was a bit challenging. There was a cash bar for adults during dinner and the campfire experience.

Girl Scouts Roar and Snore

• Age restrictions: Ages 5+ with adults
• Pricing: $139+
• What’s Special: This is a troop oriented event. There are group guided walks, conservation related activities and animal-oriented crafts.

School Nights Roar and Snore

• Age restrictions: Ages 3-12 with adults
• What’s Special: This is a great field trip. The kids will get hands-on educational conservation & animal care experiences 

Supreme Roar and Snore

• Age restrictions: Aged 8 – 15 with adults.
• Pricing: $303+
• What’s Special: This is a great bundle of activities. Soar into the Roar & Snore camp on a zipline Flightline Safari. Spy on animals in the Night Vision Safari with vision-enhancing goggles. See the Sun Up Cheetah Safari with an exclusive viewing spot. And finally ride into the herds of giraffes, rhinos and antelopes on a morning Wildlife Safari.

For more detailed information on what to bring, how to prepare, and a menu, check out the Safari Park Roar & Snore Safari page on their website.

Ultimate Safari Tour

Assemble a Safari Park tour that is customized to your interests and desired activities. Full disclosure, we haven’t been on this safari, but we’re saving up for it! Because of that, I’ve asked a LOT of questions on the phone to the booking team. I hope that you’ll benefit from my research. And if you go before I do, send me pictures!

When you book your Ultimate Safari know the answers to the following questions before you call:

• What are your favorite animals?
• Are you interested in feeding any of these animals?
• Which animal exhibits would you like to see behind the scenes and find out more about how they’re cared for? 
• Do you have any dietary restrictions? They serve you lunch on this safari. You don’t want this experience spoiled by food that you can’t eat!

Duration: 5 hours. It’s easy to add too many activities and animal experiences to this safari. You’ll have to be selective so you don’t feel rushed. Your planner will help you decide how much to see in the time that you have.

Price: Varies depending upon day and seasonality

• $675+ for a 5-hour tour. Priced per person.
• $50 – children aged 2 and under
• Children aged 15 and under must be with a paid adult

Age and other restrictions: Depends upon the activities you choose.

You must book/reserve your tour at least 72 hours in advance . San Diego Safari Park usually only schedules one Ultimate Safari per day. The animals need to be fed and cared for daily and their keepers need to be notified so they can make special accommodations for Ultimate Safari visitors. 

Balloon Safari

Soar 400 feet up in a helium balloon. You’ll have great views of San Diego Safari Park and the San Pasqual Valley agricultural area that surrounds the park. 

Duration: About 30 minutes. You’ll spend 10 to 12 minutes at the highest viewing point.

Price: Varies depending upon peak hours and days. Plan on spending $20 or less. Reservations are NOT available online. Pay at the gate.

Ages restrictions:   All ages. 

Tips: The best times to fly are between 9:00 AM and noon, but it’s open until sunset. The ride may shut down due to windy or rainy conditions. Afternoons in Escondido can be windy. The balloon is grounded shortly before Cheetah Run at about 3:00 PM and afterward while any cheetahs remain near the Shiley’s Cheetah Run track. 

Africa Tram Tour

Africa Tram is San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s best tour if you’re on a budget . It’s one of the highlights of the park. And it’s free with your park entrance ticket! We’ve ridden this attraction hundreds of times and plan to do it many more.

You get to see dozens of species at once, and they’re always doing something new. The many thousands of rare plants surrounding you and the over 900 acres of open California Sage Scrub habitat make it even more appealing.

Duration: 25 – 30 minutes.

Price: FREE with your paid admission to Safari Park, except for children in school groups. Ride as many times as you want to.

Ages restrictions:   All ages. Children under 2 years of age must remain in their parent’s lap.

• Skip this one if you have booked a Caravan or Cart Safari, and you are feeling like you don’t have time to see everything on your list.
• In a rush? You can purchase priority boarding. Check the kiosk at the entrance to the Africa Tram queue. 
• When’s the best time to ride the Africa Tram? The peak hours are from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. So anytime before or after will be good. The animals are most active when the weather is cool. Many people try to take the first Africa Tram trip or one of the last ones for that reason. But there’s really not that much difference. You’re going to see spectacular creatures whenever you go. 
• Where’s the best place to sit? We like sitting in the 2nd or 3rd car. The first car can be a bit noisy. However, that car is the only one with accessible seating for those with mobility issues. So it may be best for you. 
• Which side of the tram is best? You’ll see animals on both sides. And you are encouraged to stand up if the vehicle is not moving. So you’ll be able to take great photos no matter where you sit. However, the cheetahs, zebras, and most giraffes and rhinos are on the right side.
• Expect long lines on weekends & holidays. There are signs that tell you approximately how long the wait times are. They are fairly accurate. The longest times are from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.The wait times are shorter during Cheetah Run (around 3:30 PM). We also like late afternoon trips because it’s getting cooler and they’re less crowded. The last trip of the day starts 45 minutes before the park closes. 
• Request an “Easy Access Pass” if you have difficulty standing for long periods or are of limited mobility. With this pass, any guest with a disability and 3 additional members of your group, can be directed to a separate boarding area. Park employees are glad to provide extra boarding and disembarking assistance (if requested), to those boarding from the Easy Access areas.

7 Tips for Better Safari Tours

• Save money by reserving in advance versus purchasing the same day in the park. Plus you’ll be more likely to be able to choose a convenient time. 
• Get the best deal by booking on non-peak days . Safari Tour tickets generally cost less on weekdays. Non-holiday Mondays and Tuesdays are the cheapest. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays are a bit more expensive. You’ll pay the most on weekends and holidays.
• Include parking fees in your budget. Parking is not included and must be paid upon arrival at the parking entrance to Safari Park. Parking costs $15 for passenger vehicles and $20 for RVs. You can have preferred parking by adding $18 to either of the parking fees. “Preferred parking” means that you get a spot close to the entry/exit and you don’t have to walk uphill to get to the Park entrance.
• Arrive a minimum of 45 minutes before your tour or safari . This will allow time for you to travel from your parking or drop-off point to your safari check-in location. Leave earlier during holidays and on Friday afternoons when the traffic is usually heavier.
• Check in 10 minutes before the beginning of your safari.
• Know where your safari check-in location is. Check their map from the San Diego Safari Park website before you arrive.
• Download their map app. It’s available for both Apple and Android. Apple iOS download here.
• Android download here.

About Refunds or Cancellations of San Diego Safari Park Tours or Safaris

• There are no refunds if you arrive late or are a no-show.
• Make changes or cancellations early! There are no changes or cancellations less than 5 days before the date of your safari.
• What if you get sick? Call them at 619-718-3000 as soon as you know that you can’t go. Their Reservations Sales Department is open every day at 8:30 AM. They will need your Order Number, so have it with you when you call.
• Pay attention to the age limits and other restrictions for certain safaris. You won’t be given a refund at the last minute because you didn’t read the tour descriptions.
• The park reserves the right to cancel any safari or tour because of bad weather, animal welfare concerns or concerns for your safety. If they have to cancel your safari they try to do it as soon as possible and do their best to reschedule your safari at your convenience. If you cannot reschedule, your money will be refunded.  However, if it’s raining and they don’t call to cancel, enjoy! The park can be wonderful when it’s wet. Check out my article on how to enjoy San Diego Safari Park if it rains.

Closing Thoughts

Take the Caravan Safari Deluxe or the Ultimate Safari if you’re visiting for the first time and may not be returning for a long while. Splurge a bit. If you’re feeling guilty about the extra expense, tell yourself that you’re spending the extra cash to help end wildlife extinction.

If one of the paid safari experiences is not in your budget, then take the Africa Tram. Maybe twice. Once in the morning and again right before closing time.

Maybe you’ve read all the way down this page and still aren’t sure whether the Zoo or Safari Park is a better fit for you? In that case, go to my page where I compare the differences between the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park and the pros and cons of each.

I hope that this has been a help for you to decide which San Diego Safari Park tour or safari will be best for you and your family.

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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Safari Park Hours

Directions & Parking

15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027-7017

From Interstate 5 (Orange County, Los Angeles), take the State Route 78 East exit at Oceanside, proceed east to Interstate 15 South, exit at Via Rancho Parkway (Exit 27) and follow the signs to the Park. From Interstate 15 (Riverside), exit at Via Rancho Parkway (Exit 27) and follow the signs east to the Park.

From State Route 163 (downtown San Diego, Mission Valley) proceed to Interstate 15 North to the Via Rancho Parkway exit (Exit 27). Go east and follow signs to the Park. From Interstate 5 or 805 (Mexico), proceed to State Route 163, then to Interstate 15 North, and then exit at Via Rancho Parkway (Exit 27). Follow signs east.

From Interstate 8 (Imperial County, Arizona) take Interstate 15 North to the Via Rancho Parkway exit (Exit 27). Follow the signs east to the Park.

General parking (automobiles and motorcycles): $20 per vehicle. RV parking: starting at $38. Preferred parking: starting at $38. First come, first served; there are no in and out privileges.

For more information about bus and train schedules, please call 511 (San Diego's traffic and transit information service) or visit gonctd.com.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park App

Apple iOS download here. Android download here.

Visiting the Park has never been easier, with the San Diego Zoo Safari Park app! Discover dining, activities, and more with the GPS-enabled map. Get ready for your visit by importing tickets and memberships to the digital wallet, adding your must-see wildlife to the day planner, viewing today's schedule, and much more.

Safari Park Map

View the San Diego Zoo Safari Park's classic illustrated map on your mobile or desktop browser. Find your favorite wildlife, plan your visit, and check out all the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has to offer.

Download the PDF here

Guest Services

Our Guest Services office is located at Park Base.

Open daily to closing.

For information on the services and assistance we provide our guests on Safari Park grounds, click here.

Guests with Disabilities

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park welcomes all guests. We have several services to help guests with disabilities enjoy their visit. The Safari Park provides special parking, restrooms, and access to shows, tour buses, and exhibits for guests with disabilities. Please note there are steep grades in parts of the Safari Park. A complimentary ADA shuttle service operates inside the Safari Park for guests with mobility-related disabilities. Guests who use mobility assistive devices may also refer to the  map for ADA pathways and elevators. 

For full guest disability services and policies,  click here.

Click here to download our Accessibility Map (PDF)

San Diego Zoo

2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

The San Diego Zoo is the Safari Park's sister park to the southwest in San Diego. Distance between the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is 35 miles. Please allow 45 minutes to 1 hour travel time.

Purchase a two-park pass here

Outfit Your Herd for Adventures

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PREFERRED HOTELS

Picture Your Special Day at the Park!

• United States

North San Diego

The Watering Hole- San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Great for scenic views

• Great for outdoor dining

Make a reservation

Dining areas.

• Open View Dinning

Additional information

• Dining style Casual Dining
• Price $30 and under
• Cuisines Gastro Pub, African, Fusion / Eclectic
• Hours of operation Mon–Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Sat, Sun 10:30 am–3:00 pm
• Phone number (760) 796-5654 ext. 5397
• Website https://www.sdzsafaripark.org/dining
• Payment options AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
• Dress code Casual Dress
• Location 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027-7017
• Neighborhood Escondido
• Cross street San Pasqual Valley Rd
• Parking details None
• Additional Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, View, Weekend Brunch, Wine

Popular dishes

Chicken club.

Chicken Breast bacon sliced tomato arugula jack cheese guacamole brioche bun

Beef and Cheddar

smoked roast beef horseradish sauce beer cheese hot sauce brioche bun

Wedge Salad

baby iceberg ranch dressing bacon roasted tomatoes blue cheese crumbles green onions

Nachos $16.00

creamy refried beans | nacho cheese | pico de gallo | guacamole | sour cream | jalapenos | cotija | tortilla chips

Burrata and Marinated Olives $15.00

basil pesto | banyuls vinegar | garlic-rubbed levain toast | roasted tomatoes

Roasted Garlic Hummus $13.00

crudité | garlic oil | side of pita bread

Salads & Pasta

Field green salad $15.00.

spring mix | arugula | thin sliced red onion | cherry tomato | cucumber | house dressing

Wedge Salad $17.00

baby iceberg | ranch dressing | bacon | roasted tomatoes | blue cheese crumbles | green onions

Watering Hole Caesar $15.00

hearts of romaine | caesar dressing | garlic croutons| shaved parmesan

Spring Vegetable Pasta $18.00

lemon cream sauce | cheesy artichoke-garlic bread | grilled asparagus | English peas | arugula | shaved parmesan

Pulled Pork $17.00

braised pork shoulder | barbecue sauce | classic slaw | pickle chips | spiced mustard | brioche bun

Chicken Club $18.00

Chicken Breast | bacon | sliced tomato | arugula | jack cheese | guacamole | brioche bun

Beef and Cheddar $17.00

smoked roast beef | horseradish sauce | beer cheese | hot sauce | brioche bun

Open-Faced Tuna Melt $18.00

tuna salad | bacon | jack cheese | sliced tomato arugula | garlic-rubbed levain toast

Mac 'n' Cheese $11.00

Chicken strips $11.00, specialty cocktails, macaw michelada $15.00.

Modelo | Tabasco Bloody mary mix | lime | Tajin rim

Serval Strawberry Mule $15.00

Grey Goose Vodka | ginger beer | strawberry syrup | lime juice

Serengeti Sunset $15.00

Coconut rum | orange juice | pineapple juice | grenadine

Margarita Flight $21.00

Ask server for flavor offerings

Wildebeest Watermelon Margarita $15.00

Jose Cuervo Silver | agave | watermelon puree | lime juice | Tajin rim

Shoebill Spicy Pineapple Margarita $15.00

Jose Cuervo Silver | agave | pineapple juice | lime juice | fresh jalapenos | Tajin rim

Cheetah-Rita $15.00

1800 Reposado tequila | Grand Marnier | margarita mix

Passion Fruit Mojito $15.00

Bacardi Rum| passion fruit puree| lime juice| club soda| mint

Prickly Pear Margarita $15.00

Jose Cuervo Silver| prickly pear syrup| margarita mix

White WInes

La Marca Prosecco, Veneto, Italy | Veuve Clicquot, Yellow Label Brut, France

Decoy Rose by Duckhorn, California, 2021

Pinot Grigio

Chateau Ste Michelle Riesling, Washington, 2021

Sauvignon Blanc

Kim Crawford, Marlborough, 2022

Decoy by Duckhorn, California, 2021

Meiomi, California, 2021

Conundrum by Caymus, California, 2020

Decoy by Duckhorn, Sonoma, 2021

Cabernet Sauvignon

Daou Vineyards, Paso Robles, 2021

Draft $11.49

Modelo | Carlsbad Crush

Pliny the Elder $12.49

Safari flight $16.00.

Three draft beer flights | Cheetah-Rita taster

Canned Beer $11.49

Corona Extra | Bud Light | Stone IPA | Stella Artois

Fountain Drinks $5.00

Coke | Diet Coke | Coke Zero | Sprite | lemonade

Iced Tea $5.00

Coffee $5.00, sparkling water $4.00, kid's drink $4.00, flourless chocolate torte $10.00.

caramel drizzle | chocolate drizzle

Sugar-Crusted Bruleé Cheesecake $10.00

tall sliced bruleé cheesecake | fluffy whipped cream red berry sauce

Warm Brownie Sundae $10.00

chocolate chunk brownie | vanilla ice cream | chocolate and caramel drizzle | whipped cream

What 1,186 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews.

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

• 4.5 Service
• 4.8 Ambience

Noise • Moderate

Best Ambiance

Kid-friendly

OpenTable Diner

Dined 4 days ago

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How is The Watering Hole- San Diego Zoo Safari Park restaurant rated?

The Watering Hole- San Diego Zoo Safari Park is rated 4.5 stars by 1186 OpenTable diners.

Is The Watering Hole- San Diego Zoo Safari Park currently accepting reservations?

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027-7017

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Family Travel Folio

Plan. Enjoy. Remember.

Roar and Snore San Diego Safari Park Sleepover Review

Camping at the Zoo

Ever want to do a San Diego Zoo Safari Park sleepover on your Southern California vacation?

I know it’s been on my list for a long time. The Safari Park Roar and Snore San Diego is an amazing opportunity to sleep under the stars and wake up to the lions roaring at dawn. Camping in a zoo, on an island, and in a national park should all be on your bucket list.

Admission to the San Diego Safari Park (formerly known as the San Diego Zoo Wild Animal Park) is separate from the cost of the Roar & Snore, and each tent option has different pricing. As animal park members, we only needed to worry about the cost of the Safari Park sleepover.

If you aren’t interested in becoming a member (or maybe you just don’t live close enough to make a membership worth it), you can purchase discounted tickets or vacation packages through our Affiliate Get Away Today.

This review is about the All Ages Roar and Snore San Diego Zoo Safari Park experience, although they do have an Adults Only Roar and Snore as well as an option for Girl Scout troops and School Groups.

Before your scheduled sleepover you will need to sign a waiver as part of the check-in process. It covers typical liability clauses, medical releases, etc. Be sure to read through it and ask if you have any questions. It’s pretty straightforward though.

Roar Snore Safari Check-In Process

You can view the full Guest Information (including packing checklist, menu, and map) on this Roar and Snore San Diego Zoo Safari Park PDF here .

Check-in is between 4:15 pm-5 pm and ends at 9 am the next day.

During winter, the check-in might be earlier if you choose the Jungle Ropes Safari upgrade so the Flightline Safari zip line and rope course can be done before dark.

We enjoyed the park from late morning through the afternoon, then exited to the meeting spot for the Safari Park Check-in. I don’t recommend going from opening since the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Sleepover is packed full of fun. You don’t want your little ones to be exhausted by the time your event begins!

At check-in time, head to Preferred Parking . If you arrived earlier in the day, you should move your car to park in this area (you won’t be able to park there before 4 pm if you don’t have the level membership that includes preferred parking).

There is a Safari Park “Roar & Snore Safari” sign . Bring your bags and check in with the staff. They will put tags on your bag and load them into a car to drive to your tent for you. Label your bag with your name (we just used masking tape and a sharpie) ahead of time.

You’ll receive color-coded wristbands which will help them distinguish which tour group you’ll be in later.

What to Pack

Camping typically means bringing everything you might possibly need or want, but this camping experience is more like glamping. The Roar and Snore Safari provides the tent, cots (depending on your tent option), chairs, and all the food and beverages.

You are allowed 1 bag and 1 sleeping bag for each person in your group. Pack clothes according to the weather. San Diego can be hot during the day and cold at night, so layers are a great idea.

There are bathrooms (full plumbing), but no showers , so keep that in mind when you pack your toiletries.

I woke up early on purpose to sit outside the tent and hear the lions roar, so our Rumpl blanket was perfect to have with us. If you’re planning on being in the tent all night, just your sleeping bag should be fine depending on the season. We went in September and it wasn’t very cold.

What do you need for the Roar and Snore? 

• Membership or Park Entrance Ticket
• Bag with clothing & toiletries
• Sleeping Bag & Pillow 
• Flashlight or Headlamp
• Personal Medications
• ID (for adults)
• Sunscreen & Bug Spray
• Binoculars(optional)
• Blanket(optional)                                                                                                                               

Roar Snore Safari Itinerary

Depending on the season, daylight hours, and park hours, your experience may have different times or slightly different amenities.

You do not have to wake up at 4 am to hear the lions roar from their nearby lion camp. They were roaring on and off from 4 am for a couple of hours. We even saw the female lion roar in response to the male lion (who roared from a backstage area) when we visited the enclosure at 6:35 am.

It literally puts the “Roar” in Roar and Snore San Diego Safari Park.

It was amazingly peaceful to look out at the African plain and listen to the lions roaring while snuggled up under our Rumpl blanket. The chairs were provided (and located under the cots in the tent), but if you want a blanket, you need to bring one.

Safari Park Wild Holidays Guide and Review 2024

If you’re looking for an adventure to get your whole family into the holiday spirit, the Wild Holidays at the Safari Park does not disappoint. Included with admission there are…

Another note regarding the itinerary is that we weren’t quite sure what to expect, so I don’t feel like we enjoyed the actual camping tent area as much as we could have. Next time, I will definitely feel more confident eating dinner and then heading between the tents to play some lawn games after unpacking and before the nighttime tour.

There is one bathroom location available (with plenty of stalls) and lots of sinks for brushing teeth and washing hands. There are no showers.

Coffee and tea were available before breakfast , so if you need your morning hot beverage stop by the food area before heading down to the animal enclosures.

We were allowed to visit the lions and or elephants as early as 6:30 am . The rest of the park was off-limits until the actual park opened at 9 am.

The way out of the park was essentially another tour as our guide explained everything we passed, allowing us to pause and look as we walked.

Day 1: Africa Tram & Guided Walks at Night

4:15 pm Check-in

5:30 pm Tram Ride

6:15 pm Dinner

7:00 pm Unpack

7:45 pm Nighttime Tour

8:30 pm S’mores and Popcorn

9:00 pm Bingo

10:30 pm Bedtime

Day 2: Lion Camp, Cheetah Safari Run, & Animal Encounter

4:00 am Lions Beginning to Roar

4:30 pm Set Chairs outside Tent, Listen to the Lions

5:50 am Officially Wake Up

6:30 am Coffee

6:35 am Visit the Lion Camp

6:50 am Visit the Elephants

7:00 am Breakfast

7:30 am Pack Up

8:00 am Line up for Cheetah Run

8:15 am Cheetah Run

8:45 am Animal Encounter

9:00 am Guided Walks to Park Exit

Roar Snore Safari Tent

The canvas Roar and Snore camping tents have 3 Safari Park Sleepover options: Classic, Vista, and Premium.

The Vista Tent we stayed in overlooked the African plain and we had a great view of the rhinos and giraffes!

Among the tents are lawn game stations with giant Jenga and some toss games. The itinerary didn’t leave us too much extra time to take full advantage of this, but we also didn’t really know what to expect. Next time we go, I think we’ll be able to relax a bit more by the tent.

Classic Tent

In the Classic Tent option, you lay your sleeping bag on top of sleeping pads on the vinyl tent floor.

Classic Tent Includes:

• Sleeping Pads
• Vinyl tent floor
• Size: 9’ x 14’
• Price: $149 per person ($30 each for ages 0-2)

We went with the Vista Tent which has sleeping pads on top of cots . Still a vinyl tent floor, but this option also comes with electrical outlets , a fan, and a heater. If you’re looking for a balance between budget and comfort this is a perfect choice!

There are 2 single cots and 2 bunk beds . There is no rail on the top bunk, so our younger kids each took the bottom bunk while my husband and I were on the single cots.

The top bunks worked well for storing our bags since we didn’t have 6 people, although if you do have 6 people there is plenty of space under the cots for storing your bags.

Vista Tent Includes:

• Cots (2 bunk & 2 single) 
• Fan, heater, & electrical outlets
• Folding chairs for outside of tent
• Price: $189 per person ($30 each for ages 0-2)

Premium Tent

The Premium Tent option was sold out for the weekend we needed to book. I would recommend trying to book it 3-4 months early at least.

This is perfect if you’re wanting a true glamping experience. It has a Queen bed and 2 cots with sleeping mats . Like the Vista Tent, it offers electrical outlets , a fan, and a heater. In this upgraded tent, however, the floor is wood with a rug instead of vinyl.

Premium Tent Includes:

• Queen bed, 2 cots
• Pillows & bed sheets
• Fan, heater, electrical outlets
• Wood floor with rug
• Wooden chairs for outside of tent
• Size: 12’ x 16’
• Price: $229 per person ($30 each for ages 0-2)

Roar Snore Safari Food

Dinner on day 1 was a buffet-style choice of hot dogs, pulled pork sandwiches, or BBQ chicken. You could also ask for a veggie skewer for the vegetarian option.

Sides included mac ‘n’ cheese, potato salad, sole slaw, corn on the cob, and salad.

Pretty good choices if you ask me. Plus, you could keep going back up for more- I love buffets!

Snacks & Drinks

Looking for dessert? Don’t you worry! Nighttime snacks included s’mores, popcorn, and hot chocolate.

With the large rectangular fire pit, there was plenty of room for everyone to roast their marshmallows. There were enough ingredients per boat for 2 s’mores.

Throughout dinner and snack time, there was unlimited soda, lemonade, coffee, tea, and water. Use your own refillable cup, or use a supplied disposable cup.

Alcoholic beverages were available for purchase to those over 21.

If you like breakfast foods, you’ll definitely love the spread supplied by the Roar and Snore San Diego Safari Park. We are talking french toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, breakfast potatoes, and fruit.

Oatmeal was available upon request as were individual milk cartons.

Everything was delicious and made the experience that much better.

Roar Snore Safari Activities

There are multiple activities scheduled throughout your Zoo Safari Park sleepover. They are all amazing and make the experience completely worth it. This is in addition to the food, the snacks, the drinks, the location, and the ambiance. All while supporting Wild Animal conservation efforts from San Diego Zoo Global.

• Africa Tram at Dusk
• Guided Walks at Night

Bingo Game Night

• Lion Camp & Elephants

Cheetah Safari Run

Animal encounter, african tram safari ride at dusk.

Starting off with an African Tram Safari ride at dusk was the perfect way to kick off our Roar and Snore event. Dusk is one of the times when the animals are the most active (the other being early morning).

It was the same African Tram Safari ride available during the day, so if you do arrive at the park before the Roar and Snore starts, hold off on the Africa tram until your ride at dusk included with the Wild Animal Park sleepover.

The tram was filled with only Roar and Snore guests, and the dialogue was great. We even got to see a baby rhino!

After Dark Guided Walks Tour

Our basic nighttime tour started at 7:45 pm (You can upgrade for a full Night Vision Safari Tour). We were all split into groups (indicated by the color-coded bands we got at check-in) and each group went a slightly different way. It was pretty cool walking around with headlamps and seeing the nighttime animal activity.

Our group walked through the African Loop. Some wild animals were active and some were hard to see. Our headlamps have a red light function, so we were able to have them on while looking in the enclosure. White lights were just for seeing your feet in front of you as you walked.

We got back to camp and enjoyed amazing snacks as listed above, then enjoyed a few rounds of Bingo! There were prizes for the winners, which (of course) we didn’t win. My family is like cursed at Bingo or something, but it was still fun.

Little munchkin got antsy, so we walked away from the Bingo game to look at the rhinos from the Kilima Point African safari overlook station.

Early Morning Animals

One of the big perks of a Wild Animal Park sleepover is that you are there in the early morning when the wild animals are more active.

We went to the lion camp as soon as we were allowed to venture off the campsite, and were rewarded with an in-person roar as the lioness responded to the male’s roar (which came from an off-view area).

Next, over to the elephants. We saw them walk in and out of the water, lift their trunks up, and walk around. If you are new to seeing elephants in a zoo, you don’t always catch them being so active, so this was a real treat!

Excited, we returned to camp for breakfast and then the main event: the Cheetah Run.

The Cheetah Safari Run was at 8:15 am. We lined up 15 minutes early and got a spot right off-center. If you want to be front and center (on the bridge overlooking the Cheetah Run area), then I suggest lining up 20-30 minutes early.

If you upgraded, you would have a VIP area with seating located to the side of the run.

What is a Cheetah Safari Run? Simply put, you watch the cheetah run. The trainers use this as an enrichment and exercise program for the ambassador cheetahs, which also benefits the guests for them to see first-hand how fast these amazing wild animals can go.

There’s a full explanation of their training program, what they do, how they do it, and then the actual run. It is simply stunning to see a cheetah run.

We were lucky to have 2 cheetahs run that particular morning (usually it’s just one), but little munchkin needed to go potty. We came back down the hill just after the second run finished. Gotta love potty training…

As if that wasn’t enough, they split us up into groups again for our in-person animal encounter. Our group got to meet an owl, which is by far my favorite kind of bird.

Seeing the owl up close, getting a good look at the head moving around and the wingspan was just incredible. Munchkin also got to have her questions answered: “How big is its tail?”

The Animal Care Specialist went on to explain the shape of the tail and how it acts like a rudder as it flies. Munchkin was so happy to have that extra attention- a pretty cool experience for a 5-year-old.

Roar Snore Safari Upgrades

There are also upgrade options such as a Wildlife Safari where you go on a truck into the African plain enclosure for a Cart Safari ride, or the Supreme Roar and Snore. The Supreme Roar upgrade includes the Jungle Ropes Safari with the zipline Flightline Safari, a Night Vision Safari where you go on a Cart Safari in the African Plain exhibit, and VIP seating for the Cheetah Safari Run.

The Balloon Safari is a separate experience and can be booked for before or after your Roar and Snore Safari.

The Overall San Diego Safari Park Sleepover Experience

Overall? The Roar and Snore San Diego was an amazing camping experience and we can’t wait to go again. It would be awesome to reserve a tent on the elephant side next time since we were on the African Plain side this time.

It’s the best way to go on a wildlife safari without traveling all the way to Africa for an African Safari. The food, the location, the ambiance, the activities- everything was more than expected and very well executed.

If you’re looking for your own experience, check out our Affiliate partners, Get Away Today , for discounted Safari Park tickets and great hotel deals .

After you get your tickets, book your Roar and Snore San Diego Zoo Safari Park Sleepover!

If possible, I definitely recommend upgrading to the Supreme Roar. This will give you an ultimate safari adventure with the additional Night Vision Safari and Jungle Ropes Safari with the Flightline Safari.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What time does the safari park close.

Depending on the season, the Safari Park will typically close at 5 pm in the winter, 6 pm in the spring and fall, or 7 pm in the summer.

Special events may affect the closing time, and if you are participating in the Roar and Snore you are there all night!

Keep in mind to see animals during the Roar and Snore sleepover after hours, it would be with a guided tour or select exhibits during a specific time frame.

What does Roar and Snore Include?

Depending on what type of tent you reserve, you will have sleeping pads, cots, or a Queen size bed. Most tents also have a fan, heater, and electrical outlets. 2 folding chairs are in the tent, and lawn games are located between the tents.

Dinner, snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and breakfast are included.

Various activities such as a tram ride, after-dark tour, Bingo, early morning animal viewing, cheetah run, and a special animal encounter are included.

A ticket for entrance to the park is a separate cost.

Flightline Safari, Night Vision Safari, and VIP Cheetah Run viewing are an additional cost.

Where is Roar and Snore?

The Roar and Snore San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located at the San Diego Safari Park in Escondido, CA (15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027-7017). Exit Via Rancho Parkway from the 15 Freeway. The Roar and Snore campgrounds are in an area labeled The Grove on the map adjacent to the Lion Camp and African Plains.

Spooktacular at SeaWorld: A Full Event Review

It’s that wonderful time of the year- the kick off to the Holiday Season, the Spooky Fun for Everyone, the time for Candy and Costumes…HALLOWEEN!

What better way to experience Halloween than to enjoy a Halloween themed experience at one of your favorite places? Such as the Spooktacular at SeaWorld in San Diego.

SeaWorld San Diego And Your Amazing Beluga Whale Experience

The trainer explained all about the routine care and enrichment as well as fun facts about the whales. Honestly, I was surprised at how different this was from previous dolphin encounters we had done. I know they are completely different animals, but you don’t realize the differences until you get up close.

Travel Blogger

Family Travel Folio was created in 2019 by Katie to help and inspire parents to travel with their kids from Camping to Disneyland and everything in between.

Katie is a Disney obsessed bookworm who loves to explore with her husband and their 2 girls. You can find her learning fun facts about animals or eating sour candy while planning another fun adventure.

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3 apes die from contagious bacterial infection within days of each other at Jacksonville Zoo

By Jamiel Lynch, CNN

(CNN) — Three apes at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens died over the past week due to a highly infectious bacterial infection, according to the zoo.

Bulera, a 35-year-old female lowland gorilla died due to  shigellosis  – a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, cramping, vomiting and dehydration, the zoo announced in a  post on social media  on August 22.

Two brother bonobos, Jumanji and Jenga, later died from the infection, the Jacksonville, Florida, zoo said on Monday.

The source of the infection is unknown, but the zoo said it could have come from an asymptomatic ape who began to shed bacteria for an unknown reason. “It’s also possible that the bacteria came from an asymptomatic staff member, but this is highly unlikely,” the zoo said.

Shigella is typically spread among primates through feces, food and water. It can also impact humans, who can experience similar symptoms that typically go away on their own without antibiotic treatment, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

There is no danger to zoo guests, Tracy Fenn, curator of mammals at the Jacksonville Zoo, said during a news conference.

All three animals had existing heart conditions, making them more susceptible to the infection spreading among the primates at the zoo, according to Fenn.

Born in 1989 at the Lincoln Park Zoo, Bulera joined the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in 2009 with her daughter Madini. Bulera had a son in 2015 and became a foster mother to a gorilla infant whose biological mother couldn’t raise her, the zoo said.

Jumanji, who was born at San Diego Zoo Safari Park moved to Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in 2008. Described as a “sweet and gentle soul,” Jumanji supported his younger brother Jenga after their mother passed away in 2018.

Indigenous to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, bonobos are similar to chimpanzees, but have a smaller frame, shorter clavicle and smaller molars. The female bonobo is the head of the pack and male bonobos remain with their mothers for life relying on them for protection and social status, the zoo noted.

Jenga, the first bonobo birth witnessed by Animal Care Specialists at the facility, was a goofball who was always causing mischief, the zoo said.

“Our hearts are heavy as navigate this difficult time and we are feeling the weight of grief as we continue to care for the rest of our animals,” Zoo CEO and President Jeff Ettling said on Wednesday.

Shigellosis can be much more serious in apes since it can be harder for them to fight off the bacteria, the zoo said.

Some of the other 18 apes in the Primate Forest have symptoms like those shown by Bulera, Jumanji and Jenga and are in different stages of treatment and recovery. They are being kept away from those not showing symptoms, added Fenn.

Treatment includes giving the animals fluids, antibiotics and electrolytes. Some may require IV treatment under sedation, she said.

There is no threat to zoo visitors and the zoo is a safe place to visit, officials said.

A fund for public donations has been established by the facility as they continue to care for the infected animals.

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