video of san diego safari park

Panda Ridge Now Open

• Help Center
• Plan Your Visit
• Places To Stay
• Upgraded Experiences
• Youth Programs
• Student & Youth Groups
• Events & Catering
• Live Cameras
• Our Mission

Cams at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and San Diego Zoo.

*Wildlife may not be visible on the cam if they are in their bedrooms or out of camera frame.

Penguin Cam

Platypus Cam

Giraffe Cam

Burrowing Owl Cams

Red Panda Cam

Elephant Cam

PREFERRED HOTELS

Come Travel with Us!

JOIN THE PANDA-MONIUM

• Meeting Planners
• Meet the Team
• Services & Resources
• Service Providers
• Hotel & Venue Search
• Convention Center
• Travel Trade
• San Diego Specialist
• Trade Offers
• Request Images
• Hosting Assistance
• Press Releases

• Things to Do >
• Attractions >

10 Wild Adventures at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Discover wide-open wonder.

If you’re looking for the ultimate animal experience, then check out the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. You’ll find tours that take you through beautiful habitats, guides who can introduce you to the animals, and even adrenaline-filled excursions. It’s all about getting acquainted with your wild side. Check out these 10 adventures at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Wildlife Safari

Venture into one of the expansive savanna habitats to get an up-close view of a variety of birds and mammals—including some of park's newest babies! You'll travel in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck, with an expert guide.

Behind-the-Scenes Safari

Get a special sneak peek into the secret lives of your favorite wildlife alongside the specialists who care for them, while exploring otherwise off-limits areas with a knowledgeable guide. Enjoy private viewing areas in the "Elephant and Friends" or "Rhino and Friends" behind-the-scenes safaris!

Jungle Ropes Safari  

Get your Tarzan on with this fun and daring challenge. Test your skills as you navigate rope bridges, aerial tightropes, swinging log steps and moving platforms. Swing, climb, balance and hold on, as you experience life in the treetops.

Flightline Safari  

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has many wonderful winged animals, but on the Flightline Safari, YOU are the one flying. Soar 130 feet above the ground on a zip line that gives you a bird’s-eye view of rhinos, giraffes and other wildlife.

Cheetah Safari  

Witness the fastest land mammal up close, doing what it does best: running! The spotted sprinter races on a straight 330-foot-long track that allows the cheetah to stretch its legs and reach an astounding speed: 0 to 70 miles per hour in just 4 seconds!

Lion Camp  

There’s no animal quite like the king of the jungle. Watch as these lions go through their natural behaviors, romping in the grass, exploring the rocks and resting in the cool shade. Come right up to the large glass panels for some eye-to-eye moments with these majestic animals.

Walkabout Australia  

Take a trip Down Under! Follow the eucalyptus-lined path as you walk among kangaroos and wallabies. You'll also see the large, eye-catching cassowary and the unique and rarely seen platypus.

Tiger Trail  

Follow the Tiger Trail and find yourself deep within the forests of Sumatra, where you’ll encounter the stunning Sumatran tigers. Learn all about these giant cats and watch as they saunter around their habitat—which includes a cooling waterfall.

Africa Tram  

All aboard! This open-air expedition brings you closer to a wide variety of animals throughout the expansive African Plains. Rest your legs as you cover some serious ground and see some amazing animals.

Elephant Valley  

Who isn’t awestruck when watching elephants? Observe these gentle giants (and two adorable youngsters!) lumbering around, eating and playing in their two large habitat areas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Find a place to stay

Related articles and features, san diego's 59-mile scenic drive.

Encompassing a good portion of the city's most outstanding attractions, taking San Diego's 59-mile scenic drive is a beautiful way to spend a day.

Explore 13 Kid-Pleasing Neighborhoods

In San Diego, it’s easy to find surefire kid-favorite neighborhoods, each with its own unique spirit, where families can learn and explore together. From tots to tweens to teens, discover the top family experiences in each of them.

Top Camping Spots for Families in San Diego

From sleeping to the sound of crashing waves to laying in a range of lions, here are some of the top places for families to camp in San Diego.

Awesome Attractions for the Whole Family

San Diego is well-known for world-class attractions that are a haven for younger kids and teenagers, who might even be surprised by how much they can crank up the fun.

Deals just for you

Pet getaway.

Welcome to Hotel InDogGo. This pawrfect package includes a welcome treat dog bed bowl and parking for the parents. Must bring your own pet to qualify for this deal. We will ask the pet to verify your...

Pet-Friendly Package

YOUR PUP DESERVES A VACATION TOO!  Treat your four-legged family members to extra-special pet perks at the Days Inn during your next getaway. Your pup has been used to having you...

Traveling Nurses Special

Rock your scrubs with San Diego RV Resort's Traveling Nurses Special. Enjoy our unbeatable extended stay rates while you rest, relax, and rejuvenate. Guests must provide a valid ID/credentials ...

Events to check out

Usa ultimate national championships.

The USA Ultimate National Championships represent the pinnacle of elite ultimate in North America and crowns champions in three divisions: men’s, mixed and women’s. 

Del Mar Wine + Food Festival

Located in one of Southern California’s most iconic beach communities and travel destinations, the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival boasts six days of jam-packed unique culinary experiences...

Fleet Week San Diego 2024

Experience one of San Diego’s largest Military events featuring Military Displays, High Tech equipment in the Innovation Zone, Active Navy & Coast Guard Ship Tours, Live Music, Food, and Fun...

Sharing is caring

Like what you see? Share with your friends, family, and the world!

Stay in touch

Sign up to receive the latest news, events, and updates about San Diego. Our monthly and weekly newsletters will keep you informed about the latest and greatest happenings in the destination.

• Things to Do
• Downtown & Urban
• Inland Valley, Mountain & Desert
• Baja California
• Neighborhood Maps
• Getting Around
• Travel Guides & Apps
• Family Travel
• International Travelers
• Destination Weddings
• Visitor Information & Services
• Hotels & Resorts
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Camping & RV Parks
• Vacation Rentals
• Other Accommodations

English | Change Language

Select your country or region

Or use google translate.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park – What You’ll Want to Do & See – 2024

How to do San Diego Safari Park from Africa Tram to zebras. Here’s a gorilla-sized tips guide to animal exhibits, shows & tours. A day planner’s included with animal encounters and entertainment events pre-loaded. You’ll know what you want to do, and when to do it to have a great day.

At San Diego Zoo Safari Park you can have an African Safari experience without going to Africa. Walk and see wild animals in large natural field enclosures and exhibits like Lion Camp. Enjoy activities like Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, overnight camping, ziplining, ballooning, playgrounds, and shows.

* 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 .

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

That’s the quick summarized version of what there is to do at Safari Park. But there’s a lot more to discover below. Also, check out my Safari Tours reviews to discover how much time each takes to make organizing your day easier.

What Can You Do At San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

At safari park you’ll walk…a lot .

You’ll be getting your steps in during your day at San Diego Safari Park. It was designed first as a breeding facility for rare and endangered species. Because of this, the animal exhibits have more room here than at a ‘normal’ zoo. And thus you’ll be strolling a bit further between them. 

Safari Park is 1800 acres large. But the area that is open to general admission ticket holders is only about 80 acres ( Link to my page with the maps ). Still, that’s a lot of ground to cover.

If you have limited mobility there are wheelchairs and electric scooters for rent. There’s also an ADA (American With Disabilities Act) shuttle bus to get you around the park. Those who have difficulty with standing in line may request an “Easy Access” pass at the entrance to Safari Park. The pass offers you and 3 more members of your group preferred boarding and seating if needed. Download the park’s “ Guests With Disabilities ” guide for more information.

You Can Take a Safari Tour

There are 9 different types of Safari add-on experiences, and 27 different variations.They range from animal photo and feeding opportunities to sleepovers and activities like zip lining that will get your adrenaline going. You’ll need to make reservations well in advance. They fill up quickly and you can plan your day around them.

TIP: Make sure that you arrive at least 10 minutes early for your Safari. If you’re late or miss it you will not be given a refund or a raincheck in most cases. Cancellations for full refunds must be done 5 days in advance.

Below you’ll find quick summaries of all 9 Safari tours. For detailed information including how much time you’ll need, costs and other requirements see my page on Safari Park Tours .

Caravan Safari Is the Most Popular Paid Tour at San Diego Safari Park

This is our favorite Safari, we’ve taken it several times. You ride a flatbed truck out into the wild animal herds in their large field enclosures. These include even the dangerously unpredictable cape buffalo who are sometimes called “ the black death ”. Fortunately, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide familiar with their behavior to keep you out of trouble. The guides also point out other (safer) animal behaviors and answer your questions. 

They’ll also help you feed the giraffes and sometimes rhinos if the critters are feeling curious and hungry. There are always so many great photo opportunities on this trip it’s sometimes hard to choose where to point your camera. 

Roar & Snore Safari Is More Than Just Camping Overnight

Experience the sights and sounds of an African safari without the killer plane ticket cost. You get to fall asleep to the sounds of elephants snorting and giraffes walking by. And the sounds of lions roaring may wake you the next morning. You get a tasty, filling dinner and a hearty breakfast. There’s also a night campfire where you can make gooey s’mores. There are guided night walks through some behind-the-scenes areas and a morning keeper presentation. 

For more information, here’s my review of our Roar & Snore evening .

The biggest downside of the Roar and Snore experience is if you need to sleep on a good mattress. If that’s the case, this is not the tour for you. But don’t worry. I’ve written a guide to the best local hotels around Safari Park . There, your sleeping problem is solved!

Behind-the-Scenes Safari Shows You San Diego Safari Park’s Secret Places

Explore behind the scenes into areas not accessible to the general public. This guided safari’s a  great way to get an insider’s view of some of the animals at safari park and the organization’s conservation efforts. You’ll also get a chance to meet and maybe feed some of the Safari Parks animal ambassadors. There are 7 different types of Behind-the-Scenes safari; platypuses, elephants, tigers, rhinos, kangaroos, cheetahs or butterflies. 

Cart Safari is a Relaxed Tour Around the Large Field Enclosures

On the Cart Safari tour you get a chance to observe herds of giraffes, rhinos, antelope and other animals in a natural setting. Your driver is also an experienced guide. They’ll point out significant behaviors and would love to answer your questions about what you’re seeing. 

It’s a more relaxed trip than the Caravan Safari and offers lots of photographic opportunities. 

Flightline Safari -Fly Over San Diego Safari Park

Get your pulse pumping, and feel the wind in your face as you fly 2/3rds of a mile over herds of antelope, rhinos and giraffe. 

You’ll get a training session from professional staff and take a short practice flight to get your landing technique down. Then you’ll take a truck up to a high ridge above the park and fly down. 

TIP : Pay the little extra for a helmet camera to record your trip down. Using your cell-phone to make your own live video is not possible. You’ll need your hands free to hold your harness when you land.

Cheetah Safari – Meet the Spotted Speedsters

Watch the Cheetah Run at speeds close to 70 miles per hour from a prime reserved trackside spot. Then meet the speedy sprinter afterward for an exclusive close-up experience. 

There will be plenty of opportunities to take amazing cheetah close-ups. But don’t waste your time trying for the perfect selfie with a cheetah. The Safari Park employees will make sure that you get a great shot with the big cat. 

Another African animal ambassador will also be brought out for you to meet before the run. This Safari is relatively inexpensive so it fills up fast. Make your reservations early. 

Balloon Safari – Get Above It All

Soar 400 feet above the scenic San Pasqual Valley and the herds of wild animals below. This is a tethered ride, so you don’t have to worry about floating away and landing within Lion Camp. This safari is very dependent upon favorable weather conditions.  

Try to schedule your ride between 9 AM and noon. Winds tend to pick up speed in the valley during the afternoon. And the balloon safari does not fly during the Cheetah Run. It can spook the cats.

Ultimate Safari – Wish Fulfillment for Animal Lovers

Build yourself a custom safari experience with the assistance of the Safari Park’s professionals. Visit off-exhibit areas. Have close encounters with the animal ambassadors that interest you most. Make it as adventurous as you wish, zipline, balloon ride and rope courses, cape buffalo, feeding an elephant. Dream big. Explore Safari Park with your personal tour guide for up to 8 hours.

Board These Safari Park Rides

Africa tram is a must-do safari park activity.

Africa Tram is a must-do activity especially if you aren’t going on one of the paid safaris. When you hop aboard it’s like you’ve been transported to the plains of Africa. You’ll see herds of giraffe, rhino, antelope and birds living together just as you would there. The tour guide drivers are very knowledgeable and quite often funny. They’ll point out unique animal survival tactics and adaptations and new babies in the large field enclosures. 

TIP: The animals are most active when it’s coolest. On hot days try to catch the earliest tram rides or the latest ones. The tram starts running at 10 AM. It stops 45 minutes before the park’s closing. I’ve written an in-depth review with extra tips on my Safari Tours page . 

Conservation Carousel

Have your kids (or you)  ever dreamed of riding a tiger, a bear, or maybe even a zebra? You can do it on this merry-go-round. It features 60 endangered animals and was opened in 2005 . There’s a $6 fee to ride the carousel. (open 10 AM to closing).

Watch Shows and Keeper Talks at San Diego Safari Park

Shiley’s cheetah run is a must-see at safari park.

Don’t even THINK about visiting San Diego Safari Park without attending Cheetah Run . See one of these leggy cats explode out of its carrier and sprint after its prey (a stuffed animal on a motorized tether) at speeds close to 70 miles an hour. Six or 7 seconds later it comes to an abrupt halt at the end of the 100 meter run. It’s long tail whips around for balance and dirt goes flying as its feet dig into the turf. Spectacular. Hang around. Depending upon how the cheetah feels they sometimes run the course twice.

TIP : Get to the Shiley’s Cheetah Run track at least 30 minutes ahead of time. Good viewing areas are on the bridge close to Savannah Cool Zone and on the walkways closest to it. The entire presentation lasts about 20 minutes and usually starts at 3:30 PM. Confirm the time when you arrive at Safari Park.

Tiger Keeper Talk

Get close-up views of tigers and inside information on how they’re cared for at Safari Park. The keepers use this time to provide enrichment to the tigers as well as give them a quick physical exam. The Sumatran tigers are the smallest tiger. But they’re still intimidating as you see them stretch up on their hind legs to reach a meaty treat. 

TIP : Arrive at least 20 minutes early for the 11:45 AM Tiger Keeper Talk. The 15-minute tiger training session is very popular. 

Frequent Flyers Bird Show

(Temporarily canceled due to avian flu)

This is an entertaining show, perfect for an afternoon sit-down break. You’ll experience exotic birds like owls, parrots, and large vultures flying just inches above your head. They’re close enough to reach up and touch (but don’t).

They’re not caged or tethered in any way. It’s an impressive example of the power of positive behavior conditioning and the patience and kindness of the keepers. The 20-minute show is presented twice, once at noon and again at 2:00 PM. 

Animal Ambassador Stage 

Get within a couple of feet of various Animal Ambassadors here. You never know what the keepers will bring out. I’ve gotten up close to tiny Kestrel hawks, echidna (an Australian spiny anteater which has spines like a porcupine, a beak like a bird, a pouch like a kangaroo, and lays eggs like a reptile) to a golden eagle and African serval cats. 

Training Talk

Get an up-close look at free-flight bird training. Most people don’t bother with this presentation. That’s what makes it so good. You can often sit in the front row and see firsthand how expert animal trainers establish trust with their charges. Aside from being able to view exotic birds up close, it’s easier to ask questions in this forum. If you pay attention you can pick up tricks that can be applied to your cats, dogs, and maybe even kids to encourage them to do what you want them to.

Talk with Robert the Zebra

Chat with a digital, interactive zebra. He’s snarky, and clever and will keep your children occupied for 20 minutes with stories about what it’s like to be a zebra. Kids are fascinated by this cartoon zebra that carries on a conversation with them from a large-screen TV. You can talk to Robert every hour on the hour from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Visit These Can’t-Miss Safari Park Animal Exhibits 

The platypus are a must-see at safari park in san diego.

These are the only platypus on exhibit outside of Australia…anywhere. So go see them. Give yourself some time and exercise a bit of patience in this exhibit.

First, it’s dark and you’ll need to let your eyes adjust to the bright San Diego sun.

Second, platypi move fast and rarely stay put in one spot. Getting a good photo can be a challenge. Just have fun looking at these energetic creatures. 

Gorillas have always been one of the most popular animals at Safari Park and the Zoo. Go anytime. They are fed five or six times per day with leaves, stems, fruit, seeds, and roots. Be sure to check out the Gorilla Activity Center. Compare your arms to those of an adult male gorilla on a drawing, listen to their vocalizations, and watch a video on how the keepers care for them. 

Elephant Valley

(Elephant viewing may be limited due to the construction of the new, larger ‘Elephant Valley’ exhibit.)

There are few things as wonderful as seeing elephants playing in the water. There are two swimming pools for the San Diego Safari Park herd in this 5-and-a-half acre habitat.

There are two main yards. One is usually open while the other is being cleaned of copious amounts of elephant dung and stocked with treats. In most cases, the Elephant Viewing Patio will be the best place to watch them. 

NOTE: Open observation points may differ during the construction of the new Elephant Valley exhibit.

The lion exhibit at San Diego Zoo is justifiably famous for its design. It’s both visitor friendly and great for the lions themselves. There are many places to view lions from the large windows by the air conditioned rocks, to rock piles and an ‘abandoned’ jeep that sometimes hosts a very large sleeping feline. The lions have wonderful views of the large field enclosures filled with tasty meals on the hoof. Think of it as must-see cat TV. 

Tiger Trail Sambutan Longhouse

If you love tigers, you’ll love Tiger Trail. It’s green and lush and the perfect place to watch tigers watching you. For more information on what’s there and why you should go there, check out my “ 11 Coolest Reasons to See San Diego Safari Park Tiger Trail ” page. 

Kangaroo Walk in Walkabout Australia

At Kangaroo walk you can go inside the exhibit and see wallabies and kangaroos go bounding by on all sides. And if you’re lucky, maybe one will stop within petting distance. They’re super soft and feel like they’re covered is fuzzy wool. 

Petting Kraal

Kids love brushing and petting the three types of small African goats here. One word of caution. Goats will try to eat ANYTHING. So make sure that your cameras, purses and wallets are tucked away safely. Any children that are intimidated by the rambunctious kraal critters can relax next door at the Village Playground. Because of their proximity, it’s easy to keep an eye on both areas. 

Kids Love These Playgrounds At San Diego Safari Park

Samburu jungle gym .

This will be your favorite playground at Safari Park. Your kids can climb on a rhino or pretend to be driving a jeep across the African plains. And you can watch their antics while relaxing in the shade at Samburu Terrace. Sip a cold one and have lunch while your offspring work off their excess energy. 

Savanna Cool Zone

Your kids can have a wet and wild time here while you sit in the shade and keep an eye on them from tables by Lion Camp Slush and Snacks.. It’s perfect for hot summer days. There are play statues shaped like lions and tortoises with squirt fountains coming from their heads on a soft spongy play surface.

Camp Play Area

Kids climb, slide and run on tree trunks in a simulated logging camp hidden within the lush wooded landscape of Tiger Trail. There are also statues of a tiger mom and her cubs where you can take memorable photos of the kiddos. 

Village Playground

KIds have fun experiences in this interactive play area designed as an African Village. It’s located next to the Petting Kraal in Nairobi Village. This is great planning because some children are frightened by the curious goats poking their noses everywhere looking for treats. It’s much easier for parents with several kids to keep an eye on everyone here. 

Jameson Research Island

Your kids will have buckets of wet fun here…literally. Buckets periodically dump cooling water in one of the play areas on the island. Even though the African Loop that goes past the flamingos and colobus monkeys goes over water, the path can get very warm in the summer and early fall. 

Explore These Gardens at San Diego Safari Park

Bonsai pavilion is the best garden at san diego safari park.

The Bonsai Pavilion at San Diego Safari Park is fascinating even to those who aren’t into gardening.  These aren’t just plants, they’re art.

Bonsai is a Japanese word that roughly translates into “tree in a tray”. Ordinary young trees are shaped by pruning and cutting to mimic the natural effects of centuries of wind and weather on a small scale. 

Baja Gardens, Old World Succulent Gardens, and California Nativescapes Garden

Take a walk on the wild and spiky side in the World Gardens. These three gardens will amaze you with the wide variety of plant shapes, colors, and sizes found in the world’s arid areas. It’s like a journey through a Dr. Seuss book with elephant trees , euphorbias , and over 200 boojums . 

TIP: Bring a water bottle. These gardens are located at the highest elevations in the park that are open to the public. They can be physically challenging, especially during the hot afternoons in August and September. The best time of the year to see these exhibits is early May when many of the plants are blooming.

Epiphyllum Trail

The blooms in this garden are spectacular from April through early July. At other times this garden is rather boring.  

Epiphyllum are cacti indigenous to central America and Mexico. They live in the crooks of trees and get water from the moisture in the air. Almost all of the plants are hybrids that combine the characteristics of several different naturally occurring species. 

Herb Garden

Give your nose a treat. Take the thyme to smell the roses, it won’t cost you a mint because entry to this garden comes with your San Diego Safari Park admission, Herbs have been used for centuries to flavor food, treat illnesses and make us smell good. There are over 20 different species of herbs here. 

Hidden Jungle

Wander through a tropical rainforest complete with towering trees, flowering vines, and exotic birds. Many of the birds are named for their colors like the blue-capped cordon bleu, pink pigeon, and purple grenadier. 

In springtime, half of this exhibit is home to Butterfly Jungle and you’ll see many more colorful wings than usual. The other half of Hidden Jungle is reserved for birds that eat butterflies and other insects. It’s a natural way to keep the butterflies inside.

TIP: Visit this exhibit in the morning or late afternoon. This is an enclosed greenhouse. It can be hot and humid. 

Mombasa Lagoon

Even though this area is listed by Safari Park as a garden, the major attraction here is the birds, not the plants. At any given time there are over 150 avians here from about 25 different species. There are cormorants fishing, storks, ducks, and my favorite, the shoebill. It looks like something out of Jurassic Park. 

If you see some of the birds taking off and flying away, don’t worry. They’re most likely local freeloaders like great blue herons, egrets or migratory birds like mallards. 

Additional Tips for Visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park

How long does San Diego Zoo Safari Park Take?

People in online forums say that it’s possible to see Safari Park in two hours. They’re wrong.

San Diego Zoo Global recommends allocating at least 4 hours . The only way to “do” Safari Park in 2 hours is to just walk to Africa Tram to ride it and then walk back to the parking lot. Keep in mind that the park is at least 45 minutes of travel time from downtown San Diego…each way. Then add another 30 minutes for parking and walking to and from the entrance. 

If you’ve only got 2 hours and you’re near downtown San Diego, just go to the Zoo in Balboa Park. Take the money that you’d have spent for getting to Safari Park and buy a nice dinner with some wine at Albert’s Restaurant .

What’s the best day to go to San Diego Safari Park?

The best days to visit Safari Park are typically Tuesdays and Wednesdays on weeks without a major holiday. The park is less crowded on these weekdays . If you’re going on a holiday weekend, get there at 9:00 AM when it opens .

Click HERE to check your date(s) to see if Safari Park will be crowded. 

Safari Park can get very warm in late August and September. These are the days when temperatures can be over 100°F (38°C). It doesn’t happen very often, but make sure that you’ve packed hats and refillable water bottles if you decide to go then. 

Don’t let a bit of rain keep you from going to Safari Park. It can be a delightful experience. Here’s a page that I wrote giving you tips and hints for enjoying Safari Park in the rain . 

What’s the Best Time to Arrive at San Diego Safari Park?

It’s best to arrive at San Diego Zoo Safari Park just before opening at 9:00 am. Many of the animals at Safari Park will be more active when it is cool. Also, keepers generally put out enrichment and treats first thing in the morning. That encourages the animals’ natural foraging behaviors and keeps them from getting bored.

Where’s the Best Place to Eat in Safari Park?

The best restaurant in San Diego Safari Park is The Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook. But it may not be the best for you. So I’ve written an entire page about all the restaurants and eateries at and around Safari Park . Chow down!

7 Things You Should Wear to San Diego Safari Park

Closing thoughts.

I hope that you’ve found this post on what to do at San Diego Safari Park useful in planning your day. Because this attraction is not your ordinary zoo, some people can get overwhelmed by all the options and just decide not to go. I didn’t want this to happen to you. Let me know if you have questions on any of the Safari tours, rides, activities, play areas or if you know of a great tip for visiting San Diego Safari Park.

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.

Recent Posts

Discover the Best Hotels Near San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido 2024

I've got the scoop on the best hotels near San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido for 2024. These highly-rated spots offer awesome amenities and prime locations. Plus you can score a 20% discount....

3 Best Kid-Friendly Hotels Near San Diego Zoo on a Budget

Discover the top kid-friendly hotels near the San Diego Zoo that are affordable too. My chart compares cost, distance, and number of family amenities. Reviews with room tips help you choose the best...

San Diego’s Sudsy Safari Trails

• Copy Link URL Copied!

Here’s how “America’s Finest City” became the mecca for delicious craft beers and where you can find the best

San Diego may have been known for its surfing safaris in the past, but nowadays those in the know are more likely to head south for craft beer.

Since its first craft brewery debuted in 1987, “America’s Finest City” has evolved into one of the nation’s nirvanas of artisanal beer, similarly to Portland and Colorado. San Diego County now boasts more than 150 craft breweries ranging from heavyweights like Stone and Ballast Point to family operations and small local beer-making operations that double as neighborhood pubs.

The venues are just as varied, from downtown and beach towns to the sprawling burbs and foothills of the Cuyamaca Mountains. And they cater to different clientele: Surfers and cyclists along the coast; after-dark denizens and Padres baseball fans in the Gaslamp district; even Naval aviators and U.S. Marines.

Although craft breweries are a relatively new trend, making beer has always been in San Diego’s DNA. The city’s first brewery appeared in the 1860s and by World War II – thanks in part to the many soldiers passing through on their way to and from the Pacific battlegrounds – San Diego was brewing around a quarter of all beer produced in California.

The rise of industrial beer producers like Coors and Anheuser-Busch in the 1950s put many of the smaller operations out of business in San Diego and across the nation. It wasn’t until 1983 – when the state government allowed breweries to sell their suds on site – that craft beer began to blossom again.

Breweries Big and Small

One of the early stars was Stone Brewing . Founded by now legendary beer-makers Greg Koch and Steve Wagner – who met at a one-day “Sensory Evaluation of Beer” class at UC Davis – the north county beer-maker slowly but surely expanded into San Diego’s best-known craft beer brand.

But things didn’t get off to a fast start.

‘They couldn’t find a distributor willing to take their hobby beers,” said Lizzie Younkin, Stone’s director of communication. “So they decided to self-distribute and bring their friends along. They would load up their minivan with their own beer and kegs from other small craft breweries and deliver it all themselves.”

Especially known for its India Pale Ales (IPAs), Stone has grown from its modest homebrew origins into five locations in San Diego County including Liberty Station, Little Italy and the sprawling Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens on a hilltop overlooking Escondido.

And their beers are no longer confined to San Diego. Stone brews have spread across the nation (they have an East Coast brewery in Richmond, VA) and to drinking establishments in 50 countries on five continents.

At the opposite end of the San Diego beer spectrum are small producers like New English Brewing , located in a biotech business park in Sorrento Valley.

Founded by the husband-and-wife team of Simon and Nina Lacey in 2006, the little brewery makes an amazing variety of small batch beers, from older favorites like Bloody Orange IPA and Por Favor Mexican-style pilsner to recently released Belgian Blonde.

Explaining how a smaller craft brewery operates, Simon Lacey says, “I do just about everything – brewing, accounting, human resources, payroll, dealing with suppliers and even working behind the bar when we’re short-staffed.”

Like many small businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic was a major challenge for New English. But they used the lockdown to reinvent themselves by working with other business park tenants to convert the parking lot out front into a parklike area with trees, picnic tables, shade structures and Adirondack chairs.

“We had a very supportive landlord,” says Nina Lacey, who viewed New England as an after-work amenity for the biotech workers and that also helped relocate the taco truck that served beer drinkers into a permanent shopfront location opposite the brewery.

Planning Your Sudsy Safari

With more than 150 choices, what’s the best way to plan a beer-tasting sojourn in San Diego?

The first step is deciding how you’re going to move from joint to joint. Nowadays, rideshare is one of the most common (and safest) options. If you’re going to use your own vehicle, make sure there’s a designated driver.

One of the best ways is to zero in on a particular town or neighborhood with a cluster of craft beer-makers. Here’s a few places to start, each with their own characteristics:

Brews with a View: Start in San Marcos, which lies along State Highway 78 between Oceanside and Escondido. Among its 16 breweries are standouts like Belching Beaver Brewery Pub 980 and nearby Aztec Brewery , which carries on the legacy of a bygone beer-maker by that same name that thrived in San Diego on either side of World War II.

Tucked in the San Elijo Hills above San Marcos, The Sanctuary is one of several local Lost Abbey tasting rooms with great beer, good food, live music and themed religious iconography like the Celtic cross on its beer glasses.

Beach Beers: You can start a beach town pub crawl at Pizza Port in Carlsbad – another of the pioneers of San Diego craft brewing – and continue down historic Highway 101 to the Bier Garden in Encinitas (24 beers on tap) and then to tiny Culture Brewing in Solana Beach, which is right down the block from live tunes and headliner bands at the Belly Up Tavern . Whether it’s afternoon or evening, punctuate the coastal pub crawl with brews on the lagoon-side deck at Viewpoint Brewing near the Del Mar racetrack.

Military Mugs: There’s another critical mass of craft breweries off Miramar Road near the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar (and former Navy “Top Gun” flight school). Among the anchor beer-makers in this area are AleSmith, Green Flash, Ballast Point and the delightfully different White Labs Brewing , a long-time yeast maker for local craft breweries that now highlights the importance of yeast in the beermaking process via its own innovative libations.

The Urban Path: For those who love to walk, the East Village (near Petco Park stadium), North Park (north of Balboa Park) and Little Italy (near San Diego Bay) are your best bets, each of them with a handful of breweries within a short distance of one another and plenty of places to eat between.

Best of the Fests: You can also sample a wide selection of San Diego suds at special events like San Diego Beer Week in November, the San Diego Beer Fest in June or the annual Stone Anniversary Celebration in August.

-Joe Yogerst

‘Kikori’, la pequeña canguro en peligro de extinción que nació en el San Diego Zoo Safari Park

El canguro de árbol de matschie nació en agosto de 2022 y con 9 meses recién comenzó a salir de la bolsa de su madre..

• El nacimiento de ‘Kikori’ brinda esperanza para el futuro de su especie.
• Cámara de seguridad captó cómo un valiente perro ahuyentó a un oso que ingresó a su casa
• El impactante video de un perro que salvó a su hermano de unos coyotes

El San Diego Zoo Safari Park, en Estados Unidos , alberga a una nueva integrante. Se trata de un ejemplar del canguro arborícola de Matschie en peligro de extinción. La hembra joey llamada ‘Kikori’ nació de sus orgullosos padre Arona y Bek a fines de agosto de 2022 y recién el 7 de marzo salió de la bolsa de su madre. Se viene desarrollando con total normalidad, por lo que ya fue presentada oficialmente este jueves 01 de junio en Facebook. Aquí te traemos el video viral de su llegada.

En la cuenta del zoo se explicó que el nombre hace honor a un pequeño pueblo de Papua Nueva Guinea, uno de los principales hábitats naturales de este marsupial y que “se está volviendo más curioso cada día” . Además, también es una palabra japonesa que significa leñador.

“Los canguros arbóreos de Matschie están en peligro de extinción, por lo que este joey brinda esperanza para el futuro de esta especie” , indicó Donovan Vila, especialista en cuidado de la vida silvestre del Parque Zoológico Safari de San Diego, pues solo existen menos de 2,500 adultos de su especie en la naturaleza. Están catalogados como En Peligro en la Lista Roja de Especies Amenazadas de la Unión Internacional para la Conservación de la Naturaleza (UICN).

El nacimiento de Kikori

Después de un periodo de gestación de 45 días nacen los canguros de árbol de Matschie y se meten en la bolsa de su madre, donde se adhieren a un pezón y comienzan a desarrollarse a medida que se nutren. El animal permanece ahí hasta alrededor de los 6 meses y semanas después la cabeza debería ser completamente visible.

En el caso de Kikori, comenzó a salir de la bolsa casi a los 9 meses y ahora muestra interés en explorar su nuevo hábitat y probando alimentos como zanahorias, pepinos y lechugas.

Según información del San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Arona destetará a su joey cuando tenga alrededor de un año. Este es el segundo nacimiento de su especie que se da en el recinto ubicado en 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA, United States, California, Estados Unidos.

Tags Relacionados:

Video viral, estados unidos, contenido sugerido.

Contenido GEC

Uno de estos peluches te revelará cuáles son tus mejores 3 virtudes

Escoge una de las alas en esta ilustración para descubrir cuál es tu mayor deseo

Cómo luce la moneda que podría valer la suma suficiente para comprar el auto que quieras

Hay un perro entre los pandas: ¿lo encontrarás en 10 segundos?

¿Ya tienes iOS 18? Conoce cómo activar Apple Intelligence en tu iPhone si no vives en Estados Unidos

Guía de episodios de “Agatha All Along”: fecha y hora de estreno de cada capítulo en Disney Plus

9/4/24 - Ceremonial First Pitch

9/4/24 - Brandon Nakashima throws a ceremonial first pitch at Petco Park

• San Diego Padres
• ceremonial first pitch

• Help Center
• Plan Your Visit
• Places to Stay
• Youth Programs
• Student & Youth Groups
• Events & Catering
• Live Cameras
• Our Mission

Balloon Safari

Enjoy unbelievable views shared only by the birds that soar over the Safari Park's grounds! Modeled after the hot air balloon tours of the Serengeti, the Balloon Safari tethered helium balloon rises silently 400 feet. Spend 10 to 12 minutes in the sky over the Safari Park.

The best time to fly is 9 a.m. to noon; approximate hours are 9 a.m. to dusk. Prices vary, depending on peak times and days; please inquire when at the Park. Due to social distancing, capacity may be limited.

Please note: Balloon Safari is subject to closure during inclement weather.

Outfit Your Herd for Adventures

Come Travel with Us!

PREFERRED HOTELS

Picture Your Special Day at the Park!