wildlife safari folsom la

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Feel the woolly fur of bison, get eye to eye with a giraffe or one of more than 4,000 exotic or endangered animals from around the world. Take an exciting, 75-minute, guided safari wagon tour. Feed and touch the animals in a free-roaming, 900-acre wildlife preserve. Personalized tours in Pinzgauer all-terrain vehicles, too. Online booking available. Closes for the month of January for annual maintenance.

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Global Wildlife Center

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wildlife safari folsom la

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Global Wildlife Center - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Return to Paradise

A new era at Folsom's Global Wildlife Center

by Alexandra Kennon Shahin

May 22, 2023

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Alexandra Kennon

Global Wildlife Center in Folsom is home to a wide variety of rare and exotic species, including a herd of reticulated giraffes.

Driving through the gates of Folsom’s Global Wildlife Center, the sprawling open landscape stretched beyond as I slowed my car to a stop, allowing a group of fallow deer and a lone rhea to leisurely cross the gravel drive in front of me. Maybe it was simply my inner child of the ‘90s projecting some cinematic drama onto my Northshore safari adventure, but entering the 900-acre park containing thousands of rare animals, I started to hear John Williams’s “Theme from Jurassic Park” playing in my head.

No clones of dinosaurs live here, thankfully—but much like Spielberg’s prehistoric theme park, Global Wildlife Center is home to a wide range of creatures one would never expect to find on that particular plot of land in Tangipahoa Parish. And while the animals here aren’t de-extinct, some species are severely endangered, or have even been brought back from the very brink of extinction.

Among these are reticulated giraffes, Grant’s zebras, Bactrian camels, American bison, various rare species of deer and antelope, and many more—largely roaming free. This model allows the animals to form herds, similarly to the way they would in the wild—except at Global, there are no predators. And each animal enjoys the world-class care of an exotic animal veterinarian, along with a team of local vets on call. Not to mention the admiration of wagon-loads of visitors—there to gain an up-close appreciation and understanding of each species along the way.

When I pulled up at the Visitor's Center, I was greeted by Global Wildlife Center’s Executive Director Christina Cooper, owner/CEO Maci Matherne, and Tours Manager Casey Cousins. We said “hi” to a large male peacock surveying the picnic tables before we hopped into an open-air Pinz.

As the Pinz ambled along the gravel drive and off of it, Cousins’s cheerful voice regaled us with fun facts over the rumbling motor, periodically interrupted by our giggles and coos of delight as various creatures confidently approached, sticking their heads into the open vehicle to greet us and solicit treats from the large feed bag we carried.

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A llama greeting our tour at Global Wildlife Center.

One of the first things that struck me during the tour was the wide variety of personalities we encountered across each species, and how unhesitant the animals were to show off for visitors. From Dali (a llama), to Winston (a 2,000-pound Holstein cow), to the alpaca Lil’ Red and her mom Farmer Red (known to frequently dangle a piece of straw from her mouth), to Lucy the Watusi (a type of cow originating from East Africa), and on and on—the range of wild residents at the Center (a large percentage of whom have names) is enough to make one’s head spin.

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Cape Eland Antelope at Global Wildlife Center in Folsom.

Beyond meeting the individual animals themselves, on our tour I also gained a trove of new knowledge about these exotic species. I now know, for instance, that llamas have incredibly short tongues, which is why their mouths are cleft in the middle to allow them to pick up food. I learned that the darker an Indian blackbuck’s coat is, the more testosterone the animal produces; that no two zebras have the same coat markings, and that they’re also the only animals at the Center too aggressive to be fed on tours. I learned that lore explains the cross markings on Sicilian donkeys’ backs as remnants from their Biblical role of carrying pregnant Mary to Bethlehem. Giraffes’ tongues, it turns out, are purple for a reason: to act as a natural sunblock as they graze from the tops of trees.

One of the first things that struck me during the tour was the wide variety of personalities we encountered across each species, and how unhesitant the animals were to show off for visitors.

When we pulled up to the giraffe barn, half a dozen female giraffes laid relaxing in the shade, watching us from afar, unbothered. “This is pretty cool,” said Cousins. “You’ll see the giraffes laying down in the grass, relaxing. This is not something that you would typically see them do in the wild. They’re only doing this right here, right now, because we have no predators.” In the wild, giraffes are always on alert for the constant threat of their many predators, and do almost everything standing, including sleeping.

This particular enclave of giraffes seemed to be enjoying the lower stakes, certainly. We dub them “the girls’ club,” laughing. Cooper, Matherne, and Cousins are clearly still not over the wonder that comes with seeing such animals at arms’ length. And as a first-timer to the Center who had only previously encountered such exotic creatures on the other side of zoo enclosures, I found myself overwhelmed with child-like excitement the entire afternoon.

[Read about another local animal refuge, Barnhill Preserve in Ethel.] 

“We have Kya, Maci, Keisha, Sara, and little Magnolia,” Cousins gushed, introducing the giraffes before us. Since my visit, another baby giraffe, Amari, was born at the Center in March 2023. “Magnolia is getting pretty big already—she’s about to make two years. They’re born about six feet tall, though.”

At this point, one of the female giraffes, Maci, leisurely stood up and approached the vehicle, her long neck snaking inside to greet us. “She must know Maci’s here,” Cousins laughed, pointing out that the giraffe’s namesake is Global Wildlife’s owner Maci Matherne. “I didn’t name her after myself,” Matherne clarified with a dry laugh. “That was my dad’s doing.”

Matherne’s father Ken founded Global Wildlife Center in 1991, when she was a year old. Even having grown up around the Center, she’s quick to say that the proximity to its exotic residents still holds its magic.

Since her father’s passing in the fall of 2021, Matherne’s transition into ownership of Global Wildlife Center has been far from easy. During the last decade under his leadership, the Center had come under serious scrutiny for how it managed the animals’ medical care, among other allegations including racially-exclusive hiring practices and misappropriation of nonprofit funds. Since Matherne has taken over, she and the current administration have gone to enormous lengths to address these issues and ensure Global Wildlife Center is a place she, and the Northshore as a whole, can be proud of.

“The past year and a half has been full of personal challenges because of the passing of my father and our complicated relationship. But the core of Global Wildlife Center’s story is that he created something more than thirty years ago that has brought such joy to me and also to hundreds of thousands of people,” Matherne said. “I am humbled to be able to put my own mark on the Center and take it in a direction that aligns with my personal and professional values.”

Matherne’s first step as owner was to bring Christina Cooper back on as Global’s Executive Director. Cooper started as a tour guide at Global back in 1996 after taking a safari tour—and since then, working at the Center has remained her "dream job”. “I was finishing up my senior year at LSU with a degree in animal science and I commuted an hour each way to earn minimum wage because I loved it so,” Cooper said.

After graduating from college, she went to South Africa to assist with a reproductive studies research project overseen by the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha—which made her realize working in a laboratory was not her calling. “For the next fourteen years, I worked nearly every position at Global Wildlife Center and gave my heart and soul to the organization, working tirelessly to help it grow and flourish," Cooper said. "No matter what position I was working, the opportunities to connect with people and children and share a love and respect for wildlife always brought me such joy.”

In 2010, Cooper left the Center to pursue invaluable opportunities in the fields of wildlife rehabilitation and public relations: volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center and game preserve in South Africa and serving as education manager at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, before returning to St. Tammany Parish, where she spent a decade working for the Tourist Commission.

“The life and career experiences I was blessed to have upon my departure from Global Wildlife Center in 2010 have prepared me for this opportunity to return as Executive Director and continue to elevate the organization,” Cooper said with confidence. “I feel incredibly blessed to return to Global Wildlife Center and be supported by Maci, the staff, and the community as a whole to help the Center realize the dreams I established for it from my very first days here. It’s exciting to see projects and initiatives I dreamed of years ago being put into place now.”

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(Left to right) Global Wildlife Center Tours Manager Casey Cousins, owner/CEO Maci Matherne, and Executive Director Chrisina Cooper freshly returned from a Pinz tour of Global Wildlife Center.

The Foundation’s Board of Directors and Matherne clearly recognize the value of Cooper’s vision. “I mean this wholeheartedly when I say there is no one on this planet besides myself who is more passionate about Global Wildlife Center,” Matherne told me, describing Cooper. “She is an incredibly empathetic and effective leader who has brought our team together in a way I believe is unique to her personality and talents. There is no one I would trust more to continue to make Global Wildlife Center the best version it can possibly be.”

"I feel incredibly blessed to return to Global Wildlife Center and be supported by Maci, the staff, and the community as a whole to help the Center realize the dreams I established for it from my very first days here." —Christina Cooper, Global Wildlife Center Executive Director

Together, Matherne and Cooper are in lock-step as they usher in a more ethical and intentional future for Global Wildlife Center. “Maci is not only brilliant, but she is also socially conscious, possesses a high moral compass, is built of strong character and is a very compassionate leader,” said Cooper of their partnership. “We are committed to investing in excellence for animal care, organization best practices, team development, and supporting local and worldwide wildlife conservation and education.” Led by this vision, the administration at Global Wildlife is currently making its way through a strategic planning process designed to ensure the Center continues to thrive and realize its fullest potential, while having a positive impact on the next generation of conservation enthusiasts.

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Global Wildlife Center Owner/CEO Maci Matherne and Executive Director Christina Cooper.

While Matherne believes in a “people first” approach to ensuring a positive work environment for employees and first-class experiences for guests is paramount, running parallel to these priorities is a firm commitment to animal welfare. “Of course, we’re a bit unique in that we also have the great responsibility of housing some of the most amazing animals from all over the world at our facility, and the most comprehensive care for our animals will always remain top priority for me in running the center,” she said. “So, you might say that I have both an ‘animals-first' approach and a ‘people-first’ approach. Both philosophies are incredibly important to me personally, and to the success of this organization.”

Reflecting these ideals, some of the tangible changes made under Global Wildlife’s new administration include actions designed to prevent misuse of funds and increase transparency. As of earlier this year, Matherne and the Global Wildlife Foundation’s Board of Directors officially agreed to separate the Foundation from the Center's operations—recentering the Foundation’s focus to deal solely with philanthropic efforts supporting animal conservation initiatives including wildlife reintroduction, conservation in the wild, conservation education, local animal and educational charities, and minimizing human-wildlife contact.

". . . you might say that I have both an ‘animals-first' approach and a ‘people-first’ approach. Both philosophies are incredibly important to me personally, and to the success of this organization.” —Maci Matherne, Owner/CEO of Global Wildlife Center

Matherne has also committed to contributing a portion of proceeds from the Center’s operations back to the Foundation’s efforts. “That means that in addition to learning and having fun, each guest who comes to Global Wildlife Center will know that they’ve made their own impact on the future of animals, both locally and around the world,” she said. One such example was a $15,000 donation the Foundation made this year toward the Giraffe Conservation Foundation’s efforts in Namibia, with plans for many more such contributions in the future.

Matherne and Cooper have also implemented pay increases across the board for staff, including added bonuses, paid time off, and health care for eligible team members. “I’m committed to fostering a work culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance so our team can enjoy their time at work, but most importantly their full lives outside of work,” Matherne told me, also emphasizing inclusivity as a priority within Global Wildlife’s workplace. “We want our guests to be able to identify with our team,” she said, noting that many of the staff are students of biology, ecology, and other related fields at the nearby Southeastern University in Hammond. All managers at Global Wildlife now receive diversity and inclusion training.

". . . in addition to learning and having fun, each guest who comes to Global Wildlife Center will know that they’ve made their own impact on the future of animals, both locally and around the world." —Maci Matherne, Owner/CEO of Global Wildlife Center

Other investments that have been made by the new leadership involve extensive improvements to the Center’s facilities. Road work, new vehicle aquisitions, landscaping, updates to the wagons and their PA systems, a new boardwalk, a new kangaroo shelter, renovations to the Visitor Center, and improvements to the giraffe barn are just the beginning, according to Matherne.

But on this extensive list of projects and changes, she cites improved veterinary care at the very top—especially the decision to bring on “rockstar” exotic animal veterinarian Dr. Jonathan Bergmann as the Center’s attending veterinarian.

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Courtesy of Global Wildlife Center

Global Wildlife Center's attending veterinarian, Dr. Jonathan Bergmann.

Growing up at the animal sanctuary his father founded, Popcorn Park Refuge in New Jersey, Bergmann discovered his passion for exotic animal care early on and now operates his practice as a mobile veterinarian, serving exotic animal refuges and zoos across the country. “I could speak all day about how amazing Dr. Bergmann is, but he truly is one of the most respected experts in exotics medicine and has been an absolute pleasure to work with,” Matherne said. “He is constantly providing training and mentorship to our excellent animal care team and they all continue to impress me with the level of knowledge, care, and expertise they bring to the organization.”

In addition to bringing Bergmann on at the end of 2021, Cooper told me Global has consulted with a nutritionist to analyze the herbivore diet animals are fed from the safari wagons, placed two of their oldest giraffes (Kameel and Zira) on birth control, and begun construction on a chute for the Center’s giraffe barn to facilitate safe veterinary procedures without necessitating anesthesia. Bergmann has also connected the Center with researchers and academics who can benefit from studying the behaviors of the animals, whose massive free-range habitat allows them to be observed in an environment that is very similar to what they would experience in the wild—as opposed to traditional zoos and most other, more-limited, wildlife habitats. The Center is also working with Bergmann on eventually attaining accreditation from the Zoological Association of America, which would set it apart as an example to other institutions for animal care and welfare.

Though Matherne and Cooper have enacted measures like adding metal fencing around the safari wagon tires to prevent animal injuries (a major concern during the previous ownership), Bergmann is immediately consulted if an animal becomes sick or incapacitated in any way. The Center’s onsite animal care team monitors and assesses each animal's  health throughout the day, and tour educators also participate in "Animal Care Helper" training, which allows them to quickly identify compromised animals, as well. When this happens, Bergmann is consulted via video and phone. Often for minor cases, Bergmann can prescribe treatment remotely, which can then be administered by dart by the animal care team.

If an animal requires emergency care, the Center will call in one of the on-call local veterinarians who consult with Bergmann­—who visits the Center himself several days a month to perform routine procedures.

“Working with the staff, the energy, and the passion the staff has, it sparks me. When I’m teaching them something, they are just so ready to learn and eager to be there,” Bergmann effused. “Every animal, they all get looked at every day. If they have a limp, they get treated right away. And for the staff and management to know that and address that right away—that’s important, because you don't want an animal in pain or limping or having a problem that needs to be treated right away. And the staff are so good about that. With our communications and treatments, I know and I'm comfortable saying all those animals are taken care of so well there, and looked over so well.”

"People need to know about the place, because it is amazing. It’s like Jurassic Park, I like to joke. I can drive around on my little four-wheeler ATV, I travel in there and it's like, you can drive forever looking at animals.” —Dr. Jonathan Bergmann, Global Wildlife Center's Attending Veterinarian

Caring for thousands of animals across hundreds of acres is no small task, but according to Bergmann, the effort is incredibly worthwhile in terms of animal research and conservation. “It’s so valuable there to have that large scale footprint. It's different than any other zoo,” Bergmann marveled, citing the San Diego Zoo and The Wilds in Columbus as the only other facilities in the country that can even compare in scale. “There’s other large places like that, but this is huge. It's really amazing to see those animals act the way they do out there, in a large herd size.”

One population at Global that is particularly valuable for researchers to study is the Pere David’s deer—the rarest of all the animals at the Center, technically extinct in the wild. A herd of over six hundred—possibly one of the largest herds of them left in the world—thrives at Global today. “You don't see those anywhere, really. And there's several hundred there, that's amazing,” Bergmann said. “And then my kind of favorite is the giraffes, I mean, to have a large herd to work with like that.”

“There’s other large places like that, but this is huge. It's really amazing to see those animals act the way they do out there, in a large herd size.” —Dr. Jonathan Bergmann, Global Wildlife Center's Attending Veterinarian

In addition to the data such herds can provide to the fields of animal science, they also offer a vital education about different species and the importance of their conservation to visitors and families who visit Global. Guests leave with ample information about giraffes and zebras and rare deer—and they also might get to experience the surge of serotonin that comes from being face-to-face with a giraffe, feeling the rare sense of connection as the remarkable animal snakes her long, purple tongue into a cup of food held in their hand. The animals provide entertainment, but also an awareness about endangered species that’s especially powerful for hands-on learners.

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“The conservation level!” Bergmann effused. “All of these children and kids—when I’m working there two or three days in a row, and the tour bus loads go through, there's children learning about these animals and conservation and the environment. I mean, that's so valuable; it's providing something for the community, tourism, they're bringing a lot to the area, and everybody's learning. The level of education they can put out, on this massive footprint of ground, everybody can see the animals naturally … People need to know about the place, because it is amazing. It’s like Jurassic Park, I like to joke. I can drive around on my little four-wheeler ATV, I travel in there and it's like, you can drive forever looking at animals.”

While the new administration’s overhaul of Global Wildlife Center’s facility and operations has been a massive undertaking, Matherne and Cooper agree the rewards far outweigh the challenges. “Some of the most rewarding things for me have been the simple interactions I have with visitors as they return from their tour, or chatting with our staff and hearing how much they appreciate some of the changes we’re making, or getting to snuggle with one of our new baby llamas in the nursery and knowing that its future is bright,” Matherne said. “I am surrounded by the best possible team and have had huge support from the Board, friends, and family members. I could never have made it this far had it not been for my community lifting me up. I couldn’t be more proud of the strides we’ve made in just a year and I am genuinely excited as I look toward the future.” 

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A safari adventure in Louisiana - Global Wildlife Center

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  • Global Wildlife Center

It was a great day! Fun to feed the animals! Kids really enjoyed being able to see and feed the... read more

wildlife safari folsom la

It was a fun ride in the wagon and really enjoyed our time seeing all of the animals except the... read more

wildlife safari folsom la

A safari adventure in Louisiana

We've been wanting to go to the Global Wildlife Center since we moved to New Orleans about 5 years ago and finally made it a priority! We were told the animals are most active and hungry in the mornings so took the 9am wagon and loved it! We bought a bucket of food for $30 (tax deductible) and ended up sharing it with another family who only bought two cups worth of food (if you're reading this- buy the bucket for the group tours). However, if you have it in your budget I HIGHLY recommend the private tours in old german military tank vehicles. The group tours are in wagons and must stay along a pre-determined path, but the private tours can go anywhere on the property. Since this is a free roaming facility, it's advantageous to be able to follow the giraffe herds around the reserve rather than wait for them to come to the wagon (if they choose). Private tours are a bit more, but feel it would be worth it from what I've heard from others!

We visited in October and booked the private safari, which is two hours long. They drive you right out to where the animals are and you can feed them and pet them. Our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. It was the best experience I've ever had!

Absolutely so much fun. Tom , our guide, and Megan, our driver were just awesome. They were informative, helpful, and above friendly. Definitely will go back and do the private tour.

wildlife safari folsom la

We previously didn't even know this Wildlife Center existed. Leaving New Orleans and heading home, we saw a sign, pulled over and checked it out and decided to stop for a tour. I'm so glad we did. Tickets are not sold ahead of time, so we arrived about an hour before the tour time - no problem - tickets available, although it was very crowded with school groups (Fri. 4/14 end of year outings, we were told). Cups or buckets of animal food are available at a nominal charge - highly recommend this. The animals run along the tram waiting for handouts - LOTS of beautiful animals! The tram guide constantly updated us on the animals in our area, as we passed through - providing information on each species. I was EXTREMELY disappointed in one aspect - and completely NOT the fault of the facility. There were several groups of school children having their sack lunches in the picnic pavilion. When they boarded their tram at noon --- they left trash Even though it should NOT be necessary - there were signs stating that trash kills animals (as well as available trash containers). Trash left on the pavilion floor. This facility depends on contributions and NEEDS for schools to attend and support their cause - what they don't need are sick animals because of trash carelessly tossed aside. This is MY opinion - NOT comments from the Wildlife staff - who very graciously cleaned the area.

My sister and I visited this place today and it was a neat. We took the public tour and bought the “sack” of food for fun! Sacks of food are $60 but it can be used as a tax donation!!! Feeding the animals was fun but the zebras were mean as warned by staff. There were several giraffe but only a wanted to come out and dine with us!!! They don’t seem very intrigued with competing with peers for food. One thing that would make it better is to have at least one tour or even one wagon that no kids are allowed! Perhaps serving a drink in those big feed cups would help as well! beware of some animals like in pic 3- they will steal your cup out of your hand.

wildlife safari folsom la

We had a long day at Global, but we had booked back to back private tours. We had our own guide drive us through the 900 acres, where we fed and interacted with the animals. Our guide was very knowledgeable and fun. Feed was an extra cost but we had a bin of it and it was plenty. Private tours are booked in advance so plan your trip early.

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Global Wildlife Center

Where are we going.

global wildlife center louisiana safari africa in USA kids fun wildlife experiences

About this activity

Head out on safari with Global Wildlife Center ! Kids can really feel like they are exploring the plains of Africa as they enjoy an exciting adventure at the largest totally free-roaming wildlife preserve of its kind in the country! 

Located in Folsom, Louisiana, the Global Wildlife Center is home to over 4,000 exotic, endangered, and threatened animals from all over the world. Kids can experience some pretty amazing animal encounters as they get eye to eye with giraffes, wiggle a camel's hump, or feel the wooly fur of bison as you learn through touch! It's Africa, in Louisiana. 

Whether you are 2 or 92, the whole family will love Global Wildlife Center.

The Safari Tour is a one hour and 15 minute guided Safari wagon tour that spans over 900 acres in this beautiful Louisiana countryside, complete with 12 ponds and a lake!

The experience at this popular attraction not only allows kids to meet some amazing animals, but it also offers a unique learning experience too.  

Tickets are sold on a first come first serve basis, and aren't sold in advance or online, so plan to arrive earlier than the check in times listed on the website. The tour times are listed on week in advance!

If you want something a little more exclusive for your family, you can book a private tour and explore the park with your own private tour guide. 

So grab those safari hats kids, because Louisiana has transformed itself to a magical animal experience that YOU get to explore!

Activity location

How much does it cost.

$19 for the public tour

$13 for the public tour

Last Updates

Global wildlife center faq’s, do they have baby facilities.

There is a baby changing station in the restrooms.

I’m Hungry! Can I get food at Global Wildlife Center?

A concession stand is filled with hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, and is open on Saturdays and Sundays only. Chips, snacks, and drinks available daily.

Any top tips when visiting?

Buy plenty of animal feed, a Family Bucket is a must. The more food, the more fun! Although the wagons are covered, if it rains, you will get wet! The gift shop has ponchos if you need them. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and an outdoor activity.

Does Global Wildlife Center have a gift shop?

There is a great gift shop with items for every pocketbook. Check out the wide variety of logo items.

Teachers corner

Check out the free lesson plans on the website! School fieldtrips receive a discounted rate! Don't forget Global Wildlife Center for an awesome fall field trip, when there are lots of exciting animal behaviors and fights for dominance!

Is Global Wildlife Center fully accessible?

The Safari Wagon Tours are handicap accessible according to ADA guideline

Any additonal information?

Make sure you arrive early! If you arrive ON your departure time you will need to purchase boarding passes for the next available tour. All tours are on a specific time schedule and cannot be held back.

What people are saying?

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  • Lil Bambinos Playtorium
  • Jump n Jive
  • Malco Gonzales Cinema
  • Evergreen Plantation
  • St Louis Cemetery No 1
  • New Orleans Jazz Museum
  • New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
  • Island of Algiers Tours
  • Ghost City Tours
  • The Cabildo Museum
  • Museum of Death NOLA
  • New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
  • Steamboat Natchez Riverboat
  • The Escape Game New Orleans
  • Audubon Insectarium

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

  • Blue Bayou and Dixie Landin
  • Big Easy Paddlewheeler Tour
  • Louisiana Children's Museum
  • Uptown Climbing
  • National WWII Museum
  • Southern Food and Beverage Museum
  • Celebration Station Baton Rouge
  • Audubon Nature Institute Park

Audubon Zoo

  • Mardi Gras World

Similar Zoos attractions near Folsom

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas  A great idea for things to do with toddlers in New Orleans

Baton Rouge Zoo

hattiesburg zoo mississippi

Hattiesburg Zoo

ocean adventures marine park mississippi dolphin experiences encounters for families

Ocean Adventures Marine Park

Zoosiana

Zoosiana: Zoo Of Acadiana

Gator ranch

The Gator Ranch

the jackson zoo tiger

The Jackson Zoo

Fun things to do with kids near me in folsom.

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  • Family things to do in Baton Rouge
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Global Wildlife Center

wildlife safari folsom la

"Going Wild in New Orleans"

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wildlife safari folsom la

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Adventure Awaits At This Drive-Thru Safari Park Near New Orleans

wildlife safari folsom la

Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.

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For animal lovers, there’s no better spot than this drive-through safari park near New Orleans. Global Wildlife Center has been a favorite for many in the southeastern part of Louisiana, and they’re certainly worthy of a road trip. This is one attraction the whole family will love, so gas up the car because today we’re headed across the lake to explore Global Wildlife Center and the many animals that call this area home.

wildlife safari folsom la

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wildlife safari folsom la

For ticketing information and tour times, check out their website and be sure to follow them on Facebook .

Have you ever visited Global Wildlife? Share your experience in the comments below!

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

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Featured Addresses

wildlife safari folsom la

Looking for a wild adventure out of the classroom? Book a Safari Adventure with us at Global Wildlife Center.

Be sure to check out the News section for the latest happenings at Global Wildlife Center!

Global Wildlife Center will be closed for tours April 10, 2024 in anticipation of severe weather predicted.

Interactive & Educational Adventure

Field trips.

Come see for yourself how exciting education can be at Global Wildlife Center!

wildlife safari folsom la

  • School Field Trips

At Global Wildlife Center, education is paramount. Children are taught the value of wildlife conservation and education through experience. The effectiveness of touch as a teaching tool is evident every day at Global Wildlife Center. Here, children are able to pet the long necks of giraffes, feel the wooly fur of bison, and rub the soft heads of llamas.

Education Is KEY

Global Wildlife has a mission to educate our visitors about conserving the environment and its animal inhabitants. Field trips to Global Wildlife meet Louisiana State educational benchmarks and standards as determined by Louisiana Resource Center for educators.

For more information email [email protected] or call (985) 796-3585 x 0. Call volume can be high, sending in a RESERVE A FIELD TRIP form is a great place to start the reservation process!

The Safari Wagon Tours are handicapped accessible. Please let your reservationist know of any special considerations when booking you trip.

Never miss a beat

Stay up to date on all the exciting things happening at Global Wildlife Center from newborn baby giraffes, to upcoming events and promotions, and even updates on endangered species! 

wildlife safari folsom la

  • 985-624-WILD
  • 26389 Hwy 40 Folsom, LA 70437
  • BOOK A TOUR
  • Wagon Tours
  • Private Tours
  • Safari Parties
  • Birthday Parties
  • Meet The Animals

Global Wildlife Center © 2021 All Rights Reserved

wildlife safari folsom la

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Sunset safari may 4, 2024.

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  2. Global Wildlife Center (Folsom)

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  3. Global Wildlife Center (Folsom)

    wildlife safari folsom la

  4. Global Wildlife Center

    wildlife safari folsom la

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  6. Global Wildlife Center (Folsom)

    wildlife safari folsom la

VIDEO

  1. Safari at Global Wildlife Center, Folsom LA

  2. Kilimanjaro Safari l Disney's Animal Kingdom

  3. GLOBAL WILDLIFE CENTER in Folsom, Louisiana

COMMENTS

  1. Home

    Global Wildlife Center will be closed for tours April 10, 2024 in anticipation of severe weather predicted. ... 26389 Hwy 40 Folsom, LA 70437; BOOK A TOUR; Facebook-f Twitter Youtube Instagram. Tours. Wagon Tours; Private Tours; ... Scroll to Top. Sunset Safari May 4, 2024. Book Now! ...

  2. Global Wildlife Center

    26389 Highway 40, Folsom, LA 70437-7777. Reach out directly. Visit website Call. Full view. ... The wildlife and facility are very good. Very disappointed with the guides though, we were expecting some commentary and background on what they do and the animals themselves but nothing. ... LA, this is one hidden gem. Covering 900 acres, this is a ...

  3. Wagon Tours

    Enjoy a one-hour and 15 minute guided safari wagon tour over 900 acres of beautiful Louisiana countryside, complete with 12 ponds and a lake. ... 26389 Hwy 40 Folsom, LA 70437; BOOK A TOUR; Facebook-f Twitter Youtube Instagram. Tours. Wagon Tours; Private Tours; Safari Parties; Birthday Parties; Education. School Field Trips; Meet The Animals ...

  4. Global Wildlife Center in Folsom, LA

    Tel: (985) 796-3585. Feel the woolly fur of bison, get eye to eye with a giraffe or one of more than 4,000 exotic or endangered animals from…. Read More. details View Map Add to trip planner. Experience a kid-friendly, free-roaming safari with giraffes and camels. Interact with African wildlife at the Global Wildlife Center in Folsom, Louisiana.

  5. Meet The Animals

    Global Wildlife Center will be closed for tours April 10, 2024 in anticipation of severe weather predicted. ... 26389 Hwy 40 Folsom, LA 70437; BOOK A TOUR; Facebook-f Twitter Youtube Instagram. Tours. Wagon Tours; Private Tours; Safari Parties; Birthday Parties; Education. School Field Trips; ... Scroll to Top. Sunset Safari May 4, 2024. Book ...

  6. Global Wildlife Center

    Global Wildlife Center. 26389 Hwy. 40. Folsom, LA 70437. Tel: (985) 796-3585. view website Add to trip planner. Feel the woolly fur of bison, get eye to eye with a giraffe or one of more than 4,000 exotic or endangered animals from around the world. Take an exciting, 75-minute, guided safari wagon tour.

  7. Global Wildlife Center

    Global Wildlife Center, Folsom: See 305 reviews, articles, and 446 photos of Global Wildlife Center, ranked No.1 on Tripadvisor among 6 attractions in Folsom. ... 26389 Highway 40, Folsom, LA 70437-7777. Reach out directly. Visit website Call. Full view. Best nearby. ... Is it worth the extra money for the private tour vs the regular safari ...

  8. Global Wildlife Center

    Specialties: Come start your adventure with Global Wildlife Center soon - you'll be amazed as you learn through touch while you feel the wooly fur of bison and get eye to eye with our family of giraffes! Over 4000 animals roam free on Global Wildlife's 900 acre wildlife preserve. As a non-profit organization, Global Wildlife is supported in part, by the contributions our visitors make for the ...

  9. Global Wildlife Center

    Global Wildlife Center, Folsom, Louisiana. 85,460 likes · 977 talking about this · 113,683 were here. HAVING FUN SINCE '91! GWC IS CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF "CONSERVATION AT WORK!" THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN. Global Wildlife Center, Folsom, Louisiana. 85,460 likes · 977 talking about this · 113,683 were here. ...

  10. Global Wildlife Center in Folsom, Louisiana

    Located in Folsom, Louisiana, Global Wildlife Center is a non-profit organization that encompasses 900 acres, allowing endangered and exotic species to cohabit and roam freely. (All of the animals are herbivores.) ... For $300, you get 2 hours in the Treehouse along with tables, chairs, and tablecloths, 2 adult and 10 child safari wagon passes ...

  11. A New Era at Global Wildlife Center

    A new era at Folsom's Global Wildlife Center. by Alexandra Kennon Shahin. May 22, 2023. RSS. Expand. Alexandra Kennon. Global Wildlife Center in Folsom is home to a wide variety of rare and exotic species, including a herd of reticulated giraffes. Driving through the gates of Folsom's Global Wildlife Center, the sprawling open landscape ...

  12. Global Wildlife Center

    The Global Wildlife Center is a free-roaming wildlife preserve in Folsom, Louisiana. It is situated on a 900 acres (360 ha) preserve and hosts about 1000 animals. [1] Visitors tour the facility in covered safari wagons or private 4x4 vehicles accompanied by a tour guide who teaches about animal facts and behaviors, habitat, conservation, and more.

  13. Tours and Events

    Global Wildlife Center will be closed for tours April 10, 2024 in anticipation of severe weather predicted. ... Book your school Safari Adventure Field Trip to see for yourself how exciting education can be at Global Wildlife Center! ... 26389 Hwy 40 Folsom, LA 70437; BOOK A TOUR; Facebook-f Twitter Youtube Instagram. Tours. Wagon Tours ...

  14. A safari adventure in Louisiana

    Global Wildlife Center: A safari adventure in Louisiana - See 305 traveler reviews, 446 candid photos, and great deals for Folsom, LA, at Tripadvisor. Skip to main content. Discover. Trips. ... 26389 Highway 40, Folsom, LA 70437-7777. Open today: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Save. Review Highlights

  15. Global Wildlife Center

    Global Wildlife Center is Louisiana's very own safari, and in addition to being educational and fun for adults and children, it's a great way to experience animals in their natural habitat. ... Global Wildlife Center 26389 Louisiana 40, Folsom (985) 796-3585 GlobalWildlife.com. GWC is open seven days a week, year-round. Tickets are sold on ...

  16. Global Wildlife Center

    Address: 26389 LA-40, Folsom, LA 70437, USA How do we get there? Number: 985 796 3585. Write Review Add Photo Save. Image copyright remains with original owners Attractions in Folsom. Suggest edit.

  17. Global Wildlife Center

    Specialties: Come start your adventure with Global Wildlife Center soon - you'll be amazed as you learn through touch while you feel the wooly fur of bison and get eye to eye with our family of giraffes! Over 4000 animals roam free on Global Wildlife's 900 acre wildlife preserve. As a non-profit organization, Global Wildlife is supported in part, by the contributions our visitors make for the ...

  18. Global Wildlife Center, Folsom

    About 50 miles from the bright lights and wild nightlife of Bourbon Street lies one of the best kept secrets in Southeast Louisiana. The Global Wildlife Center is this country's largest completely free-roaming wildlife preserve. It's an African safari in New Orleans' backyard. Visitors can take a short trip across Lake Pontchartrain for a guided wagon tour that gets up close and personal with ...

  19. FAQ

    The Global Wildlife staff will do its best to accommodate all guests but cannot guarantee a spot for families who did not pre-book ahead of time. ... Safari Wagon Tours and Private Pinz Tours are subject to return early, for the visitor's and tour guide's safety, in the event that we experience any inclement weather at the discretion of the ...

  20. Global Wildlife Is Best Drive Thru Safari Park Near New Orleans

    You'll find Global Wildlife Center in the rolling hills of Folsom, Louisiana. Global Wildlife Center/Facebook. Established in 1991, it's been the destination for many a field trip for kids in nearby schools, but it also makes for a great family adventure. The wildlife center is home to more than 1,000 exotic animals.

  21. Our Visit to Global Wildlife Center Safari Folsom LA. 2 hours driving

    Our Visit to Global Wildlife Center Safari Folsom LA. 2 miles driving distance from New Orleans. Video by Pradip K. Roy

  22. Private Tours

    Global Wildlife Center will be closed for tours April 10, 2024 in anticipation of severe weather predicted. ... and this 4×4 can go places our safari wagons cannot! Get plenty of one-on-one time with all our wild and exotic animals in a Pinz! Private tours are great for photo safaris, too! ... 26389 Hwy 40 Folsom, LA 70437; BOOK A TOUR ...

  23. Field Trips

    Global Wildlife has a mission to educate our visitors about conserving the environment and its animal inhabitants. Field trips to Global Wildlife meet Louisiana State educational benchmarks and standards as determined by Louisiana Resource Center for educators. For more information email [email protected] or call (985) 796-3585 x 0.