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San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Insider Tips from a Local

May 30, 2024 By: Noreen Kompanik This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through our links.

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My husband and I absolutely love the San Diego Zoo and its sister property, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (previously known as the San Diego Wild Animal Park). So much so, that we’ve been members for years.

We appreciate the impressive number and species of animals housed here, the lush gardens, and the picturesque settings of these two parks. But more importantly, the Zoo and Safari Park are a renowned conservation organization. They have several programs committed to preserving endangered wildlife species worldwide.

The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park while the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is situated 35 miles northwest of San Diego in the rolling hills of the San Pasqual Valley near Escondido. 

With a massive 1,800 acres of land, 300 species and more than 3,600 animals on site, the Safari Park can feel overwhelming for a first-time visitor. However, with some advanced planning and tips we’re providing, you’ve got the tools to ensure your remarkable experience.

Timing Your Visit

Of no surprise, weekends and holidays are always the busiest times to be at the Safari Park, as are the summer months when many families vacation in San Diego. Getting to the park as early as possible to park opening is wise for many reasons.

The animals are more active in the morning, you’ll navigate fewer crowds, it’s the ideal time to watch shows and keeper talks, and if you’re visiting in the summer, this park can get quite warm as it’s more inland. Temperatures can easily reach the high 80s and, on some days, well into the 90s.

Other months of the year tend to be much more comfortable and here’s an insider tip you’ll appreciate: more animals give birth in the spring, so if you’re visiting at this time, you’re likely to see more of these adorable babies.

Pre-Planning Your Visit- Pre-Purchase Tickets and Download the App

Plan to spend no less than a full day here if you want to get the most out of your Safari Park experience. I highly recommend downloading the San Diego Zoo Safari Park app. This GPS-enabled map will allow visitors to view the daily schedule, discover dining and activities, import their tickets or memberships to the digital wallet and add their must-see wildlife to the day planner. Though paper maps are available after passing through the Safari Park entrance, guests can download a PDF map to familiarize themselves with the layout of the Park. Download it here for Android or Apple devices.

In addition, if you want to avoid the lines at the ticket booths at the Park entrance, you can purchase your tickets and tours in advance (more about tours a bit later).

Tickets can be purchased online here or used in combination with a San Diego Go Explorer Pass , or San Diego CityPASS . If, however, you are using the veterans’ or AAA membership discounts on admission, these tickets must be purchased at the park entrance.

Money Saving Tip: If you plan to visit the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park, you can also by a combo-ticket that saves you a little bit of money.

What to Wear for the Safari Park

Depending upon the time of year, it’s always good to check the weather forecast. Just be sure to check the weather conditions in Escondido versus San Diego as these areas can vary quite a bit. My best advice is to layer your clothing. You may want that jacket or sweater for your early morning arrival and then not need it once the sun comes out. Or need it again, once the sun goes down. Also, I’m a big fan of wearing cotton clothing that’s cool and comfortable. And if you want to dress in safari-type attire, go for it. It’s all part of the experience, and you won’t be alone.

Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking in the Park, be sure to wear good tennis shoes or hiking shoes. DO NOT wear flip-flops. You are not at the beach and you’ll regret this decision by the end of the day.

What to Pack for Your Visit

Make sure to come prepared for your Safari Park visit, especially if you’re bringing little ones with you. Even if you don’t, you’ll be glad to have these items during your exploration time. To ensure we don’t forget the necessities, we make a list and then check those items off as they’re packed to go.

Use a Light Backpack

Don’t forget your backpack! This is the best way to carry your most-needed items, but do keep your backpack a lightweight type so it doesn’t become too heavy as the day unfolds. 

Take a Re-useable Water Bottle

We make sure to include a re-usable water bottle for each family member and we keep it in the freezer overnight, then fill it with ice water in the morning before leaving for the Park. There are places to get refills throughout the Park including complimentary ice water from vendors you can use to refill your bottle.

Bring Your Own Snacks and Meals

I do not pack meals when visiting the Safari Park, but you certainly can. Because the non-profit organization consisting of the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park are unable to customize food items to meet all dietary restrictions, they allow outside food to be brought into the park. This can be a big cost-saver for families and I’ve seen many of them take advantage of this option.

When our family visits, however, we do bring snacks. You’d be surprised at how hungry you will be with all the walking you’ll be doing. Our favorites? Granola bars, fruit snacks, and trail mix.

Be aware that you can’t bring glass bottles, straws, and large coolers. 

Don’t Forget Your Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Wipes and Hand Sanitizer

This might seem like an unnecessary reminder, but when you’re getting ready to head to the Park in the morning, these are items that can be easily missed. Again, the park can get quite warm, especially during the summer and early fall months, so you’ll want to make sure to protect your skin with a good hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. 

And speaking of protection, I always keep a small pack of hand wipes and hand sanitizer with me, especially when I’m sharing public spaces (and germs) with others (and animals!). 

Take Binoculars

If you have binoculars, make sure to bring them along. You’ll be glad you did when they provide some unbelievable close-ups of the animals. The lighter the better so they’re not too heavy to lug or carry. If you don’t, here are some lightweight ones that even connect to your phone for some cool photos!

Now that we’ve established your planning and packing strategies, let’s talk about the tips you’ll need once you’re in the Safari Park to make your visit even better.

Start Your Visit with the Africa Tram

The difference between the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the number of animals that run practically free-range in the Safari Park. This is mainly due to the park’s initial designation as a breeding facility for rare and endangered species. Hence, animals here have a lot more space to roam.

We always begin our Safari Park experience with an expedition on the Africa Tram. Not only is this a relaxing adventure on a path that takes visitors around some of the savanna habitats, but the 25-minute guided tram tour offers a myriad of information about the Park and the opportunity to see more wildlife in what’s designed to be close to their original habitat.

Tour tip: The Africa Tram is located in the African Outpost. You don’t need reservations, so it’s a first-come, first-serve experience. Try to get seats on the left side of the tram as this will give you the best opportunity for sightings and photos.

Must-See Animals and Exhibits

While there’s so much to see and explore animal-wise at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, we have our favorite areas and exhibits that shouldn’t be overlooked as these stand out as absolute winners in our book.

Walkabout Australia

When the Safari Park opened Walkabout Australia, we were so excited! Imagine walking a picturesque path without barriers between you and the Australian wildlife, where wallabies and kangaroos cross your paths and meander the grounds at leisure. Walkabout also includes a platypus exhibit, the only facility with these beautiful creatures seen outside of Australia.

Tiger Trail

Sumatran tigers call Tull Tiger Trail their home, representing one of the best-designed tiger enclosures in the world. Guests will find great photo spots and amazing viewing windows as these beautiful cats pace back and forth in front of the viewing windows, lounge by the water, cool off in the stream and stretch out on rock outcroppings overlooking the waterfalls.

Sadly, fewer than 400 Sumatran tigers exist in the wild and thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, over 25 tiger cubs have been born at the Safari Park. This is also one of the exhibits that you can visit on one of your last stops in the Park since tigers are mostly nocturnal and are more active at twilight.

World Gardens and Condor Ridge

Just a short distance stroll from Walkabout Australia and Tiger Trail leads to the highest vistas in the Safari Park featuring desert cacti and Native American fauna frequently seen in the Southwest. Here you’ll find the black-footed ferret, desert big-horned sheep, bald eagles, and the endangered California condor among others. And the area provides an expansive and impressive view of the Park and the surrounding San Pasqual Valley.

African Outpost

This meandering loop takes guests past a variety of African birds and mammals including waterfowl and includes the Lion Camp and Cheetah Run. You’ll find okapi, rhinos, nyalas, red river hogs, vultures and more.

Dining at the Safari Park

Visitors have 17 different dining experiences to select from in the Park with a variety of menus ranging from burgers and hot dogs to Mexican-inspired entrees, soups, salads, pizza and paninis. 

Our favorite place to dine, however, is the open-air Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook offering incredible views of the African Plains as you enjoy tasty sandwiches, fresh salads and an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage of choice. You’ll get a much-needed break, will love the surroundings and savor the moment. Reservations are highly suggested.

Take a Safari Tour- Add-On Experiences

This will take some advance planning and reservations, but these up-close-and-personal add-on experiences are so worth it, even if you just choose one.

The San Diego Safari Park offers nine different safari experiences with 27 variations. They range from open-air caravan safaris, behind-the-scenes safaris, the fascinating cheetah run, and more to roar and snore safaris, which are overnight sleepover adventures in nature.

Our favorites and ones we recommend to locals and visitors are the Caravan Safari (the most popular tour at the Park) and the Roar and Snore, where you don’t have to get an expensive ticket to South Africa to hear the sounds of the elephants, lions and more nearby.

This is an ideal park to venture into these unique experiences and one of the main reasons visitors come to the Safari Park or return for a future visit.

There are a host of other activities in the Safari Park that can more than help fill in your entire day’s visit which include animal encounters, a Lorikeet Feeding Experience, a petting zoo, and so many charming shops in each of the areas of the Park. 

Whenever you choose to visit and whatever activities or tours you decide to schedule in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, we hope your experience becomes a magnificent experience you’ll long remember.

Last Updated on May 30, 2024 by Maria Haase

About Noreen Kompanik

Noreen Kompanik is a freelance writer and registered nurse who fell in love with San Diego when her husband, a retired naval officer was first stationed here in 1999.

Despite other moves around the world, from that day forward she declared San Diego to be home, and in 2008 returned for good. She loves beaches, delectable food, good wine, traveling with family and friends, and introducing others to “Americas Finest City.”

Please take a look at her website: https://noreenkompanik.com/

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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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#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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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Hours updated a few days ago

Review Highlights

“ Throughout this 45 minute tram tour, we saw Giraffes , Rhinos, Donkeys, Antelopes, Buffalos and so much more. ” in 387 reviews

“ Also, the caravan safari takes you INTO their habitat and gets you closer than any other safari tour offered. ” in 65 reviews

“ My brother-in-law and his husband, who are both annual pass holders, got us discount tickets which was a big plus. ” in 64 reviews

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Location & Hours

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15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd

Escondido, CA 92027

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About the Business

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is an expansive, non-profit wildlife sanctuary that is home to more than 3,000 animals representing more than 300 species. Its renowned botanical collection represents 3,500 species and 1.75 million specimens. Over half of the Park's 1,800 acres (730 hectares) have been set aside as protected native species habitat. It is located 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of downtown San Diego in the San Pasqual Valley near Escondido, California. …

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Is the park suitable for 1 1/2 year olds?

It definitely is! However for the safari tour, animals were kind of far away for our toddler to notice. SD Zoo might have closer exhibits.

What are the newest things to see and do at the Safari Park, as of October 2023?

There's quite a bit. Here most youths 11 years and younger receive free admission… more

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Overall rating

2707 reviews

The elementary school I work at in Los Angeles has sent 3 grade levels to Safari Park in the past 5 days. Everyone who attended these special excursions had a wonderful time in San Diego. I would like to specifically mention Emma Bunten and Emily Morris who have been so helpful and responsive every step of the way. I had teachers telling me that this was "...the best field trip ever!" I think they were more excited than the students! Thank you to Emma and Emily, their education team, and every employee at Safari Park who helped make our students' day even more memorable. Bryan H Wake Cultural Arts Passport Program Coordinator Anton Elementary School LAUSD

Decent price, to explore the whole place is becoming a good exercise. Parking is acceptable

Not enough to see for the price! I would skip it and go to the zoo! Prices for food are way too high. Walked a lot but saw very few animals Like I said, go to the San Diego Zoo instead.

A trip to San Diego Zoo Safari Park on a nice sunny day is definitely a treat for those who are the lovers of wildlife and equally for those who are new to the animal kingdom (such as us). Please do take out enough time when you plan your visit, as it takes 5-6 hours to cover the maximum points in the Safari and must wear comfortable walking shoes, bring in a hat, water bottle, some munchies (there are a few resting areas where food, snacks and soft drinks are available in plentiful) and do wear your sunscreen..:) The place is well organised right from the moment one reaches, from finding a huge parking, to arriving at the well positioned grand entrance which has a huge pleasant, welcoming and a helpful staff; followed by the well marked signages guiding you which way you can start and finish doing the Safari. The place is stretched over a large area, however the combination of being able to cover some part on foot and some on the tram, makes it very doable and adventurous. The tour on the tram is audio guided and quite enjoyable. The whole day passes in a jiffy. Kids aswell as adults from all ages will equally love the place. It's a visual treat to see so many different types of animals at one place and in a setting which has been made to look like their natural habitat. Much recommended to do, on your next trip to San Diego !

See all photos from Ruchira C. for San Diego Zoo Safari Park

I enjoyed my time here. The staff was very friendly and helpful. I liked seeing all the animals, although a few were in their dens so we couldn't see them. Some of the birds were relocated due to the situation with the aviation flu. The African Tram is free of charge and it takes you around the park. The driver/tour guide pointed out the animals and gave you time to take photos. I've taken the Safari that takes you inside a long time ago and it was nice. It is an additional charge but you do get to be close to the animals but not too close. We got to feed the giraffes. I would like to come back again someday.

We really loved going there but it rained and then they put all the animals away. They said there was lighting within 4 miles. We were instructed not even to look for them because they put them in a trailer. They then told us they would not even give us a discount coupon for a repeat visit. The kids saw a bunch of birds. It sucked that they had such terrible customer.

The park did everything they could to turn away my business. My daughter was given an annual pass and wanted to use a guest pass with a friend. Online it states that annual members are given guest passes. We were told at the membership kiosk that her pass didn't include guest passes because it is a child pass. Oof. They could do a better job at stating on the pass that the pass is a child pass. Okay, how much is it to get the guest in? $74 for the day, and it was already 2pm! Not gonna pay that much because they close at 7. The lady was stone cold in the booth. Didn't offer any other options, didn't care, didn't want to help. Just, 'That'll be $74 to fix your problem.' Paraphrasing obviously. So I looked at the SoCal option and it was blocked out all that week, and every weekend. So we decided to leave. Made the trip there and they did everything possible to turn away my business. Poorly played. Oh, except they were happy to take $20 for parking even though we left! Crappy experience. Just another SoCal money trap before you even get in. And I paid $20 parking to learn that lesson. But hey, we went golfing instead. Way better option in my opinion.

This is specifically for the nursing rooms. Super clean space, and ample room! the fan keeps the room cool theres a changing table (no liners) as well as a sink. Its near a playground which is nice if you have other little ones that need to burn energy while feeding.

Nursing rooms

Worst zoo ever. You heard me right this is the worst zoo ever I walked through the entire zoo and I only saw birds. Birds really multi million dollar zoo and basically all they had was birds the only thing I saw that wasn't a bird was a sheep. I currently have heat stroke because of the lack of air conditioning and I feel horrible.

Great atmosphere, plenty of bathrooms and space. Friendly staff and good variety of animals.

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Get ready for an experience you’ll always remember!

Want to get up close and personal with your favorite wildlife, sit back and relax, or tackle a challenging adventure? Choose your safari!

Wildlife Safari

• Ages 3 & up
• $92 & up per person

Travel in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck into our expansive savanna habitats, with an expert guide.  

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.  

Cart Safaris

• $60 & up per person

Sit back in the comfort of a Safari cart, as you enjoy a 60-minute guided tour of the Park’s spacious African or Asian savanna habitats, led by one of our knowledgeable guides. 

Ultimate Safari

• $710 & up per person

Enjoy a custom safari experience of a lifetime! The Ultimate Safari is your key to exclusive areas, wildlife interactions, and the very best in personalized service.

Roar & Snore Safaris

• $160 & up per person

Pack up your “trunk” for a sleepover adventure at the Safari Park! Choose from several age-appropriate sleepover categories with their own themes.  

Flightline Safari

• Ages 8 & up
• $81 & up per person

Soar as high as 130 feet above the ground, with a spectacular bird’s-eye view of rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife in the savanna habitats below you.

Wildlife Trek

• $29 & up per person

Walk through the Safari Park to see a variety of wildlife in this exciting walking tour!

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Picture Your Special Day at the Park!

The Unique Park Everyone In Southern California Should Visit At Least Once

Angela is the staff writer for Only in Your State - Southern California.

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There’s a safari park in Southern California that is one of the largest and most popular attractions in all of San Diego. Located in Escondido, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is an 1800 acre wildlife preserve that houses over 2,600 animals. Many of these animals are allowed to roam freely in spacious free-range enclosures that closely mimic each animal’s natural surroundings.

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd in Escondido. You can find more detailed information about hours and ticket prices at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park website .

Have you ever been to the Safari Park? Did you enjoy the experience?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Italy Family Vacations

Spain family vacations, japan family vacations, australia family vacations, multigenerational fun on a san diego safari park tour.

• By Mara Gorman

I last visited the San Diego Safari Park in the early 1980s when the concept of a zoo where animals lived in large, more natural habitats was still relatively new. I remember being thrilled to ride the park’s now-defunct monorail (it’s been replaced with a more nimble and easy to repair tram) and watch African animals I’d only ever before seen in books.

The park is still unique in its size and scope – situated on 1,800 acres it is home to over 2,600 animals and 3,500 species of plants. It’s a beautiful and fun place to learn about diversity and interdependence.

The Safari Park is also pretty much the perfect attraction for a multigenerational family vacation – I visited with my husband, in-laws, and 10- and 12-year-old sons and there was something for everyone from Robert the “talking zebra” to a bald ibis out for a stroll.

The San Diego Safari Park: A Different Kind of Zoo

Guests of the San Diego Safari Park pay an admission fee that covers all of the foot-accessible exhibits as well as rides on the Africa Tram, which circumnavigates the African Outpost and skirts the edge of the African Plains exhibit. Then there are a number of additional safari experiences that can be purchased for an extra fee.

It would be easy to forgo any of the extras and just spend the entire day just wandering through the park (my family explored for almost four hours with some time for lunch and didn’t see everything). Among the many animals we saw were gorillas, tigers, lorikeets, meerkats, condors, and a very smelly pelican.

Throughout the park you’ll also encounter animals out and about with the humans who care for them; these experiences offer a chance to see how the animals are fed and trained.

There are playgrounds, a petting zoo, and numerous places to have lunch or a snack throughout the park as well.

Up Close and Personal With the Animals on a Caravan Safari Tour

In addition to all the walking, we decided it would be nice to give everyone’s legs a rest – and give the kids and grandparents a chance to do some intensive animal viewing together – by taking a Caravan Safari Tour. This tour visits areas of the park that are not accessible in any other way and also offers a chance to learn and ask questions of a knowledgeable naturalist.

When you purchase your tour, you are given an assigned time and are asked to meet at the Safari Base Camp fifteen minutes in advance (word to the wise – take advantage of the nearby bathrooms, since you won’t have a chance to go once you are out on the ride).

The ride takes place in a very comfortable covered cart that’s pulled by a truck. Our friendly driver was careful to stop whenever our guide Jeanne asked him to. She was full of stories and information about the animals, pointing out animals tucked behind rocks and trees, explaining what their behaviors meant, and making offering funny similes (dried palm fronds are apparently “like jerky for giraffes”).

The first and biggest photo op of the safari tour is the opportunity to feed a giraffe. The animals are very used to it and one of them will amble over as soon as the truck stops.

Everyone loved this of course, but perhaps even more special was the chance to see and learn so much about animals I’d never before encountered from wapiti, or an Asian elk to gorals, which are kind of like a cross between goats and antelopes.

What was meaningful was that Jeanne conveyed the significance of the park’s work throughout the tour. Gesturing around her at the unfamiliar animals, she pointed out numerous endangered species.

“What does endangered mean?” She asked us rhetorically before answering her own question. “It means that if we don’t do anything they’ll all be gone between five and seven years.”

Among the facts we learned:

• Rhinoceroses don’t make any noise when they run because the bottoms of their feet are padded and have no hooves.
• Wild cattle have horns that turn inward – that’s because they are social animals. Inward-facing horns allow them to be close to each other without poking.
• The most endangered animal in the Asian exhibit is a gaur or an Indian bison – this despite the fact that the majority of the population in India doesn’t eat cows. They are endangered because of loss of habitat and disease.
• Different species interact with each other in unexpected ways. Some of the wild cows actually lick their sheep neighbors, which feels like a massage or combing.
• When camels have enough to eat, their humps are droopy.
• Some species of wild deer will actually drink mud – Jeanne called it a “mud smoothie”.

It was genuinely thrilling to be out among the animals, especially because it offered a full sensory experience. We touched the giraffe’s thick, rough tongue; heard and felt the pounding of a herd of wild horses as they galloped across their territory; watched up close as a male blackbuck antelope tried to impress the females who had strolled into his territory to graze.

The Caravan Safari last about two to three hours and is not a budget experience – at over $100 per person it’s one of the more expensive options on the park menu, which also includes a Behind-the-Scenes Safari and a ropes course. But as a completely unique zoo experience, it is worth the money. For one thing, it offers the only way to see the Asian Savanna portion of the zoo – and the animals there were among the more unusual and interesting.

But it also was a really special and memorable way for kids, parents and grandparents to enjoy and learn together. And of course, none of us will ever forget looking right into the smiling face of a giraffe.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located in Escondido, which is north and east of San Diego. We waited until after rush hour on a weekday and drove there from Coronado, just outside downtown San Diego, in 45 minutes. There’s a fee for parking.

Relevant Links:

Browse our list of the best family-friendly San Diego hotels

Editor’s Note: The San Diego Safari Park provided the Gormans with four adult admissions to the park, but did not pay for the children’s admission, lunch, or the Caravan Safari.Photos by Mara Gorman.

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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San Diego Safari Park

While tourists flock to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, its Safari Park—located 30 miles away in the San Pasqual Valley—is equally interesting. Spread over 1,800 acres, it’s home to more than 3,500 animals and 260 different species as well as a huge botanical garden. Massive, open-range enclosures re-create various habitats from around the world (don’t miss African Plains, which is larger than the entire San Diego Zoo itself), while interactive exhibits allow visitors to get up close and personal with lemurs, lorikeets, bats, and more. The Safari Park began as a breeding program to supply the zoo but, over time, has become a major conservatory project. In fact, its condor-breeding efforts are behind the almost extinct bird’s successful reintroduction to the wilds of California. Note: Early mornings are the best time to see animal activity. Avoid August, September, and October, which are the area’s hottest months.

More Recommendations

Getting up close to tigers.

For a truly exceptional zoo experience, make sure to visit the beautifully preserved and well-maintained world-class San Diego Zoo Safari Park. In comparison to the San Diego Zoo located in Balboa Park, the safari park offers a more unique and personal experience to the animals in many spread out environments, including their numerous caravan tours lasting anywhere from 1-4 hours.

Information on this page, including website, location, and opening hours, is subject to have changed since this page was last published. If you would like to report anything that’s inaccurate, let us know at [email protected].

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Jambo a safari adventure in san diego.

 Welcome to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where life-changing moments happen daily. Set out on safari and discover 1,800 acres of sprawling savannas teeming with wildlife as well as world-class botanical gardens—there’s no place like it on Earth. Encounter rhinos, giraffes, wildebeest, and large herds of wildlife roaming together. Journey through bamboo forests and come face-to-face with Sumatran tigers. Hop alongside kangaroos and dive underwater to meet the only two platypuses outside of Australia. And experience the awe-inspiring giants of Elephant valley. When you’re here, you’ll discover adventure is in every moment. And a moment can change a lifetime. 

Neighborhood: North Inland

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd Escondido, CA 92027-9614

Contact Info

(619) 718-3000 Toll-Free: (800) 407-9534

Please check our website for current hours.

More To Know:

• Located 30 miles north of downtown San Diego - and well worth the trip!
• The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is open 365 days a year
• Plan a full day & bring walking shoes, sunscreen and water for your adventures
• Safaris do fill up; book online ahead of time to ensure your spot
• Lovely facilities for catered weddings, parties and other group events!

Special Events:

• Marvel at eagles, owls and an Andean condor at Frequent Flyers
• Visit the World Gardens to see amazing and rare plants
• Autumn Festival On The Weekends From 10/5 -10/27
• Kids Free month with free admission for kids 11 and younger during October

More Information

• Destination Weddings
• Historic Landmark
• General Admission - Adult
• General Admission - Child
• Parking (RV)

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido , California 92027 USA

• Independent
• Credit Cards Accepted
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Learn more about this business on Yelp .

“Connecting people to wildlife & conservation”

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, formerly known as the San Diego Wild Animal Park, is a zoo in the San Pasqual Valley area of San Diego, California, near Escondido. It is one of the largest tourist attractions in San Diego County. The Safari Park is an expansive wildlife sanctuary that is home to more than 3,500 animals representing more than 400 species. Its renowned botanical collection represents 3,500 species and 1.5 million specimens. Over half of the Park’s 1,800 acres (730 hectares) have been set aside as protected native species habitat. It is located 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of downtown San Diego in the San Pasqual Valley near Escondido, California.

Reviewed by Felicia P.

Such a fun filled day for the family... the volunteers are super helpful and friendly. We stayed for about 5 hours. It is a bit more inland so gets a little warmer there compared to beach area.... Read more

Reviewed by Jackie E.

Bring your walking shoes and be prepared to get those steps in! The park is HUGE so if you want to see everything/all the animals, you have to do a lot of walking. I would suggest going in the... Read more

Reviewed by Roger B.

The handy sapped carts are was to expensive and not worthwhile The park is under construction and a lot of the attractions were closed A waste of money Read more

View 2,705 reviews on

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Ultimate Guide to the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park

Does Disneyland Resort have a theme park where Guests can see and learn about exotic animals? On the East Coast, Disney World has a wonderful theme park called Animal Kingdom where Guests are able to experience the wonders of animals and nature. Unfortunately, back at Disneyland, a park like this doesn’t exist but it is located within driving distance to the San Diego Zoo.

Luckily, not far from the Disneyland Resort, there are TWO wonderful parks where Guests can go to enjoy wild animals – San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. At both of these locations you’ll be able to get up close and personal with amazing animals, take part in exciting activities, and enjoy special experiences!

In this article, I’m going to give you a complete guide to both San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Follow along and get ready to plan your wild adventure!

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In this planning guide:

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Similarly to Animal Kingdom, the main goal of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is conservation. This nonprofit organization uses wildlife healthcare, science, and education to create new and long-lasting ways to help conserve the livelihood of wild animals.

The animals that you’ll see at the zoo aren’t the only ones who benefit from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation efforts. The work of the SDZWA takes place all over the world. The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park help make their worldwide mission possible. In return, new information and stories are able to be brought back and shared with those visiting and working at the zoos.

Both the Zoo and Safari Park have something special to bring to the Guests who are visiting. Let’s take a closer look at each one to see what they both have to offer!

San Diego Zoo

There is a wide variety of wildlife that you’ll be able to see at the San Diego Zoo including mammals, reptiles, plant life, birds, insects, and more! During the times when you’re not visiting, you can still see many of the animals. Multiple species have live cams set up in their habitats, giving you a firsthand look at what they’re up to during the day! Click here to view the available wildlife live cams.

• Amur Leopard
• Black-headed Weaver
• California Condor
• Chinese Alligator
• Clouded Leopard
• Dung Beetle
• Galápagos Tortoise
• Grizzly Bear
• Hamadryas Baboon
• Harpy Eagle
• Klipspringer
• Komodo Dragon
• Laughing Kookaburra
• Mang Mountain Viper
• Mountain Lion
• Pygmy Hippopotamus
• Rattlesnake
• Snow Leopard
• Tasmanian Devil
• Turtle and Terrapin
• Two-toed Sloth
• Vervet Monkey

Plants/Nature

• Australian Wonders
• Fern Canyon
• Gorilla Tropics and Scripps Aviary
• Hawaiian Native Plant Garden
• Reptile Mesa
• Sun Bear Forest
• Terrace Lagoon

Things to Do

Not only can you see amazing wildlife when you visit the San Diego Zoo, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy additional activities and special experiences ! These special add-ons will make your zoo day even more special.

• 4D Theater – At this theater, 3D movies are taken to the next level! Enjoy a 3D movie that’s accompanied with additional special effects. When you watch movies at the 4D theater, you’ll feel like you’re a part of the movie! This theater opens daily at 10am. The last show will play one hour before the park closes. Tickets are available for purchase at the theater. The price is $8 per ticket.
• Botanical Tours – Explore the beautiful gardens of the San Diego Zoo on a self-guided tour. You can use a zoo map to find your way and the provided brochures to help guide your experience. During your tour, you’ll be able to explore five different gardens – Australian Outback, Elephant Odyssey Trees, Fern Canyon, Monkey Trails, and Africa Rocks. On your journey, you’ll be able to view Aloes, Bamboos, Cycads, Orchids, Coral Trees, Palms, Carnivorous Plants, and Figs (Ficus).
• Guided Bus Tour – If you’d like to give your legs a rest, explore the zoo, and learn more about what you’re seeing, a Guided Bus Tour would be a great activity for you to do! This tour takes place on a double-decker bus that takes you throughout the zoo. During your 35-minute ride, your knowledgeable guide will give you information on everything that you’re seeing – from animals, to plant life, and even the conservation efforts that are in place!
• Play Areas – The play areas at the San Diego Zoo aren’t just simple playgrounds. These areas where kids can explore, learn, and put their skills to the test! There are three play areas in total – Tree of Dreams, Polar Play Area, and Elephant Play Yard.
• Wildlife Presentations – Through a variety of presentations, zoo visitors can get a special viewing of wildlife and learn from their caretakers. There are three presentations that you can watch – Africa Rocks Encounter at Africa Rocks Stage 12pm , Rady Ambassador Presentation Area 1pm , and Wildlife Wonders at Wegeforth Bowl 2pm .
• Kangaroo Bus – Since the wildlife and their habitats require so much space, you can end up doing a lot of walking at the zoo. The Kangaroo Bus can help you save some steps! This is a free transportation service that travels throughout the zoo. There are four Kangaroo Bus stops where visitors can get on or off the bus. These bus stops are marked by yellow kangaroo-shaped signs.
• Skyfari Aerial Tram – Another way to travel through the San Diego Zoo is the Skyfari Aerial Tram. This gondola-style transportation system will transport you from one end of the zoo to the other. During your ride, you’ll have a fantastic view of the zoo!
• Balboa Park Miniature Train – Outside of the San Diego Zoo exit, you’ll find the Balboa Park Miniature Train! While this train makes its way through the four acres of Balboa Park, it is owned by the San Diego Zoo. Guests of all ages can ride this miniature train! Tickets are $4 per rider. Riders 5 years of age or younger must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Special Experiences

• For all ages
• $117 and up
• Select dates
• Ages 5 and up
• Offered daily
• 2 hours; 8:30am – 10:30am. Guests need to arrive 10 minutes prior to departure.
• Recommended for ages 5 and up
• $425 and up, per person
• Discovery Cart Tours – If you’d like your own personal guide, consider doing a Discovery Cart Tour at the San Diego Zoo! These are 60-minute guided tours led by knowledgeable tour guides. During your tour, you’ll be able to step off the cart to get a closer look at the wildlife and take pictures! Discovery Cart Tours are for guests of all ages and costs $60 and up.
• Animals in Action Experience – During this one hour experience, you’ll be able to see animals up close! Some of the animals in this experience are exclusive and can only be seen by those who participate in the Animals in Action Experience! See these animals like never before, hear amazing stories about the specific animals that you’re watching, and learn from the wildlife behavior specialists of the San Diego Zoo. This experience costs $95 and up and is for visitors who are 5 years of age or older.
• Hike to Hippos – This 60-minute hike will give you an exclusive look at the hippos of the San Diego Zoo. Not just the large river hippos, but also pygmy hippos! This hike is led by the wildlife experts of the San Diego Zoo. Guests ages 5 and up are able to participate. However, this experience is recommended for those who are 12 years of age or older. The price of this experience is $49 and up.
• Exclusive VIP Experience – By doing an Exclusive VIP Experience, you’ll have ultimate access to habitats, animal interactions, and personalized service from San Diego Zoo professionals! You can choose to have a 5- or 7-hour personalized, guided experience. This experience is open to guests of all ages and starts at $710 per person. If you’re wanting to do this experience, you’ll need to book it at least 72 hours in advance. To book your Exclusive VIP Experience, call (619) 718-3000.
• Early Morning Explorers – Do you have kiddos coming along with you to the San Diego Zoo? The Early Morning Explorers experience is designed specifically for families with little ones ages 3-12. Before the park opens to the public, Dr. Zoolittle will entertain the children with jokes, games, and special activities! This 60-minute experience is available for a limited time on select dates from June 29th, 2024 through December 28th, 2024. The cost is $39 and up.

Plan Your Visit

7920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, California 92101

The zoo opens daily at 9am. However, closing times vary depending on the date. You can click here to check the exact hours for the day you plan on visiting the San Diego Zoo.

Parking is FREE at the San Diego Zoo. You’ll be able to find free parking at the lot in front of the zoo. Additional parking is also available in Balboa Park. This additional parking is also free!

When purchasing tickets for the San Diego Zoo, you’ll get the best value when you purchase them online ! There are a variety of ticket options available including Single Day, Multi Day, and Memberships. There are also Gift Cards that are available for purchase! Adult tickets are for visitors who are 12 years of age or older. Child tickets are for children ages 3-11. 2 year olds and younger are free !

Single Day Tickets

• Includes: One visit to the San Diego Zoo, Guided Bus Tour, Kangaroo Express Bus, Skyfari Aerial Tram, and all regularly scheduled experiences.
• 1-Day Pass: Any Day tickets are valid any day within one year from the date of purchase.
• 1-Day Pass: Value Days tickets are valid on any Value Day within one year from date of purchase. Click here to see the calendar.
• Includes all the features of the 1-Day Pass, plus one 4D Theater Experience.
• 1-Day Pass Plus: Any Day tickets are valid any day within one year from date of purchase.
• Includes all of the features of the 1-Day Pass, plus one 4D Theater Experience.
• 1-Day Pass Plus: Value Days tickets are valid on any Value Day within one year from date of purchase. Click here to see the calendar.

Multi-Day / Multi-Park Tickets

• Includes: One visit to the San Diego Zoo and one visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park -OR- Two visits to the San Diego Zoo -OR- Two visits to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
• Two total visits by the same person on any and all days.
• 2-Visit Pass tickets are valid on any day within one year from date of purchase
• Enjoy visits to the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and SeaWorld San Diego.
• The San Diego 3-for-1 Pass is valid for one visit per attraction – three total visits – by the same person on any and all days.
• Valid for seven consecutive days from the first visit.
• If you’re a local or a frequent visitor of San Diego, you may be interested in buying a Membership! With a membership, you are able to visit the Zoo and Safari Park for an entire year. Click here to learn more about Memberships.

To make your experience at the zoo extra convenient, download the San Diego Zoo App. With this app, you’ll be able to see dining, activities, and other attractions on the GPS-enabled map. Keep your day on track by using the day planner where you can add your preferences and see the daily schedule. You’ll also have quick and easy access to your tickets or memberships when you import them to your mobile wallet!

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has a variety of wildlife. The wildlife at the Safari Park all fall under the categories of Animals and Gardens. Just like the Zoo, select animals of the Safari Park can be viewed on live cams when you are not able to visit  them in person. To check in on these animals, you can view their live cams by clicking here .

• Abdim’s Stork
• African Rhinos
• Andean Cook-of-the-Rock
• Arabian Oryx
• Bighorn Sheep
• Burrowing Owl
• Crowned Crane
• Egyptian Vulture
• Greater One-horned Rhino
• Magpie Goose
• Matschie’s Tree Kangaroo
• Nile Lechwe
• Pink Pigeon
• Przewalski’s Horse
• Red River Hog
• Rodrigues Flying Fox
• Ruppell’s Vulture

• Baja Garden and Old World Succulent Garden
• Bonsai Pavilion
• Epiphyllum Trail
• Herb Garden
• Hidden Jungle
• Nativescapes Garden

At San Diego Zoo Safari Park, there are many unique and fun ways to experience the animals and gardens. Of course, you can go on safaris. However, there are other activities to do as well! Let’s take a look at everything that’s available to do at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

• Conservation Carousel – Take a ride (or multiple) on the Conservation Carousel! On this carousel, you have 60 different animals to choose from for your ride. Many of these animals are rare and endangered! You can choose from animals such as a Red Panda, Cheetah, Tiger, Rhino, Giraffe, and Zebra! For only $6, you can enjoy unlimited rides on the Conservation Carousel.
• Africa Tram – Climb on board a safari vehicle and head out to the savanna! This 25-minute tour is a relaxing adventure where you can get up close and personal with the wildlife of the African savanna. The Africa Trams first depart at 9:15 daily. Please note that on busier days, the Africa Tram tends to have the highest crowds from 11am-3pm.
• Balloon Safari – This unique safari replicates the hot air balloon tours of Serengeti. For this safari, you’ll take flight on a tethered helium balloon. Enjoy the beautiful views of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park from 400 feet up in the sky. You will have 10-12 minutes to soak in these sights. While this activity generally runs from 9am to dusk, it’s worth mentioning that the best time to fly is from 9am to noon. Prices for this activity vary depending on the day and peak times.
• Journey Into the Wild – At 2pm, join wildlife specialists in the Benbough Amphitheater to learn about special animals and the conservation work that the Safari Park is doing. This presentation is about 15-20 minutes long. Guests may start entering the amphitheater 20 minutes prior to the start of the presentation.
• Play Areas – When the little explorers in your group need to let off some energy, head to one of the four play areas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park! Whether your kiddo is wanting to climb, slide, or explore, they’ll have fun at any (or all!) of these play areas. They’ll be able to choose from the Village Playground, Savanna Cool Zone, Mawazo Woods Discovery Area, and Camp Play Area.
• Explore Elephants – This activity will give you a better understanding of Elephants. After walking to a special viewpoint, a Safari Storyteller will tell you facts, details, and stories specifically about the Safari Park’s elephants. They will also share with you what elephants are currently going through and what is being done in order to help them. Explore Elephants is for visitors who are 3 years of age or older and costs $15 per person.

• Ages 3 and up
• $92 and up per person
• Offered Daily
• Ages 6 and up
• $117 and up per person
• $135 and up per person
• Select weekend dates
• Ages 21 and up
• $140 and up per person
• Offered select dates
• $142 and up per person
• Select weekends and holidays
• Saturdays and Sundays; Select additional dates
• Ages 8 and up
• Selected dates
• Offered on selected dates
• $425 and up per person
• Offered select Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
• $60 and up per person
• $90 and up per person
• Sun Up Cheetah Safari – Prior to the Safari Park opening up to the public, get a unique view of the animals in the morning. This exciting experience will show you just how active these animals are in the morning. Especially in the Cheetah! The Cheetah is known to run at its fastest speeds during this time of day. (The last day to take part in Sun Up Cheetah Safari is June 8th, 2024.) This one hour experience is open to all ages and is $90 and up per person.
• Ultimate Safari – Let the San Diego Zoo Safari Park give you your own personalized experience. With a 5- or 7-hour experience that is customized uniquely for you, you’ll experience the Safari Park like never before. You’ll have exclusive access to special areas, habitats, and animal experiences. Guests of all ages can enjoy the Ultimate Safari. This experience starts at $710 per person. Ultimate Safaris must be booked at least 72 hours in advance. To book your safari, call (619) 718-3000.
• Classic Tent: $160/person, $30/infant (age 0-2)
• Vista Tent: $200/person, $30/infant (age 0-2)
• Premium Tent: $240/person, $30/infant (age 0-2)
• $332 and up
• Includes Flightline Safari, Night Vision Safari, Exclusive Viewing of Wildlife Ambassador Encounters & Wildlife Safari
• $81 and up per person
• 1 hour, Including training session and test flight
• $106 and up per person
• Wildlife Trek – Wildlife Trek is a guided walking tour that’s led by an expert guide. During the trek, you’ll learn more about the animals, their care, as well as conservation efforts. The Wildlife Trek takes place daily and costs $29 and up per person.

1550o San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027-7017

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park opens at 9am daily. Closing time varies depending on the date. To see what time the Safari Park will be closing during your planned visit, click here .

General Parking is $20 per vehicle. RV Parking starts at $38. Preferred Parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis with rates starting at $38 per vehicle.

When you purchase your San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets online, you’ll have access to better rates! Single Day and Multi-Day tickets are available as well as Memberships.

• Includes: One visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Africa Tram, and all regularly scheduled experiences.
• 1-Day Pass: Any Day tickets valid any day within one year from date of purchase.
• 1-Day Pass: Value Days tickets valid on any Value Day within one year from date of purchase. To check the calendar for Value Days, click here .
• Two total visits by the same person on any or all days.
• 2-Visit Pass tickets valid on any day within one year from purchase date.
• Enjoy visits to the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and SeaWorld San Diego. 
• Memberships can be purchased for $95 and up. With a Membership, you are able to visit the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for an entire year. For more information on Memberships, click here .

For a smooth and convenient visit, download the San Diego Zoo Safari Park mobile app. With the app, you’ll be able to locate animal exhibits, dining locations, activities, and more. With a GPS-enabled map, you’ll be able to find your way around the Safari Park with ease! The app also includes a digital wallet where you can add your tickets or membership, a day planner, the Safari Park’s daily schedule, and more!

Have a Wild Time in Southern California

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has done amazing work with both of these San Diego Zoo locations. It’s so nice that not one, but two, amazing animal locations are near Disneyland Resort . Visit their website today to start planning your trip to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park!

For assistance planning your Disneyland vacation, contact our trusted partners over at Get Away Today. Not only can they provide you with discounted Disneyland tickets , they can also help you plan your entire vacation! With a team of experienced travel agents, they’ll handle every detail of your trip so you don’t have to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can see the entire San Diego Zoo in one day. However, if you plan on also visiting the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, it would be better if you had two days to get everything done.

Yes, you can take water bottles to the San Diego Zoo. Please keep in mind that no glass containers are allowed. A refillable water bottle would be your best option.

Yes, San Diego Zoo parking is free. However, if you plan on also visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park, please note that the parking is not free there. At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, General Parking is $28 while RV and Preferred Parking is $38.

Yes, the San Diego Zoo is a lot of walking. Due to the space that is needed for the animals as well as their habitats, the zoo spreads out over a large area. Luckily, the zoo has complimentary transportation that makes traveling throughout the zoo much easier.

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Disclosure: We have used all the products recommended on Mickey Visit. We may receive compensation when you click on links to some products featured.

About Rebekah Brown

Rebekah's love of Disney and passion for writing is what led her to Mickey Visit and Disney Dose. Her first visit to Walt Disney World was when she was a young child. Now she enjoys her Disney vacations with her own two children, husband, and parents. Rebekah will keep you up to date on all things that have to do with Walt Disney World. As a frequent visitor, Rebekah will share both her knowledge and personal experience with you through her articles.

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10 Best San Diego Safari Park Discount Ticket Deals | 2024

Quickly find cheap San Diego Zoo Safari Park discount tickets. My chart compares the zoo, Costco, AAA, Groupon & 6 other deals. Including a coupon code that always works, even if you’re at the gate! But first, here are the basic deals that you should know about.

San Diego Safari Park ticket discounts include 50% Discount Admission Coupons and Complimentary Guest Passes bundled with certain memberships. Seniors, students, and groups with 15 or more get 10% off. Groups of 100+ get 15% off. Active US military, teachers on field trips, and kids in October get in free.

Discover the cheapest legitimate Safari Park admission tickets (plus unpublished deals!) for you and your family in the chart below. Then scroll down the page for the need-to-know details for each cash-saving offer.

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 .

San Diego Safari Park Discount Tickets Comparison Chart

Is it better to buy san diego safari park tickets at the gate or online.

Buying Safari Park tickets online is cheaper, faster, and safer. Safari Park encourages you to purchase your Safari Park tickets online and in advance. But it is not required.

Buying your passes on the internet costs less. If you purchase in advance through the San Diego Zoo Global website you’ll save $2. Get my promo code from local aRes Travel to save 10% off the $71 gate price.

Buying online reserves a spot for you and your group. This is especially important on busy weekends and holidays. You don’t want to drive 30 miles to Escondido from downtown San Diego only to be turned away because they’ve reached their guest headcount limit for the day.

You’ll also avoid the sales ticket window lines if you buy online. With a mobile ticket, you’ll go straight to the gate. Wouldn’t you rather get right to seeing exotic animals rather than being one of the herd waiting in line for a ticket?

NOTE: San Diego Zoo Global charges a $1 convenience fee for online purchases.

Online Ticket Discounts are Becoming Harder to Find

Due to increasing costs due to economic inflation, San Diego Safari Park has asked websites to stop publishing some of our best discounts. You can understand their position. They’re a non-profit and feeding the animals has got to come first. You’re not the only one hurting from the high price of energy and groceries.

Fortunately, my favorite authorized ticket source, aRes, has gone the extra mile for SanDiegoing readers and carved out the best possible deal for you under the circumstances. Click on the koala below for details.

How Much Are San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets At The Gate?

San Diego Safari Park ticket prices at the entrance 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

Parking is not free at this attraction. It costs $20 per normal-sized passenger vehicle.  If you’re driving an RV the fee is $38. Call 619-718-3000 to see if they’ve restarted preferred parking. 

What’s Included In San Diego Zoo Safari Park Admission?

A San Diego Safari Park ticket one-day pass includes:

• Animal Exhibits
• All Gardens
• Africa Tram
• Cheetah Run
• Frequent Flyers Bird Show
• Tiger Keeper Talk
• Training Talks

NOTE : Please call 619-718-3000 to find out which (if any) of these activities have been canceled due to county COVID-19 restrictions. Read this section on another page of my site which details what’s included in San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets .

Also, visit my page on the best places to eat at Safari Park . In addition to details on all their restaurants, I’ve included tips on how to save a few bucks while eating well there.

When Are San Diego Zoo Safari Park Free Admission Days?

The best-discounted deal at San Diego Zoo is free entry, right? Here’s the scat on all of the free days at San Diego Zoo.

How Kids Free in October at the Safari Park Works

Kids get San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets free in October. Children under the age of 12 can get in free. There are some limits:

• They must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
• Only 5 children are permitted per adult. 

Your cheapest option is to buy a discounted adult ticket that allows you to bring in children for free. 

Unfortunately your Southern California CityPASS , and Go San Diego passes are not eligible for special events like this. AAA discounts won’t work either because they cannot be combined with any other discount offers.

You’re going to have to purchase a separate adult ticket. But you don’t have to pay full price. Click HERE for a discount code that will work on adult tickets during Kids Free in October.

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.

Seniors Get in Free During February at San Diego Safari Park

1-Day Passes are free for everyone over 65 all of February. This deal is only available at the entrance. Present a valid photo ID with a birthdate showing that you’re over 65 at a Safari Park ticket window. Only one ticket per senior. You still have to pay for parking.

Which San Diego Zoo Annual Membership Is the Cheapest?

San Diego Zoo Annual Memberships include unlimited Safari Park entrance privileges. If you love animals and walking in beautiful surroundings this is one of the best ways to get cheap tickets for the San Diego Safari Park. You can save up to 99.6% off the standard 1-Day Pass price if you visit the zoo daily for a year with the Resident Adult Premium 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 .

You’ll find a chart with the least expensive San Diego Zoo membership options and their restrictions below:

Annual adult membership plans cost from $99 to $10,000 per year. Here’s the San Diego Zoo annual membership page so that you can check them all out for yourself.

Bob and I are  Wildlife Protector Premium  members. At this level, we get free parking and unlimited entries to both the Safari Park and the San Diego Zoo. We usually visit Safari Park on Saturdays. Our favorites are Tiger Trail , Elephant Valley, Africa Tram, and eating lunch while watching herds of antelope and rhinos from a bench above Kijamii Overlook. If it’s a special occasion, we’ll dine at The Watering Hole restaurant.

Free Guest Admission coupons are one of the major perks of most San Diego Zoo annual memberships. Each of these printed tickets is like a 1-Day Pass – good for a one-time visit for one person. Guests can use these without a member being present.

How to Get and Use Free Guest Passes for Safari Park

You can visit San Diego Safari Park for free if you’ve got Complimentary Guest Passes. But the only way to get them is if you know a member who is willing to give them to you.  

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

Longtime members are more likely to have unused Guest Passes. Chances are that they’ve taken their visiting family and friends to the zoo and Safari Park many times. Members love sharing their passion for animals and they feel bad about letting their passes expire without being used. So asking them doesn’t cost you anything and may make them feel better. 

Buying Guest Passes online is risky . San Diego Zoo Global says that the resale of guest coupons is fraud and a violation of the seller’s annual membership agreement. They’re just printed tickets with a barcode. Anyone with a scanner and a printer can fake them. And you will not know that you’ve paid for a fake until you try to present it at the gate. You may be turned away because the scanner says that code has been used. 

How to Get 50% Off Discount Admission Coupons for Safari Park

This half-off San Diego Zoo Safari Park admission deal is legit. But they are also only available from someone who has an annual membership.

But these discounted tickets are MUCH easier to find than the free Guest Passes. Most of the annual membership options include 2 of these per year. Once again, ask the zoo members in your network if they have any unused coupons.

And just like the Guest Passes, buying these discount admission coupons online is not recommended.

Are Safari Park Shoppers Passes Worth It?

A Safari Park Shoppers’ Pass is another free way to enter the park. Actually, it’s a 1-Day Pass that will be refunded if you meet certain conditions.  Those conditions are:

• You’ve purchased a 1-Day Pass at the standard rate
• You’ve returned to the ticket sales window at the entrance within 45 minutes

Start back to the gate when you’ve shopped for 35 minutes because there may be people waiting in line at the ticket booth.

Are There Group Discounts at San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

You get 10% Off 1-Day Passes for groups of 15 or more paying visitors at Safari Park San Diego. This is a wonderful way for large families to get together while maintaining social distancing.  Of course it’s also ideal for businesses and social group outings. 

15% off the 1-Day Pass for groups of 100 or more. Call 619-718-3000 (Reservation Sales Department) well in advance of your trip. They will make sure that your group numbers will be counted in that day’s total. Also, they have meal vouchers for many of the eateries inside Safari Park for an extra fee. This can save your group members some money off of buying entrees à la carte.

What is the San Diego Zoo Tickets Senior Discount?

You can get 15% off a 1-Day Pass for guests over 65 at the gate . You must present a valid photo ID at a zoo ticket sales window to get this discount. They do not offer this deal online or by phone.

Save More Than 10% With Authorized Ticket Seller Deals

San Diego Zoo Global (SDZG) works with a limited group of vendors who have the right to legally sell Safari Park tickets. They are tied into the Safari Park reservation system. They have to maintain strict standards of customer service and abide by the rules set by SDGZ. 

These rules include maintaining their agreed-upon ticket parity so that the non-profit zoological organization can maintain its funding for conservation projects.

SanDiegoing Ticket Deals From aRes Travel

aRes Travel and San Diego Zoo Global have been partners since 1993. The Zoo and Safari Park online reservation system was developed and is being maintained and updated by aRes. All of the other authorized ticket sellers use that system to sell tickets according to SDZG’s standards.

Here’s why I recommend aRes:

• Many thousands of San Diego visitors have saved money with their worry-free discounted Safari Park passes and tickets
• 100% authentic tickets Guaranteed. All passes come directly from the Safari Park, Zoo, and other attractions like SeaWorld San Diego, LEGOLAND, Disneyland, and many attractions in southern California
• They’re always cheaper than Safari Park gate prices (call for their unpublished rates at 800-719-8961 .)
• Fast, automated delivery via email to your inbox
• Never wait in line at a ticket sales booth. Go straight to the gate entry turnstiles.
• Save up to 30% on tickets/lodging for multiple theme parks and 100’s of hotels
• They’re a local San Diego company . They’ve got longtime relationships with hotel managers, attraction companies, and tour groups so they can put together great deals for us
• Their CEO is a nice guy . I dropped by their office one day and he spent at least 40 minutes answering my questions. At the time, no one was reading my blog but me, my husband, and sometimes my Mom. It was a gracious gesture.

One thing to note is that aRes charges a $2 online convenience fee ($1 + the SDZG’s $1 online fee) for Safari Park tickets. But that doesn’t bother me too much.  Because… you can actually TALK to them if you need help by calling 800-719-8961 . How rare is that? Google them to check out their great online reviews.

1-DAY PASSES

Save more than 10% Off 1-Day Passes to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park . Click HERE for a special unpublished discount code for SanDiegoing readers. Get your tickets by clicking the orange button below.

The tickets are easy to use. 

• Call 800-719-8961 to get your unpublished discount on your tickets
• Your tickets will be emailed to you after your purchase
• Print out your tickets or show them on your mobile device at the gate
• The Safari Park ticket attendant will scan the QR code
• You enter the park and have a great time 

Parking is not included at either park with this package.

ZOO MULTI-ATTRACTION TICKET BUNDLES

LEGOLAND® California & San Diego Safari Park Combo Deal

Save $24 for each adult vs buying each of these tickets separately. You get a 1-day LEGOLAND ® admission ticket and a 1-Day Safari Park Pass. Both allow you to bypass the ticket sales window and head straight to the entry gate. Safari Park parking costs extra. Guided Safari Park tours need to be purchased separately. Check out my Safari Park tours review page  

This ticket package is great for families traveling from Los Angeles and Orange counties for a weekend. You stay up in north San Diego county and avoid the worst of the traffic jams around downtown.

• $159 99 per adult (aged 12+)

Legoland California, San Diego Zoo & Safari Park Combo Deal

Save $24.49 for each adult 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. NOTE: Legoland California is not yet opened. This entry is for your planning purposes. Please check the operating hours prior to booking.  

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:

• $196.50 per adult
• $172 for children under 13 years old

Or call 800-719-8961 to get questions answered and for assistance.

HOTEL AND ZOO MULTI-ATTRACTION PACKAGES

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 cozy 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 you can save 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 more than 125 hotels featured in this deal is the beautifully situated Cape Rey Carlsbad . It’s a Hilton property located in Carlsbad with direct access to Carlsbad State Beach. It’s also a AAA 4 Diamond Resort with a great restaurant (Chandler’s) and an award-winning spa. Summer beach picnics, bonfires and watching the sun fall beyond the Pacific Ocean from an exquisitely designed fire pit will be highlights of your stay.

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

Other Hotel and attractions bundles from aRes Travel.

Costco San Diego Safari Park Tickets

If you search the internet you’ll see many references to super-cheap San Diego Zoo and Safari Park tickets sold at Costco. There’s just one problem, all of those posts are old and the offers are expired.

I spent hours scouring online forums, coupon code sites and large travel websites and the most recent  example of a Costco zoo ticket deal is from 2010. And in that comment thread they didn’t even give the price for the 1-Day Pass. 

I suspect that the killer Safari Park Costco deals will not be coming back. In the last couple of years San Diego Zoo Global, the Safari Park’s parent organization, has instituted a policy of price parity among authorized ticket sellers. SDZG doesn’t want other companies significantly undercutting their own gate prices. 

They’re not just being greedy. It’s for a good cause. Their mission is to end extinction and promote conservation awareness worldwide. And they aren’t subsidized or run by their local city like many other zoos. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are mostly self-funded through ticket sales to people like you.

Go ahead and check Costco’s Ticket Savings page to see if they’ve got Safari Park passes. But if you don’t find any, don’t be surprised. 

Costco San Diego Zoo Safari Park Ticket Bundles – There’s still a PDF for the Go San Diego Card discounts on the Costco website, but it’s an orphan. The Go San Diego Card is not on their ticket page, just links to a few restaurants. If you want to buy the Go San Diego Card click the link to go to aRes, our local San Diego authorized ticket source.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets On Groupon

Up to 70% off a 1-Day Adult Pass – This is misleading clickbait. Groupon’s last significant discount offer was in September 2020. If you go to their website you’ll get the standard 3% off deal that you’d get directly from Safari Park. Granted, 3% off is technically “up to 70% off”, but the wording is sneaky.

To get a better deal anytime, anywhere, buy your tickets from my travel partner aRes Travel of San Diego. Use this Safari Park Discount Ticket Form to get a discount code and the link where you can use it to buy your cheap tickets. Or, call 800-719-8961 and ask aRes for the unpublished San Diego Safari Park discount instead.

San Diego Safari Park AAA Discount

10% off a 1-Day Pass – You can only get this deal at the gate and if you’re a AAA member.  It’s good for you and 5 more in your group.

Present your AAA membership card and a valid ID at the ticket sales booth and purchase a 1-Day Pass for your ten percent discount. You cannot get this offer online or if you buy your ticket on the phone.

You can’t combine a AAA discount with any other coupons or offers. So you can’t use it during Kids Free in October or the Seniors Free in February events. But you CAN call 800-719-8961 ahead of time. Save yourself a bit of cash. Load the ticket onto your mobile device (or print it). Skip the ticket window line!

Public Service & Trade Associations Ticket Deals

San diego safari park ticket discounts for military.

FREE 1-Day Pass to the San Diego Zoo

Active duty US military are entitled to a free 1-Day Safari Park Pass. You’ll need to show your Uniformed Services ID Card or Common Access Card (CAC) at the entry turnstiles. You will not be allowed free access without that ID.

Military Family Discounts at Safari Park

10% Off 1-Day Pass at the Gate – Spouses and immediate family members must show their valid dependent ID cards at any ticket sales booth to get this discount.  

Get a 15-20% Discount at your local base’s Ticket and Travel Office. However you must buy in advance of your trip to Safari Park. You cannot get this deal at the gate. The percentage you will save varies by the service branch, the location of the base and other factors.

You can also find better deals on annual memberships and 2-Day San Diego Zoo/Safari Park admission bundles at your base travel office. For an example,  here’s a San Diego ticket price list from Camp Pendleton . Scroll down to the “ Download ITT Price List ” button to see it.

Veterans & Retired Military Safari Park Discounts

15% – 20% off 1 Day Pass – MUST BUY ON BASE. Free entry to San Diego Safari Park is only available to active duty military personnel. Retired military must buy their 1-Day Pass from their base’s Ticket and Travel Office. . Veterans and retired military can also get 2-Day San Diego Zoo Admission Passes and annual memberships at a discounted price at the base. For an example link over to the Latitudes Travel Information, Tickets and Tours page . Scroll down to the “Download ITT Price List” button. Click to open the PDF.

Law Enforcement Discounts on San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

18% off 1 Day Pass – MUST BUY THROUGH SDPOA.org. San Diego Safari Park does not offer any discounts for those who serve as San Diego law enforcement and their families. But you can get significantly cheaper tickets if you buy through the San Diego Police Officers Association website. Login, click on the Members tab and you’ll see the Theme Park Tickets category.

On the SDPOA.org members’ page 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.

Firefighters Free in September at Safari Park

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” . Safari Park is located in the rural San Pasqual Valley and has sometimes been threatened by wildfires. So everyone who loves the animals here is VERY appreciative of the firefighters efforts to keep it safe. 

To get free entry under this program you must present your active firefighter ID with a photo. It doesn’t matter if it’s a department ID or a Union ID. This complimentary ticket is not available by phone or online.

Firefighters’ Family Discount

10% off 1-Day Passes for Family & Friends of Firefighters.  

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.

Do AZA Members Get a Discount at San Diego Safari Park?

There is no American Zoological Association (AZA) member discount at Safari Park . San Diego Zoo Global is a member of AZA, but unlike most zoos in the United States, it is self-funding and cannot afford to offer reciprocal AZA benefits and fulfill their primary mission which is to end extinction.

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are both self-funded by your entry fees, food and concession sales, and extra add-on experiences like tour safaris. Most of the zoos in the AZA discount ticket program receive the majority of their budget from municipal coffers.

Travel Industry

Airline and cruise lines employee discounts.

10% off 1-Day Pass at San Diego Safari Park.   Airline and cruise company employees and one guest are eligible for ten percent off one day admission. This deal is not available if you pay online or by phone.  You must present your company-issued photo ID or CLIA card before paying at the zoo ticket window.

San Diego Safari Park Travel Agent Discounts

10% off 1 Day Pass to the Safari Park. If you’re a member of IATAN (International Airlines Travel Agent Network), you and a guest are eligible for a ten percent discount at the gate. If you’re a tour operator, travel agent, or wholesaler you can get this deal. All you need to do is show your up-to-date ITAN card prior to paying at any Zoo ticket window.

Deals for Educators and Students

San diego safari park teacher discount.

15% off a 1-Day Pass to Safari Park in San Diego for teachers directing curriculum-focused student trips. For more details, check the Zoo’s education and field trips page. The CTA Member Benefits website is a good resource for discounts and offers that teachers can use on personal trips to San Diego Safari Park.

San Diego Safari Park Student Discount

15% off 1 Adult 1-Day Pass to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the standard deal for students . All students 12 years of age and older are eligible. You must present your valid student ID before payment at any ticket sales booth to get this deal.

This offer is good for high school, community college, and university students as well as those working towards graduate degrees.

Is There a Diego Safari Park Residents’ Discount?

There aren’t any discounts for locals on 1-Day Passes for San Diego Safari Park. The best way for residents to save on Safari Park tickets is to buy an annual membership . These memberships offer significant savings for California residents in the 91900-92899 zip codes. The lowest tier costs $115 for a single adult. That means that your Safari Park and Zoo entries are free after just 2 visits.

How to Avoid Safari Park Online Ticket Scams

1) If the price for San Diego Safari Park tickets sounds too good to be true, you’re probably right. That’s the first rule to avoid being the victim of any online swindle. Pay attention to your little voice which says, “So what’s in it for them?” Sometimes it’s not just money, but your identity that’s at stake.

2) The Craigslist About Scams page says that most online fraud can be avoided if you insist on meeting face-to-face with the person selling the tickets. 

3) Guard your identity online by using payment systems like Apple Pay, Google Wallet or Payoneer. If you are asked to make payment via PayPal, add on the Buyer Protection fee. It’s inexpensive, only 3.1% + $0.30 per transaction. Otherwise you are not shielded from having someone take off with your money without giving you a valid ticket in return.

Reselling of San Diego Safari Park Tickets is Prohibited

The sale or transfer of guest coupons, complimentary tickets, or unused memberships is a violation of the legal terms of the San Diego Zoo Global annual membership agreement. Words to that effect can be found on all Safari Park tickets. 

Buying tickets from someone who is not an authorized ticket seller is a chancy proposition. Someone could have purchased a ticket online and printed more than one copy at home. There’s no way for you to tell if that ticket is good until it gets scanned at the gate. 

I understand that sometimes vacations are canceled due to illness or emergencies. But it doesn’t happen very often. Keep in mind that there’s a good chance that an amazing deal on Safari Park passes is a scam.

Never purchase an unused membership to San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Annual pass holders must show a valid photo ID with their Zoo membership card at the gate. You’re out of luck unless your name is the same as the one on the card.

Don’t Buy Safari Park Tickets on Craigslist

Buying cheap San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets on Craigslist is a gamble with the odds against you. None of the authorized ticket sellers list their inventory on Craigslist. And although you may find the occasional person who had to cancel a trip posting their unused tickets it is rare.

Before you put money down on cheap Safari Park tickets posted on Craigslist read Craigslist’s Avoiding Scams page . PLEASE.

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. 

This activity is prohibited by the members’ agreement with San Diego Zoo Global. Thus it’s morally questionable. It’s up to you whether you feel right about not doing the right thing to support endangered species. 

eBay – That incredible Safari Park ticket deal on eBay could be real or could be a steal (with you being the victim). Before you try to purchase them, read the eBay  how to recognize scams section.

Reddit –  I’ve read about a few meetings for transfers of San Diego Zoo or Safari Park tickets arranged in these forums. The ones that were successful were of the “pay after entry” type.

Closing Thoughts on Buying San Diego Safari Park Discount Tickets

EVERYONE can save some money on admission to San Diego Safari Park. There’s no reason to pay the gate price. And I hope that I’ve proved that to you in this article. Between the SanDiegoing readers unpublished discount that you can get by calling 800-719-8961 and my discount tickets chart I’m hoping that you’ve found a San Diego Safari Park discount ticket deal that will work for you.

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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