African Safari Wildlife Park

safari african ohio

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

safari african ohio

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Milenka17

African Safari Wildlife Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

  • Fri - Mon 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • (0.64 mi) Holiday Inn Express & Suites Port Clinton-Catawba Island, an IHG Hotel
  • (1.50 mi) Our Sunset Place
  • (0.85 mi) Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Port Clinton, OH
  • (9.23 mi) Getaway Inn at Cooper's Woods
  • (0.76 mi) Sleep Inn & Suites
  • (0.35 mi) Toft's Ice Cream Parlor
  • (0.58 mi) Ciao Bella
  • (0.69 mi) Casa Las Palmas
  • (0.55 mi) The 'Que Barbecue & Brew
  • (0.36 mi) Hong Kong
  • (0.94 mi) Liberty Aviation Museum
  • (0.47 mi) Island Adventures Family Fun Center
  • (0.55 mi) Cheese Haven
  • (0.66 mi) Ottawa County Visitor's Bureau
  • (0.61 mi) Bodi N Balance

Home

Your Safari Awaits

Plan your breathtaking visit to The Wilds, located in beautiful southeastern Ohio. Advance reservations required.

Plan Your Stay at the Wildest Place Around

Discover one of the largest and most innovative conservation centers in the world! Grab your camera and board our open-air safari vehicles for an exhilarating adventure through open-range landscapes. Watch Video

Wildside Tour

Choose Adventure for 2024!

A membership to The Wilds affords you free Open-Air Safari Tours, free parking, and discounts on our beautiful overnight options!

become a member of The Wilds

African Painted Dog

African Painted Dog

Banteng

Persian Onager

Bactrian Camel

Bactrian Camel

Bactrian Deer

Bactrian Deer

Pére David's Deer

Pére David's Deer

Cheetah laying in the grass

Learn at The Wilds

Explore wild spaces, learn about the natural world, and make lifelong friends.

Child looking at an owl pellet

Discovery Field Stations

Our youngest guests can have an adventure all-their-own before their tour of The Wilds begins!

Yurts

Overnight Programs

Night hikes, campfires, and 'smores. Come spend a night out in The Wilds!

Wildecamp horseback riding

Scout Day Program

The Wilds offers customized adventures for Scouts! 

get a closer look

If visiting the Columbus Zoo isn’t enough, find out how you can become an important part of our growing family.

Independent Travel Cats

Savvy Travel Advice

The Wilds Animal Park: An African Safari Experience in Ohio

Last updated: December 4, 2021 - Written by Jessica Norah 22 Comments

The Wilds is one of the largest conservation centers in North America, set on about 10,000 acres of land in Southeast Ohio. The Wilds safari park is home to a number of rare and endangered animals from around the world, including cheetah, rhinos, camels, antelope, zebra, and giraffes, as well as a number of local native species.

Visitors can not only do regular bus safaris to see the animals, but The Wilds in Ohio also offers horseback safaris, fishing safaris, ziplining, a butterfly habitat, education programs, summer camps, and overnight lodging. This non-profit open-habitat safari park is a pretty amazing place given that this is reclaimed land which was strip mined for coal from the 1940’s to the 1980’s, which destroyed most of the natural wildlife and resources in this area.

If you are in Ohio, this is definitely a place to consider adding to your itinerary. We’ll give you all the information you need to plan a trip here and tell you about our own experience visiting The Wilds animal park.

giraffes the Wilds Ohio animal safari park

Table of Contents:

Basic Information for Visiting The Wilds in Ohio

Here is all the info you need to start planning your trip to The Wilds in Ohio.

What is the Address of The Wilds?

14000 International Road, Cumberland, Ohio 43732

How to Get to The Wilds Ohio?

The Wilds is located outside the small town of Cumberland, Ohio and the best way to get here is by car. I could not find any public transportation options but you could of course book a taxi or Uber if needed.

It is approximately 75 miles (1.5 to 2 hour drive) from Columbus, OH, 20 miles (35 minute drive) from Zanesville, OH, and 140 miles (2.5 hours) from Cleveland, Ohio. You can find   directions online provided by The Wilds depending on your location. Note that there is a $6.00 parking fee to park at The Wilds unless you are a member.

When is the Best Time to Visit The Wilds?

The best time to visit The Wilds for most activities is from May through September. The Wilds is typically open for its regular visitor season daily from 10am to 4pm May through September and then weekends only in October.

Recently, The Wilds has also started the Winter at the Wilds Tour that allows for pre-registered guests to visit and tour The Wilds from November to March. While many of the regular tours are not available during the winter, the Winter at The Wilds tour is run twice a day. These are more intimate tours with up to 6 people.

What Safari Tours are Offered at The Wilds?

The most popular activities not surprisingly are the Wilds safari tours, and most people take one of the group safari tours that are led by knowledgeable guides. The main tours are given in an open-air bus with a canopy, and there are a couple of places the bus stops where you do a bit of walking.

Tours last approximately 2 hours, but I would allot at least 3 hours for your visit as you’ll need to get the shuttle to and from the parking area, may want to visit the butterfly habitat or other exhibits, and there are also places to shop and eat. 

If you interested in a more intimate experience, you can reserve a Wildside Tour and get a more exclusive safari experience with an Animal Management specialist amongst a smaller group (these are typically offered in an open-air pickup truck) and you get to see some of the daily happenings at The Wilds such as an animal medical procedure, help in feeding the animals, or an ongoing conservation project.

All of the tours at The Wilds take you through all the open-range enclosures where you’ll get to see many of the animals roaming in the fields as well as stops at Lake Trail and the Carnivore Center. You also have access to the Butterfly Habitat which you can explore at your leisure before or after the safari tours. On the weekends during the summer months, these tours are also offered at sunset and include a buffet dinner at the Overlook Café.

Check out The Wilds website for current tours and tour prices , with the open-air bus tours (May through October) currently set (as of October 2021) at $35.00 per person. Wildside Tours (and Winter at the Wilds tours) are currently priced at $137.50 per person for non-members.

Note that all tours must be booked online in advance prior to visiting.

the Wilds Ohio animal safari park

Other Activities at The Wilds?

In addition to the main animal safari tours, there are a number of other visitor activities offered at The Wilds. You can easily spend a full day or a full weekend at the Wilds. These include fishing, horseback riding, sunset tours, and ziplining. The Wild Zipline Safari provides the opportunity to view parts of the large preserve and some of the wildlife from above across 10 different ziplines (a shorter version that includes only five ziplines is also available).

For those who live nearby or have more time for a visit, the Wilds also offers educational programs, WildeCamps, and Family Camp weekends during the summer months. They can also accommodate a wide range of events from corporate retreats to weddings to birthday parties.

The Wilds has also been recognized one of Ohio’s Most Important Birding Areas by Audubon. It is a good place to see a number of birds, including raptors, grassland nesting birds, and ospreys. The Wilds has made a birding station located at Jeffrey Point accessible to the public and it is open 24/7 for no charge. 

Accessibility at The Wilds

The visitor areas at The Wilds are generally accessible for those with reduced physical mobility and those in wheelchairs and meet ADA guidelines. There are tour buses and shuttles that can accommodate those in a wheelchair, and you can denote that you need a wheelchair space when you book your ticket.

Most of the tour is spent inside the bus but there are stops where participants can disembark to see the parakeet aviary (a short distance) and the carnivores’ enclosures (a slightly longer distance). 

As with most places, it is wise to call in advance to discuss any special accessibility needs before booking.

What Dining Options are there at the Wilds?

Food and snacks are available for purchase at the Safari Snack Depot, Terrace Grill, and Overlook Café. Note that many of these close during the winter months. Food available includes hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, chicken, ice cream, snacks, soda, coffee, and beer and wine. Evening safari programs during the summer often include a buffet dinner at the Overlook Café.

the Wilds Ohio animal safari park

Can you Stay Overnight at The Wilds?

You can stay within The Wilds parkland or you can stay in a nearby town. The Wilds as you might imagine are in a very rural location but there are towns with lodging within 20 miles of the park.

Staying Overnight in The Wilds park

You have a few options if you want to stay overnight at The Wilds, including staying in a luxury yurt or a large family-friendly cabin.

The yurts are currently adults-only (21+) and are located within the park at Nomad Ridge and are built on large platforms with screen windows, bamboo floors, wooden doors, a private bathroom, and an observation deck for private wildlife viewing.

There are also several cabins that have been recently built around Straker Lake within The Wilds which provides another option. These can accommodate up to 6 persons and are perfect for families or small groups.

If you are coming with a big group or family, you might also consider The Lodge which is a large 6-bedroom cabin complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, bathrooms, television, Internet, washer and dryer, gas fireplace, outdoor fire ring, games, books, canoes, and fishing and boating equipment.

If you book a reservation in one of the yurts or The Lodge, you’ll receive discount pricing on many of the tours and activities offered at The Wilds. We did not stay in any of these lodging options, but we did see them while we were there and both options looked quite nice.  

NOTE: No pets are allowed on The Wilds property, including in any of the lodging, for obvious reasons. They may also not be left in your vehicle, so please be sure to leave your dogs at home. Service animals are of course welcome.

Staying Outside The Wilds

If you are looking for nearby lodging outside the park , you can find a range of options in the nearby cities of Caldwell, Cambridge, Zanesville, and Marietta. The closest lodging is in the town of Caldwell which has several motels and hotels. Some recommended properties are as follows:

  • Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham , Caldwell – a 2* well-reviewed good value hotel offering en-suite rooms with inclusive continental breakfast. Offers wheelchair-accessible rooms. Free on-site parking. About a 25 minute drive from The Wilds.
  • Best Western Caldwell Inn – This hotel offers a 24 hour front desk, indoor swimming pool, free Wifi, fitness center, and free breakfast. Note that the included breakfast is often served at the nearby family-owned diner (walking distance) Lori’s Restaurant. Offers wheelchair-accessible rooms. A 25 minute drive from The Wilds.
  • Baymont by Wyndham , Cambridge – a 2* hotel offering en-suite rooms which also feature a microwave and free on-site parking. Breakfast is included. Just over 30 minutes drive to The Wilds.
  • Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites , Zanesville – found in downtown Zanesville, this 2* hotel offers rooms with coffee makers and refrigerators. Free parking is available, breakfast is included, and there’s an indoor hot tub. Offers wheelchair accessible rooms. Around 30 minutes drive from The Wilds.
  • Comfort Suites , Marietta – conveniently located for the Interstate, this 3* hotel has an indoor heated pool and a fitness centre. Offers wheelchair-accessible rooms. It’s also pet friendly (fee applies). Free parking is available nearby, and rooms have microwaves and fridges. Around a 50 minute drive from The Wilds.

You can see more options and compare prices here . 

The Wilds Ohio luxury yurts at Nomad Ridge

Need More Information to Plan Your Trip to The Wilds? 

The official  official website  for The Wilds is a very useful to find information or book tickets, but you can also call them at 740-638-5030 or check out their active Facebook page where you can see recent photos as well as potentially find a discount code or win a free visit.

If you want to explore the area around The Wilds more fully you check out other things to do nearby  around Zanesville, Ohio and wider tourism information for the state of Ohio . 

Our Experience Visiting The Wilds 

I grew up near The Wilds and it is by far the largest tourist attraction in our local area, but for some reason or another I had never visited while I was growing up. During college, I knew several people who did research practicums and internships here given the amazing educational and research opportunities that are available here to local students.

In fact, I went to the same college as Jack Hanna , a famous zookeeper and animal expert who has worked with and promote The Wilds. I guess it is one of those things where you look back and realize that you never visited many of the cool places in your own backyard after you have left.

So on a return visit to Ohio to see my family in winter 2014, I made sure that I had time to include a visit to The Wilds. It was definitely time I finally made it here!  After that winter 2014 visit, I returned again in the summer of 2017 to experience one of the open-air tours that was not offered when I visited in the winter in 2014. So I’ll break this down by The Wilds winter visit first and then a bit about the summer open-air safari experience.

Winter at The Wilds Tour Experience

I made a reservation in advance for the Winter at the Wilds tour which is the only tour that is regularly given during the winter months. Ethan and I visited in November 2014 and it was a cold day and so we were bundled up in coats, hats, and gloves for our visit. We arrived at the parking lot (there is a $6.00 parking fee) and we were met within a couple of minutes by someone from the park management team and then our guide who was a member of the animal management team.

The Winter at the Wilds tour is similar to the regular Wildside Tours given during the rest of the year. However, instead of an open-air vehicle, we were in an enclosed heated vehicle, but we were able to roll down the windows as needed to take photos so that was not a problem and we needed the heat! While you cannot get out of the car within the open animal enclosures, you’ll get to walk around in other areas  such as around the Carnivores Center and if you visit the barns during the winter. 

The Wilds Ohio Jess at sign

A Bit of Ecology & Conservation at the Wilds

Our first stop was actually not to see wildlife but to see a restoration project being conducted by the Wilds Restoration Ecology department. Friendly Rachael and Kelsey who were hard at work in the wetlands area, talked to us about conservation within the wetlands and they showed us a neat water system they use to monitor and maintain water in the wetlands area.

This is a good reminder that a visit to the Wilds does not just have to be about the animals, but there is almost 10,000 acres of land here and all kinds of ecosystems. Strip mining negatively impacted much of the land and streams in this area and it is amazing to see the revival that has come about because of the hard work by the folks at the Wilds. If you are interested in ecology, botany, water management, birding, insects, etc. let your guide know as there are many different types of environmental projects happening here at any given time!

The Wild Ohio staff showing us water system

The Big Cats and Dogs

The next major stop on the tour was to the Wilds’ Carnivore Center. Here you can get out of the car and walk around and see the animals from various viewing points. During our visit, there were painted dogs, dholes, and cheetahs.

Be careful to stay back if you get near the African painted dog enclosures as they are not friendly puppies! I had never seen a dhole before but I remember my friend in college talking about these while she worked at the Wilds. They are super cute canines that are native to Asia and look quite a bit like a fox.

Breeding programs and research at the Wilds is geared towards helping the survival and conservation of these threatened and endangered species. The Wilds has been successful with its cheetah program as the first cheetah cubs were born here in 2010!

The Wilds African Painted Dog

The Open Range Animal Pastures

The rest of our visit focused on driving through the open range enclosures, which contain the vast majority of the animals at the Wilds. These include camels, bison, zebra, Southern white rhino, wild horses, ostrich, giraffes, and various types of deer and antelope. You are also likely to see some of the native species that roam around the Wilds such as local deer, birds, or coyote.

If there are certain animals that you are very interested in seeing or want to learn more about, just tell your guide so they can better allocate your time as there is a lot of open space. As animal management specialists who work with the animals, they can help give you the best chance to see the animals you want to see and also give you more time with them if they can. 

During any tour, since the animals live in large open enclosures you’re likely to see many of the species up close while others are likely to be hidden a bit in the trees or near the lake where you might not get an up close view. For instance, we only got distant views of the ostriches who preferred to hide themselves amongst some trees on the opposite end of the lake from us.

We got a good look at most of the animals and we were able to get within touching distance (no touching!) of several animals who largely ignored our vehicle. The Sichuan takin are interesting animals that I have never seen before and there were a lot of these critters along with a number of deer, horses, and antelopes. Some of the deer were losing their antlers or were in the process of doing so which occurs in the winter months. The type of camels at the Wilds are quite funny to watch as they are very curious and will get very close to the vehicle. When they walk, their two humps of fat flop around quite a bit on the older camels. 

Typically, visitors would have the opportunity to tour some of the winter facilities for the animals on a Winter at the Wilds tour to see animals that need to be kept inside on cold days such as the giraffes. But a white rhino baby had just been born a day or so before our visit and so we were unfortunately not able to visit the barns. The animal management team did not want anyone disturbing the new rhino calf and there had not been a press release yet about the new baby. Although this sadly meant we could not visit the animals that were in the winter housing and barns that day (rhinos, zebra, giraffes), it is a remarkable event as the calf was the first fifth generation white rhino born outside of Africa and is a testament to the breeding and conservation program at the Wilds.

The Wilds Ohio Sichuan Takin

Summer at the Wilds Open Air Safari Tour Experience

In the summer of 2017, I returned again to the Wilds with my husband Laurence. This time we did an open-air animal safari tour. These are the most common type of tour that people take on a visit to the Wilds and are typically available from May to September. The tour took two hours and was in an open-air bus.

It was definitely a different experience to visit on a hot summer day, and it was nice to not be all bundled up in a winter coat and gear. It was also nice to see the green grass, full trees, and local wildflowers.

In terms of the animal, we saw many of the same animals I had seen in 2014; however, we also got to see a few animals I had not been able to see on my winter visit such as the parakeets in the small aviary, the giraffes, the white rhinos (although at a distance), and the ostriches. We also got to see the tankins really up close as they were fighting, playing, and mating near our vehicle!

the Wilds Ohio animal safari park

Overall Thoughts on Visiting the Wilds in Ohio

Overall, we had a fun time on both our safari tours at the Wilds. We learned a lot, saw lots of animals, and received a warm welcome from our knowledgeable guides and other staff. A great advantage to visiting in November was that we had the park to ourselves since there are relatively few visitors during the winter months. The only disappointment during that visit was not being able to see the giraffes or rhino, but we totally understood that the health of the newborn rhino calf took precedence over our visiting the animal barns!

During the summer tour, it was nice to see the Wilds all green and alive. It was also nice to see some of the animals like the giraffes and rhinos that I had missed on the previous winter tour. The open-air safari bus makes for a nice way to experience the park and see the animals, and reminded my a bit of my safari experience in Africa. Another good thing about the summer is that there are more food facilities open so you have more opportunities to get a snack or have a meal.

 Overall, I would definitely recommend a trip to the Wilds if you find yourself in this part of Ohio. Not only is it a great place to view wildlife, but the organization is a top-notch research and conservation facility committed to a number of good causes. For me, this was a great chance to visit a cool place that I had missed growing up in this area! 

camel the Wilds Ohio animal safari park

Are there places near where you have lived that you never took time to visit and then regretted it once you left? Planning your own trip to the Wilds and have a question? As always, feel free to ask us questions about our visit to the Wilds in Ohio or share your own experiences in the Comments section below!

**Disclosure: Just so you know, we received complimentary tours at the Wilds as press. However, as always, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. You can read more in our  Ethics Code  about how we work.**

Share this Post!

There are 22 comments on this post.

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

Emma Post author

June 10, 2023 at 7:01 am

Hello All. It is now 2023 and I am just now becoming aware that this place even exist, hopefully it still does. I am very interested in visiting there. Is the reservation still operating? I imagine Covid played an enormous role in why it seems the comments went silent. Also is the climate uninhabited by primates? I absolutely love the great Silverbacks and the chimps. Is this climate not suitable for them? Do you plan on ever having them?

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

June 14, 2023 at 7:50 am

Yes, The Wilds is alive and well, and you can certainly come and visit. COVID-19 certainly was not great for the park but all is now open and most of the services have returned to normal. The summer season tends to be the busiest and most popular time to visit as it is a nice time to do the open-top buses or the Wildside Jeep or truck rides.

I don’t personally work for The Wilds, I am just a travel writer but I did grow up near The Wilds and have visited several times now over the years.

So there are no primates such as chimpanzees or gorillas at The Wilds. The focus of The Wilds is mainly on conservation and research and most of the animals are ones that can live in open enclosures, basically fields, such as the rhinos, horses, camels, zebra, giraffes, ostrich, etc. Primates would require large enclosures/tress etc. and it would probably not be a great fit for them here. At The Wilds, they do have a couple of enclosures for predators (e.g., painted dogs, dholes, and cheetah), but most of the rest of the animals can roam fairly freely in the open fields. There is also a barn area to keep animals protected and warm in the winter as needed.

In terms of climate, I would say that Ohio is probably not a good fit in terms of the natural habitat for chimps or gorillas. We recently were in Uganda which has both mountain gorillas and chimps and the reclaimed coal fields in southeastern Ohio is a pretty different climate and habitat than most of the places you would naturally find these animals.

As far as I know, there are no plans to have primates but you can of course ask yourself if you visit for any plans and reasoning on their part! The Columbus Zoo, the sister organization to The Wilds, has several primates in its care, although I don’t believe they have any chimps.

Hope that helps and hope you are able to enjoy a visit to The Wilds soon!

Best, Jessica

Becky Malterer Post author

March 30, 2023 at 8:31 am

Have the animals ever attacked anyone?

March 30, 2023 at 9:36 am

As far as I know (I don’t work here), there have not been any serious injuries of visitors caused by an attack by an animal at The Wilds.

When you visit, you are in a bus or Jeep for most of the visit when in the areas where the animals live and roam. The carnivores are behind fences. So visitors are fairly well protected from the animals and most of the animals (e.g., giraffe, cattle, zebra, ostrich) here rarely attack humans anyway. However, they are still wild animals and of course visitors should always be careful and aware during their visit and follow all the staff instructions.

Hope that helps and hope you enjoy your time at The Wilds if you decide to visit!

Jack Alloway Post author

July 15, 2021 at 4:32 pm

I was down in about 10 or 12 years ago and it was a beautiful place and it sounds like you people have done a lot more with it I’m looking forward to coming back down and staying the weekend. Thank yo

July 16, 2021 at 4:01 am

Hope you get a chance to return to The Wilds. Yes, it has changed quite a bit from 12 years ago!

tom hamm Post author

February 29, 2020 at 3:37 pm

look like a great place to visit. Would like to make a trip there in the spring or summer of 2020.

March 1, 2020 at 4:31 am

Yes, Spring or early Summer is a great time to visit The Wilds. It is nice to go when it is warm out but not super hot.

Enjoy! Jessica

Kurstin Chandler Post author

January 6, 2020 at 1:47 pm

Hi, interested in visiting your place.

January 6, 2020 at 1:58 pm

Hi Kurstin, If you are interested in visiting The Wilds now, or between November and April, they are only open to the public for their Winter at the Wilds tours. These need to be booked at least 72 hours in advance of when you want to visit. So I’d go onto their website or give them a call to schedule one of those if of interest. You can find links and their phone number above in the post.

But if you are visiting in the Spring/Summer months, then there are more daily tour options that will be available and you don’t have to book in advance (although still a good idea if you know when you want to do the tour).

Terri Mitchell Post author

April 13, 2019 at 6:56 am

Thank you for your comprehensive review! Just caught the end of Jack Hanna’s wildlife safari insisting The Wilds. I found your site when I searched for info. Happily it sounds like this is a trip that all ages can enjoy and we can camp too! Thanks to your thorough review we’re planning our own visit to The Wilds this summer!!! Happy Travels

April 13, 2019 at 12:10 pm

Hi Terri, Glad you enjoyed our review of The Wilds, and do let us know if you have any questions about planning your trip to The Wilds. Yes, Jack Hanna was very much involved in the planning and conservation efforts at The Wilds (he is a former director of the zoo in Columbus Ohio) and has been a long time ambassador for the park 😉 Best, Jessica

Mark Staib Post author

March 28, 2019 at 2:50 pm

I have a scout troop ,and we are interested coming down and camping either there or near by. We will want to tour and zip line. We would be arriving July 21 and have all of the 22nd to do all of the above.Please let me know if this is do able and how much it would cost.

March 28, 2019 at 4:42 pm

Hi Mark, That sounds like a fun scout trip. You’ll need to call The Wilds directly to get pricing and to book the trip for your group, phone number is (740) 638-5030. Best of luck, Jessica

DONNA AZZ Post author

July 4, 2016 at 3:37 pm

Hi – we will be visit “the wilds” in two weeks and staying for 2 nights (July 19&20). Are there any suggestions you can give us to enhance our visit?

travelcats Post author

July 4, 2016 at 4:32 pm

Hi Donna, I am sure you will have a great time at The Wilds! The summer is a great time to visit as all the facilities will be open and the animals should be out and about.

I would reserve your tour in advance so you get the dates/times you want. The open-air safari tours are great in the summer and a good value, you can also consider a private encounter or a Wildside Tour if they are within your budget.

As many animals will seek shade and naps in the middle of a summer day, I’d recommend trying to be on the first tour of the day or the last as you may see more animals and also it may be less crowded.

Since you’ll be there for two nights, you have plenty of opportunity to see the full park and choose the time of your tour and also explore at a slow pace. If you are staying overnight in the park, be sure to ask what activities are going on during your stay. Often there are boating, fishing, swimming, ziplining, and horseback riding activities available.

If you are traveling with kids, it can be really fun to teach them about some of the animals and have them try to then spot them during your tour and from the observation deck of where you are staying. If you have a pair of binoculars, these can be fun to bring. I’d also recommend buying a few snacks/drinks to bring with you at a grocery store before getting here so you don’t have to rely on always eating at the park as it can add up.

Have a great trip and feel free to come back and comment about your visit to The Wilds!

AwesomelyOZ Post author

August 3, 2015 at 3:36 pm

That’s so awesome! I love the photos of all the animals, esp the camels 🙂 That was a big boy! Looks like a great safari experience 🙂 Thanks for sharing and have a great one Jessica! -Iva

August 14, 2015 at 6:18 pm

Hi Iva, I think that may actually be a big girl:) It was a fun experience, it was not quite Africa but it is as close as you can get in Southeast Ohio and a great place to visit!

Seana Turner Post author

July 25, 2015 at 1:05 pm

You know, this is why I follow bloggers. I’ve been in that part of the country many times and had no idea this even existed. What a fun place! I think I’d rather roam around on a warm day, but I’ll bookmark it for the next time I’m driving though Ohio!

July 26, 2015 at 7:57 pm

Hi Seana, yes the Wilds is a great place to visit the next time you are in Ohio. It is a bit out of the way but a great place to spend an afternoon!

Mar Ward Post author

July 25, 2015 at 6:26 am

When I worked at the Zoo in Alaska, Jack Hanna was a guest speaker at our yearly fundraiser and talked about the Wilds. Ever since I had wanted to visit. Thanks for sharing your experience and some great photos.

July 26, 2015 at 6:57 pm

Hi Mar! Yes, I almost mentioned Jack Hanna in the post. I went to the same college as an undergrad that both he and his wife graduated from and the Wilds is located only about 20 minutes away. He was director of the Columbus Zoo in Ohio for many years and the Wilds now has a close partnership with that zoo. Jack Hanna has visited the Wilds many times and helped promote it. If you are in the Midwest, you should definitely plan a visit as I think it is still the largest wildlife conservation center in North America.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of replies to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store the data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

webcam

  • Tourism Jobs
  • Partner Resources
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

Go Wild at African Safari Wildlife Park

ae2b3396-471e-4a81-b073-6e47cec39f3b_IG%20-%20Kid_Alpaca

Published March 2021 Get ready for a wild time when you visit the Midwest’s largest drive-thru safari – African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio! When was the last time you hand-fed a bison from your car? Or, had a giraffe stick its head through your sunroof? Have you been on a camel ride lately, or had hundreds of budgies land on you and eat directly from your hand? All of these experiences and more are available when you visit this amazing zoological park, open late March through early December. Experiences available may vary by season, but the fun is constant!

Nearly 20 different species of animals are able to be viewed along the drive-thru where you take your personal vehicle. You can see llamas, deer, bison, giraffes, zebras, and more. Admission includes one cup of animal food and additional food, such as carrots and leaf lettuce, is available to purchase (outside food is not permitted in order to keep the animal’s diet consistent). The length of the drive-thru depends on how much you stop and visit with the different animal species – they are a friendly (and hungry!) bunch. Roll down your windows and expect the animals to come right up to your auto – hold out your cup and they will enjoy a tasty snack. Or, scatter some on the ground if you prefer not to hand-feed. Be prepared to have your windows, mirrors, and door licked and rubbed against; it’s all part of the fun! You’ll laugh your way through the safari, while reading about each of the species along the way from the hand-out provided at admission. Admission includes unlimited trips through the drive-thru portion of the park.

7496af9c-93b5-4079-b40c-f00620cb73cd_IG%20ASWP%20-%20Bird

The walk-thru safari, which includes white-handed gibbon, porcupine, wallaby, and more, is available during the warmer months, beginning in May. The walking path winds through tree-lined trails and viewable habitats. Photo opportunities abound and visitors delight in viewing these animals outdoors. Animal encounters include camel rides, educational programs, and feeding experiences, among others. The Aviary Adventure allows guests to walk through an enclosure with more than 400 budgies, interacting with and feeding them. Play with domestic pigs in the HogWILD Experience.

Want to experience it all? Purchase the Zoo-It-All Animal Feeding Experience which includes kangaroo, porcupine, tortoise, and rabbit feeding, plus one budgie feeding stick for the Aviary Adventure. The Zoo-It-All pass does not include park admission.

This family fun park also offers a playground, café and dining area, gem mining, and gift shop. African Safari Wildlife Park is open daily from March-December, rain or shine. To maximize your drive-thru experience, the last car is admitted one hour before park closing. Reservations are available for weekends and can be purchased online beginning the Monday prior to the weekend you wish to visit.

22e8346b-58e2-4285-8aaf-f50513bc5c1e_IG%20-%20ASWP%20Giraffe

Reservations are not available Monday through Friday and are not required for entry. However, African Safari Wildlife Park is a very popular attraction and reservations to guarantee your entry in the event the park reaches capacity for the day. Discounted tickets to African Safari Wildlife Park are sold at the Lake Erie Shores & Islands welcome centers in Sandusky and Port Clinton. Let’s get wild!

Download/Request

Travel guide, sign up for.

Exploration America

A travel blog exploring America one city at a time

What is there to do at the African Safari Wildlife Park in Ohio? Review

Midwest Nature

Share the post "What is there to do at the African Safari Wildlife Park in Ohio? Review"

This past year we explored outdoors in Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island, Ohio for Green Island Week – it was amazing! While we were in town the African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio invited us to come and enjoy their attraction – which was just THE BEST! My family had so many giggles and fun memories here – there is so much to do at the African Safari Wildlife Park!

Looking for other things to do in the area? Check out Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores & Islands !

animals at African Wildlife Safari Park

We absolutely LOVE animals and in a past life I used to care for animals in a college biology lab – not to mention the literally 100+ animals we’ve had at our house since we had kids. I was thrilled to see how well cared for the animals were at African Safari Wildlife Park!

All of the animals – straight down to the budgie aviary – had access to food and water at all times, no matter if they were fed by guests or not! All animals had access to shelter and “non human” areas that were roped off for the animals to go if they didn’t want interaction with people.

Exhibits had signs to read and learn more about each animal that we visited – everything was extremely well done! I’m pretty sure my mushy brain will remember the difference between a dromedary camel and a bactrian camel for life now!

Spend 3 minutes with us for some in person highlights during our trip to the park:

Where can I find coupons for the African Safari Wildlife Park?

Being a family of 5 we’re always on the lookout for a good sale or coupon, and the African Safari Wildlife Park coupons are no different! You can look on their coupons page , sign up for their e-mails at the top of their page, keep an eye on their Facebook page , and always check Groupon before you go!

Can I walk through the safari park?

Yes – well some of it! There’s a walk through portion of African Safari Wildlife Park and there’s a drive through section – I highly recommend doing both! When we first began on the walk through area we arrived at the gibbons area – they were SO MUCH FUN!

We visited right when the park opened and these gibbons were swinging all over the place having a blast! I’ve been to zoos and wildlife centers all over the country and never seen gibbons having so much fun!

I recommend starting off walking through the safari park and enjoying that area before doing the drive through area. You can purchase food in the gift shop for animals in the walk through area as well as buying food for the animals in the drive through area.

If you drive through PLEASE for the love drive up to the red pole like the employees will ask you to! They try to get the cars to drive half way through the exhibit and THEN let the animals come there to feed instead of being stuck right at an open gate. Trust me – if you have food – they will come!

What animals are at the African Safari Wildlife Park?

You’ll find red river hogs, sulcata tortoises, warthogs, white-handed gibbons, kangaroo, porcupine, white alligator, alpacas, bactrian camels, bison, bongos, elk, fallow deer, giraffes, zebra, rabbits, budgies, guanaco, llamas, Scottish highlanders, sika deer, white bison and more!

Can I feed the animals at the safari park?

YES! This is the best part! I absolutely LOVE hands on animal encounters and there’s plenty of that here! I recommend checking their website to see all of their current feeding options but at the very least I highly recommend buying some food for the drive through park. You can also buy sticks to feed the budgies, lettuce for the rabbits, and the new Zoo-it-All Animal Experience pass which lets you feed the kangaroo, porcupine, rabbits and tortoises.

Out of all of the budgie encounters I’ve been to across the country this was one of my favorite! It’s the ONLY encounter I’ve ever been in where they had numerous bird feeders AND water out for the birds in addition to the birds truly being very active in flying over to us. I absolutely loved it.

deer by lake at African Safari Park

Can I bring my own food to feed the animals at the safari park?

This one is a no-no – even though it sounds like it would be nice! All food that is fed to the animals here has been cleared for the animals’ consumption via stringent regulations.

How much is food for the animals at the African Safari Wildlife Park?

Food is sold in “packages” if you will. For the drive through safari park you can buy food at $15, $30, or $45 amounts. We bought the $30 package for our family which pretty much covered our 3 kids plus a little. There’s also a $14.95 option per person for the walk through park which allows you to feed the kangaroos, porcupine, tortoise, rabbits and budgies. OR you can also buy the budgie food separately!

Will my car get damaged by animals at the safari park?

Wild animals are animals! But seriously, I’ve been to the African Safari Wildlife Park twice now and have not had any damage. I have had plenty of slobber and mud though! I DO however, highly recommend folding your mirrors in before going through the drive through safari! There are BIG animals, some with horns – anything can happen.

My best suggestion is that if you feel uncomfortable at any time just roll up your windows and the animals will soon realize you have no food for them and they will walk on. Also – make sure you hold all food outside of your car so the animals aren’t prone to constantly sticking their heads in!

What ELSE is there to do there?

Yes – the animals of course are the main attraction at the safari park but there’s a lot of other things to see and do! There are educational animal programs during the summer, a playground, camel rides, gem mining, places to eat, and the gift shop. We spent several hours at the park and didn’t even make it to any of the animal programs because we had such a long distance to drive back home. It was a really nice morning!

mom and daughter feeding budgies

Animal experiences are very important to me as I raise my children. My kids LOVE animals, they love learning about their habitats, and visiting the African Safari Wildlife Park was a fabulous hands on way for my children to see the animals they learn about up close and personal.

Not only will my kids remember this trip to the safari park for the rest of their lives but it further instills their love for learning, animals and nature!

rabbits bunny yard

My youngest daughter especially loved Rabbit Row! It was a lovely little path that you could walk on with oodles of bunnies running around everywhere! It was so fun!

wallabies and kangaroos

I was also happy to see how especially active the kangaroos were in the morning when we went too! In fact I could barely get a photo of one because they were so busy hopping around!

giraffe close up vertical photo

And perhaps one of my favorite animals in the park are these gentle giants – the giraffes! They’re so sweet!

Overall we had such an awesome day!! I know if we are back in the Port Clinton area my kids will be begging to visit the African Safari Wildlife Park again! It was a fantastic experience, again (I’ve been before but my kids hadn’t!)! If you live near by they even offer an annual pass which would be fun!

If you’re looking to tent camp nearby I recommend Sunset Shore Campground in Port Clinton! There are no showers but it comes with a killer view and private beach front for your tent!

Explore MORE in Ohio:

' src=

About Crystal

I'm the product of a family who never travelled and now I can't get enough! Please leave a comment or send me a message with some of your favorite lesser known places to visit - my bucket list in the USA is always expanding! My passion for travel motivated me to drag along my husband and 3 kids until now they are as eager as I am to hit the road! What should we visit near you?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Where we’ve been

safari african ohio

Privacy Overview

safari african ohio

Click Here for FREE Subscription

Ohio Attractions & Ohio Tourism

Drive-Thru Safaris

safari african ohio

at African Safari Wildlife Park

You’ll want to visit African Safari Wildlife Park this season, featuring the Drive-Thru Safari, the largest area of African Safari, where guests drive their car through and interact with hundreds of exotic animals.

African Safari’s Walk-Thru Safari, the Park’s traditional zoo setting, has also seen an addition of new animal exhibits. The new Giraffe Encounter allows guests to get up close and personal with giraffes and feed them!  The Walk-Thru Safari is scheduled to open around Mother’s Day weekend, weather permitting.  

“We are beyond excited to welcome new and familiar faces to the Park for African Safari’s new season!  Everyone can enjoy the newer Park amenities and continue to make memories here for seasons to come,” said African Safari Wildlife Park’s Director, Kelsey Keller. “We have so much more in store, and we encourage everyone to stay tuned for more zoo news and updates…coming soon!”

The Park is open daily, rain or shine, from 10am to 5pm with the last car admitted at 4pm for the Spring Season. Summer Season begins the last week of May.

The Midwest’s Original Drive-Thru Safari Park, African Safari Wildlife Park , is at 267 S. Lightner Rd. in Port Clinton, Ohio.

Ad

  • Appalachian Ohio
  • Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB
  • Discover Mohican
  • Explore Hocking Hills
  • Explore Scioto
  • Greater Grand Lake Region
  • Historic Roscoe Village
  • Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
  • Lehman’s
  • Marietta/Washington County CVB
  • Miami County VCB
  • Millers Furniture & Bakery
  • Niederman Family Farm
  • Ohio Amish Country
  • Ohio Caverns
  • Ohio Festivals & Events Assoc.
  • Sandusky County Visitors Bureau
  • Travel Tuscarawas County
  • Visit Belmont County
  • Visit Chillicothe
  • Visit Coshocton
  • Visit Greater Lima
  • Visit Grove City
  • Visit Marion Ohio
  • Visit Medina County
  • Visit Sidney Ohio
  • Visit Steubenville
  • Yoder’s Bakery & Furniture

African Budget Safaris Logo

  • Client Reviews
  • Safari Blog
  • Send an Inquiry
  • Map of Africa
  • Contact Details
  • African Safari Cost
  • Travel Insurance
  • You are here 
  • The Budget Safari Blog
  • African Safari Wildlife Park…

Kruger elephants, African safari

African Safari Wildlife Park in Ohio vs the 3 Best National Parks in Africa

Posted by Molebatsi Manzi on September 25 2023 in African Safaris & Tours Enquire Now!

“There’s nothing else like it,” is how the African Safari Wildlife Park in Ohio, USA describes their safari experience. This popular park attracts visitors with a host of exotic wildlife from all around the world, promising up-close encounters with wildlife from nose-to-nose meetings with a giraffe, and walks on the wild side with the Walk-Thru safari.

But how does the African Safari Wildlife Park stack up against three of the best national parks in Africa? We decided to find out and put together the differences (and similarities) between African Safari Wildlife Park and Kenya’s most famous Big 5 safari destination, the Masai Mara National Reserve; South Africa’s top national park, Kruger National Park; and Tanzania’s premier national park, Serengeti National Park.

Kruger African Safari Wildlife - rhino

Size: African Wildlife Safari Park vs Best African Parks

If you believe that “the bigger, the better,” then African Safari Wildlife Park doesn’t have a hat in the race compared to Africa’s finest parks. Masai Mara is the smallest of the 3 African parks, yet it can fit 5,800 African Safari Wildlife Parks inside its borders. South Africa's Kruger National Park is the biggest at 19 485 km² /  7523 mi², but it is the 7th largest park in Africa (the Serengeti National Park is 9th).

Serengeti safari lions, Tanzania

Nature & Wildlife: Ohio vs Africa

Africa's Big 5 reserves are renowned for their safari wildlife and epic scenery. All three boast healthy Big 5 populations of elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino as well as cheetahs, hyenas, wildebeest, kudu, impala, bushbuck, springbok, nyala, zebra, giraffe, and many many more. The Masai Mara has over 470 bird species, while both the Serengeti National Park and Kruger National Park boast an impressive 500 plus bird species.

Ohio’s African Wildlife Safari Park does not have any of the Big 5. They do have an assortment of domesticated 'wild' animals including two giraffes, alpacas, llamas, bongos, kudu, eland, various deer species, and a few bison to mention a few. The state of Ohio at 116,096 km² / 44,825 mi² has around 448 bird species.

Serengeti National Park safari

Ohio vs Africa: Landscape Differences

The African Safari Wildlife Park is not a pristine environment. While the animals do have a fair amount of space, the park is made up of wire-fenced enclosures, some with shipping container hides, and a few man-made dams for water. The overall feel is of a large petting zoo. A feeling compounded by the friendly (hungry) animals that cluster around vehicles as they drive through.

The Kruger, Serengeti, and Masai’s pristine wilderness are much the same as they have been for centuries. They represent a true African wilderness, and illicit a raw, primordial wonder. There are no fences within the parks, and safari game drives are unpredictable. Kruger National Park has an excellent road network that makes self-drive safaris easy, though purest believe this detracts from the wilderness feel. In the Masai Mara and the Serengeti, 4x4 game vehicles are necessary. In peak season, during the Great Wildebeest Migration, these parks can get congested. 

Leopard, Kruger national park

Conservation Value 

When it comes to protecting wildlife, all four parks make an admirable contribution. The African Safari Wildlife Park is involved in initiatives including protecting wild places and supporting the Cheetah Conservation Fund. It is also part of the Zoological Association of America. Back in Africa, Kenya’s Masai Mara reserve was created to conserve wildlife; the Kruger  in South Africa is a sanctuary for endangered species, while TAPANA (Tanzania National Parks) protects the Serengeti National Park . The main difference is scale. African Safari Wildlife Park is small and does not really have the scope to protect megafauna and so concentrates on education and exposure. Kruger National Park, the Serengeti National Park, and the Masai Mara National Park conserve massive ecosystems that are under threat from human encroachment, poaching, and habitat loss. These parks pull all sorts of specialist conservationists, researchers, and wildlife organizations that work together to preserve these national treasures.

Maasai tribe Masai Mara safari

Cultural Experiences & Activities 

When visiting East or Southern Africa, cultural visits are a must. Bordering all of these conservation areas are communities, villages, and towns that are, by proximity, a part of the conservation mechanism. Some of these people, like the Masai in Kenya, have been living the same way for hundreds of years, and visiting their villages is an opportunity to see how modern Masai are adapting to the fast pace of change in the world. 

The African Safari Wildlife Park does not do 'cultural' activities. The value here is entertainment and their top activities include an impressive dinosaur takeover that takes visitors back in time to experience more than 20 prehistoric creatures. Like the 3 top African destinations, the park has walk-thru and self-drive options.

The vast landscapes of the Kruger, Serengeti, and Masai provide an awe-inspiring backdrop and are as much a part of the experience as the game and wildlife. Other activities include hot-air balloon rides, bush breakfasts, and night-time game drives.

Kruger park lion pride

Accommodation: African Wildlife Safari Park vs National Parks in Africa

The African Safari Wildlife Park is a day trip excursion to get up close with animals. Considering the distance you will travel to get to East Africa or South Africa, it makes sense that you will spend more than a few nights. The Serengeti, Kruger, and Masai Mara parks all offer an exceptional range of safari accommodation options, from budget camping and tented safari to luxury lodges and hotel accommodations, and bed and breakfasts

Kruger safari, South Africa

Accolades & Claims to Fame

The African Wildlife Safari Park's walk-thru safari has been certified as a wildlife habitat by the Wildlife Federation of America. Awards for this experience include The African Safari Wildlife Park walk-thru experience includes EdZOOcation animal programs, the HogWILD experience, and an Aviary Adventure. Animals from porcupines to crowned cranes, Madagascan lemurs, wallabies, and tarantulas are all on display.

The Kruger National Park is world-famous for Big 5 safaris and is one of the best places to spot elusive leopards. The Serengeti has one of the oldest ecosystems in the world and protects a large portion of the Great Wildebeest Migration that takes place throughout the year. Both Kruger National Park and the Serengeti are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Masai Mara also protects a part of the Great Wildebeest Migration and is most famous for the Mara River crossing, where thousands of wildebeest cross the crocodile-infested river in search of fresh grazing. The BBC Television show titled "Big Cat Diary" was filmed in the Maasai Mara.

Serengeti, Great Migration safari

Best Wildlife Phenomena?

Visiting the African Wildlife Safari Park is great in that it gets people up close to animals, not just from Africa, but from around the world. It is delightful to feed giraffes, llamas, and other animals, but these animals are not wild and depend entirely on their human guardians. It is nevertheless an exciting outing for families and young children.

Visiting Africa on safari is about immersion, and meeting nature on her own terms. While you are guaranteed an experience of a lifetime, you cannot guarantee a lion kill, wildebeest crossing, or elephant encounter. Undoubtedly, one of the finest African safari experiences is witnessing thousands of wildebeest as they traverse the expansive African savannah. Those who favour an untamed experience will not be disappointed. An African safari may not be the best option for people travelling with small children, but it is certainly worth the cost if authenticity is what you are after.

Zebra, Masai Mara safari

Ready to Book a Budget African Safari?

Now that you know how Africa’s top safari destinations (Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Kruger) fare against Ohio’s top attraction (African Safari Wildlife Park), it's time to book your dream African safari and experience the real thing yourself! Get in touch with our team of travel experts at African Budget Safaris to find out more.

If you liked this post, these trips cover similar ground…

  • Serengeti to Kruger Safari Adventure - Overland Africa Tour
  • 10 Day Kenya to Tanzania Tour - Best Parks, Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari
  • 3 Day Kruger National Park Safari - Tented Camping

About the Author

Molebatsi manzi wordsmith & caffeine fiend.

Molebatsi Manzi

Places Mentioned in this Post

Map

1. African Safari Wildlife Park, 267 S Lightner Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452, USA

2. South Africa

3. Kruger National Park, South Africa

4. Serengeti, Tanzania

5. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

7. Tanzania

Similar & Related Blog Posts

Below you’ll find further reading and articles related or similar to this post.

Serengeti vs Masai Mara: which top wildlife park to visit for the best safari in Africa?

Briony Chisholm | January 23 2024

Serengeti vs Masai Mara

What’s a Serengeti Safari in Tanzania like these days?

Daniel De Lapelin Dumont | July 28 2021

Africa Travel 2021: Serengeti Safari

How to enjoy the ultimate Serengeti Safari in Tanzania on a budget

Kate Explorer | June 21 2022

Tanzania Serengeti Safari zebras

African Biomes Part III: Masai Mara, Serengeti and Beyond

Andrew Hofmeyr | December 20 2017

Lake Malawi cichlids

The Pros and Cons of a safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara Conservancies

Andrew Hofmeyr | January 18 2023

Masai Mara Landscape, Kenya

What Kruger Safari to do? Types of Kruger National Park Safari Adventures

Andrew Hofmeyr | December 15 2022

Kruger safari lions, South Africa

Your first African safari adventure & what to expect in Kruger National Park

Briony Chisholm | June 04 2022

African safari lion, Kruger National Park

How Much Does a Kruger National Park Safari Cost? (Your Budget Guide)

Andrew Hofmeyr | March 24 2023

Kruger National Park, Leopard

The Best Time to Visit South Africa? Cape Town to Kruger & More

Stephanie Parker | March 07 2023

Boulders Beach Cape Town

How Much Does a Serengeti Safari Cost? (guide to Serengeti safari prices)

Andrew Hofmeyr | February 08 2023

Cheetah in Serengeti, Tanzania

When is the Best Time to Visit Masai Mara on Safari in Kenya?

Andrew Hofmeyr | January 03 2023

Lion hunting zebra in Masai Mara of Kenya

Private Group?

A private, tailor-made safari is within your reach. Experience all of your bucket-list safari related items on a budget now.

State by State Travel

African Safari in Ohio

Did you know you can take an African Safari in Ohio? Easy Travel Mom took her daughter to experience some of the African Wildlife at the The African Safari Wildlife Park in Sandusky Ohio!

african safari wildlife park

African Safari Wildlife Park has an abundance of animals. We were there in the off-season (May) so there were not as many animals out as we would have hoped, however, my daughter certainly did not realize this. Look at that smile!

african safari

Click here to Read Easy Travel Mom’s full review

I had no idea there were so many places in the United States where you can take a realistic African Safari. US News has a complete list of 8 different Safari Experiences in the US.

When I was a child, we visited a place that had camels wandering around. I can still remember that camel trying to eat my brother’s playpen that was strapped to the top of our station wagon.

Have you ever taken a safari adventure? I’d love to hear your favorite memories.

Images used with permission from Easy Travel Mom

Similar Posts

10 Things to Do in Cincinnati

10 Things to Do in Cincinnati

Armstrong Air and Space Museum

Armstrong Air and Space Museum

WWII/Korean War Memorial, Ohio

WWII/Korean War Memorial, Ohio

Armstrong Air and Space Museum

Why Major League Baseball Games Are For Girls, Too

International Friendship Park – Cincinnati

International Friendship Park – Cincinnati

Thanks Sharon for the mention! I had no idea there were even MORE places but this country is so big I guess I should have known!

Uh, I want to hear more about the playpen strapped to the top of the car…!

To answer your question, also, I drove through something similar to this once in Texas and a zebra literally took a bite out of my sideview mirror. Made quite the selling point years later!

Thank you for sharing this information, I truly liked your storytelling fashion.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Soar Over The African Safari On This Only-In-Ohio Zipline Adventure

safari african ohio

Sarah McCosham

I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books. I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.

More by this Author

Ohio might be miles and miles away from Africa, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a wild adventure in the Buckeye State. Whether you’re visiting one of our state’s acclaimed zoos or spending the night in a themed rental, there are all sorts of ways to  take a walk on the wild side  in Ohio. Today’s adventure, however, may be the wildest of them all: Expedition Africa Aerial Adventure Course, an epic zipline adventure at the Toledo Zoo that takes thrill seekers *over* a real-life African safari… in Ohio!

safari african ohio

Related Stories

This Teeny Tiny Amusement Park Has Been Providing Pint-Sized Thrills For Ohio Families Since 1952

This Teeny Tiny Amusement Park Has Been Providing Pint-Sized Thrills For Ohio Families Since 1952

This Giant Indoor Amusement Park In Ohio Is Fun For All Ages

This Giant Indoor Amusement Park In Ohio Is Fun For All Ages

The 10 Best Things To Do In Ohio In July, 2023

The 10 Best Things To Do In Ohio In July, 2023

safari african ohio

Curious about what to expect? Here’s a sneak peek c/o the Toledo Zoo on YouTube:

Did you know about this awesome adventure in Ohio? For more information on the Expedition Africa Aerial Adventure Course , be sure to visit the Toledo Zoo website.

Want to keep the safari vibes going post-ziplining? Head The Wilds , a beautiful safari right here in Ohio with glorious glamping accommodations.

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

Want more Ohio in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Ohio!

Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.

An error occured.

Related Articles

  • With A Farmer's Market, Weekly Music, And Seasonal Festival, There's Nothing Like A Summer Weekend In This Ohio Town
  • Take Your Pickleball Game To The Next Level At This State-Of-The-Art Pickleball Court In Ohio
  • Soar Through The Treetops When You Embark On This Thrilling Canopy Tour In Ohio
  • There Is A Tiny European Village Hiding In The Middle Of The Capital In Central Ohio
  • Embrace Summer With A Unique Tiki Boat Ride Along The Ohio River
  • 11 Little Known Water Parks In Ohio To Visit Before Summer Ends
  • The 10 Best Things To Do In Ohio In June, 2023
  • We Bet You Didn't Know Ohio Was Home To The Delightfully Quirky National Barber Museum And Hall Of Fame

Explore Ohio

  • Arts & Entertainment
  • Farms & Wildlife
  • Fun Adventures
  • Shops & Boutiques
  • Sights & Landmarks

Featured Addresses

Animals Around the Globe

Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

safari african ohio

#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://www.animalsaroundtheglobe.com/mammals/" title="mammal">mammal</a> species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.</p> <p>Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.</p>

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

safari african ohio

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

safari african ohio

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

safari african ohio

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

safari african ohio

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

safari african ohio

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.</p> <p>Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.</p>

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

More for You

Trump Employee 5 CNN

Donald Trump Should Not Be Running for President, Former Valet Says

Fmr. Mar-a-Lago employee who helped move classified docs speaks with CNN

Fmr. Mar-a-Lago employee who helped move classified docs speaks with CNN

The Best Reactions to the Oscars

The Best Reactions to the Oscars

Emma Flint smiling

I'm abrosexual - it took me 30 years to realise

iStock-171257124.jpg

Flight documents show MH370 was ‘buried in an ocean trench by pilot’, says Boeing expert

Italy's Luca Nardi celebrates his stunning upset of world number one Novak Djokovic

'Lucky loser' Nardi stuns Djokovic in Indian Wells upset

Trump’s Doing Nothing to Win Over Anti-Trump GOP Voters

Trump’s Doing Nothing to Win Over Anti-Trump GOP Voters

holden armenta

Liberal sports blog that smeared 9-year-old Kansas City Chiefs fan lays off entire staff after being sold

Fact Check: The Truth Behind Obama Reportedly Saying in 2009 We 'Can't Have Half a Million People Pouring' Over Border

Fact Check: The Truth Behind Obama Reportedly Saying in 2009 We 'Can't Have Half a Million People Pouring' Over Border

Dementia mainly impacts older people

Dementia warning signs that can be spotted by the layout of a person's home

Emma Stone wins the Oscar for best actress for “Poor Things.”

Emma Stone’s upset win was for acting at its purest

NEWS: [Subcat: US] Map shows the best place to buy a house in US to survive nuclear war (SEO) METRO GRAPHICS Credit FEMA / Getty / metro.co.uk

Map reveals best places to live in the US if nuclear war breaks out

'Everything's for sale': Trump's TikTok flip-flop follows disturbing pattern

'Everything's for sale': Trump's TikTok flip-flop follows disturbing pattern

A clogged bathroom sink

The Common Household Ingredient That Can Unclog Slow-Draining Sinks And Tubs

Dr Marci Bowers, gender reassignment surgeon

Our worst fears about gender treatment have been confirmed in leaked documents

The Human Face of American Decline

The Human Face of American Decline

Republican Fani Willis Collusion

Republicans Vow to Uncover Fani Willis Collusion

Lack of Trade Partners for Bears After Kirk Cousins Signing

Lack of Trade Partners for Bears After Kirk Cousins Signing

Biden budget would cut taxes for millions. Here's who would qualifiy.

Biden budget would cut taxes for millions. Here's who would qualifiy.

Trump empire wobbles as legal experts raise concerns Trump may be ‘beholden’ to bond backers

Trump empire wobbles as legal experts raise concerns Trump may be ‘beholden’ to bond backers

IMAGES

  1. Photos for African Safari Wildlife Park

    safari african ohio

  2. Port Clinton Ohio

    safari african ohio

  3. African Safari In Ohio

    safari african ohio

  4. African Safari Wildlife Park Drive in Port Clinton Ohio

    safari african ohio

  5. African Safari Wildlife Park

    safari african ohio

  6. African Safari Drive & Walk Thru Wildlife Park Port Clinton, OH Part 2

    safari african ohio

COMMENTS

  1. African Safari Wildlife Park

    Plan your next visit to African Safari Wildlife Park, the Midwest's original drive-through safari! It's family fun for all ages!

  2. African Safari Wildlife Park

    Hotels near African Safari Wildlife Park: (0.64 mi) Holiday Inn Express & Suites Port Clinton-Catawba Island, an IHG Hotel (1.50 mi) Our Sunset Place (0.85 mi) Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Port Clinton, OH (9.23 mi) Getaway Inn at Cooper's Woods (0.76 mi) Sleep Inn & Suites; View all hotels near African Safari Wildlife Park on Tripadvisor

  3. The Wilds

    Grab your camera and board our open-air safari vehicles for an exhilarating adventure through open-range landscapes. Skip to main content Donate ... African Painted Dog. Banteng. Dhole. Persian Onager. Bactrian Camel. Bactrian Deer. Pére David's Deer. Cheetah. Eland. ... Oh 43732 (740) 638-5030 Blog; News;

  4. African Safari Wildlife Park

    Share. African Safari Wildlife Park has been delighting families for over 50 years! Feed giraffe, zebras, bison and alpacas in the Drive-Thru Safari; then get up close and personal with kangaroos, lemurs, tortoises, colorful birds and other incredible animals in the Walk-Thru Safari. Catch educational shows and special animal encounters ...

  5. African Safari Wildlife Park

    The African Safari Wildlife Park is a drive through wildlife park in Port Clinton, Ohio, United States. Visitors can drive through the 65-acre (26 ha) preserve and watch and feed the animals from their car. Visitors can spend as much time in the preserve as they wish, observing and feeding the animals, before proceeding to the walk through part ...

  6. African Safari Wildlife Park

    African Safari Wildlife Park, Port Clinton, Ohio. 163,473 likes · 1,074 talking about this · 133,391 were here. From alpacas to zebras, you'll meet hundreds of amazing animals in our 65-acre...

  7. The Wilds Animal Park: An African Safari Experience in Ohio

    The Wilds is one of the largest conservation centers in North America, set on about 10,000 acres of land in Southeast Ohio. The Wilds safari park is home to a number of rare and endangered animals from around the world, including cheetah, rhinos, camels, antelope, zebra, and giraffes. We'll give you all the information you need to plan a trip ...

  8. African Safari Wildlife Park: Drive-Thru Safari Park In Ohio

    Here in Ohio, the answer may be closer than you think! The African Safari Drive & Walk-Through Wildlife Park is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows visitors to experience some of the world's most remarkable creatures. Whether you're hoping to marvel at the height of a real-live giraffe or help feed a bison, you'll find that there's ...

  9. African Safari Wildlife Park

    African Safari Wildlife Park. Admission to African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton ranges from $17-30/person. When: Open Friday thru Monday from 10am-5pm (last car admitted at 4pm). Location: ( Map It) 267 S Lightner Road in Port Clinton, Ohio. Phone: 800-521-2660.

  10. Go Wild at African Safari Wildlife Park

    This family fun park also offers a playground, café and dining area, gem mining, and gift shop. African Safari Wildlife Park is open daily from March-December, rain or shine. To maximize your drive-thru experience, the last car is admitted one hour before park closing. Reservations are available for weekends and can be purchased online ...

  11. What is there to do at the African Safari Wildlife Park in Ohio? Review

    Review. Midwest Nature. 1. This past year we explored outdoors in Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island, Ohio for Green Island Week - it was amazing! While we were in town the African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio invited us to come and enjoy their attraction - which was just THE BEST! My family had so many giggles and fun memories ...

  12. The Wilds Is An African Safari That's Right Here In Ohio

    The Lodge is a private luxury cabin along a scenic lake. It features six bedrooms and can accommodate up to 12 guests. thewilds.columbuszoo.org. Advertisement. Other amenities include a fully-equipped kitchen, a washer and dryer, gas fireplace, wireless Internet, pedal boats, and canoes. thewilds.columbuszoo.org.

  13. Ohio's Drive-Thru Safaris

    The Park is open daily, rain or shine, from 10am to 5pm with the last car admitted at 4pm for the Spring Season. Summer Season begins the last week of May. The Midwest's Original Drive-Thru Safari Park, African Safari Wildlife Park, is at 267 S. Lightner Rd. in Port Clinton, Ohio. OUR ADVERTISERS & CLIENTS. Ohi's Drive-Thru Safaris.

  14. African Safari

    African Safari, Port Clinton, Ohio. 13 likes. The Original Ohio Drive-Thru Safari Park! Celebrating 53 WILD Seasons in 2022! From Alpacas to Zebra

  15. African Safari Wildlife Park Ohio

    Ohio's African Wildlife Safari Park does not have any of the Big 5. They do have an assortment of domesticated 'wild' animals including two giraffes, alpacas, llamas, bongos, kudu, eland, various deer species, and a few bison to mention a few. The state of Ohio at 116,096 km² / 44,825 mi² has around 448 bird species.

  16. Baby boom underway at African Safari Wildlife Park

    Posted by African Safari Wildlife Park on Friday, April 28, 2023 African Safari Wildlife Park's Drive-Thru Safari, featuring zebras, bison, llamas, alpacas, elk, exotic cattle, emus and more, is ...

  17. African Safari in Ohio

    I had no idea there were so many places in the United States where you can take a realistic African Safari. US News has a complete list of 8 different Safari Experiences in the US. When I was a child, we visited a place that had camels wandering around. I can still remember that camel trying to eat my brother's playpen that was strapped to ...

  18. Soar Over The African Safari On This Ohio Zipline Adventure

    The Toledo Zoo/Facebook. Stationed 80 feet above the African safari, this zipline spans 760 feet and takes intrepid adventurers over giraffe, watusi cattle, camels, and more! Talk about an amazing "birds eye" view. The Toledo Zoo/Facebook. Other high-flying experiences include the Sky Bridge, an excursion across three 250 foot long bridges set ...

  19. 10 Best African Countries for Safari

    We've meticulously curated the ultimate guide to unveil the 10 Best African Countries for Safari, designed especially for intrepid travelers yearning to witness nature's grandeur up close. …

  20. Dinosaur Takeover at African Safari

    Come face to face with more than 20 moving, roaring, life-sized dinosaurs at African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio!