difference between safari park and zoo san diego

San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park: Main Differences & Which One is Better

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TL;DR: We compared San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park and found that both parks cost the same, but the San Diego Zoo is best for families with young kids because there are more animals, transportation options, and play areas. Meanwhile, the Safari Park offers safari experiences, with large enclosures and unique tours, so it’s best for those looking for different experiences from a zoo and who might be willing to pay extra for it.

If you’re making a trip to San Diego, the famous San Diego Zoo is a must-see attraction. But how do you choose between the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park? 

Many visitors assume they’re the same thing–or at least in the same place–but they’re actually in different locations and offer different experiences. 

I’ve visited a lot of zoos in California and beyond, but the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park are my favorites. 

Not only will you see a lot of animals, but it’s clear that they’re also well-cared for with amazing, spacious habitats. 

The gorgeous San Diego climate helps, too–my last trip was in December, and the whole day was sunny and warm.

If you love animals, you’ll have a great time at either park, but it’s good to know the key differences between San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park so you can make the best decision for your trip. 

Use this guide to find out what admission includes and what it doesn’t, and what you can expect at both parks so you can make the most of your trip.

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Table of Contents

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is located minutes from downtown San Diego, just off Park Blvd in Balboa Park. It’s an oasis in the midst of the urban jungle. 

The zoo is home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals and represents over 600 species. Spread out over 100 acres, you’ll want to devote an entire day to experiencing this massive zoo. 

To give you a bit of background–the San Diego Zoo began on a whim. After the 1915 California-Panama Exhibition ended, the animals from the event were abandoned in Balboa Park. 

Local physician Harry Wegeforth heard a lion roar while driving by in 1916 and joked that it would be splendid if San Diego had a zoo. The idea grew and Dr. Wegeforth pursued it. 

As it turned out, the city of San Diego was keen for someone else to assume responsibility for the lion–along with the wolves, coyotes, bears, and monkeys left by the exposition. And thus, the zoo was born.

Conservation has always been a massive part of the zoo’s mission and there are many ethical breeding programs at the San Diego Zoo. In other words, you can often spot baby animals! 

The best way to find out what’s new at the zoo is to take the guided bus tour in the park, which takes you by all the highlights and offers lots of exciting information about the animals.

Who’s the San Diego Zoo for? 

The San Diego Zoo is world-famous and perfect for anyone interested in wildlife. It’s popular with families but is a fun place for adults too. 

Zoos can be somewhat sad and cramped, but it’s clear that the animals at the San Diego Zoo are well-cared for. And unlike some places, the zoo doesn’t force animals to entertain anyone.

Conservation has always been key to the zoo’s mission, and the San Diego Zoo partners with organizations worldwide to preserve endangered species. Many of the animals born at the zoo have been safely introduced into the wild.

One of the San Diego Zoo’s biggest success stories was its giant pandas. In collaboration with scientists in China, researchers at the San Diego Zoo set up a breeding program that saw several cubs born in captivity. 

Scientists learned a lot from this program and were able to help pandas in the wild. In fact, pandas have now left the endangered species list.

Although the panda program ended with the pair’s return to China in 2019, the San Diego Zoo still has a wide variety of animals to visit.

Its location in Balboa Park is close to downtown San Diego, making it more convenient to visit than the San Diego Safari Park in Escondido.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Founded in 1964, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park first existed as a place to breed animals for the zoo, but has since become an attraction in its own right.

With 1,800 acres of open space, the safari park focuses on allowing animals to roam naturally across the plains without the cages of traditional zoos.

The most prominent animal exhibits at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park are the African and Asian savannas. 

The 300 species at the safari park include elephants, rare rhinos, giraffes, gazelles, antelope, tigers, and much more. 

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has also had a lot of success with its breeding programs, most famously with California Condors.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park has another special animal exhibit–a pair of platypuses, the only two living outside of Australia! You can find these unique animals in the Australian Walkabout sector of the wild animal park.

Although the space for animals is enormous, the safari park isn’t a drive-through experience. 

Guests walk through the San Diego Zoo Safari Park or take guided tours. The entrance fee includes the Africa Tram, which takes guests through the African area. Other tours cost extra.

Who’s the San Diego Safari Park for?

Like the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Safari Park is suitable for all ages and abilities. It’s a unique opportunity to see animals in a near-natural environment and learn about conservation. 

Unlike the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is not in downtown San Diego. You’ll need to travel 30-45 minutes by car to Escondido. 

If you’re interested in African and Asian animals, this is the ideal park.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park vs San Diego Zoo

Location, tickets & hours.

The San Diego Zoo is in Balboa Park, San Diego. The address is 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA. 

Because of its location in the heart of San Diego, the San Diego Zoo is easy to visit if you’re staying in the city. Free parking is available in the lot outside the zoo.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, a 30-45-minute car journey from central San Diego. 

There’s a parking fee at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park: $15 per vehicle or $20 for RVs. On weekends and holidays, there’s preferred parking available for an extra $18. The two zoos are 35 miles apart.

Both the zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park cost the same to visit. San Diego Zoo tickets and San Diego Safari Park tickets cost $67 for an adult and $55 for a child at either park at the gate (as of 2022). Children under two are free. 

However, there are discounts available if you purchase a ticket in advance.

No reservations are necessary and the ticket is good for a year. You can buy this discounted ticket to the San Diego Zoo or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park online at least 24 hours before you want to go.

Both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park are open everyday, rain or shine – even on holidays. Usually they open at 9 am and close between 5 pm to 8 pm, but the exact hours change depending on the season and special events.

Click here to check the hours of the San Diego Zoo on the day that you plan to visit. And here to check the Safari Park hours.

Park Size, Transportation & Accessibility

The park sizes are very different. The San Diego Zoo covers 100 acres, whereas the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a massive 1,800 acres in size.

Both the zoo and the San Diego Safari Park have similar walking distances between animal exhibits despite the size difference.

Although you could see both San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park in one day, you would likely miss out on a lot! Instead, I’d recommend one day for each park.

Expect to walk a lot in both San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park–you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes ! 

There are several other ways to get around the two world-class zoos if you’re getting sore feet.

The San Diego Zoo is built into a canyon and is very hilly. Fortunately, there are three elevators to help you get up and down the levels. You can find two in the Lost Forest and one in the Asian Passage. 

There’s also a hop-on, hop-off bus Kangaroo Express bus service around the park. There are four stops, marked with a yellow kangaroo sign. This service is included in your San Diego Zoo ticket and can be a real foot saver.

Another fun way to get around the San Diego Zoo is the Skyfari Aerial Tram, a not-to-be-missed experience. 

The gondolas take you above the treetops from Front Street near the Children’s Zoo to the Northern Frontier next to the Polar Bear Plunge, giving you a bird’s eye view of the animals.

In addition, there’s a 35-minute guided bus tour around the zoo, which starts near the San Diego Zoo entrance. 

I suggest doing this as soon as you arrive. That way, the line will be shorter and you’ll get inspiration for where you want to visit that day. 

Over at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, you’ll find the Africa Tram, a 25-minute guided tour of the Africa savanna area. Like the San Diego Zoo guided tour, it’s a good idea to take this first thing in the morning. 

The busiest times for the Africa Tram are between 11 am and 3 pm.

Both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park are wheelchair accessible. Complementary shuttles are available at both parks for guests who require help getting around. 

You’ll want to pick up a San Diego Zoo map or one for the safari park when you arrive at each respective park, so you don’t get lost!

Animals, Shows & Attractions

The San Diego Zoo has more animals from across the globe, including Africa, Central America, South America, Australia, and Asia. The safari park focuses on large animals from Africa and Asia.

Both zoo and safari park tickets include a ton of activities and shows. In addition to the free things to do, there are several exciting paid-for experiences at both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Your ticket to the San Diego Zoo includes a guided bus tour, the Kangaroo Bus, Skyfari, wildlife talks, and play areas. 

If you have young kids, you’ll know how important play areas are to help them burn off some energy on a day out. 

You can find four play areas around the zoo: Tree of Dreams in the Wild Woods, Polar Play Area at the Northern Frontier, Elephant Play Area in the Elephant Odyssey, and Koala Klimber in the Australian Outback.

Of course, the San Diego Zoo is exceptional for its animal collection–especially the rare and endangered species.

Don’t miss the Galapagos tortoises, some of which have been with the zoo since 1928, or the pygmy hippos, which are adorable miniature versions of the African mammal. 

My personal favorite is the okapi, an unusual animal that looks like a cross between a zebra and a giraffe.

San Diego Zoo also has polar bears, a very popular exhibit. You can watch these giant creatures swim gracefully in the water through the viewing glass, which is a memorable experience. The bears seem to enjoy watching people too!

Find out more about the animals at one of the daily wildlife presentations at noon at the Africa Rocks Stage. 

These presentations are an opportunity to meet the animal ambassadors who work at the zoo, studying and caring for the animals. 

In addition to animals, the San Diego Zoo has a fantastic collection of plants from around the world. 

Once or twice a month (find the list of days here ), the zoo has Plant Days when the Orchid House is open to visitors. During these events, you can also take a guided bus tour of the botanical garden.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has fewer animals and species than the San Diego Zoo, which offers a more traditional zoo experience. 

Instead, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has mostly larger animals in huge enclosures so that visitors can see wildlife in a more natural setting.

The admission price includes the Africa Tram, a guided open-sided bus tour around the African savanna area, access to a petting zoo, and several play areas.

The petting zoo hosts a herd of kraal, which look like goats but are cuter. Don’t skip this if you have kids in your group; it’s always a big hit. You can find the cuddly kraal at Nairobi Village. 

Children will also love the four play areas in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. If you’re visiting on a hot summer day, head to Savanna Cool Zone in Lion Camp for some water fun.

If you’re comparing the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park on included activities, it’s clear the zoo has more to do. 

However, if you’re willing to spend more on upgrades, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has incredible opportunities to get close to the wildlife.

Special Tours & Upgraded Encounters

I hate spending more money when I’ve already paid for admission, but even I must admit that there are some special San Diego Zoo tours and safaris. 

It helps to know that the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park operate as non-profits, so everything you buy in the parks goes toward caring for the animals, wildlife conservation, and nothing else.

For a tour of the San Diego Zoo, book a Discovery Cart Tour for $55 each, which offers a 60-minute guided trip around the park. 

These private tours are ideal if you have lots of questions or are short on time and want to make the most of your experience at the zoo.

Those looking for an up-close encounter with exotic animals should reserve a spot on the Animals in Action Experience or Crazy About Cats, which take guests to visit incredible creatures in person. 

Or take an early morning photo expedition to visit the cheetahs, who are at their most playful at the start of the day.

Other tours and animal encounters are available, so check the San Diego Zoo’s website for the latest offers.

Going on a wildlife safari in Africa is at the top of my bucket list, but I’ll need to wait a few years. For now, a wildlife safari in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is much more child-friendly (and considerably cheaper).

The best tour at the safari park is the Ultimate Safari, where you receive five or seven hours with a guide plus a sit-down lunch. 

This customized tour is pricey at $675 per person but would be a memorable special occasion gift for an animal lover. 

Shorter, cheaper experiences are also available at the San Diego Safari Park. For instance, the one-hour Wildlife Safari is perfect for families.

Or, the romantic Twilight Wildlife Safari (formerly known as the Caravan Safari Twilight) ends with a drink and snacks as you watch the sunset over the savanna. 

The Behind the Scenes Safari takes you to off-limits areas to learn about animal care. Tickets for both the Twilight Wildlife (Caravan) Safari and the Behind the Scenes Safari start at $89. 

Adrenaline seekers, take note: the Flightline Safari will see you soaring across the plains, 130 feet in the air, for a unique bird’s eye view of the safari park. 

Or, if you prefer a more gentle flight, take off on a Balloon Safari to enjoy the view from a hot air balloon basket at 400 feet.

You can also access the park before it’s open with the Sun Up Cheetah Safari, where you can see a cheetah run at top speed. Or, sign up for a unique sunrise Surprise Stroll tour–no two tours are alike!

For a real adventure, stay the night in canvas tents on the Roar and Snore Safari. From $149 per person, this safari experience includes overnight accommodation, an after-hours look at the animals, a campfire program, dinner, a snack, and breakfast. I think this is pretty good value!

Comparing the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park on special upgraded tours: San Diego Safari Park has many more choices for tours. 

Seeing a cheetah run, ziplining over animals on the Flightline Safari, and staying overnight in a safari tent are all fantastic experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Food & Drink Options

The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park allow guests to bring in their own food and drink, although you can’t trundle a giant cooler around. 

Having said that, the food and drink options at both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park are tasty, diverse, and healthy, so there’s no need to take your own food.

The San Diego Zoo has a good mix of “theme park” food like hot dogs, kettle corn, and ice cream (the best cones are from Hua Mei) and healthier meals like freshly-made sandwiches and salads. 

If the zoo is your only day in San Diego, you can try fish tacos, the dish the city is famous for, paired with a local craft beer.

There’s even a sit-down venue, Albert’s Restaurant, where you can enjoy steak frites on a private patio next to a waterfall. I advise making reservations for Albert’s, which can get busy on weekends and holidays.

The food and drink options at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park are equally good. Some of the eateries have views over the plains, so you don’t have to miss out on a moment of wildlife watching. 

I especially like The Watering Hole at Kijami Overlook, which has a tasty sandwich and salad menu. 

Macan Market, located on the Tiger Trail, is another good spot to enjoy a light lunch while spotting tigers. 

On a hot day, head to Lion Camp Slush and Snacks, where you can build your own slushie for a cooling treat.

FAQs About the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park

Is the San Diego Zoo or the Safari Park better for toddlers? How about for babies?

If you have a toddler and you’re trying to compare the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park, consider this: you’ll see more animals at San Diego Zoo. There’s also a children’s zoo, more transport options around the zoo, and there’s slightly less walking. 

Both places are fun for toddlers, but the San Diego Zoo is easier for families with young kids.

As for babies, they won’t care where they are. Pick the park you think you’ll enjoy the most.

Is it worth going to the San Diego Zoo AND Safari Park?

Definitely! The two parks offer different experiences. 

I wouldn’t attempt to do both on the same day, as there’s a 45-minute drive between the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Plus, there’s a lot to see in each wild animal park in San Diego.

Is the San Diego Zoo bigger than the Safari Park?

No, the San Diego Zoo is 100 acres in size compared to the 1,800 acres at the safari park. 

Remember, the safari park’s extra space is mostly for the animals. The length of the pathways guests walk along is roughly the same in both parks.

What is the difference between a zoo and a safari park?

You’ll get more of a traditional zoo experience at the San Diego Zoo. 

In contrast, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is an opportunity to see large animals roaming free across large enclosures. 

The safari park focuses on African and Asian animals and has some great safari tours as add-ons, like the Ultimate Safari, while the zoo offers close-up animal encounters.

How far is the Safari Park from the San Diego Zoo?

The Safari Park’s general location is about 35 miles away from San Diego Zoo in Escondido. The journey time in a car is 45 minutes without traffic, although there’s often traffic on this route.

How much time do you need to see each park? Could you see both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park in one day?

Both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park deserve an entire day of their own but give them at least three hours each if you can’t spare a whole day for both. 

You could see both in one day, but I wouldn’t recommend doing so, as the two parks aren’t that close and there’s so much to do at each park.

San Diego Zoo vs San Diego Safari Park: Which One is Better?

When deciding between the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park, it depends on your personal preferences.

The San Diego Zoo has all the animals as the safari park and more, except for the platypuses. You can only see these unique creatures at Walkabout Australia in the San Diego Safari Park. 

So, if you really want to see a polar bear, for example, you would be better off picking the San Diego Zoo vs the Safari Park.

There’s also the location to take into consideration. If you’re staying in the central San Diego area, the San Diego Zoo is more convenient to reach than the San Diego Safari Park. 

If you don’t have a car, the San Diego Zoo is more accessible to get to by public transportation. Also, there’s free parking at the San Diego Zoo, which is always lovely.

If you’re considering adding an upgrade to your experience, this could be the ultimate deciding factor between the two parks. 

When comparing the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park, the San Diego Zoo offers fewer experiences than the safari park.

If your dream is to feed giraffes, float over herds of elephants in a balloon, stay the night in a wild animal park, or go on a cheetah safari, the safari park offers all of this and more.

Whichever you choose, both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park are some of the top things to do in the San Diego area , so you’ll have a fantastic time at either.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah McDonald

Sarah McDonald is a travel writer based in the Bay Area. She writes for the national parenting website Red Tricycle and on her own family travel blog, Tiny Trailblazers . She loves exploring California’s outdoors and has a weakness for a national park gift shop.

Sarah enjoys sharing her Bay Area expertise with readers curious to try popular restaurants and off-the-beaten-path adventures in California. When she’s not writing reviews and travel guides, you’ll likely find her trying to keep up with her kids on a hiking trail or deciphering the menu at a new restaurant.

Looking for more Southern California travel inspiration? Check out these related articles below!

Best Camping Near San Diego

Best Things to do in Julian, California 

Torrey Pines Hiking Guide

Fun & Best Things to do in LA

Ultimate Catalina Island Day Trip

Best Things to do in Orange County

  Best Restaurants in Oceanside, California

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Please note the hours for the Zoo change with seasons and holidays. 9-5 in winter; 9-7 during some months; 9-9 in summer. It is open special hours for Halloween week and Christmas holidays. Also, it may close early for some special events. **Check hours online before planning your trip.

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San Diego Zoo or Safari Park - What is Better for You?

San Diego Zoo vs San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Which is Better?

Any animal lover will enjoy a San Diego vacation, as there are countless ways to get closer to nature, from peering into the La Jolla Tide Pools to seeing marine life at SeaWorld San Diego and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps . Among these many options, the most popular attractions centered around animals are the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido .

Both of these attractions are tons of fun, but if you’ll only be in San Diego for a few days, you may not have time to check them both out.

Plus, while both attractions are available through the All-inclusive version of the Go City San Diego pass (which you can purchase using our discount code GVSD5OFF for additional savings), the Explorer pass version includes admission for either the Zoo or the Safari Park, but not both on the same pass.

Whether you’re short on time or just trying to decide which attraction you’ll like best, use our comparison guide to decide whether the San Diego Safari Park or Zoo appeals more to you!

Cost Comparison of San Diego Zoo vs San Diego Zoo Safari Park

I really think in terms of value and what you get, both the zoo and safari park are reasonably priced, making them great picks for families on a budget. The San Diego Zoo is world-class and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is big and a unique experience.

To make this comparison tougher, the standard admission costs at both parks are the same! Base admission prices let you visit all major attractions, with optional add-ons for special experiences at each location. Let’s dive in a little deeper.

Admission Prices

San Diego Zoo ticket prices as of 2024 are:

• 1 Day Pass: Adult $72, Child $62
• 1 Day Pass Plus (Includes 4D Theater Experience): Adult $79, Child $69
• 2 Visit Pass: Adult $124 Child $114

Prices for the San Diego Safari Park as of 2024 are:

• 2 Visit Pass: Adult $124, Child $114

Make sure to check the official website of each attraction for the most up-to-date information on ticket prices.

Save With a Go City San Diego Pass!

Keep costs for your trip down when you pick up a Go City San Diego pass with our discount code GVSD5OFF . Both the San Diego Safari Park and San Diego Zoo offer visitors discounted admission when you visit with a Go Pass, either with an All-inclusive pass or with the explorer pass .

Parking Costs

The San Diego Zoo has free on-site parking in a large lot. There is additional free parking available in Balboa Park if no spots are open at the zoo lot.

General parking at the San Diego Safari Park is $20 per car or $38 for RVs. Preferred parking is available for $38 as well. So while not the only factor, there is a difference here.

The Go City San Diego pass gives visitors the ability to save up to 55% on attraction admissions.

Combine our exclusive 5% discount to save even more and consider the All-Inclusive pass to maximize your savings. Plus the pass gives you the ability to skip the line when visiting select attractions.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Comparing the Location of the San Diego Zoo vs San Diego Zoo Safari Park

What’s Around the Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is part of Balboa Park , a sprawling area near Downtown San Diego that’s filled with walking trails, gardens, and spots for picnics. It’s the perfect area to rent a bike with a Go City San Diego pass and enjoy San Diego’s warm weather and clear skies .

Balboa Park is best known as being a hub for San Diego’s biggest attractions, especially its museums . The 1,200-acre park includes 18 different museums with standout picks for families like The Fleet Science Center , Natural History Museum , and Air and Space Museum .

Other activities in Balboa Park include going on a walking tour , watching a performance at the Old Globe Theater San Diego , and admiring the Japanese Friendship Garden .

Check our article on the Best Hotels Near the San Diego Zoo for great places to stay nearby, like the 4-star Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter .

Nearby the Safari Park

Located in Escondido , there’s no shortage of ways to keep busy near the Safari Park either!

There is hiking in the area and you’re not that far from the coast where you can go fishing on the pier, try out water activities like jet skiing and kayaking , and learn about Southern California’s history at Mission San Luis Rey .

Right on the Pacific Ocean coast, the nearest beach, Oceanside has spots like North Jetty, Harbor Beach & Breakwater Way Beaches providing an excellent excuse to rent a surfboard and spend the day riding waves.

There are some exceptional hotels in Oceanside too, like The Seabird Resort . This is a beachfront hotel with upscale amenities such as its large outdoor pool deck and on-site spa.

Comparing the Exhibits at the San Diego Zoo vs San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The Animals of the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego zoo has hundreds of animals in their own exhibits, plus a few exhibits themed around different habitats around the globe.

Animal Exhibits

As one of the most diverse zoos in all of the U.S., the San Diego Zoo contains over 700 different species of animals housed in dozens of carefully crafted exhibits. See everything from amur leopards to zebras!

Animal species you won’t want to miss include:

• California condors
• Bears including polar bears, grizzlies, and sun bears
• Big cats like cheetahs, jaguars, tigers, and lions
• Apes including bonobos, lemurs, and endangered species of monkeys

Urban Jungle

The Urban Jungle exhibit is a recreation of an African plain right in San Diego. See Masai giraffes and Soemmerring’s gazelles. Kids can offer food to the animals using the exhibit’s feeding stations.

Scripps Aviary

Scripps Aviary contains over 200 species of birds, all of which are native to the jungles of Africa. With everything from tropical parrots to lesser-known endangered species, watch birds fly overhead as you trek through an indoor rainforest.

Elephant Odyssey

See both Asian and African elephants in the Elephant Odyssey exhibit. This habitat also includes reptiles, birds, amphibians, and exotic creepy-crawlies.

The Habitats of the Safari Park

Rather than creating individual exhibits for each animal species, the San Diego Safari Park’s exhibits are designed for many species of Asian and African animals to share the same space. Seeing the wild animal park’s recreations of jungles, savannas, and plains habitats feels like touring the world without ever leaving San Diego.

African Plains

The African Plains exhibit spans hundreds of acres and includes dozens of species, from giraffes and zebras to lions and cheetahs.

Asian Savanna

Step across the globe to see animal species native to the savannas of Asia. Take photos of antelope, rhinos, various bird species, and more.

Tiger Trail

The Tiger Trail is one of the San Diego Safari Park’s most popular exhibits. Enter a tropical Asian rainforest to see these majestic big cats as well as storks, tapirs, birds, and fishing cats.

Elephant Valley

The Elephant Valley is a special enclosure just for the park’s herd of elephants. Guests can see these massive animals from an observation deck and overhead walkway.

How Big Is the San Diego Zoo vs San Diego Zoo Safari Park

In terms of sheer size, the San Diego Safari Park is three times bigger than the San Diego Zoo, spanning over 300 acres compared to the zoo’s 100 acres! But neither are small by any means.

The exhibits at the safari park are designed to evoke the feeling of going on a real safari, so exhibits are larger with space for the animals to roam. They’re designed to be viewed via a tram tour, though there are plenty of spots to get out and stretch your legs too.

The San Diego Zoo, meanwhile, is a little more condensed, making it easily walkable.

Length of Your Visit

If you’re trying to fit in a visit on a limited schedule, I think the San Diego Zoo is the better choice, as most of the park’s exhibits can be seen within about 3-4 hours. While you could certainly spend longer here if you prefer, even up to a full-day trip, this is enough time to get a good overview of the park and see a decent selection of animals.

Visits to the San Diego Safari Park average a little longer, at about 4-5 hours, or more if you’re hoping to see every exhibit. It’s a good pick for groups who want to spend the day at one location, as there are more than enough tours and animal experiences.

It’s also about 40 minutes outside of the city versus about 5-10 for the San Diego Zoo so you may want to consider travel time in depending on where in town you’ll be staying.

Which Fits Your Adventure?

What Different Tours can you Take at the San Diego Zoo vs San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Tours at the Zoo

Upgrade your admission at the San Diego Zoo with these tours that let you get up-close and personal with wildlife, or to take a look behind the scenes at the zoo’s daily operations.

Inside Look Tours

Inside Look Tours are guided experiences for families offered at different animal exhibits depending on the day. Get an inside look at different exhibits, including Wild Africa, Underwater Wonders, Paws & Claws, Crazy About Cats, and more.

Discovery Cart Tour

Take an hour-long tour of the zoo in a cart driven by an animal expert. Discovery Cart Tours are fun for the whole family.

Animals in Action Experience

Meet animal ambassadors at the Animals in Action Experience, where you’ll get to learn about big cats from a wildlife care specialist. This is a 1-hour tour that is family-friendly, but all attendees must be 5 or older.

Exclusive VIP Experience

Want to see the very best of the zoo with a tour guide? The Exclusive VIP experience is a full-day tour that spans all corners of the park. The experience also includes lunch in the zoo.

Early Morning Explorers

The Early Morning Explorers Tour is for kids ages 3-12. This is an hour-long educational experience with crafts and games that inspire a love of nature in young kids. These tours take place before opening hours are held on select days.

Tours at the Safari Park

Take guided tours of the safari park to learn more about the dozens of animal species that call the park home.

The San Diego Safari Park offers various themed safaris where guests can kick back in a safari cart while taking in their surroundings and learning some fun facts about the animals they pass.

Safaris offered include:

• Wildlife Safari
• Cart Safari
• Behind-the-Scenes Safari
• Roar Snore Safari
• Sun Up Cheetah Safari
• Wildlife Trek
• Ultimate Safari

Africa Tram

The African Tram is a 25-minute guided tram ride through the park’s savanna exhibit. Tours depart from African Outpost and are offered at no additional fee to guests.

Soaring Safaris

See the safari park from overhead on one of two different tours. The Balloon Safari takes you up into the air on a hot air balloon, while the Flightline Safari lets you soar overhead on a zipline.

Tips for Visiting the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

When Is the Best Time to Visit Each Park?

Visitors to both the zoo and safari park are subject to the schedule of the animals. For both parks, animals tend to be more active in the early mornings, and you’re more likely to catch feeding times early in the day too.

Which Is Better for Families?

While both parks have family-friendly experiences, the walkability and denser layout of the zoo makes it a favorite for parents with younger kids.

With that though, the safari park is a unique experience so for families with older kids, I think it would be my choice!

Do These Attractions Have Visitor Centers?

The San Diego Zoo’s Guest Services Center is next to the Bus Tour entrance. It shares hours with the zoo, open from 9 AM–5 PM daily.

Like the zoo, the safari park’s guest services are available during the same hours as the park itself, from 9 AM-5 PM. The booth is located at the Park Base.

Hours are subject to change, so double check on the official websites before visiting either attraction.

Stay Nearby

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Which Should You Visit?

This post contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

On any trip to San Diego, the famous San Diego Zoo should definitely be on your San Diego itinerary. But with two world-class zoos in the area (both part of the San Diego Zoo), which zoo should you visit? Here we’ll look at all the differences between the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to help you choose.

Honestly, if you have time in your San Diego itinerary , visit both! Both the Zoo and the Safari Park offer completely different experiences and we really loved our visit to both of them! (However, we did have a favorite…I’ll explain at the end.)

But if you’re trying to decide between the San Diego Zoo vs. San Diego Zoo Safari Park because you only have time for one zoo on your trip, here’s the comparison you need to help you make a decision.

Pro Tip: If you plan on visiting a lot of museums and attractions in San Diego, considering getting the San Diego Go City Pass! The All-Inclusive Pass includes both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park, or you can choose to visit one of the zoos with the Explorer Pass .

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Summary of Differences

Okay, we’re going to get into the all the details, but let’s take a quick look at the main differences of the two zoos. If you don’t have time for all the info, here’s what you need to know!

San Diego Zoo

• Right in San Diego, making it easier to get to on a trip to San Diego.
• More animal variety.
• Generally sees more crowds.
• Smaller zoo with more hills (but also in-park transportation).

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

• About 30 minutes outside San Diego, so you would likely need to rent a car.
• Focuses mostly on African animals, but also has Australian and Asian sections.
• Generally sees smaller crowds.
• Larger zoo with easier walking terrain.

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: History + Mission

When comparing the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park , let’s take a look at their history first, because these two parks exist for entirely different reasons.

The San Diego Zoo began as a traditional zoo with animals that were left in San Diego after the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. Since then it has grown to a world-famous zoo, with all the traditional things you expect to see at a zoo.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park was a natural offshoot of the San Diego Zoo that focuses on conservation. ( Note: both zoos focus on conservation, but it is an even bigger focus at the Safari Park.)

On our visit, we were talking to a Safari Park volunteer and she explained that the reason the Safari Park exists is because keepers noticed that animals weren’t breeding well in the cramped quarters of the San Diego Zoo. Moving animals out the Safari Park gave them the room they needed to feel comfortable breeding, and thus the Safari Park became an important part of the San Diego Zoo’s conservation mission.

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Location

Perhaps the biggest difference between the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park is their location.

The San Diego Zoo is located near downtown San Diego in Balboa Park . This means it’s easy to visit the Zoo on a short San Diego trip, as it is central to probably everything else you’ll be doing.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, however is located about 30 minutes north of San Diego in Escondido. This means that it could be a little trickier for your family to make it up to the Safari Park.

If you are looking to stay close to central San Diego on your trip, then the San Diego Zoo is probably the right choice for you.

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Size

Because of the different focuses of each zoo, their size differs greatly. The San Diego Zoo is 100 acres, while the Safari Park covers 1,800 acres.

It’s important to note though, that a lot of the Safari Park is dedicated free-roaming space for animals. So while the actual property of the Safari Park is bigger, the area guests will walk in is very similar in both parks.

Planning a trip to San Diego? Here’s our 3 Day San Diego Itinerary !

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Walking + Park Transportation

In both parks you’ll need to be prepared to walk. But the experience is going to be different in each park.

The San Diego Zoo is built into a canyon, which means there are A LOT of hills within the zoo (and it also means the way the space is used is very creative). This means there is some steep terrain you should be prepared for.

BUT the San Diego Zoo has also has some free transportation options to make this a little easier. There are several elevators throughout the park to help you get up and down to the different levels.

There is also a bus system called the Kangaroo Buses that you can hop on and off throughout the right side of the park.

And of course there is the Skyfari , which is an aerial tram that can take you back and forth between the front and the back of the park. (Plus, they are just fun to ride and give you great views of San Diego and Balboa Park!)

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is not quite as hilly (although there are some hills), which means the walking can be a little easier. But it also does not have the same in-park transportation options. There is an elevator in one area, but other than that you will need to walk pretty much everywhere you want to go.

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Animals

You may not realize it, but the animals between the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park are vastly different!

Because the San Diego Zoo is a more traditional zoo experience, you will find a bigger variety of animals here. From lions and tigers and elephants to koalas and penguins and tortoises, the San Diego Zoo has almost every animal you might want to see.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, however, focuses more on African animals , with more limited selection of species. There are still lots of animals to see though! Giraffes, elephants, all kinds of gazelles, lions, and gorillas.

The Safari Park also has an Australian section with kangaroos and platypuses, and a Tiger Trail with tigers. (So don’t worry…it’s not JUST African animals.)

Some notable animals you’ll find at the San Diego Zoo but NOT at the Safari Park:

• Chimpanzees
• Galapagos tortoise

Most of the animals you’ll find at the Safari Park you can also find at the San Diego Zoo, with the big exception of the platypus. Note that you can ONLY see the platypus at the Safari Park. In fact, the platypuses at the Safari Park are the ONLY platypuses anywhere in the world outside of Australia!

If there is a very specific animal you want to see on your zoo visit, be sure to check the website to see which zoo you might find it at.

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Included Experiences

First of all, you of course need admission to the park of your choosing. You can book tickets to the San Diego Zoo , the San Diego Safari Park , OR if you want to do both, you can book a 2-visit pass ticket which will allow you to visit both the zoo and the safari park on two separate days.

At both of the parks, your admission ticket will come with some included experiences.

At the San Diego Zoo you can take a free bus tour that will take you around most of the park and let you see the animals. (I definitely recommend doing this first thing in the morning, when the animals are most likely to be active!).

You can also ride the Skyfari for aerial views of the zoo for free.

Plus keeper talks and animal shows are also included. (Check the day’s schedule because what’s available is subject to change.)

The San Diego Zoo also has a new children’s zoo area called Wildlife Explorer’s Basecamp that opened in 2022.

At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the main free “extra” is going to be the Africa Tram . This 30 minute (ish) ride takes you back to some of the more open areas of the zoo to get closer to some of the African animals. It doesn’t get you as close as some of the paid safaris, but it’s definitely still must-do at the Safari Park that gives you a safari-esque experience.

And if you’re visiting with kids, the Safari Park has a carousel. It’s not free, but one $6 ticket will give you unlimited rides all day. And another plus with kids? The Safari Park has several small play areas that kids (and parents) will love.

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Paid Upgrades

If you are interested in paying to add to your zoo experience, both the Zoo and the Safari Park have extra options.

San Diego Zoo upgraded experiences include:

• Inside Look Tours (you can choose different animal focuses)
• Animals in Action (meet animal ambassadors)
• VIP Experiences
• Early Morning Cheetah Experience
• Discovery Cart Tour (more private guided tour of the zoo)
• Early Morning Explorers (early morning access to Wildlife Explorers Basecamp children’s zoo)
• Wildlife Baby Boom

These experiences all require a ticket in addition to your zoo admission. Prices range from $34 to $92 per person, with the VIP experience being $700+ per person.

And as much as the San Diego Zoo offers, the Safari Park offers even MORE unique experiences :

• Wildlife Safari
• Behind the Scenes Safari
• Cart Safari
• Sun Up Cheetah Safari
• Ultimate Safari
• Roar & Snore Safari (you can actually camp overnight in the zoo!)
• Flightline Safari (zip line)
• Wildlife Trek

Most Safaris are in the $90 range per person, while the overnight costs $155 and up and the Ultimate Safari is $700 and up per person. The extra paid experiences are a big draw to the Safari Park, and you might feel like you need to do one of them. But I promise you can have a great day here even without a paid upgrade! (We did!)

Whichever zoo you visit, be sure to look up details and buy any tickets for additional events before your visit!

San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park: Which is Better?

Whether the San Diego Zoo or the Safari Park is better is obviously a completely objective opinion.

However, I will say that our favorite visit on our trip to San Diego was to the Safari Park. The San Diego Zoo is great, but the Safari Park really surprised us with how much we enjoyed it.

Reasons we loved the San Diego Zoo Safari Park? The beautiful wide open spaces, the lower crowds, and the unique animal experiences (like the platypus and getting to walk through the kangaroo enclosure).

But the more important question here is which park is right for you. Because while we love the Safari Park, if you just have time to visit one of the zoos you want to make the right decision for your family.

If you want to stay close to the city, see as many animals as you can, and check a world-famous zoo off your bucket list, then go to the San Diego Zoo.

If you want a different kind of zoo experience, want to avoid the more crowded and cramped zoo, and have time to drive to Escondido, then go to the Safari Park.

Either way though, you’ll have some awesome animal experiences and a fantastic time!

Ready to book your trip to the San Diego Zoo?

• You can find tickets to the San Diego Zoo here .
• Get Safari Park tickets here .
• OR do both (honestly the best option if you have time!) and save money on a 2-visit pass ticket to both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park!

You Might Also Like

• Tips for Visiting the San Diego Zoo
• 12 Fun Things To Do in Old Town San Diego
• Fun Things To Do in Balboa Park

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Everything about tourist attractions

San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park – which is a better wildlife experience?

More than 20 million tourists reach San Diego annually to experience the city’s attractions and experiences. 

Three wildlife experiences attract the most visitors – the San Diego Zoo , San Diego Safari Park , and SeaWorld San Diego . 

However, some get confused between the Zoo and the Safari Park. 

Tourists on a budget holiday or those with only a few days in the city usually ask: “Should it be San Diego Zoo or the Safari Park?”

This article compares San Diego Safari Park vs. San Diego Zoo and helps you decide. 

Top San Diego Zoo & Safari Park Tickets

# Safari Park and Zoo combo ticket # San Diego Zoo ticket # San Diego Safari ticket

Table of contents

Why not san diego zoo and safari park, car parking, tour duration, ticket prices, weather to expect, tripadvisor ratings, how much crowd to expect, wildlife viewing experience, food options.

For a quick overview, check out the video below:

If you have time and budget isn’t an issue, it is best to try both the wildlife experiences. 

The travel time between the two wildlife destinations is approximately 45 minutes, but you don’t need to visit them on the same day. 

This Safari Park and Zoo combo ticket helps you save 20% on the ticket costs and gets you one entry into the San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park and San Diego Zoo.

You can visit the same attraction twice if you don’t want to try the second location.

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (12+ years): US$118 Child Ticket (3 to 11 years): US$108

Infants up to two years old can enter for free.

Don’t want to check out both the wildlife experiences and save money? 

Read our comparison of the two destinations, and book their tickets individually – San Diego Zoo ticket or San Diego Safari ticket . 

Back to Top

San Diego Zoo vs. San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Not sure if you want to visit both the wildlife attractions of San Diego? 

No worries. 

Here is a point-by-point breakdown of the differences between San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. 

San Diego Zoo is in Balboa Park, 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101. ( Get Directions )

This is right in the city, so you don’t need to make elaborate arrangements. 

The San Diego Safari Park is in Escondido, California. ( Get Directions )

It is 48 km (30 miles) northeast of the San Diego Zoo, and depending on the time of the day, it takes 45 to 60 minutes to travel from the Zoo to Safari Park.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s parking costs US$20 per day. 

Preferred parking (a spot closer to the Safari entrance) is US$18 extra, so you pay US$38 to park your vehicle.  Click here to know more about the nearby parking lots.

At the San Diego Zoo, visitors can find plenty of free parking slots in front of the zoo, and they are free to use. 

On busy days, you can avail yourself of the valet parking facility near the entrance. Click here to know more about the nearby parking lots.

The wildlife attractions open at 9 am, and that’s also the best time to visit them. 

Visitors tend to take four to five hours to explore the Safari Park and the Zoo.

Families with picnic baskets tend to explore the animal exhibits the whole day. 

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have the same ticket prices and kids’ discounts.

Visitors aged 12 years and above must pay the full price of US$69 for their tickets. 

Kids 3 to 11 get a US$10 discount on the full ticket price and pay only US$59.

Note: The Zoo and the Safari Park tickets can be canceled up to 24 hours before receiving a full refund.

> Buy San Diego Zoo ticket

> Buy San Diego Safari Park ticket

San Diego Zoo is within the city, and thus visitors can expect much cooler sea-side weather. 

However, the Safari Park is in Escondido, around 32 km (20 miles) inland.

As a result, the San Diego Safari Park is usually 5 to 7 degrees Celsius (10 to 14 Fahrenheit) warmer than the oceanfront San Diego Zoo.

Both San Diego Zoo Safari Park and San Diego Zoo are rated 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor. 

However, the Zoo has 29K reviews against the Safari Park’s 4K reviews, indicating that the former gets far more visitors. 

Both of them are Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Certificate winners.

The San Diego Zoo receives 4 Million visitors annually, an average of 10000 tourists daily. 

During peak summer months this goes up to 15000.

The Safari Park receives far less in comparison – around 2 million a year, averaging 5,000 visitors per day. 

So, if you are not a crowd person, opt for the San Diego Safari Park. 

Trivia: San Diego Zoo is the most visited Zoo in USA.

The 1,800-acre Safari Park houses more than 2,500 animals of 300 species in wild, open field enclosures. 

Spread over 100 acres with over 3,500 animals of 800 odd species, San Diego Zoo is a little more compact. 

The Zoo’s enclosed animal habitats ensure you see more of them in a shorter duration. 

Visitors who have been to both say walking through the San Diego Zoo is like walking through a real forest.

They found the San Diego Safari Park and its animals more spread out and open. 

Tip: The Safari Park is a much more adventurous trip with additional paid activities such as Zipline Safari, Baloon Safari, etc. Find out more about Safaris at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo has better transport options.

Visitors take the free 35-minute Guided Bus Tour to understand the Zoo’s layout.

They also use the Kangaroo Express Bus to move around the wildlife outposts and the Skyfari aerial tram from one end of the Zoo to the other. 

Image: Sandiegozoo.org

However, the Safari Park is more of a walk-and-explore attraction. 

Expect much walking at the Safari Park since their animal exhibits are further apart than at the Zoo.

A 30-minute Africa Tram Safari does come for free with the Safari Park ticket, with which you can see 25% of the park on wheels. 

Tip: Some tourists feel San Diego Zoo is better for kids .

The Safari Park and the San Diego Zoo have many restaurants and food kiosks catering to all tastes.

Visitors who have been there felt that the food prices are high. 

If you are on a budget, you should pack your food and drinks because there are enough places to have a sit-down lunch. 

So what will it be? San Diego Zoo or Safari Park?

If you have made your decision, go ahead and book your tickets in advance. 

Purchasing your tickets online is better for three reasons:

• Online tickets are cheaper than the price you pay at the entrance
• You don’t wait in the ticket counter queue and waste your time and energy
• Tickets on-site get sold on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Booking your tickets online (and in advance) ensures a guaranteed entry

Sources # Gocity.com # Lajollamom.com # Flyingoffthebookshelf.com # Tripadvisor.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

Popular attractions in San Diego

# San Diego Zoo Safari Park # San Diego Zoo # SeaWorld San Diego # Legoland California # USS Midway # San Diego Cruise

Other zoos in California

# Los Angeles Zoo # San Francisco Zoo

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This article was researched & written by

Sri Venkat Mamidi

Sri Venkat Mamidi finds staying in one place boring. He travels to learn about different people, cultures, beliefs, religions, and other things he doesn't know yet. For him, traveling is not about escaping the daily routine but finding out who he really is. Favorite Cities: New Orleans, Budapest, Cape Town.

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park: Which One Is Best For Your Trip?

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San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park- everything you need to know!

Both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park are excellent attractions and offer unique experiences.

But in a choice between San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, which is the best option?

Well, the San Diego Zoo is known for its interactive exhibits, animal shows, and diverse collection of exotic animals, including pandas, tigers, and gorillas. It is a great place for families with children, as there are many activities and educational opportunities for kids.

It’s a smaller park with a more diverse range of animals.

On the other hand, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is known for its expansive open-air habitats, where animals roam free and exhibit natural behaviors. It offers a more immersive experience and a chance to see large mammals such as elephants, giraffes, and rhinos in a more natural setting. The Safari Park is a great option for animal enthusiasts and those interested in conservation efforts.

Ultimately, which one is better depends on your personal interests and what you are looking for in a zoo or safari park experience. Both attractions are well worth a visit and offer unforgettable experiences.

We’ve been to both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park multiple times and really love both parks for different reasons. If you have time, we would recommend visiting both.

However, if forced to choose between the two, we would pick the San Diego Zoo. There is more to do, more animals to see, and less walking is required to get between exhibits. Plus it’s conveniently located in downtown San Diego, so it’s easier to get to.

For more details on the differences between the two parks, read on!

San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park- Overview of the parks

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park and is home to over 3,500 animals from more than 650 species. It is one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the world, with a focus on conservation and education.

The zoo offers a variety of exhibits, including the African Rocks exhibit, which features African penguins, lemurs, and other animals, as well as the Panda Trek exhibit, which is home to giant pandas.

San Diego Safari Park

On the other hand, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located about 35 miles northeast of the San Diego Zoo in the city of Escondido.

The Safari Park is more focused on the African savannah and offers a more immersive experience. Visitors can take a safari ride through the park and see animals such as giraffes, rhinos, and antelopes in a natural habitat.

Both parks are amazing places to visit, but if you only have time for one we’re here to help you decide which one is right for you!

San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park Comparisons

Tickets to the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park are the same price. If you purchase your tickets online, a day pass to either park costs $69, with children ages 3-11 costing $59 (children under 3 are free). 

If you do plan on visiting both parks, you can save on a 2-Visit-Pass which will allow you to visit both parks for just $118 ($108 for a child). 

Or you can purchase a Go San Diego Pass to save on a variety of attractions during your visit, including both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. 

The San Diego Zoo has free parking. However, parking at the Safari Park costs $20 per vehicle with no in and out privileges. So you’ll want to be sure to factor the cost of parking into the price of a visit to the safari park.

Another difference between the parks is location. The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park, just north of the downtown area. On the other hand, the San Diego Safari Park is located in Escondido, 32 miles northeast of the zoo. 

This is an important factor to take into consideration when deciding between the two parks. The zoo is more centrally located and generally easier to get to, situated only three miles from the San Diego Airport. The Safari Park is a little further afield and might require additional planning, such as making sure to get a rental car.

Comparing animals

The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park both house a diverse range of animal species, but they differ in terms of the types of animals that are found in each location.

At the San Diego Zoo, visitors can see a wide variety of animals, including exotic mammals such as giant pandas, gorillas, tigers, and polar bears, as well as reptiles, birds, and insects.

The zoo is well-known for its animal shows and interactive exhibits, which provide visitors with a chance to see the animals up close and learn about their behaviors and habitats.

In contrast, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to many large mammals that are native to Africa and Asia, such as elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and lions. The Safari Park also has a large collection of birds, including raptors and waterfowl, and many species of reptiles, amphibians, and insects.

One of the unique features of the Safari Park is its expansive open-air habitats, which allow animals to roam freely and exhibit natural behaviors.

Overall, while both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park have a diverse range of animal species, the Safari Park is known for its larger mammals and open habitats, while the zoo is known for its exotic and interactive exhibits.

The San Diego Zoo is located in the heart of the city and covers 100 acres. It is home to more than 3,500 animals representing over 650 species and subspecies. The zoo is known for its lush botanical gardens and its innovative habitats, such as the Giant Panda Research Station and the Elephant Odyssey exhibit.

On the other hand, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park covers a much larger area of about 1,800 acres and is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 300 species. The Safari Park is known for its expansive open habitats, which mimic the natural habitats of the animals living there, and for its focus on conservation and education.

So, while both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park are incredible places to visit, the Safari Park is significantly larger and focuses more on natural habitats, while the zoo focuses more on innovative exhibits and conservation research.

Accessibility

The San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park are both overall very accessible. At the entrance to both parks you can find strollers and wheelchairs available for rent on a first come first served basis. The parks’ entrances, restrooms, and most exhibits are wheelchair accessible and accessible parking spaces are available in the parking lots.

Both parks also have private locations for mothers to nurse babies and diaper changing stations in most restrooms.

We found both places to be easy to navigate with a stroller, although the Safari Park does require more walking between exhibits.

Included activities and shows

Both of these parks have activities and shows included in the cost of your ticket which will give you a more immersive experience. Between the two, the zoo has more activities and experiences (in addition to the animal enclosures) that do not have an additional charge.

San Diego Zoo Included Experiences

Guided bus tour- While visiting the zoo, take advantage of the free 35 minute narrated bus tour that takes you through the zoo, allowing you to see many of the major exhibits without having to do any walking! This is a great experience to do at the start of your day, as it gives you a good overview of the park and can help you decide where you want to focus your time. We really enjoyed this experience while we were at the zoo and appreciated the break from walking! The view is best from the top level of the bus, although you might want to bring some sunscreen and a hat.

Wildlife presentations- At the wildlife presentation, you can learn about some of the wildlife ambassadors at the park and see them up close. At the presentation we went to we saw birds, a cheetah, a wolf, and other animals.

Kangaroo Bus- An easy way to get around the large park is to take the Kangaroo Bus, a hop on hop off bus with stops throughout the zoo. The bus typically comes about every 15 to 20 minutes, so you never have to wait long for a bus to take you where you want to go!

Skyfari Aerial Tram- To get from one side of the park to the other, you can also take the Skyfari Tram, which is a cable car ride that allows you to view the zoo from above. This was one of our kids favorite things that we did at the park and they kept begging us to go back across the park so we could ride it again.

Wildlife Care Specialist Talks- Throughout the day you can see specialists talk about the care of various zoo animals and conservation efforts. Check the schedule for the day to determine when and where you can see the talks.

San Diego Safari Park Included Experiences

Africa Tram- Included with the price of admission, the Africa Tram takes you on a guided tour through the savanna habitats. The tour lasts about 25 minutes and is on a first-come, first-served basis. 

We found the tram to be enjoyable and informative and our kids pointed out all the animals that they saw with great enthusiasm.

Kangaroo Walkabout- Visitors can walk through a large enclosure where kangaroos and wallabies roam freely, allowing for up-close encounters and photo opportunities. This was definitely a highlight for our kids!

Petting Kraal- Touch and interact with some sweet goats at the Petting Kraal!

Shows- During your visit, be sure to check the schedule to see what shows are available throughout the day you are there. The schedule changes, but can include children’s storytimes and musical and other performances.

Special experiences

In addition to the activities included with a general admission ticket, both parks also offer some special encounters and experiences for an additional cost. 

San Diego Zoo Special Experiences

Animals in Action- An interactive experience where you can see and learn about exotic cats up close! Get behind the scenes access to discover more about these wildlife ambassadors, some of which can only be seen during this experience! For ages 5 and up.

Crazy About Cats- Visit the park before it opens for a 90-minute tour dedicated to the zoo’s cat species! On this tour you’ll have your own guide to drive you around the zoo in a deluxe cart to visit the wild cats and tell you all about them and how they are cared for at the zoo. This tour is for ages five and up.

Discovery Cart Tour- The Discovery Cart Tour is a 60-minute guided tour that takes visitors through the zoo’s various exhibits on a deluxe cart and offers an up-close look at some of the animals. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who provides information about the animals, their habitats, and their conservation. This experience is suitable for all ages and is a fun and educational activity for families and individuals alike.

Early Morning Cheetah Experience- The San Diego Zoo’s Early Morning Cheetah Experience is a special program that allows visitors to get an up-close and personal look at the zoo’s cheetahs before the park opens. The 90-minute cart tour also takes you to other African habitats at the zoo, including areas not normally accessible to the public. This experience is available for visitors ages 5 and up.

Exclusive VIP Experience- The San Diego Zoo’s Exclusive VIP Experience is a customized program that offers visitors an unforgettable behind-the-scenes look at the zoo’s animals and operations. The 5-hour program is led by a private guide and includes access to areas that are not open to the general public. The tour also includes a sit-down lunch and exclusive animal encounters.

Inside Look Tours- The San Diego Zoo’s Inside Look Tour is a special behind-the-scenes tour that offers visitors an up-close and personal look at the zoo’s animals and operations. This 90-minute tour includes a personal guide and transportation through the zoo on a deluxe cart. Perfect for all ages.

Early Morning Explorers- On certain Saturdays, families with children can have access to the Wildlife Explorers Base Camp before the zoo opens for the day!

4D Theater- For an extra $8 you can pay a visit to the 4D theater at the zoo. The 10-minute featured movie is shown at various times throughout the day and tickets are available for purchase at the theater.

Safari Park Special Experiences

Wildlife Safari- For this safari, ride into the savanna in the back of a covered safari truck with a guide to learn about the animals. There are a few different wildlife safari options, starting at $90n per person.

Behind-the-Scenes Safari- Go behind the scenes at the safari park to meet animals up close and learn about their care and conservation efforts. There are a variety of different behind the scenes tours you can take, starting at $90 per person.

Cart Safaris- Enjoy a guided tour of the savanna from the back of a safari cart. These tours start at $57 per person.

Sun-Up Cheetah Safari- Explore the park before it opens with a behind the scenes guided tour on a safari truck. You also have the unique opportunity to see a cheetah run at full speed!

Ultimate Safari- The Ultimate Safari is a personalized experience that is customized to your interests.You own personal guide will take you to exclusive areas, animal habitats, and animal encounters on a five or seven hour tour (lunch included).

Roar and Snore Safari- For a unique safari experience, book an overnight stay with after-hours animal activities and guided tours (meals included).

Flightline Safari- Experience the safari park from above as you soar over the park on a zipline!

Wildlife Trek- Take a guided walking tour through the park to learn about the animals and conservation efforts at the park.

Balloon Safari- Experience the park in a unique way with a hot air balloon ride! The tethered balloon ascends as high as 400 feet and provides amazing views of the wildlife park.

Tips for visiting San Diego Zoo

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to the San Diego Zoo!

Plan ahead. Check the zoo’s website for hours of operation, special events, and show times. Also, purchase tickets in advance to avoid waiting in long lines.

Get the app! Download the San Diego Zoo app for a GPS-enabled map (super helpful with such a large zoo!) where you can find the location of the animal exhibits, dining, and activities. The app allows you to see the times of any shows or presentations and also has a planner for organizing your day.

Take advantage of the guided tours. The zoo offers a variety of guided tours, including bus tours and walking tours, which provide a more in-depth look at the animals and their habitats.

Don’t miss the pandas. The San Diego Zoo is one of only four zoos in the United States that has giant pandas. Be sure to visit the Giant Panda Research Station to see these amazing animals.

Enjoy the gardens. The San Diego Zoo is known for its beautiful botanical gardens. Take some time to enjoy the plants and flowers as you explore the zoo.

Consider visiting during off-peak times. To avoid crowds, consider visiting the zoo during weekdays or during the off-season.

Be respectful of the animals. Remember that the animals are wild animals and should be treated with respect. Follow all the rules and guidelines, and don’t disturb the animals or their habitats.

Tips for Visiting San Diego Safari Park

Plan your route. The Safari Park is large, so use the map provided at the entrance to plan your route in advance and avoid getting lost.

Take advantage of the tram. The Safari Park offers a tram tour that takes visitors through many of the park’s large habitats. This is a great way to see many of the animals without doing a lot of walking.

Visit the Condor Ridge exhibit. The Safari Park has a large exhibit dedicated to the California condor, one of the most endangered birds in the world. This exhibit provides a great opportunity to see these majestic birds up close.

Be sure to visit the platypuses. San Diego Safari Park is home to the only platypuses outside of Australia! This is a unique opportunity to see these rare animals that you don’t want to miss.

Check out the Tiger Trail exhibit. The Safari Park’s Tiger Trail exhibit is home to several species of big cats, including Sumatran tigers and jaguars. This exhibit provides a unique opportunity to see these amazing animals in a natural setting.

Take a behind-the-scenes tour. The Safari Park offers a variety of behind-the-scenes tours, including a caravan safari and a cheetah safari. These tours provide a more in-depth look at the animals and their habitats.

Visit during off-peak times. Like the zoo, you’ll get the most of your experience if you visit at a time that is less crowded.

Be respectful of the animals. It should go without saying, but be mindful and respectful of the animals while you are visiting.

What to bring

Comfortable shoes and clothing. The parks cover a large area, and you will be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

Sunscreen. San Diego is known for its sunny weather, so be sure to bring sunscreen.

Water. Bring a water bottle to keep you hydrated during your day at the park.

Binoculars. Bring a pair of small binoculars so you can really see the animals up close, especially for the safari park where the animal enclosures are so much bigger.

Snacks. Bring some snacks to tide you over so that you don’t have to spend so much on expensive park food.

Common questions

Which is bigger, San Diego Zoo or Safari Park?

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is much bigger than the San Diego Zoo. The San Diego Zoo covers 100 acres, while the San Diego Zoo Safari Park covers about 1,800 acres. 

However, the safari park has larger enclosures for its animals, so you can actually see more animals in a smaller space at the San Diego Zoo.

San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park for a toddler

Both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park are amazing places to visit with a toddler, especially if your toddler loves animals! We’ve been to both with our young kids and found that our toddler had a really great experience at both parks. 

However, if we could only pick one park to visit with our toddler, we would probably choose the San Diego Zoo. The zoo has more animals in a smaller area, making it quicker and easier to get between exhibits as there is less walking between points of interest. This, along with the fact that more of the animals can be seen at a closer range, really helped to keep the interest of our toddler. 

The San Diego Zoo also has the Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, a play area that features habitats from around the world. Here your child will find places to climb, scramble, and even get wet in the splash area. Our kids had a blast playing here and didn’t want to leave!

But you really can’t go wrong taking your toddler to either place. Both have strollers available for rent, fun play structures for kids to enjoy, places to nurse and change diapers, and of course lots and lots of animals to see!

Can you visit the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park in one day?

While you can certainly try to visit both the zoo and safari park in one day, it’s probably not going to end up being the best experience at either park. Both places have enough to experience that you could easily spend the whole day there. It doesn’t do justice to either park to try to fit them in together on the same day.

If you only have one day, select the park that best fits with your interests and schedule. Instead of taking the time to drive between the two (about a 45 minute drive in good conditions) and pay for entry at each, maximize your time at one of the parks and experience all that it has to offer.

We spent a whole day at each park and still weren’t able to see everything at either location.

Final Thoughts

Both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park are great destinations to visit, but the choice ultimately depends on your personal interests and preferences.

The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park and is known for its large and diverse collection of animals from around the world, including pandas, tigers, gorillas, and polar bears. It also features a variety of exhibits, shows, and activities for visitors of all ages, such as the Skyfari aerial tram, the 4-D theater, and guided bus tours.

The Safari Park, located about 35 miles north of the San Diego Zoo, is a unique experience that offers visitors the opportunity to see animals in a more natural setting. The park is designed to mimic the habitats of Africa and Asia, and features large open enclosures where animals can roam freely. Visitors can take a safari tour, zip line over the park, or watch animal shows.

If you’re interested in seeing a wide variety of animals in a more traditional zoo setting, the San Diego Zoo is probably the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more immersive experience that focuses on animal conservation and natural habitats, the Safari Park may be the better option. Either way, both attractions are world-renowned and are sure to provide a memorable experience.

We loved our time a both parks and would highly recommend either one to someone visiting San Diego!

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Adventures from San Diego

San Diego Zoo Vs Safari Park: Which Should You Visit

San Diego is lucky to have two of the top zoos in the world.  Of course, for visitors whose time is limited, you may only have the opportunity to visit one.  So this article looks at the differences between the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park so you can make the most informed decision.

Jump Ahead To

Both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park are major attractions operated by the San Diego Zoological Society.  However, San Diego has many great attractions, so reality means many tourists must pick one or the other. To cut the chase, for most visitors the answer will be the San Diego Zoo is the first one to visit.

However, this does not mean the San Diego Zoo is better than the Safari Park.  It is more an issue of the Zoo being right by downtown and the airport, while the San Diego Safari Park is as much as an hour away to the north, by Escondido.

When we ask our family and friends which park they like better, the answer is likely to lean more towards the Safari Park.  Of course, these are from people who visit both places many times.  Also people from San Diego like the serenity of the Safari Park in the off-season.  During busy times of the year, both parks can get crowded.  In summer the temperature at the Safari Park is often 20 degrees or hotter than at the zoo.

It should be noted that the San Diego Safari Park is much bigger than the San Diego Zoo.  The Safari Park is on 1,800 acres while the San Diego Zoo is on 100 acres.  However, much of the Safari Park is either undeveloped or left as open space for animals.  The actual pedestrian accessible portions are a pretty similar size for both parks.

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Both parks cost about $54 for a basic ticket. For about $86 you can visit both parks.  Note that while parking is free at the San Diego Zoo it costs $15 at the Safari Park.

You can get into both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park with a Go San Diego Pass .  The Go San Diego Pass allows visitors access to up to 40 attractions for either 1,2,3,5 or 7 days.  This is not a cheap option and we generally recommend it for 3 days or more where it is $209 adults/$189 children age 3 to 12.  A 7-day pass is a very good value at $299/$269.  The 3-day or more passes also includes admission to the museums in Balboa Park by the Zoo and other very big attractions like Belmont Park, SeaWorld, and Legoland.

If you are in San Diego for only a day or two you can still use the San Diego Go Pass.  This is through the Build Your Own San Diego attraction pass option .  If you add two or more attraction you automatically get a 20% discount.  We use this option frequently for many San Diego attractions, especially when we have out-of-town guests.  Note, because of the built-in discount for visiting both parks, this option is better used when visiting other San Diego attractions such as the museums in Balboa Park or Legoland.

Go San Diego: Your Personalized Pass to San Diego

More details on the pass can be found here .

If you do want to visit both parks just realize that it will probably take two full days.  Do not try and visit both in a single day.

On top of the basic ticket price, there are many add-on activities at both the Zoo and Safari Park.  To see info about the add-on activities for the San Diego Zoo go here.  For the San Diego Safari Park, whose add-ons are referred to as “Safaris,” see this article .

The basic San Diego Zoo ticket includes:

• Free parking
• General admission and shows
• Guided Bus Tour
• Kangaroo Bus Ride
• Skyfari Aerial Tram

The basic San Diego Safari Park ticket includes:

• Africa Tram
• Cheetah Run Show

The biggest difference between the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park is the type of animals and how they are displayed.  The San Diego Zoo has many more animals but in smaller displays.  The San Diego Safari Park concentrates on fewer animals in a wide-open setting.

The official numbers:

• The San Diego Zoo claims it has 3,700 rare and endangered animals representing approximately 660 species and subspecies and a prominent botanical collection with more than 700,000 plants.
• The Safari Park has 2,600 animals representing more than 300 species.  The focus is primarily on animals from the plains and savannas of Africa and Asia.

People that normally don’t like the concept of zoos will definitely prefer the Safari Park.  However, I have been coming to the San Diego Zoo since 1976 and I can say it has completely changed the way it displays animals.  The small caged environments are almost all gone, having been replaced by extremely well-designed open-space enclosures.  From a design standpoint, I would say the San Diego Zoo is one of the most creative uses of 100-acres of urban open space anywhere.

Both parks are very strong on big animals like gorillas, elephants, rhinos, and giraffes.  The newer lion and tiger exhibits at the Safari Park probably give them an edge up over the Zoo.  The Safari Park also has a wonderful California Condor exhibit (the zoo is currently rebuilding its birds of prey exhibit).

Two very cool new exhibits at the San Diego Safari Park are the lemur exhibit and the kangaroo exhibit.  In both cases, you can walk right into the enclosure with the animals.  There is also an exhibit with lorikeets.

The San Diego Zoo simply has far more animals, and they are also easier to see.  Some people joke about going to the Safari Park and only seeing a bunch of gazelles.  That is an exaggeration but if you do go to the Safari Park it is much better early in the morning or on cold cloudy days.

Among the many animals at the San Diego Zoo highlights include giant pandas, koalas, hippos, polar bears, orangutans, reptiles and snakes and the new Australia and Africa exhibits.

Shows and Attractions

One of the biggest attractions at the Safari Park is the 35-minute Africa Tram ride through the open space for animals.  Here you will rhinos, zebras, giraffes and many other animals interacting as they would on the open plain.

The San Diego Zoo includes a Guided Bus Tour, but it is more for providing an overview and basic information.  Unlike the Africa Tram, it is not really a necessity to actually see the animals.  The Zoo also has a very cool and scenic Skyfari aerial tram.  It is a fun ride, but again not necessary to see the animals.

There are rotating shows and animal encounters at both parks.  Shows at the Zoo are at the large Wegeforth Bowl and the newly opened Koalafornia Boardwalk area.  The Safari Park has bird shows at the Benbough Amphitheater and the extremely popular Cheetah Run daily at 3:30.

Both parks have petting zoos for the younger kids.  However, note starting in 2019 the San Diego Zoo will be closing down its Children’s Zoo to expand it.  There are other small children playgrounds in the zoo, but that was the main area for small kids.  The Safari Park also has several cool kids playgrounds.

This is just what is included with basic admission.  Both parks offer many ways to expand your experience via extra activities.  You can find out more about these experiences in this article for the San Diego Zoo and this one for the San Diego Safari Park.

San Diego Zoo Vs Safari Park: Conclusion

For most people, I recommend trying to visit both parks but visiting the San Diego Zoo first.  This is mainly because:

• The Zoo is convenient to downtown and the airport with free parking
• The Safari Park is 35 miles north of downtown and you must pay for parking
• The Zoo has significantly more animals that are easy to see
• The Zoo is much better on hot days
• The San Diego Safari Park is more for people that dream they could go on an African safari.  Many adults prefer the Safari Park and I definitely see why.  I go to both several times a year and it really depends on my mood.
• For around two years, starting in 2019, the San Diego Zoo Children’s Zoo will be closed for a major upgrade.  During this period, the Safari Park will have more options for children age 8 and under.

UPDATE December 2020: The San Diego Zoo has been undergoing some construction and has been closed for a large part of 2020 due to COVID.  We will be updating our guides to both parks in early 2021 when they reopens. For more information seethe below links for both parks.

Safari Park Links

Basic ticket information for the Safari Park can be found here .

Safari Park add-on activities are here .

We have an overview of two walking tours , an early morning tour and an afternoon tour .

San Diego Zoo Links

Basic ticket information for the San Diego Zoo can be found here .

Add on activities for the San Diego Zoo can be found here .

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San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park: 8 Key Differences Explored

San diego zoo and safari park are both world-class attractions that showcase a variety of animals and habitats. but which one should you choose.

Safari Park is much larger than the Zoo, but most of it is not accessible to the public. The Zoo is located in Balboa Park, while Safari Park is in Escondido .

Size and Location

The Zoo has more animals and more diversity than Safari Park. The Zoo features animals from all over the world, while Safari Park focuses on arid environments .

Animals and Exhibits

Safari Park offers more unique and immersive experiences than the Zoo, such as safari rides, zip lines, and animal encounters. 

Tours and Experience s

Both parks have similar ticket prices, but the Zoo offers free parking and is closer to downtown San Diego. 

Time and Cost

The Zoo is more compact and easier to walk than Safari Park, which has more hills and uneven terrain. 

Walking and A ccessibility

The Zoo has more food options and better quality than Safari Park, which has fewer and more expensive restaurants.

Food and Amenities

The Zoo has more pleasant weather than Safari Park, which can get very hot and dry in the summer.

Weather and Season ality

Both parks are family and kid-friendly, but the Zoo may be more suitable for younger children, wh o can see more animals in less time.

Family and Kid-Friendly

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

“Wouldn't it be wonderful to have a zoo in San Diego? I believe I'll build one”

Harry M. Wegeforth, 1915, Founder of San Diego Zoo.

San Diego is a short drive from Disneyland and boasts two world-famous animal parks.  The San Diego and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park share the same parent organization, San Diego Zoo Global, and are about 30 miles apart.  Below is a guide to both parks, including admission, animals, experiences, tours, dining, and shopping.

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Hours and Admission at the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are open every day of the year, including all holidays. Our family visited on Thanksgiving one year and had a wonderful time. Click HERE for a link to the Zoo’s hours for a specific day and HERE for the Safari Park's hours.

A one-day pass to the San Diego Zoo or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is $56 for adults and $46 for children ages 3 to 11. A one-day pass to the Zoo includes one visit to the San Diego Zoo, Guided Bus Tour, Kangaroo Express Bus, Skyfari Aerial Tram, and all regularly scheduled shows. Families can upgrade to admission that includes the 4-D Theater experience for $62 for adults and $52 for children. A one-day pass to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park includes Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, and all regularly scheduled shows.

Guests can also purchase multi-day and multi-park passes. A 2-visit pass includes one visit to the San Diego Zoo and one visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, or a 2-day visit to each individual park. Adult prices are $89.60 and children ages 3 to 11 prices are $79.60.

Another option is the San Diego 3-for-1 Pass.  This pass allows guests to visit to the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and SeaWorld San Diego. The San Diego 3-for-1 Pass is valid for one visit per park.  Guests can enjoy three total visits by the same person on any and all days. The passes are valid for seven consecutive days from the first visit.

Check out our guide to the best discount ticket deals for the San Diego Zoo  here to save money on your visit.

   Discount San Diego Zoo Ticket Deals 2019: Get Cheap Tickets Here!

San Diego Zoo: Things to See and Do

The San Diego Zoo is located on 100 acres in historic Balboa Park and opened in 1916. This is on the largest zoos in the world, housing over 3,500 animals and more than 650 species and subspecies.  This Zoo has been a leader in the idea of open-air, cageless exhibits that recreate natural animal habitats.

Animal Areas to Explore

There are over 3,500 animals at the San Diego Zoo.  The best way to see the many animals is to navigate by the different areas and trails. The different areas include the Lost Forest, Northern Frontier, Panda Canyon, Asian Passage, Elephant Odyssey, Africa Rocks, Urban Jungle, Outback, and Discovery Outpost.

The Zoo also offers different walking trails as a way to see the animals. These trails include the Aviary Trail, Fern Canyon Trail, Hippo Trail, Monkey Trail, Orangutan Trail, Sun Bear Trail, Tiger Trail, and Africa Rocks. Below are the different areas and their animals and trails.

Lost Forest

Guests will feel like there are in the rain forest when they enter the Lost Forest. The Lost Forest is in the northeast corner of the Zoo. Some animals in this area include hippos, tigers, okapi, otters, birds and primates.  The Lost Forest also features the Fern Garden, the Ginger Garden and the Tiger Trail, where guests can see tigers, tapirs, fishing cats, and milky storks. Guests can enjoy the serene Terrace Lagoon and take in the Zoo’s beautiful collection of bamboo, oriental pines, and flowering trees and shrubs. Guests will feel like they are in an African forest when they visit Scripps Aviary in Gorilla Tropics. The Lost Forest includes the Hippo Trail, Tiger Trail, Fern Canyon Trail, Orangutan Trail, Monkey Trail, and Aviary Trail.

Northern Frontier

The Northern Frontier transports guests to the Arctic. Guests can view beautiful polar bears, artic fox, mountain lions, zebras, and reindeer in the Northern Frontier.  Polar Bear Plunge boasts a 130,000 US gallon pool where guests can view these magnificent creatures. Marsh Aviary is also in this area where guests can view buffleheads, harlequin ducks, smews and long tailed ducks.

Panda Canyon

The San Diego Zoo is one of a few zoos in the United States that has giant pandas on display. The line to see these unique creatures is worth the wait. Panda Trek is popular with Zoo guests and features the Giant Panda Research Station. Guests can also see the adorable red pandas and takins.

Asian Passage

The Asian Passage is south of Panda Canyon and is a simulation of a tropical Asian rain forest. This scenic passage includes grizzly bears, snow leopards, and sun bears. This spectacular area also features the Sun Bear Forest, which resembles a southeast Asian rain forest, and the Hawaiian Native Plant Garden.  The Asian Passage also features the Sun Bear Trail.

Elephant Odyssey

The Elephant Odyssey is home to the African and Asian elephant habitat. This area includes the majestic elephants along with the Elephant Care Center and Fossil Portal. Guests can also see lions, jaguars, California condor, camels, and the Malayan tapir.

Africa Rocks

Africa Rocks highlights the biodiversity of Africa and features a variety of animals, including lemurs, meerkats, monkeys, African penguins, baboons, and serval cats (these guys are cute!).  We had the privilege of seeing a serval kitten during our last visit.

Urban Jungle

The Urban Jungle features animals such as giraffes, gazelles, kangaroos, rhinos, flamingos, camels, and cheetahs. Guests can also view some of the Zoo's animal ambassadors, such as cheetahs, leopards and porcupines.

The Outback will make guests feel like they are in Australia.  Guests can watch adorable koala bears, Tasmanian devils, and laughing kookaburra.  Guests can also enjoy the Australian Wonders garden which includes eucalyptus trees, Queensland lacebark trees, and other “botanical wonders from Down Under”.

Discovery Outpost

This area is located in the southwest corner of the Zoo and features the Reptile House along with the Reptile Walk. Guests can see Komodo dragons, anaconda, a variety of turtles, Chinese alligators, and Galápagos tortoises. Guests can enjoy the Hummingbird Aviary, Bromeliad Garden, Insect House, Children's Zoo, and the Discovery Playground.  The Reptile Mesa has all kinds of exotic-looking plants.  The Outpost also features the Variegated Garden where guests can enjoy a duck pond with unusual plants.

Attractions and Experiences

There are several attractions and experiences that are included in the admission price. These attractions include the guided bus tour, botanical tours, Kangaroo Bus, Skyfari Aerial Tram, shows, 4-D Theater, animal encounters, play areas, and the Balboa Park Miniature Train.

The guided bus tour runs from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. This double-decker bus offers a 35-minute tour of most of the zoo.  This is a great way to start the day and helps give guests the lay of the land.  The Kangaroo Bus allows guests to hop on and off at four different stops throughout the Zoo. Guests just need to look for the yellow Kangaroo Bus banner and wait for the bus to arrive. The Kangaroo bus stops about every 15 minutes.  Click HERE for more information on the Kangaroo Bus.

Botanical Tours

Guests can use the Botanical Tour brochures to enjoy a self-guided tour of the San Diego Zoo's colorful gardens and plant collections at their leisure. Some of the gardens to check out include the Australian Outback, Elephant Odyssey Trees, Fern Canyon, and Monkey Trails. Guests can tour gardens that include Bamboo, Coral Tree, Cycad, Ficus, Orchid, and Palm.  Click HERE for more information on the botanical tours.

Skyfari Aerial Tram

The tram allows guests to take an airborne shortcut from one side of the zoo to the other. Adults and kids will enjoy beautiful views of the Zoo, its animal and plant collection, as well as the scenic Balboa Park. Children younger than 8 years old must be accompanied by an adult. The tram cannot accommodate larger-sized or double strollers.  Click HERE for more information on the tram.

Live Animal Shows

Guests can watch two shows, Wild About Animals and Dr. Zoolittle and Friends Explore Australia. Wild About Animals shows 1 p.m. daily at Wegeforth Bowl. Guests can meet world-famous animal ambassadors and their trainers. The Dr. Zoolittle and Friends Explore Australia show plays at noon and 1 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at Koalafornia Boardwalk in the Australian Outback. This show features Zoo costumed characters and is fun for the entire family! Guests can learn more about these shows clicking HERE .

The 4-D theater is located in Northern Frontier and features a 4-D version of the popular animated film Rio, and its beloved characters, Blu and Jewel.  The movie is shown several times daily between 10:30 am 5 pm and costs $7. Click HERE for more information on the 4-D theater.

Animal Encounters

There are several animal encounter experiences, including the following shows:

• Animal Encounters: Front Street Stage – this 10-minute show is at 10:30 a.m. daily and features animal ambassadors
• Animal Encounters: Africa Rocks – runs daily at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. near Rocks Box and features animal ambassadors
• Tasmanian Devil Experience – runs at 12:15 p.m. daily at Australian Outback
• Reindeer Talk – plays at 12:30 p.m. daily at Northern Frontier
• Keeper Talk: Bamboos – shows at 12:30 p.m. daily at Africa Rocks
• Keeper Talk: Lemurs – runs 12:45 p.m. daily at Africa Rocks
• Keeper Talk: Horse, Burro, or Camel – shows 1:30 p.m. daily at Elephant Odyssey, near condors
• Keeper Talk: Giraffes – shows 3:30 p.m. daily at Urban Jungle

Click HERE for more information on the animal encounters.

There are three play areas for the little ones to enjoy. The Elephant Play Yard is located at Elephant Odyssey. Kids of all ages will enjoy a maze of elephant satellite tracking collars, a play fossil dig, and puzzles to solve. Koala Klimber is located at Australian Outback and features cute koala replicas and a photo opportunity! The Polar Bear Play Area is located in Northern Frontier and includes supersized illustrated storybooks and a polar bear den! Guests will have fun comparing their height to life-size polar bear statues. Click HERE to learn more about the play areas.

Dining at the San Diego Zoo

The Zoo offers a few different dining options, including restaurant dining, casual dining, quick bites, and dining events.

Restaurant dining includes Albert’s Restaurant located in Lost Forest in Treetops. Albert's is open from 11am to 3pm and offers full-service dining with a view of a beautiful waterfall.  Starters include truffle fries and Queso Fundido.  The menu features soup, salads, sandwiches, and entrees. Some notable menu items include Flat Iron Steak Wedge Salad, Crispy Seafood Basket, Teriyaki-glazed Grilled Fish Sandwich, and White Miso-Shoyu Ramen. The children’s menu includes cheese pizza, baked grilled cheese, hot dog, and chicken strips.  Children’s meals are $9, sandwiches and entrees range from $17 to $22. The restaurant also features a full bar.  Click HERE for more information, menu, and to make reservations for Albert’s Restaurant.

There are several casual dining options .  The San Diego Zoo Sandwich Co., Front Street Café, Lagoon Terrace, and the Safari Kitchen, are all on Front Street. The Front Street offers tacos, burritos, and rolled tacos, as well as salads and burgers. Lagoon Terrace is just outside the San Diego Zoo Sandwich Company and sells pizza by the slice, meatball subs, specialty hot dogs, and wraps.  The Safari Kitchen sells gourmet burgers, grilled chicken sriracha sandwiches, and chicken strips. Guests should check out their tater twisters and loaded tater tots. All casual dining options offer vegetarian options and kid’s meals.

Sydney’s Grill is located in the Outback. Hua Mei Café is located between Asian Passage and Panda Canyon and features Asian cuisine. Sabertooth Grill at Elephant Odyssey includes salads, wraps, sandwiches, and hot entrees. Treetops Café is located in Lost Forest and features flatbread pizzas, Italian-style cuisine, wraps, and salads.

Quick bite options are throughout the park and include coffee, fast food and desserts.  The Lost Forest features Jungle Java, and Zoo Brew. Jungle Java sells coffee (including nitro), pastries, and popcorn. Zoo Brew offers mini doughnuts, popcorn, draft beer, and specialty coffee drinks.

Rocks Box in Africa Rocks sells hot dogs, nachos, locally brewed draft beer, and Icees.  The Panda Pagoda is in Panda Canyon and serves egg rolls, corn dogs, popcorn, craft beer, and snow cones.  Kettle Corn is located in Wegeforth Bowl in Discovery Outpost. This quick stop features kettle corn, caramel corn, churros, pretzels, locally brewed draft beer, Icees, and soft drinks. The Bridge Snack and Refreshments is located by Bashor Bridge in Elephant Odyssey. The Bridge serves pretzels, and popcorn along with locally brewed draft beer, Cadillac margaritas, Icees, snow cones, sand soft drinks.

Front Street features a few quick bite options, including Nestle Toll House Café by Chip and San Diego Craft Beer and Margaritas. The Ituri Hut is located in the Lost Forest and serves hot dogs, soft pretzels, churros, and Icees. Click HERE for more information on casual dining and quick bites.

Shopping at the San Diego Zoo

There are few shopping options in the Zoo. Front Street features the San Diego Zoo Kids Store, Zootique, Front Street Photos, and The Roar Store. The San Diego Zoo Kids Store sells plush animals as well as other toys, gifts, books, snacks, clothing, and hats. Zootique features international gifts from around the world, along with gourmet foods, fashion, hats, and jewelry. Guests can visit the Front Street Photos to pick up souvenir photos, magnets, and CDs. The Roar Store sells hats, sunglasses, and other items guests will need to start their day.

Sydney’s Shoppe is located in the Outback and sells a variety of gifts from the Land Down Under. Guests can purchase exclusive koala and friends-themed gifts and souvenirs.  Guests can shop at the Panda Shop in the Asian Passage for all things Panda. The Arctic Trader in Northern Frontier sells polar bear gifts and souvenirs.  Tusker’s Trunk is located in the Elephant Odyssey offers elephant gifts.

The Lost Forest features the Zoo Brew and Ituri Forest Outpost for shopping. The Zoo Brew sells quick food bites as well as primate souvenirs. The Ituri Forest Outpost sells African-themed items. Click HERE for more information on shopping at the San Diego Zoo.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park was known as the San Diego Wild Animal Park until 2010.  The Safari Park sits on 1,800 acres in San Pasqual Valley area of San Diego, California, near Escondido.  This park is a park is in a semi-arid environment and hosts over 2,600 animals representing more than 300 species, as well as 3,500 plant species.

Animals at the Safari Park

The Safari Park has several zones where guests can view many different animals.  These zones include African Woods, African Outpost, Elephant Valley, Nairobi Village, Gorilla Forest, Asian Savannah, African Plains, Condor Ridge, Lion Camp, and Tiger Trail.

African Woods and African Outpost

African Woods features animals such as the Egyptian Vulture, Gerenuk, Okapi, and Secretary Bird. Guests can view the majestic Cheetah in the African Outpost.  Other notable animals include flamingos, hornbills, and warthogs.

Elephant Valley

Guests can watch these giant creatures in their large pond at the Elephant Viewing Patio, located at the south end of Elephant Valley. Guests may catch sight of baby elephants splashing in mud holes!

Nairobi Village and Gorilla Forest

The Nairobi Village houses a wide variety of animals such as the dik, duiker, pelicans, red river hogs, fruit bats, and the shoebill.  Guests can visit the nursery where baby animals are hand-reared as well as a petting corral.  The Gorilla Forest includes butterflies, lemurs, pink pigeons, and of course gorillas. This forest also includes the Hidden Jungle, a tropical rain forest with colorful tropical birds and beautiful plants.

Asian Savannah and African Plains

These two areas comprise the Safari Park’s largest exhibits and cover over 300 acres. The Asian Savannah features camels, rhinos, oryx, and wild cattle.  The African Plans features animals such as antelope, rhinos, giraffe, ostrich, vultures, and zebras.

Condor Ridge

This area houses endangered North American desert wildlife.  Guests can view some majestic birds including bald eagles, the California Condor and the adorable burrowing owls.  Guests can also see bighorn sheet.   The Safari Park is one of the only places in the world where the public can see the California Condor in captivity.

The Lion Camp allows guests the privilege of watching these beautiful big cats and their natural behaviors.  Lions can be spotting romping, exploring, eating, or resting.  Guests may even catch sight of an African lions relaxing in an acacia tree!

Tiger Trail

The Tiger Trail opened a few years ago and is definitely worth checking out. Guests can view the majestic Sumatran tigers in three separate yards with glass viewing windows.

Walkabout Australia

This area includes Australians animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, and platypuses.  Guests should check out the Matschie's tree-kangaroo exhibit to watch these playful creatures.

The World Gardens areas hosts a few different gardens where guests can enjoy beautiful greenery. Safari Park's Bonsai Pavilion showcases many of these interesting miniature plants in a tranquil surrounding.  Guests can visit the Old World Succulent Garden and the Baja Garden to see cacti, elephant trees, boojums, and euphorbia.  The Grove is another area with gardens. Guests can visit the Herb Garden and enjoy over 30 varieties of herbs including fragrant cedar, rose, apple, lime, nutmeg, and peppermint.

Guest Experiences at the Safari Park

The Safari Park offers a few exciting experiences for guests, including the Africa Tram, animal encounters, balloon safari, play areas, and the Conservation Carousel

Africa Tram

I highly recommend the Africa Tram! Our family rode this a couple of times throughout the day.  This tram is located in the African Outpost and is a 25-minute tour of the field exhibits. Guests will enjoy an informative tour of a diverse collection of animals. Tours start at 10am and continue throughout the day.

The Safari Park offers several animal encounters, including Tiger Keeper Talk, Animal Ambassador Stage, Nairobi Station, Petting Kraal, Lorikeet Landing, and Lemur Walk. Click HERE for more information and times on the animal encounters.

Balloon Safari

Guests can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Safari Park from the Balloon Safari. These tethered rides are modeled after the hot air balloon tours of the Serengeti and rise 400 feet. The rides last 10 to 12 minutes.  Prices are around $20 per person and are subject to change.

Play Areas and Conservation Carousel

The Safari Park offers play areas throughout, including Village Playground, Savanna Cool Zone, Samburu Jungle Gym, and Tiger Trail Play Area. Click HERE for more information on play areas. Kids and kids at heart will enjoy this colorful carousel that features 60 different animals, including a giraffe, rhino, zebra, cheetah, and more!  The cost is $6 for unlimited rides.  The carousel is open from 10am to closing.

Tours at the Safari Park

The Safari Park offers several tour options, including Behind-the-Scenes Safari, Cart Safaris, Cheetah Safari, Jungle Ropes Safari, Caravan Safaris, and Flightline Safari.

Behind-the-Scenes Safaris

Guests can choose some several safari tours, including Butterflies and Friends, Elephants and Friends, Roos and Mates, Tiger and Friends, Cheetah and Friends, Rhino Rescue Center, and Veterinary Medical Center.  Tours range start from $89 and up.  Click HERE for more information on Behind-the-Scenes Safaris.

Cart Safaris

The Safari Park also offers two Choose Your Cart Safaris, including Cart Safari Africa and Cart Safari Asia. These tours cost $54 and up.  Click HERE for more information on Cart Safaris.

Cheetah Safari

Shiley's Cheetah Run is definitely worth checking out!  Guests can watch this magnificent cat race at on a straight 330-foot-long track and reach maximum speed of about 70 miles per hour. Our family thoroughly enjoyed this free event.  Guests can reserve trackside seating for this experience.  Click HERE for more information.

Jungle Ropes Safari

The Jungle Ropes Safari takes guests on a 90-minute adventure where they climb, balance, swing, and walk through the trees using a Smart Belay system. The thrills in this safari include rope bridges, aerial tightropes, swinging log steps, and moving platforms. Click HERE for more information.

Caravan Safaris

Guests can choose from several choose-your-own caravan safaris that include Caravan Safari Adventure, Caravan Safari Twilight, Caravan Safari Deluxe, and Caravan Safari Kids. Prices on these Caravan Safaris range start at $125 per person.  Learn more about these tours by clicking HERE .

Flightline Safari

The Flightline Safari is a zipline experience that allows guests to soar as high as 130 feet above the ground.  The 2/3 mile track flies guests over the Safari’s vast animal exhibits. Prices start at $79 per person. Click HERE for more information.

Dining at the Safari Park

The Safari Park offers several different dining options. Walkabout Australia includes The Sheared Sheep which serves salads, wraps, and snacks. The Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook is a restaurant and bar that features sandwiches and salads and a view of giraffes and rhinos.

Safari Base Camp hosts the Barking Deer Pizza and Beer, Thorntree Terrace that serves Asian cuisine, and Safari Coffee Outpost.  Nairobi Village has a few dining options, including Bamburi Boat Bar, Mombasa Cooker that serves barbeque favorites, Kibo Cones & Snacks, and Oasis Deli.

The Okavango Outpost is located in in the African Outpost and serves sandwiches, paninis, and salads with a beautiful view of the African Plains. Samburu Terrace in the African Woods offers delicious “South of the Border” entrées.  Lion Camp Slush & Snacks offers a build-your-own slush drink along with hot dogs and churros. The Rift Sand Bar, located in the Grove, offers refreshing drinks and snacks with a scenic view of the African Plains and Lion Camp. Click HERE for more information on dining options.

Shopping at the Safari Park

The Safari Park offers a few shopping options. Safari Outfitters is by the entrance/exit and offers candy, snacks, apparel, hats, sundries, and souvenirs. Guests can purchase their wild safari pictures at Safari Photos.  The Plant Trader sells garden décor and drought-tolerant plants. The Bazaar offers a large selection of authentic African artifacts, jewelry, books, and home décor, as well as T-shirts, hats, toys, snacks, and souvenirs.

Nairobi Village has two stores, the Village Market and Rift Gifts. The Village Market offers face painting.  The market also sells candy, snacks, toys, hats, souvenirs, and personalized gifts. The Macan Market is located on the Tiger Trail and sells all things tiger. Click HERE for more information on shopping options.

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About Monique Smalling

Monique and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento, California with their two daughters, Sydney (14) and Reagan (13). Sydney's first trip to Disneyland was at one year old, and the family has been hooked ever since. The family has been annual pass holders for several years and visit the Happiest Place on Earth every couple of months. Each visit includes 3 to 4 days in the parks before heading to the beach. Monique and her daughters consider themselves huge Disney fans, and love sharing their knowledge and tips on the parks.

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San Diego Zoo vs. San Diego Safari Park

What’s better the san diego zoo or safari park.

The zoo is the more easily accessible of the two parks as it is located in downtown San Diego , but the Safari Park offers a chance to see animals in a more natural habitat.

If you are planning on heading to San Diego this summer and you are looking for family-friendly activities, look no further than the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. Although both the zoo and the safari park are operated by the nonprofit group, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance , the two parks offer visitors a different and unique experience at each park. Let’s take a look at what makes these parks special as we compare the San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park.

Elephant Odyssey at the San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo General Info

San diego safari park general info, getting there, animal varieties, ticket cost and opening hours, additional experiences, overall experience, keep it comfy, don’t forget to hydrate, apply sunscreen, download the parks’ mobile application, check the weather, pre purchase tickets and arrive early, general information about each park.

To get a better understanding of what makes each of these parks unique, visitors should have a general understanding of what each of these two parks has to offer. Let’s take a look at what to expect when visiting one of these two California parks.

San Diego Zoo is a 100-acre wild animal zoo located in Balboa Park in San Diego, California. As one of the most visited zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo is open to the public from 9 am to 9 pm every day of the year. The San Diego Zoo is a member of the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums as well as the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, with trained staff that uphold the highest standard of animal care in areas like nutrition, enrichment, and health.

San Diego Safari Park is a 1,800-acre wild animal park in the San Pasqual Valley area of San Diego, California. With over 2 million annual visitors, the San Diego Safari Park is one of the largest tourist attractions in San Diego County. The park is open 365 days a year from 9 am to 5 pm and operates a state-of-the-art veterinary facility onsite.

The Safari Park does also operate a special “ Roar & Snore ” package where you can visit the park at night and stay overnight. This requires a special reservation but can be one of the fun things to do in San Diego at night .

Although both of these parks house hundreds of animal varieties in two of the world’s best parks, there are quite a few differences between the zoo and the safari park. For visitors looking for the best experience for their family, let’s take a look at what makes each of these parks special.

Although both of these parks are located in San Diego county, the zoo is the more easily accessible of the two as it is located in downtown San Diego. Zoo visitors can enjoy easy access to the park via car, bicycle, rideshare service, public transportation, or walking, depending on the starting location. On-site parking is available for visiting guests at no charge.

On the other hand, the San Diego Safari Park is located north of downtown San Diego in close proximity to an area known as Escondido. This location is about a 45-60 minute drive by car, but public transportation can take up to two hours. The cost for parking at the San Diego Safari Park is $15 a day per car or $20 a day for RV parking.

Image by Curtis Yancey from Pixabay

While both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park offer visitors a chance to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most enthralling and exotic species, each park features different species of animals that make them unique.

At San Diego Zoo, visitors can find more than 650 different species of animals with over 12,000 animals that call the zoo home. Of the seven major exhibits, their Orangutan Trail and Elephant Odyssey are among the most popular, allowing visitors to get up close with powerful Orangutans and both African and Asian varieties of elephants.

On the other hand, the San Diego Safari Park is home to more than 3,000 animals and over 300 different varieties of animal species. This park is home to the largest collection of hoofed animals in the world, and visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at many of the animal species that call this park home. Their most popular attraction for visiting guests is their Africa Tram, which shuttles guests around the park to observe animals such as antelope, giraffes, and more in an open, natural habitat. 

Both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are open 365 days a year for guests to enjoy this family-friendly tourist attraction. Opening hours for the Zoo are 9 am to 9 pm daily, while the Safari Park grants entrance to guests between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm.

Daily ticket prices for both the zoo and safari park start at $65 for adults or $55 for children, and both parks offer annual memberships, special value day pricing, and discounts for repeat visits as well as senior citizen and student discounts.

• San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass Ticket
• San Diego Zoo Safari Park 1-Day Pass Ticket

Africa Tram Exhibit at the San Diego Safari Park

Both the zoo and safari park feature a variety of experiences that are included in the cost of a daily ticket, as well as other experiences that can be added to visits for an additional fee. For visitors looking for even more family-friendly fun, check out some of these unforgettable experiences that are perfect for creating family memories that will last a lifetime.

Experiences at the San Diego Zoo

• 4D Theater – $7
• Botanical garden tours – included
• Play areas for children – included
• Skyfari aerial tram – included
• Wildlife presentations and specialist talks – included
• Guided bus tours – included on a first come, first served basis

Experience at the San Diego Safari Park

• Africa Tram – included
• Conservation carousel – $6 unlimited rides
• Balloon safari – prices vary
• Petting zoo – included

Live Animal Encounter at the San Diego Safari Park

Both the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park have something to offer visitors, and it pays to know what you’re looking for when visiting these two parks.

While both parks feature a chance for guests to get up close and personal with animal species from all over the world, guests looking to enjoy a larger number and variety of animals will be best suited at the zoo, while guests looking to catch a glimpse of animals from Africa and other arid environments would likely enjoy the safari park more. Both parks feature additional paid animal encounters like the zoo’s Early Morning Cheetah Experience or the safari park’s Behind-the-Scenes Safari or Ultimate Safari package.

Both parks offer a variety of additional activities for children and have plenty of options for onsite dining, experiences, and more. Guests looking for smaller crowds may prefer the safari park as this is generally the less crowded of the two parks, although it is farther away from other San Diego area attractions.

Both parks feature open-air concept enclosures that ensure the animals receive plenty of space, a clean living environment, high-quality food and medical care, enrichment, and more. Visitors can have peace of mind knowing that whichever park they choose to visit will be supporting reputable animal rescue and conservation efforts while offering memories that will last a lifetime.

View overlooking the San Diego Safari Park

Tips on Visiting the Parks

Whether you plan on spending the day exploring the exhibits at the San Diego Zoo or riding along on the Africa Tram at the safari park, visitors should follow these expert tips on how to have the most memorable experience at each of these California parks.

Visiting either the zoo or safari park requires lots of walking, so wearing comfortable shoes and clothing is a must for park goers. Because of the southern California location of each of these parks, visitors can typically expect sunny, warm weather and should plan on wearing comfortable tennis shoes, shorts, and t-shirts made of thin, breathable material to stay cool.

Staying hydrated is one of the most important things visitors can do to ensure they have a fun and memorable experience at one of these two parks. Nowadays, reusable water bottles are one of the most noted travel essentials for women and men, and it is nearly impossible to go anywhere without one. Make sure to bring along your favorite Hydroflask to refill at any of the many water stations found throughout the park and help cut down on cost and waste by avoiding purchasing plastic water bottles.

Spending an entire day out in the hot sun can definitely take a toll on our bodies. In addition to making us feel drained, no one wants to spend their vacation with a sunburn. Guests should plan on wearing sunscreen or taking other measures against sun protection during their visit like wearing a hat, sunglasses, or other sun protective clothing. Current FDA guidelines regarding sunscreen say that it should be reapplied at least every two hours, so make sure to bring extra sunscreen to reapply as needed.

While guests at both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are permitted to bring a small backpack in for essentials like cellphones, wallets, water bottles, charging banks, and more. Guests are encouraged to pack light to avoid tiring themselves out by lugging around excess baggage all day. Many amenities like locker and stroller rentals are available onsite at the park, so guests with children can skip the heavy packing and rent supplies there.

Available Amenities at San Diego Zoo & Safari Park

• ADA compliant facilities
• Stroller rental – $16 single, $20 double
• Wheelchair and ECV rentals – $16 wheelchair, $60 ECV
• Locker rental – prices vary
• Luggage storage – $5 small, $15 large
• ATM access onsite
• Onsite first aid services
• Electric vehicle charging stations
• Recycling services
• Baby changing stations
• Water fountains and water bottle refill stations

Note to nursing mothers: Although the San Diego Zoo & Safari Park do not have dedicated nursing stations for mothers and their children, guests can visit the First Aid station or the Health Services office for access to privacy curtains in a comfortable environment for nursing.

Cheetah Run at the San Diego Safari Park

Knowledge is power when it comes to planning a trip to either the San Diego Zoo or San Diego Safari Park. Visitors heading out for the day are encouraged to plan ahead to make their visit unforgettable. Make sure to follow these simple tips to make your visit to the zoo or safari park unforgettable for all the right reasons.

Both the San Diego Zoo & Safari Park offer downloadable mobile applications for visitors to access park maps, view animal encounter schedules, discover dining options, and more. Their GPS-enabled map makes it easy for park visitors to plan their park route to ensure they don’t miss a single thing on their list.

• Apple iOS app
• Android app

Nothing is worse than getting caught in the rain, and the same goes for visitors heading to the park for the day. One of the best pro tips any traveler can get is to always check the weather before heading out for any activity. Although we can’t control the weather, we can be prepared. In the event of inclement weather, guests should ensure they pack any necessary rain gear to avoid a soggy start to their trip.

Guests visiting either park can purchase advance tickets online to save time when arriving at the park. Online tickets are available through either of the parks’ websites, with convenient mobile downloads available immediately upon purchasing. For an added bonus, guests that purchase tickets online can save $2 per ticket for online orders.

When heading to the park, guests should plan on arriving early for cooler weather and to avoid large crowds. In addition to being one of the least crowded times of day, the animals that call the zoo home are typically more playful during this time, and guests can enjoy plenty of animal activity in the early morning hours.

Whether you’re heading out to the San Diego Safari Park, the San Diego Zoo, or both, one thing’s for certain… you’re sure to have a memorable time. Guests heading out to either one of these two San Diego area attractions can have tons of fun meeting plenty of animals, learning more about conservation, and creating once-in-a-lifetime memories with friends and family.

Related posts:

• San Diego, California – Episode 48
• Travel to San Diego – Episode 494
• Visit the Flower Fields in Carlsbad, California
• Coronado Hotel Restaurants – San Diego

by Carrie Alspaugh

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San Diego Zoo vs. Safari Park - Pros and Cons of Each Park

Balloon Safari Ride inside Safari Park.

San Diego is a desirable vacation destination for many reasons. The weather is excellent year-round, the beaches are pristine, and San Diego is home to two of the most world-famous animal parks.

Both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park are enormous parks filled with a huge variety of rare and endangered wildlife. You can easily spend an entire day exploring each park, which leads to the conundrum of how to decide which park to visit during your trip. Hence this guide!

My husband and I are former San Diego residents, and my entire in-law family still live there. We’ve spent many family vacations exploring both the animal parks with our kids, and we can provide both a local and insider perspective.

In this comprehensive guide you’ll find detailed information about both animal park’s exhibits, top animals to see, location information, baby and kid-friendly pointers, and even what to eat. We’ve left no stone unturned and you can use all these tips to help you make an itinerary decision.

Panoramic aerial views of Safari Park.

Key Stats About the Parks

Which park is bigger.

If you’re just looking at the number of acres, the Safari Park is by far much bigger than the San Diego Zoo. But in reality a huge portion of the land inside the Safari Park is set aside for conservation and very expansive animal enclosures. 

When you’re only considering the actual walkable areas that are open to the public, the Safari Park is still bigger, but only by a little over 10 acres. As you’ll see in this comprehensive guide, the Safari Park has a much more spread out layout and you can expect more walking in between exhibits.

Giraffes viewed from the Africa Tram inside the Safari Park.

Where are the two parks located?

The San Diego Zoo is located in the heart of San Diego in Balboa Park . If you’re staying in popular neighborhoods such as North Park , Hillcrest , Little Italy , Mission Beach or San Diego Old Town , the zoo is less than a 15 drive (assuming no traffic). You wouldn’t have to rent a car during your stay, you could easily take a ride share Uber or Lyft to the zoo.

The Safari Park is located in Escondido , which is much further north and inland than the zoo. You can expect a minimum of a 35 minute drive, and you would definitely want to rent a car for this location.

Lion exhibit inside the Safari Park.

What’s the Weather at Each Park?

Because the San Diego Zoo is located closer to the ocean, the weather is cooler and more mild, especially during the summer months.

The Safari Park is located in Escondido, which is further inland and has hotter summer temperatures. If you’re traveling to San Diego during the peak heat months of July, August and September, be sure to check the weather before heading out to the park. Some days will reach to the very high 90’s and 100’s degrees.

Animal views from the Africa Tram inside the Safari Park.

Which Park Has More Shade on Hot Days?

Not only is the weather at the San Diego Zoo more temperate, but the zoo also has more shaded areas. The Safari Park is more open and sprawling, with less shaded areas. After all, it was meant for wild African animals who can withstand high temperatures!

The Somali Wild Ass viewed from the Africa Tram inside the Safari Park.

Ticket Prices for the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park

Which park entrance fee more expensive.

The ticket prices for both parks are pretty much the same. If you buy ahead of time online you can save a few dollars on the ticket price.

The main difference is that the Safari Park charges a $15 parking fee per vehicle. And there’s no street parking available outside the parking lot because you’re literally in the middle of a vast rural area.

Elephant exhibit inside the Safari Park.

Is it worth it to buy the discounted pass for both parks?

If you are staying in San Diego for several days and are looking for fun things to do, it may be worth it to save on the bundle price of two entrance fees. The two visit pass costs $110, saving you $20 a person because a one-time ticket costs $65.

There’s also an option to purchase a 3 ticket bundle with Sea World for $173, making each ticket around the price of $57 per adult and slightly less per child.

You should definitely allow for an entire day for each park. These amusement and animal parks are very large and it really takes several hours to experience it all.

Animals viewed from the Africa Tram inside the Safari Park.

Do they charge for parking?

As I mentioned above, the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park does not charge for parking, but the Safari Park in Escondido charges $15 per car to park.

How much time should I spend in each park?

According to the official website, they recommend that you allot between 3 - 4 hours for your visit to the Zoo, and 4 - 6 hours for the Safari Park. From my own personal memory from visiting both parks, you will spend more time walking between exhibits at the Safari Park, because the park is more sprawled out, versus the more condensed landscape of the Zoo.

The History Behind the Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park was known as the San Diego Wild Animal Park until 2010. The Safari Park sits on 1,800 acres in San Pasqual Valley area of San Diego, California, near Escondido.

If you just want to see animals up close then definitely the Zoo. I appreciate the Safari Park for its larger habitats and conservation efforts but it's harder to see the animals unless you want to pay a premium price for one of the safari experiences they offer.

Kingfisher inside the Safari Park.

The Difference Between the Animal Enclosures and Exhibits at Each Park

The San Diego Zoo is more like an old-school traditional zoo, with smaller enclosures which allows more up-close viewing of the animals.

The Safari Park offers more of an authentic atmosphere for the animals, especially with the large safari enclosure. You can see the animals walking around freely to the point where you actually feel like you’re on an actually on a safari. The draw back is that you may have minimal viewing of the animals, and in some cases they are completely out of view entirely.

Elephant Odyssey exhibit inside the San Diego Zoo.

Variety of Animals in Each Park

Both parks have the most popular animals such as elephants, lions, tigers and other large mammals.

The San Diego Zoo has a wider range of animal species available for the public to view, but both parks have an excellent range of animals.

If there’s a specific animal you want to see, be sure to check their website or inquire with the help desk to make sure that animal is still available to the public.

The pandas were a very popular attraction at the San Diego Zoo, but sadly they are no longer at the zoo. They have returned home to China.

Colorful lorikeets inside the San Diego Zoo.

Scenic Atmospheres Inside the Parks

When walking through the San Diego Zoo, it feels more like a botanical garden with a wide variety of plant life and canopies of foliage.

The Safari Park has more concrete and walking trails between each exhibit, with less consideration for creating an experience with gardens and plants. Although some exhibits are exceptional, like the bamboo Tiger Trail for example.

Unfortunately the Giant Pandas have left the San Diego Zoo.

Highlights to See at the Safari Park

The Safari Park has several designated areas where visitors can experience unique animal habitats. These include:

African Woods

African Outpost

Elephant Valley

Nairobi Village

Gorilla Forest

Asian Savannah

African Plains

Condor Ridge

Tiger Trail

Safari Tram

The single most popular attraction inside the Safari Park is the Safari Tram. I can best describe this experience just like the movie Jurassic Park where you ride around in an open air tram car and view the animals as they roam around in open field enclosures.

Best part is that the Safari Tram is free and included in the price of your admission ticket.

An insider pro tip for this ride is to go first thing to avoid the lines. Also, the animals are most active in the morning and then to get lazy and lethargic in the afternoon.

Skyfari Aerial Tram inside the Safari Diego Zoo.

Safari Park Tiger Trail

Another very popular attraction at the Safari Park is the Tiger Trail. At this well-designed animal exhibit you can possibly see excellent up-close views of the tigers (depending on where they’re hanging out that day).

In the Tiger Trail there’s a beautiful walkway with extremely tall bamboo plants, which really creates a visitor experience. There’s also a play area for small kids, and if you’re very lucky you can play tug o’ war with a real life tiger on the other side of the glass.

Safari Park Walkabout Australia

Did you ever think you could walk right into an animal enclosure and actually stand face-to-face with real wild animals? Well the Walkabout Australia is a truly unique experience where you literally walk among the kangaroos and wallabies. Think like a petting zoo… without the petting! Lol

Safari Park Cheetah Run

One of the most memorable experiences at the Safari Park is the famous Cheetah Run. Cheetahs are the fastest land animal and watching them dash at high speeds is really a thrill.

The Cheetah Run usually happens around 3:30pm in the afternoon, but you should definitely confirm that with the staff when you arrive. The run is available for everyone to view from afar, but you can also purchase premium viewing seats for an up-close experience.

Safari Park Petting Kraal

The Petting Kraal is located in Nairobi Village is it’s a great opportunity for kids to touch some playful goats and other friendly animals. Young children especially enjoy this experience!

Aerial views of the San Diego Zoo from the Skyfari Aerial Tram.

If you love an inspirational comeback story, then put the Condor Ridge on your must see list. If grew up in California during the 80’s like me, you were probably told that the California Condor would be extinct by the time you reached adulthood. Due to the incredible conservation efforts of wildlife organization California Condor Recovery Program, the California Condor is now thriving in the wild.

At the Condor Ridge exhibit inside the Safari Park, you can see these magnificent birds up close.

Views of the Botanical Building inside Balboa Park from the Skyfari Aerial Tram in the San Diego Zoo.

Views of the California Tower and Dome inside Balboa Park from the Skyfari Aerial Tram in the San Diego Zoo.

Lorikeet Landing

One of my daughter’s favorite memories from the Safari Park is feeding the lorikeets some nectar while they rested on her arm. In this large atrium you can pay a few dollars for little nectar cups. The very outgoing bird residents will come land on your arms and shoulders to drink a sweet snack.

Insider tip - If you’re one of the first visitors of the day to the Lorikeet Landing, these very excited birds will swarm around you and you’ll have several new friends in a matter of seconds!

Giant Anteaters in the San Diego Zoo.

Is it worth it to pay for the Extra Safari Add on Experiences at the Safari Park?

In addition to paying for your admission ticket, you can also add on a premium experience known as a “ Safari .” There’s a wide range of add on excursions available, and they all give you the opportunity to get more up-close with the animals. In some cases you can hand feed the giraffes and rhinos in their enclosures.

These add on experiences don’t come cheap, in fact that they usually cost more than the price of admission (and you still have to pay for your admission ticket). So you’re easily looking at spending over $200 per person.

So, it is worth it? For myself, I think my kids at this point are too young to fully appreciate the value of all the extras. But if you’ve got an older child who’s a big fan of a particular kind of animal, then the extra fees could be worth it for a birthday present or special event. If you’re trying to stay on a budget, steer clear of all the pricey add on fees.

Lions in the San Diego Zoo.

Highlights to See at the San Diego Zoo

As a mentioned above, the San Diego Zoo is more of a typical zoo experience, but is still a truly stellar animal park. The San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals, making it truly a challenge to see them all in one day.

The zoo has created large main areas and themed walking and trails, making it easier to plan your visit and prioritize your favorite animals.

The main San Diego Zoo areas include:

The Lost Forest

Northern Frontier

Asian Passage

Elephant Odyssey

Africa Rocks

Urban Jungle

Discovery Outpost

San Diego Zoo walking trails include:

Aviary Trail

Fern Canyon Trail

Hippo Trail

Monkey Trail

Orangutan Trail

Sun Bear Trail

Top Special Experiences at the San Diego Zoo

Similar to the Safari Park, you can also purchase add-on experiences at the San Diego Zoo to see the animals more up-close. These range from animal encounters with big cats, sloths and behind the scene tours.

Again, these add-ons are not cheap, and often cost more than your entrance fee. I would reserve these for special occasions, unless you just want to splurge.

Which Park Has the Best Food Options?

Similar to all amusement parks, you can expect to pay a premium price for food purchased inside the park. While both parks have overpriced food, the selections are not terrible. You’ll find a variety of food genres including typical American fare, Asian fusion, Tex-Mex and more.

Both parks have options for semi-formal sit down dining, casual dining and to-go food options.

Watering Hole restaurant and bar at the Kijami Overlook in the Safari Park

If you’re celebrating a special event, or you want to enjoy a meal with a view, the Watering Hole Restaurant is a great option. From your table you can see the Kijami Overlook at the Safari Park. You can look down and see a giant savannah with giraffes, rhinos and all kinds of other animals.

Can you bring your own food inside the park?

Yes, you can bring your own food into both parks. If you’re on a budget, have picky eaters, or are concerned about allergies or dietary restrictions, I suggest you pack a lunch and snacks to bring with you for the day.

Which Park Sells Alcohol?

For all the adults out there looking to kick back in the zoo with a brewski, both parks serve craft beer and you can walk around with your drink in hand.

Jaguar in the San Diego Zoo.

Which Park is Better for Families with Babies and Toddlers?

Which park is better for families with young children.

I’ve seen reviews from other parents saying that their kids would get a little bored and tired walking around the expansive Safari Park. The Zoo in Balboa Park is more condensed and you can see the animals more up-close.

That being said, if you have very young babies and toddlers who are likely to be napping, pushing them around the Safari Park in a stroller could be ideal because you have more smooth terrain. Just make sure you’re not going during peak heat times.

Are there Play Areas for Kids?

Both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have designed play areas and climbing structures for kids to enjoy. These areas can help them get their energy out, and maybe get them tuckered out for a stroller or ride home nap.

Which Park is more Stroller-Friendly?

Both parks have smooth paved trails and ramps for strollers. And they both also have single and double strollers for rent.

To be more detailed, the San Diego Zoo has more hills and condensed foot traffic, while Safari Park is flatter and pedestrians have more room for walking.

Tapir in the San Diego Zoo.

More Helpful Information About Both Parks

Could you do both parks in one day.

The answer to this is a big NO! Both parks are huge and require several hours to thoroughly see everything. Plus the fact that they’re far apart and you’d spend a big chunk of time driving back and forth.

Tapir and llama in the San Diego Zoo.

Transportation Options Inside the Parks

The San Diego Zoo has a Guided Bus Tour and the Skyfari Aerial Tram .

The Bus Tour is free with your entrance ticket and it’s a 35 minute round-trip spin through the park. This is a great way to get the lay of the land, and to get off your feet for a bit.

The Skyfari Aerial Tram is also included with your entrance ticket, and it’s another amazing way to kick back for a bit. You will be flying high in sky and seeing panoramic views of Balboa Park and the zoo grounds. I don not recommend this ride for people with fear of heights. Children must be a minimum of 8-years-old.

The Safari Park only has the African tram, and the rest is on foot. You’ll really burn some calories at this park. Wear good walking shoes!

Spotted llama in the San Diego Zoo.

Electronic Scooters for Elderly and Guests with Disabilities

If walking is not an option for someone in your party, you can rent electronic scooters for $60. They are first come, first serve at guest services . If you have your own, you are welcome to bring it into the park.

What Days of the Year are the Parks Open?

Both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are open 365 days a year, including all holidays. Spend Christmas Day with your wildlife friends!

Bear in the San Diego Zoo.

Which park is more crowded?

The San Diego Zoo has always seemed more crowded to me. Both because of the condensed layout, and the fact that it’s located in the city center. The Safari Park is more spacious and gives visitors more space to walk freely.

Are there any shopping areas inside the parks?

Shopping options for necessary provisions is minimal. They have gift shops with your typical touristy toys and bubble wands, but supplies for babies and toddlers is hard to come by. Make sure to bring all your necessities with you and pack a well-stocked diaper bag with extra diapers, wipes, pacifiers, sunscreen, water bottles, etc.

Secretary Bird in the San Diego Zoo.

Which Park Has Reptiles?

My son is a big fan of lizards, snakes and reptiles, probably even more than the big mammals. The San Diego Zoo has the Discovery Outpost Klauber-Shaw Reptile House with a wide variety of reptiles. The Safari Park has little to none selection of reptiles, so keep that in mind.

Tarantula in the San Diego Zoo.

Which park has bugs?

The San Diego Zoo has an Arthropods section, otherwise known as bugs. My kids love to see big tarantulas, butterflies, scorpions, beetles and all kinds of big bugs. These are mostly found at the San Diego Zoo, and not so much the Safari Park.

Antelope inside San Diego Zoo.

Final Thoughts…

Both parks are amazing, but almost all San Diego locals have a favorite one. Depending on your own zoo style and philosophy, there’s a strong case for visiting both (but not on the same day!). Drop a comment below and tell us which is your favorite park and why!

Camel in the San Diego Zoo.

Flamingos in the San Diego Zoo.

In the spirit of adventure and loving seeing animals out in the wild, have you ever considered a luxury safari ? Embarking on a real-life safari promises an unparalleled adventure, where the wilderness becomes your playground and opulence merges seamlessly with nature's grandeur. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves, surrounded by the untamed beauty of the savannah, only to be greeted by the day's first light illuminating a panorama of wildlife.

Africa Rocks exhibit in the San Diego Zoo.

Penguins inside the Africa Rocks exhibit in the San Diego Zoo.

Leopard Sharks inside the Africa Rocks exhibit in the San Diego Zoo.

Tropical Hibiscus flowers inside the San Diego Zoo.

Dwarf Crocodile inside the Africa Rocks exhibit in the San Diego Zoo.

Yellow Crotalus Simus venomous pit viper snake inside the San Diego Zoo.

Blue tree monitor lizard formally known as Varanus macraei inside the San Diego Zoo.

See More San Diego Travel Guides:

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Best Baby and Kid-Friendly Things to Do in San Diego

Hiking Guide to Potato Chip Rock

Instagram Guide to the Carlsbad Flower Fields

The Best Things to Do in North Park, San Diego

Book Your Stay in San Diego:

Andaz Hotel

Enjoy a rooftop pool and skyscraper views during your stay at the Andaz Hotel in Downtown San Diego.

La Valencia Hotel

If you want a true Southern California beach vacation, book a gorgeous room at La Valencia which is just steps from the ocean.

Hotel Del Coronado

Another coveted beachy vacation spot is the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, which is located next to a world-famous beach.

SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER ON PINTEREST:

San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park – What You Need to Know

• In the City / North America

Did you know that San Diego Zoo has two different locations?

Most people who visit San Diego know about  the world-renowned San Diego Zoo , but did you know that they have a second park just 30 miles outside of town called the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (or Wild Animal Park by the locals)?

They opened in 1972 with 1,800 acres of land. Just to give you some reference, that’s equivalent to 180 San Diego Zoos or over 21  Disneylands !

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: April 5, 2024

− − Content Menu

• What’s the Difference Between the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park

The Safari Park Safaris

• Our Experience on the Twilight Wildlife Safari

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Address and Hours

Safari park ticket prices.

• Best Places to Stay in San Diego

Planning Checklist

More resources, what’s the difference between the san diego zoo and the safari park.

Besides the sheer size difference between the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, there are a few other aspects you can compare to help you decide which location you want to visit.

See More: Ultimate San Diego Bucket List – 101 Things to Do in San Diego

The San Diego Zoo is in Balboa Park, right in Downtown San Diego close to other attractions. Because of its central location, it’s easy to get to by car, walking, or public transportation. Parking is also free.

The Safari Park is located north of San Diego in Escondido. Depending on where you’re coming from, it’s anywhere from 40-60 minutes away by car and 2+ hours on public transportation. There is also a parking fee.

Although it covers a smaller footprint, the San Diego Zoo has more animals than the Safari Park, both the number of animals and the number of species.

The San Diego Zoo features animals from Australia, Asia, Africa, and Central and South America, with over 3,700 animals and over 650 species. The Safari Park focuses on animals from arid environments like African and Asian Savannas. They have over 2,600 animals and over 300 species.

The San Diego Zoo is how you would imagine a zoo. You can explore everything independently since most enclosures are generally smaller and made for visitors to see from walking around the zoo.

The Safari Park has larger spaces for the animals giving them more room to roam. When you see the animals here, it almost feels like they are in their natural environment. The safaris are the highlight of this park.

Unlike traditional zoos, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers many unique ways to encounter animals. Although there are exhibits you can walk to, you miss out if you don’t do a safari.

• Butterfly Jungle Safari – learn about the butterfly life cycle and see them in person.
• Wildlife Safari  – covered, open-air safari truck in the expansive habitats.
• Behind-the-Scenes Safari  – learn more about wildlife care and conservation.
• Cart Safaris  – 60-minute guided tour on a deluxe Safari cart.
• Sun Up Cheetah Safari  – early morning guided stroll ending with watching a cheetah run at top speed.
• Ultimate Safari  – a customized tour tailored to your interest.
• Roar and Snore Safari  – sleepover adventure.
• Flightline Safari  – zipline 130 feet above the ground while seeing the savanna and animals below you.

See More: Most Popular Instagram Spots in San Diego

Our Experience on the Caravan Safari Twilight

We decided to do the Caravan Safari Twilight (now the Twilight Wildlife Safari), a 2-hour adventure in a covered, open-air safari truck. Because there isn’t a particular track, they drive through the field enclosures and get you up close and personal with the animals. We even got a chance to feed giraffes AND rhinos!

Local Tip: Have fun!

See More: 25 Free Things to Do in San Diego

The feedings are based on the mood of the animals. They told us it is very rare that the rhinos will come up to you for a feeding, but we were very lucky that they were in the right mood! :)

In addition to creating such a unique experience, the San Diego Zoo is one of the leading organizations in the world when it comes to breeding programs and conservation efforts. The revolutionary idea to even build a space this large was driven by the desire to create habitats that are as realistic as their natural habitats. That includes the amount of space that each animal has!

Did you know that animals in captivity lose a lot of their natural instincts? The San Diego Zoo Safari Park allows them to ensure that those survival skills stay from generation to generation.

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd Escondido CA 92027,  map 760.747.8702

HOURS March 16, 2024 to April 7, 2024 9 AM – 7 PM April 8-22, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM April 23-25, 2024 9 AM – 5 PM April 26, 2024 to May 8, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM May 9, 2024 9 AM – 3 PM May 10-23, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM May 24, 2024 to August 11, 2024 9 AM – 7 PM August 12, 2024 to September 30, 2024 9 AM – 5 PM October 1-31, 2024 9 AM – 6 PM (7 PM on Saturdays and Sundays) November 1-28, 2024 9 AM – 5 PM November 29 to December 1, 2024 9 AM – 8 PM December 2-25, 2024 9 AM – 5 PM (8 PM on Saturdays and Sundays) December 26-31, 2024 9 AM – 8 PM

1-Day Pass – Any Day: Adult $74 ($72 online), Children $64 ($62 online) 1-Day Pass – Value Days: Adult $74 ($68 online), Children $64 ($58 online) 2-Visit Pass (includes both zoos): Adult $124, Children $114 San Diego 3-for-1 Pass (includes both zoos and SeaWorld): Adult $199, Children $189

• Butterfly Jungle Safari ($15pp) – learn about the butterfly life cycle and see them in person.
• Wildlife Safari ($92+pp)  – covered, open-air safari truck in the expansive habitats.
• Behind-the-Scenes Safari ($92+pp)  – learn more about wildlife care and conservation.
• Cart Safaris ($60+pp)  – 60-minute guided tour on a deluxe Safari cart.
• Sun Up Cheetah Safari ($90+pp)  – early morning guided stroll ending with watching a cheetah run at top speed.
• Ultimate Safari ($710+pp)  – a customized tour tailored to your interest.
• Roar and Snore Safari ($160+pp)  – sleepover adventure.
• Flightline Safari ($81+pp)  – zipline 130 f

Local Tip: If you’re doing more than the zoos, check out the Go City attractions pass to save money on a bunch of attractions.

Essential Tips

• There are plenty of food and drink options at the park, but bring a  small backpack  with a  water bottle   (our current favorites) to refill so you can always have water on you.
• The caravan also has a cooler, cups, and cold water.
• Regardless of which safari you go with, give yourself plenty of time to explore the rest of the zoo. We only had about 2 hours and could have used another hour to see everything.
• Carpool  if you’re going with a group to save money on parking.
• Bring a telephoto lens  (for the photographers) to get some great “wildlife” shots. We use a  70-200  for the photos of the animals, and iPhones for the ones of us in it.
• Bring  binoculars  if you have them in case the animals are further away.
• Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen. You need to reapply every 2 hours.

Best Places to Stay

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on San Diego hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a San Diego travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with Go City .
• Los Angeles, San Diego & Southern California Travel Guide
• 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: San Diego

Have you been part of any animal encounter programs? What’s your favorite animal to see at the zoo?

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Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > California Road Trip Itineraries > California Coast > San Diego Travel Guide > A Guide to San Diego Zoo and the Zoo Safari Park

A Guide to San Diego Zoo and the Zoo Safari Park

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San Diego County is home to two parks dedicated to animals – in addition to the famous SeaWorld focused on marine life – and each of them is worth a visit. In this article, I will try to highlight the differences between the San Diego Zoo and the Zoo Safari Park , to help you decide which one you prefer to visit.

How to get to the San Diego Zoo

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The park aims to protect a large number of animal species from all over the world. The revenue generated from admission to the zoo funds research and animal protection projects, including the 22 years of research carried out on the giant panda, the release of specimens of 44 different species into the wild by the zoo, and conservation projects in 45 countries around the world.

If you’re already inside Balboa Park, just follow the signs from each area of the park to walk to the zoo. If you are driving from another area of the city, enter Zoo Dr as your destination in the GPS. The road ends right at the parking lot in front of the park entrance.

Do you intend to get here by   public transportation instead? In that case, you need to get off at the Park Bl & Zoo Pl bus stop, where Buses 7 and 215 arrive. Finally, another alternative is to take advantage of the bike-sharing system in San Diego. One of the stations where you can leave your bikes is right at the entrance to the zoo.

If you want to avoid wasting time or getting lost , go to this website where you will find information about the convenient shuttle service from your hotel to the Zoo.

The zoo is open every day of the year, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm . There are two types of tickets to choose from:

• Day Pass: $58 . Includes admission to the zoo, a guided bus tour, and access to the Kangaroo Express Bus and Skyfari Aerial Tram. For children 3 to 11 years old, admission is $48 .
• Day Pass Plus: $64. In addition to the standard ticket, it also includes an entrance to the 4D Theatre. For children from 3 to 11 years old, admission is $54 .

You can book in advance by clicking on the button below, so you won’t waste time in long lines at the ticket office, since the ticket includes the “skip the line” option.

Zoo Tickets

If you are planning to visit both San Diego Zoo and Zoo Safari Park , you can save money and purchase this combined ticket that is valid for two days.

Zoo + Safari Park Combined Ticket

On this website , you can discover all the animal species in the zoo.

• Guided bus tour . Included in all entrance tickets, this open-top bus runs from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and takes you on a full 35-minute tour of the zoo. Throughout the journey, you can listen to a narrator give information about the zoo.
• Kangaroo Bus . Every day, from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, there is this shuttle that allows you to get on and off at four different stops. The Kangaroo bus runs every 15 minutes and is included in your ticket.
• Skyfari Aerial Tram . The most impressive way to cross the zoo from one end to the other is this cable car, which is an exciting attraction, especially for children.

The San Diego Zoo is so large that if you visit it in general, you might miss out on a lot. There are numerous guided tours that follow specific themes and can help you make the most of your day. Are you an experienced photographer? Don’t miss the sunrise photo tour with a guide who will take your photos in the calm morning before the gates open. At different times throughout the day, there are animal encounters scheduled that allow visitors to approach and pet certain species.

See all the thematic itineraries

In addition to the different themed areas where you can admire the animals in their habitat, you can also watch shows where the animals are the protagonists .

• Wild about animals . Every day at 3:00 pm, at the Wegeforth Bowl, wild animal trainers will surprise you with their demonstrations. Note: At certain times this show is replaced by a simpler presentation of animals at the Centennial Wall, which is right next door.
• Zoolittle Explores Australia . Every Saturday and Sunday, at 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm, the whole family can have fun in the company of the cheerful Dr. Zoolittle and his very nice animals.

Another feature that differentiates the San Diego Zoo from most other zoos is that it has a 4D cinema . The 1-Day Pass Plus gives visitors access to a 4D show. Click here to see what 4D show is being shown right now.

At lunchtime, Albert’s Restaurant is open . Given the size of the park, I personally advise against sitting at a restaurant to eat, because you risk wasting a lot of time. At the zoo, you will find many other places where you can have pizza, sandwiches, fried food, and all sorts of fast food . On this website , you will find all the places to eat in the park.

Balboa Park , where the San Diego Zoo is located, is one of the most beautiful areas of the city and it may be worth it to spend the night in the area, especially if you are planning to visit the zoo. That way you can enter the park early in the morning and not waste too much time at the ticket office and you will beat the crowds. Click on the following link to read out tips for finding accommodations in the best areas of San Diego, including Balboa Park.

Our tips for finding accommodations in San Diego and near the zoo

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

You can also get there by public transportation, but you’ll have to take into account that it will take longer to get there. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to get there by bus , because in addition to the distance you need to change buses. The fastest way is to take Bus 235 at any stop along Broadway to Escondido Transit Center. From here, take Bus 371 to the Hwy 78 & Wap Outside Gate stop.  You will then walk for 15 minutes to reach the park.

In case you do not have a car and do not want to spend half of the day by bus, you could consider this round-trip transportation  from your hotel directly to the park.

Alternatively, it may be convenient for you to buy your ticket that includes both transportation from the hotel and admission to the Zoo Safari Park.

Ticket + Transportation from San Diego to the Zoo Safari Park

The zoo is open every day of the year, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm . The day pass costs $58 and includes admission to Safari Park, the Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, and all shows. For children from 3 to 11 years old, admission is $48 .

You can book in advance the “skip the line” pass by clicking on the button below, so you don’t waste time in long lines at the ticket office.

Discover the cheapest tickets for the Zoo Safari Park

If you are planning to visit both San Diego Zoo and Zoo Safari Park , you can save money by purchasing this combined ticket valid for two days.

Buy the Zoo + Safari Park combined ticket

Some areas of the Safari Park are dedicated to other areas of the world, in particular Australia and Asia . On this website , you can download the map of the park to get a precise idea of how it is structured and where there is to see.

Every day, at various times, Nairobi Station hosts close encounters with different species ranging from the cute goats that you can pet to the parrots that will come to eat from your hands. On this website , you can see all the animals.

There are also multiple shows to see animals perform. The protagonists are usually the birds of prey that perform incredible aerial acrobatics. To learn more about the shows, go to this website .

The Cheetah Run is also included in the admission. Have you ever seen a cheetah hunting its prey? In this case, there won’t be bloodshed in front of your eyes (you will see him chasing a puppet), but you will be able to admire how fast this feline can run.

• Africa Tram . Included in the ticket, this train is active every day starting at 10:00 am. It travels across some of the main areas of the park.
• Cart Safari ($53) . This is a guided tour that lasts 1 hour and you can choose between the Africa or Asia sections. This customized safari enters areas that are normally not accessible to the public so visitors on the tour can see the animals more closely.
• Caravan Safari ($121) . During the 2-hour safari on an off-road vehicle, you will get closer to the animals and have incredible experiences, such as feeding giraffes.
• Behind the scene ($87) . This is a series of guided tours, usually of 90 minutes, to see some specific animals up close and discover more about them.

There are also other types of safari, which you can find on this website .

My advice is to take a look at the descriptions of the dining options before your visit, so you can plan on where to stop and eat a quick bite. Otherwise, you might be forced to find a table at a restaurant, which is not the fastest option.

The park is located on the outskirts of Escondido . Since Escondido is so close, staying overnight here will save you time on the day you visit the Zoo Safari Park. It’s also a great solution if you’re planning a road trip that includes other interesting stops in Southern California , such as the fascinating Anza-Borrego State Park we’ve already talked about in our California deserts guide .

Find a hotel in Escondido

If you are looking for accommodations in San Diego and you are not sure which neighborhood to choose, you can have a look at our article with specific recommendations for each neighborhood in San Diego.

Our tips for finding accommodations in San Diego

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Andrea Cuminatto

Journalist and traveler. I love seeing new places, but more than anything, I love to meet those who live there.

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Attraction Guide: San Diego Zoo Vs. Safari Park

Today we will compare the San Diego Zoo vs. the Safari Park , so you can help narrow down which zoo is right for you! Both world-class zoos offer something for everyone, with an impressive array of animals and experiences for every traveler. Rental With A View is here to help you plan the perfect San Diego vacation with our properties throughout Little Italy, Mission Hills, and Banker’s Hill. Read on to discover which zoo you should put on your vacation itinerary today!

San Diego Zoo VS. Safari Park: What’s the Difference?

Both destinations offer a great addition to your getaway; here are a few of the significant differences between the San Diego Zoo VS the Safari Park:

• The San Diego Zoo is around 100 acres, while the Safari Park is about 1,800 acres.
• The zoo features animals from around the world, and the Safari Park is primarily home to African and Asian animals. 
• The zoo is located in Balboa Park, and the Safari Park is in Escondido.

What’s Included at San Diego Zoo?

See more than 12,000 rare and endangered animals at the San Diego Zoo . Discover all the wildlife you can see during your visit, including koalas, polar bears, apes, elephants, tigers, giraffes, and much more! Here are the other activities available with your general admission ticket:

• Botanical Tours
• Guided Bus Tour
• Wildlife Care Specialist Talks
• Wildlife Presentations
• Kangaroo Bus
• Skyfari Aerial Tram

Add-On Experiences

If you want to learn more about particular wildlife at the zoo, you can add a special experience to your trip, like the Crazy About Cats experience, to get an up-close look at the zoo’s most iconic cats!

What’s Included at the Safari Park?

The Safari Park is home to 3,600 animals in expansive savanna habitats. Famous wildlife includes rhinos, camels, elephants, giraffes, lions, kangaroos, fruit bats, and tigers. Here are other activities included with your ticket: 

• Africa Tram
• Petting Kraal

If you are interested in up close and personal adventures, we recommend purchasing one of their safaris for an additional fee. These experiences include knowledgeable guides who will share stories of plants and animals in the park. 

San Diego Vacation Rentals with a View

Now that you have more information about the San Diego Zoo VS the Safari Park, you may wonder where to stay during your visit. Rental With A View have you covered with our stress-free guarantee when booking with us! Browse our luxury vacation rentals in San Diego and plan your escape to America’s Finest City today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wildlife Safari Tour

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

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

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

Wildlife Safari

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

Twilight Wildlife Safari

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

Deluxe Safari

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

Combine A Truck Safari with a Zipline Experience

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

Wildlife Safari Tips

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

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

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

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

RESTRICTIONS

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

CANCELLATIONS

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

Sun-Up Cheetah Safari Tour

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

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

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

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

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

Cart Safari Tour

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

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

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

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

Flightline safari.

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

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

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

Deluxe Flightline Safari

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

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

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

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

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

Behind the Scenes Safari Tour

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

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

There are three Behind the Scenes Safari Tour s:

Elephants & Friends

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

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

Rhinos & Friends

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

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

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

Roar & Snore Safari Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are 3 different tent options:

Classic tent.

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

Premium Tent

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

There are 5 different Roar & Snore Safari options:

All-Ages Roar and Snore

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

Adults-Only Roar and Snore

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

Girl Scouts Roar and Snore

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

School Nights Roar and Snore

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

Supreme Roar and Snore

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

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

Ultimate Safari Tour

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

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

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

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

Price: Varies depending upon day and seasonality

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

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

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

Balloon Safari

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

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

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

Ages restrictions:   All ages. 

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

Africa Tram Tour

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

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

Duration: 25 – 30 minutes.

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

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

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

7 Tips for Better Safari Tours

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

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

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

Closing Thoughts

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

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

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

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

Nancy Ulrich

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

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Get ready for an experience you’ll always remember!

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

Butterfly Jungle Safari

• $15 per person

Visit Butterfly Jungle in an all new way! Learn about the butterfly life cycle on your way into the Hidden Jungle aviary, then become immersed in the wonder of colorful, fluttering butterflies.

Wildlife Safari

• Ages 3 & up
• $92 & up per person

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

Behind-the-Scenes Safari

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

Cart Safaris

• $60 & up per person

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

Sun Up Cheetah Safari

• $90 & up per person

Come join us at the Safari Park to see what happens before we open our gates to visitors, including watching a cheetah run at top speed!  

Ultimate Safari

• $710 & up per person

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

Roar & Snore Safaris

• $160 & up per person

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

Flightline Safari

• Ages 8 & up
• $81 & up per person

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

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park; Choosing a Safari - San Diego Forum

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park; Choosing a Safari

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My husband and I want to book on of the Safari tours; hoping to get close up to th animals and also get on and off the cart. I have narrowed it down to these tours but can't quite decide which is the best option. Wildlife SafariDeluxe, Behind the scenes safari deluxe, or Cart Safari Deluxe.

Any insight into the differences would be helpful! Thank you!

There are two main enclosures at the Safari Park, one represents Africa and the other Asia. The Wildlife Safari takes you into these enclosures on a truck, so you get very close to the animals, but you cannot get off.

The Cart Safari goes around the outside of the enclosures and they stop the cart so you can get off and stand near the fence to take photos of the animals on the other side. You may not be that close to the animals unless they choose to approach the fence.

The Behind the Scenes safari goes into the animal care areas and shows you the kitchens and indoor areas for whichever species. How close you get to which animals depends on which tour you choose. We once got to feed an okapi, and we have been in the lions' den area (while the lions were outside) and to the old tiger exhibit (tigers were about 5 feet away on the other side of a fence).

My preference would either be the Wildlife Safari or one of the Behind the Scenes safaris that takes you into one of the main enclosures in addition to the animal care areas. I would not do the Cart Safari because it's so similar to the tram tour that's included in your ticket.

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