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  San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions. Conservation is at the heart of everything we do. And it starts with that connection we make with people and wildlife every day. Because when wildlife thrives, all life thrives. Play this video and learn more about San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

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A world of fun and facts for wildlife explorers and teachers awaits on San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers. There are great reading options for both youths and adults in the works of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Press, and many opportunities to explore interactive web-based training courses on Academy. Our Education programs offer a wide range of wildlife experiences, from amazing Summer Camps to learning adventures for all ages—and anyone with a computer or smartphone can join us to make a difference in ongoing conservation work through our Community Science programs.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

16 Essential Tips For Your First Visit At The San Diego Zoo

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Koalas and Komodos. Camels and condors. Rhinos and reindeer. The list of animals at the San Diego Zoo is long, and for most people, it takes more than a day to see them all. From elephants to invertebrates, the zoo is home to more than 12,000 creatures spread across a 100-acre park. Miles of paved paths and roads criss-cross the zoo, wandering through areas representing habitats from tropical rainforests to the Arctic. 

That’s actually part of the fun. “If you go see the tigers, you feel like you’re walking through a trail in Africa,” said Zoo Ambassador Rick Schwartz. “If you go see the polar bears, you feel like you’re in the Arctic.”

With so much to see and ground to cover, how do you make the most of your visit? We talked with Schwartz to find out the answers. Here is his advice, plus other tips and tricks to make your trip to the San Diego Zoo a roaring success.

Note: The San Diego Zoo generously hosted my visit. All opinions are my own. 

1. Download The App

Before you visit the zoo, the first thing to do is download the San Diego Zoo app (found on the App Store and Google Play ) to your smartphone, Schwartz advised. That’s where you’ll find the most up-to-date information on hours, admission prices, and special events, such as wildlife care specialist talks. You can also go to the zoo website .

The app has a bonus: You can find your favorite animals (just tap on the map in the background) and save them (tap the plus sign in the upper right) to your planner (the clipboard icon at the bottom of the screen). Each animal page will also alert you to wildlife care specialist talks, if there is one. Paper maps are available just inside the admission gate. 

2. Plan To See Your Favorite Animals

With so many exotic animals to see, it’s helpful to set priorities. Make a plan for visiting your favorite animals and new areas of the zoo, such as the immersive Wildlife Explorers Basecamp. The planner in the app can record your must-see animals and offer information about them. The app and the zoo map (found in printable PDF form ) can show you where they are located. 

Check to see if there are any wildlife care specialist talks . Look out for for special talks and up-close experiences, which are available for an additional fee. 

“If you don’t have a favorite, take the bus tour and see what strikes your fancy,” Schwartz recommends. 

3. Strategize Your Route 

Now that you know what animals you don’t want to miss, it’s time to strategize your route to make the most of your time and minimize tiring uphill hikes. With the animals’ locations marked on the zoo map, you can plan your day to reduce the distances and uphills you’ll walk as you go from one section of the park to another. 

You can also use the map to spot stairs, the aerial tram route, the Kangaroo Bus stops, and the elevators that will be key to navigating the park. Unlimited use of these is included in the admission price. 

You’ll find the elevators at the Treetops complex, the end of the Bashor Bridge, and where the Monkey Trail and Tiger Trail meet. The double-decker Kangaroo bus stops are also marked on the map. It’s not easy to spot the hills on the map, but the tram, bus, and elevators allow you to avoid most uphill treks. For more help planning a route, stop by the information booth on Front Street. 

4. Wear Good Walking Shoes

Even with the aerial tram and the in-park shuttle bus, seeing the animals is still going to take some walking. “My number one tip is to wear comfortable shoes,” Schwartz said. “The biggest mistake is wearing beach sandals because you’re planning on going to the beach later.” 

5. Use Sun Protection

“The other [big mistake] is not putting on sunscreen,” Schwartz said. San Diego’s mild weather doesn’t feel too hot, but a day in the sun will nonetheless leave you red as a lobster. Shops along Front Street, just inside the gate, sell a variety of sunhats, sunglasses, and sunscreen if you don’t bring your own.

6. Rent Some Wheels

Wheelchairs, strollers, and motorized scooters are all available on Front Street, to the left of the entrance gate. They are available on a first come, first served basis. An ADA shuttle is also available for guests with mobility challenges. More information about San Diego Zoo services can be found at the website or the information booth (to the right of the entrance, near the bus tours sign). Guided cart tours are also available for a fee.

7. Lighten Your Load

You don’t have to haul your lunch, coats, luggage, and other items around with you all day. Lockers are on Front Street to the left of the entrance; if they are out of order, the stroller rental counter can store your items for a fee. Be aware that there aren’t any dog kennels, and the zoo has a strict no-dog policy. Only trained guide dogs are allowed in the park. 

8. Buy Tickets In Advance

The great advantage of buying tickets in advance is that you get to skip the line and go straight into the zoo. You can buy tickets online for a single day at the zoo, multiple days, or both the zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The zoo also offers the San Diego 3-for-1 Pass, which includes the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, and SeaWorld San Diego. 

9. Save On Admission

The zoo’s San Diego 3-for-1 Pass isn’t the only pass that offers savings on admission by combining the zoo with other attractions. A few to check out: San Diego CityPASS , Go San Diego Pass, and the Go City All-Inclusive Pass . You must buy tickets at the gate and show appropriate identification to receive the veterans’ or AAA membership discount on admission. The San Diego Zoo does not offer reciprocity for members of other zoos.

10. Get There Early

Getting to the zoo as soon as it opens has several advantages: easier parking, shorter lines, and cooler temperatures. It also makes it easier to rent a wheelchair or motorized scooter. But the main reason to go early is that the animals are most active in the mornings and evenings. 

11. Remember Where You Parked Your Car

It’s a big parking lot. Take note (or a photo) of the row you parked in so when you’re tired after a long day exploring, you don’t have to work too hard to remember where you left the car — especially a rental car that you’re unlikely to recognize anyway. 

12. Take The Free Bus Tour

The free 30-minute bus tour (to the right of the entrance) is a great way to get an overall view of the park, to see what areas you might want to explore later. It’s not a hop-on-and-off bus; that’s the Kangaroo Bus, which is also free. Try to sit on the right side of the bus; the polar bears are on the left, but most other animals are on the right. 

13. Read The Menus

The zoo has 20 venues with food and drinks — including wine and beer — though they may not all be open when you visit. Read through the menus online before you go and decide on a few lunch options, so when hunger strikes you know where to go. If you want to enjoy fine dining at Albert’s, it never hurts to make reservations. 

14. Bring Your Own Lunch And Snacks

You can bring your own lunches, snacks, and drinks to the zoo. This can be especially helpful if you have allergies or special dietary needs. Lunch bags can be stored in lockers or checked at the stroller rental counter (for a fee) if you don’t want to carry them all day. Leave the large coolers at home.  

15. Reserve A Special Experience

For a truly memorable day, reserve one of the up-close or behind-the-scenes experiences at the zoo. Spend the morning with cheetahs, learn more about other cats, or get a unique view of the animals at the zoo with 90-minute Inside Look tours. Reserve these special experiences in advance. The cost of tours and experiences varies. 

16. Make A Day Of It

Schwartz’s final piece of advice? Bring the whole family, and take your time exploring the zoo. “It’s one of the things we can all do it together. That’s one of the great things about it,” he said. “Plan to spend a whole day to really enjoy it.”

Can’t get enough San Diego? Here’s more to make your visit to America’s Finest City a success:

• 12 Sensational San Diego Vacation Rentals For Your Next Stay In Sunny SoCal
• 6 Gorgeous Beach Hotels To Stay At In San Diego
• My 7 Favorite Breweries In The Craft Beer Capital Of The U.S.
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June Russell-Chamberlin is an Oregon-based travel writer and photographer who caught the travel and adventure bug early in life. A journalist for more than 25 years, today she turns her curiosity and knack for wandering off the beaten path into stories about the Pacific Northwest and the world. She is a member of the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association and the International Travel Writers and Photographer’s Association. Learn more about June on her website .

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Jambo a safari adventure in san diego.

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

Neighborhood: North Inland

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd Escondido, CA 92027-9614

Contact Info

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

Please check our website for current hours.

More To Know:

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

Special Events:

• Marvel at eagles, owls and an Andean condor at Frequent Flyers
• Visit the World Gardens to see amazing and rare plants
• Autumn Festival On The Weekends From 10/7 -10/29
• Kids Free month with free admission for kids 11 and younger during October

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

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These are the 10 best things to do in San Diego, according to a local

These are the can't-miss activities for your san diego trip.

Perfect weather, beautiful beaches, and endless adventure – that’s the essence of San Diego. This Southern California city has long been a favorite destination for travelers who are looking for a taste of the laidback West Coast lifestyle. And for those looking to explore the city, we put together a list of the best things to do in San Diego , according to a local.

1. See the Carlsbad Flower Fields

2. take a trip to the del mar horse races, 3. explore balboa park, 4. check out the san diego zoo, 4. visit the iconic top gun house in oceanside, 6. indulge in a wine country day trip, 7. hike torrey pines state natural reserve, 8. catch a padres game at petco park, 9. discover la jolla cove, 10. stroll through seaport village.

Spring in San Diego just wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the beautiful Carlsbad Flower Fields. This attraction spans nearly 50 acres and features a stunning display of ranunculus flowers blanketing the rolling hills in a rainbow of colors. It’s a photographer’s dream come true! The blooming season typically runs from early March through early May, so plan your visit accordingly.

The legendary Del Mar Racetrack, a premier venue for thoroughbred horse racing, never fails to offer an adventurous day. There’s nothing quite like dressing up to the nines, sipping on cocktails, placing bets, and soaking in the electric atmosphere as the horses thunder by. If you’re planning a visit, the summer racing season kicks off in mid-July and runs through early September, while the fall season takes place in November. 

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Balboa Park is a cultural oasis in the heart of San Diego, boasting 18 museums, stunning gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. You could easily spend an entire day (or more!) wandering through the lush landscapes, marveling at the Spanish Renaissance-style architecture, and immersing yourself in the diverse exhibits. From the Museum of Us to the Air and Space Museum, there really is something to pique every interest.

While you’re near Balboa Park, take a visit to the San Diego Zoo . Renowned for its innovative animal habitats and commitment to conservation, the San Diego Zoo is a must-visit destination. Prepare to come face-to-face with over 12,000 rare and endangered animals representing more than 680 species. You can expect to see cheetahs, elephants, grizzly bears, giraffes, koalas, lions, penguins, and so much more!

For fans of the classic film Top Gun, a visit to the iconic blue house known as “Charlie’s house” is a nostalgic experience. Located right across from the pier in Oceanside, the house has been converted into a charming pie shop called The High Pie. Channel your inner fighter pilot, grab a slice of apple pie, and snap a photo in front of the recognizable exterior. Then, walk down the Oceanside Pier and take in the salty ocean air.

Who can resist the call of delicious wine and the chance to wander through wineries nestled amidst rolling hills and sprawling vineyards? San Diego County is home to several award-winning wineries, making it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts. Take a day trip to the Fallbrook area and explore wineries like Monserate Winery and Fallbrook Winery. Sip on locally produced wines while taking in the stunning vineyard views and relaxing ambiance.

Nature lovers will be in awe of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which offers breathtaking views and hiking trails that overlook the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual stroller, the hike caters to all skill levels and provides opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.

Is there anything more American than catching a baseball game on a sunny afternoon? Petco Park in downtown San Diego provides the perfect setting with its views of the city skyline and typically great weather. Arrive early, grab a hot dog and a beer, and soak in the energy before the first pitch.

If you’re craving a full day of beach therapy, head to La Jolla Cove to watch the sea lions work on their tans. These playful marine mammals love lounging on the cove’s rocky shores and putting on a show for visitors. It’s easily one of the most picturesque spots in San Diego. Afterward, take your pick of delicious restaurants just walking distance from the ocean. 

Seaport Village is a charming waterfront area perfect for a relaxing stroll. You’ll find eclectic shops, restaurants with patios overlooking the ocean, street performers, and that classic Southern California energy. With its proximity to the ocean and the San Diego International Airport, a trip to Seaport Village can make for an awesome start or end to your San Diego adventures.

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Iceland is one of the most fascinating countries in the world: an oversized island of fire and ice between North America and mainland Europe in the North Atlantic. While this island is somewhat larger than Ireland, Iceland is the most sparsely populated country in Europe, which means Iceland abounds in open spaces and natural wonders. And with Reykjavík as its cultural center, Iceland touts additional great lures, from a thriving art and music scene to intriguing cuisine and colorful architecture.

One of the country's greatest features has to do with its positioning. Being so far north, Iceland is treated to wildly long days right around the summer solstice. The weather tends to be cool and wet, but it's compensated for by the hyper-extended days. During June, the sun there tends to set around 23:00 (or 11 p.m.) and come up around 4:00 (or 4 a.m.). It's prime time to cross things off your Nordic bucket list, like driving around the whole country via the gorgeous Ring Road or trekking up north to dip in the restorative waters of Mývatn. But when is the best time to visit Iceland? Keep reading and we'll give you a guide. What happens in a year in Iceland?

In a recent report by Kayak, Seattle has emerged as the top summer travel destination in the United States, based on an analysis of flight search data for dates between May 24 and September 3. This vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest has captured the attention of travelers everywhere, outpacing other popular locales in search volume. 

Despite the average cost of summer tickets to Seattle being $455, making it the second most expensive destination after Honolulu, Hawaii, Seattle’s popularity is unaffected. From its breathtaking natural landscapes to its fun urban attractions, here are four reasons why Seattle has become the country’s number one summer travel destination. 1. Gorgeous natural scenery

DeltaPark Vitalresort, Switzerland DeltaPark Vitalresort

Getting a full night’s sleep leaves you feeling renewed and ready. With your batteries charged, you can focus, thrive, and make the most of your day. But the opposite’s true when you don’t get adequate rest.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Insider Tips from a Local

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

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

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

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

Timing Your Visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Wear for the Safari Park

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

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

What to Pack for Your Visit

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

Use a Light Backpack

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

Take a Re-useable Water Bottle

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

Bring Your Own Snacks and Meals

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take Binoculars

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

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

Start Your Visit with the Africa Tram

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

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

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

Must-See Animals and Exhibits

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

Walkabout Australia

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

Tiger Trail

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

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

World Gardens and Condor Ridge

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

African Outpost

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

Dining at the Safari Park

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

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

Take a Safari Tour- Add-On Experiences

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

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

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

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

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

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

Last Updated on May 30, 2024 by Maria Haase

The post San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Insider Tips from a Local appeared first on San Diego Explorer .

In Your Neighborhood

San diego zoo's panda plans reveal details about their impending arrival, yun chuan and xin bao could arrive at the world-famous san diego zoo as soon as next month, by christina bravo and eric s. page • published may 24, 2024 • updated on may 24, 2024 at 3:46 pm.

While officials have remained relatively quiet regarding the imminent arrival of San Diego's black-and-white visitors from China, an application submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has revealed details ahead of the pandas long-term visit to the zoo.

In the San Diego Zoo's official request with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the park said it expected to have the renovated panda habitat ready for use by June, which could mean the pandas would arrive soon after that time.

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The old exhibit, which was split into two sections, will be combined into a single habitat to give the bears more room to roam. An adjacent enclosure will also be retrofitted to allow for the expansion and more viewing space for guests. Though only two are planned for now, the enlarged exhibit has the capacity for four bears.

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And if the pandas arrive early, there are contingency plans for the bears, including having them possibly occupy the Andes bear exhibit on Upper Center Street temporarily.

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Also in the request: If a cub is born, it would stay in San Diego at least until it's 2 years old, but no longer than four years from its birth before being sent to China. Although the duration might be different, this was the same practice in place the zoo had in the past, since the animals are the property of China and are on loan to San Diego.

The request also offers a look behind the curtain at the proposed habitat, breeding plans -- which could start in the next two to three years -- the Chinese zoos where the pandas are coming from and more.

A period of public comment is open until Tuesday regarding the zoo's plan. Of the 5 comments so far, all but one were supportive, including an endorsement from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Click here to be a part of the dialogue.

MEET SAN DIEGO'S PANDAS

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance said its caretakers visited China in April to meet the giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, ahead of their planned trip to Southern California. An exact date for the handoff hasn't been set.

Yun Chuan, a mild-mannered male who's nearly 5 years old, has “deep connections” to California, the wildlife alliance said. His mother, Zhen Zhen, was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007 to parents Bai Yun and Gao Gao.

Xin Bao is a nearly 4-year-old female described as “a gentle and witty introvert with a sweet round face and big ears.”

“Our conservation partners in China shared photographs and personality traits of Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, but meeting them in person was so special," said Dr. Megan Owen, the alliance's vice president of conservation science. “It’s inspiring as people from around the world come together to conserve, protect, and care for these special bears, and we can’t wait to welcome them to San Diego.”

A first look at the two giant pandas to be cared for by @SanDiegoZoo : Yun Chuan and Xin Bao. They will become San Diego’s newest residents soon! With them comes great joy and the opportunity to learn once again. https://t.co/I2VJa2f4Ho pic.twitter.com/0dxV6wLB0Y — San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria (@MayorToddGloria) April 29, 2024

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has a nearly 30-year partnership with leading conservation institutions in China focused on protecting and recovering giant pandas and the bamboo forests they depend on.

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Let us answer your questions and help create your day at the Safari Park!  Search our extensive FAQ, or chat with our 24-hour virtual assistant.  

Safari Park Hours

Directions & Parking

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

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

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

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

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

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

San Diego Zoo Safari Park App

Apple iOS download here. Android download here.

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

Safari Park Map

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

Download the PDF here

Guest Services

Our Guest Services office is located at Park Base.

Open daily to closing.

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

Guests with Disabilities

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

For full guest disability services and policies,  click here.

Click here to download our Accessibility Map (PDF)

San Diego Zoo

2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

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

Purchase a two-park pass here

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San Antonio Zoo opens new dinosaur-themed adventure park

The park takes over the zoo from may 25 until sept. 2.

Spencer Heath , Digital Journalist

SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Zoo has announced the opening of a new park with 18 larger-than-life dinosaurs, according to a press release.

‘Dino Adventure Park, Presented by Bank of Texas, ' will take over the zoo from May 25 until Sept. 2.

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The release said attendees can explore an ancient world with Tyrannosauruses, Mighty Triceratops, and even Velociraptors.

“Get ready to roar with excitement as we bring the wonders of the prehistoric era to life right here in San Antonio with Dino Adventure Park, Presented by Bank of Texas,” said Tim Morrow, President & CEO of SA Zoo.

Additionally, the park will offer a variety of engaging activities, including the opportunity to indulge in dinosaur-themed food and drinks and to be fascinated by 4-D shows.

Dinosaur George is scheduled to make a special guest appearance at the park on the following dates:

• Aug. 17 – 18

For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

Copyright 2024 by KSAT - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Spencer heath.

Spencer Heath is a Digital Journalist at KSAT. Spencer graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied Radio-Television-Film. He’s worked as a journalist in San Antonio since June of 2022. Outside the newsroom, he enjoys watching movies and spending time with family.

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Botanical Tours

Take a self-guided tour of our gardens and plant collections.

Guided Bus Tour

Join us for a narrated, round-trip 35-minute adventure through Zoo grounds!

Discover a variety of fun places for younger guests to play and explore.

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Kangaroo Bus

Hop on and off at four stops around Zoo grounds!

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The Balboa Park Railroad takes a four-minute, half-mile loop through four acres of Balboa Park.

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