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San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

4.6(3.6K ratings)

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Africa Tram at San Diego Zoo Safari Park with giraffes and visitors in open-air vehicle.

An aerial view of San Diego Zoo Safari Park

View of Africa Tram Safari at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Giraffes and zebras at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Africa Tram tour experience.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Africa Tram passing through savanna with giraffes and rhinos.

A Cheetah grazing in the open savanna at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Giraffes and zebras grazing in open field at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Tickets

3.9(82)

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets with Africa Tram

from

$74

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Grab this opportunity to dive into the fascinating wildlife world with a ticket to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, your passport to adventure!
Hop aboard the Africa Tram, your window to the wild, letting you marvel at giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles without any barriers.
Ever seen a cheetah sprint? Access to the Cheetah Run, a pulsating spectacle, lets you witness the lightning speed of these big cats.
Experience the thrill of feeding colourful lorikeets by hand as they swoop down for nectar.
Enter the free-flight aviary that recreates natural habitats for 140+ birds of 40 species, offering an immersive experience in their environment.
Step away from the city and witness the animals in their habitats in an open environment on a much larger scale.

Grab this opportunity to dive into the fascinating wildlife world with a ticket to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, your passport to adventure!
Hop aboard the Africa Tram, your window to the wild, letting you marvel at giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles without any barriers.
Ever seen a cheetah sprint? Access to the Cheetah Run, a pulsating spectacle, lets you witness the lightning speed of these big cats.
Experience the thrill of feeding colourful lorikeets by hand as they swoop down for nectar.
Enter the free-flight aviary that recreates natural habitats for 140+ birds of 40 species, offering an immersive experience in their environment.
Step away from the city and witness the animals in their habitats in an open environment on a much larger scale.

Inclusions

Entry to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Access to Africa Tram
Access to Cheetah Run
All scheduled shows & exhibits

Exclusions

Entry to the San Diego Zoo
Parking

Tip: The Park's observation deck offers panoramic views, making it an excellent photo op. Capture a selfie with giraffes in the background!
This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Africa Tram Safari is subject to availability.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A family looking at a giraffe at San Diego Zoo

Kids playing at the rope bridge of San Diego Zoo

Visitors observing a giraffe at San Diego Zoo with a 1-day ticket experience.

Polar Bears Under Water inside San Diego Zoo

People riding the sky tram at San Diego Zoo

Tourists observing a polar bear swimming at San Diego Zoo.

Giraffes and zebras in an open habitat at San Diego Zoo, showcasing wildlife diversity.

Koalas Mom and Baby inside San Diego Zoo

California Condor perched in enclosure at San Diego Zoo, showcasing its large wingspan.

Tickets

4.6(1.6K)

San Diego Zoo Tickets with Guided Bus Tour & Skyfari Aerial Tram

from

$74

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

3500+ animals representing 650 species say hello from San Diego Zoo. Visit them all with these tickets granting you an all-access pass to the zoo's best.
Kangaroos, apes, tigers, leopards, babirusas, giraffes, camels, elephants, cheetahs, meerkats, koalas, polar bears, anacondas, and more – meet them all here, right in the city.
Enjoy a guided bus tour that takes you to most areas of the zoo, and lets you observe animals in their natural habitats while learning all about them in detail.
Ride the Skyfari Aerial Tram to gather a bird's eye view of the zoo. Check out unique exhibits like the 65-foot manmade waterfall: Rady Falls.
Learn more about the animals through keeper talks and presentations. Also, bring along your friends and family to enjoy special group savings.

3500+ animals representing 650 species say hello from San Diego Zoo. Visit them all with these tickets granting you an all-access pass to the zoo's best.
Kangaroos, apes, tigers, leopards, babirusas, giraffes, camels, elephants, cheetahs, meerkats, koalas, polar bears, anacondas, and more – meet them all here, right in the city.
Enjoy a guided bus tour that takes you to most areas of the zoo, and lets you observe animals in their natural habitats while learning all about them in detail.
Ride the Skyfari Aerial Tram to gather a bird's eye view of the zoo. Check out unique exhibits like the 65-foot manmade waterfall: Rady Falls.
Learn more about the animals through keeper talks and presentations. Also, bring along your friends and family to enjoy special group savings.

Inclusions

Entry to the San Diego Zoo
Kangaroo Express bus tour
Guided bus tour
Skyfari aerial tram
Access to all shows and exhibits

Tip: Try the locally sourced, sustainable food options at the zoo's eateries. 'Treetops Cafe' is a local favourite!
With your voucher, you can skip the ticketing window and proceed directly to the entrance. Please be aware that this privilege is only applicable for bypassing the admission ticket line and does not extend to the bus or Skyfari lines.
Find the zoo map here.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

San Diego Zoo entrance with visitors exploring Combo: Zoo and Safari Park tickets.

A family at the entrance of San Diego Zoo

A picture of guests on a bus tour at San Diego Zoo

Combos

4.6(1.7K)

Combo (Save 5%): San Diego Zoo + San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

from $148

$140.60

5% off

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

We bring you an adventure-filled day in San Diego with this money-saving combo of visiting the San Diego Zoo and Zoo Safari Park for the ultimate experience.
Journey into the wild at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and find exquisite animals and interactive exhibits for a wholesome experience.
With a guided bus tour and Skyfari aerial tram ride, delve into the animal kingdom and discover how fascinating their lives and habitats are.
Feel like you're at the 'Pride Rock", at Zoo Safari Park where you can take the tram and spot giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles blended in, like they belong.
Enjoy access to Cheetah Run to experience the speed of the wild cats, feed lorikeets, or experience the free-flight aviary to see 140+ birds sweeping around.

We bring you an adventure-filled day in San Diego with this money-saving combo of visiting the San Diego Zoo and Zoo Safari Park for the ultimate experience.
Journey into the wild at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and find exquisite animals and interactive exhibits for a wholesome experience.
With a guided bus tour and Skyfari aerial tram ride, delve into the animal kingdom and discover how fascinating their lives and habitats are.
Feel like you're at the 'Pride Rock", at Zoo Safari Park where you can take the tram and spot giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles blended in, like they belong.
Enjoy access to Cheetah Run to experience the speed of the wild cats, feed lorikeets, or experience the free-flight aviary to see 140+ birds sweeping around.

Inclusions

San Diego Zoo

Entry to the San Diego Zoo
Kangaroo Express bus tour
Guided bus tour
Skyfari aerial tram
Access to all shows and exhibits

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Entry to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Access to Africa Tram
Access to Cheetah Run
All scheduled shows & exhibits

Exclusions

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Entry to the San Diego Zoo
Parking

San Diego Zoo

Tip: Don't miss out on the polar bear enclosure where you can find them swimming, relaxing and just playing around.
With your voucher, you can skip the ticketing window and proceed directly to the entrance. Please be aware that this privilege is only applicable for bypassing the admission ticket line and does not extend to the bus or Skyfari lines.
Strict dress code: Proper attire, including shoes and shirts, must be worn at all times.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Coolers larger than 12” by 12” are not allowed on this experience.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Tip: You can try out their Skyline Safari at a cost if you'd like to experience the safari aerially.
Strict dress code: Proper attire, including shoes and shirts, must be worn at all times.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Coolers larger than 12” by 12” are not allowed on this experience.
This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Africa Tram Safari is subject to availability.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

San Diego skyline with Go City Explorer Pass options for 2-7 attractions.

San Diego skyline view with Go City Explorer Pass options for 2-7 attractions.

11789 - San Diego - San Diego All-Inclusive Pass By Go City - 07

City Cards

NEW

Go City San Diego Explorer Pass: Choose 2 to 7 Attractions

from

$114

Free cancellation

Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience

Extended validity

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

With the San Diego Explorer Pass, get access to over 45 attractions and save up to $37.
Rather than buying individual tickets to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, and a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off tour by Old Town Trolley, save 48% with this pass.
voila! It's activated. Your pass is valid for 60 days post-activation.
Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass, 45 Min. Jet Ski Rental and San Diego Speed Boat Adventures are just some of the attractions included in your pass.
Choose from a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice pass and eliminate the hassle of standing in line with this digital pass.
Unsure about activation and validity? Just visit your first attraction, and scan your pass.

With the San Diego Explorer Pass, get access to over 45 attractions and save up to $37.
Rather than buying individual tickets to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, and a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off tour by Old Town Trolley, save 48% with this pass.
voila! It's activated. Your pass is valid for 60 days post-activation.
Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass, 45 Min. Jet Ski Rental and San Diego Speed Boat Adventures are just some of the attractions included in your pass.
Choose from a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice pass and eliminate the hassle of standing in line with this digital pass.
Unsure about activation and validity? Just visit your first attraction, and scan your pass.

Inclusions

Choice of 2/3/4/5/7 of San Diego's top attractions
Access to attractions: San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo & more
Access to outdoor activities: San Diego Speed Boat Adventures, Whale Watching by City Cruises, San Diego Hiking Tour & more
Discounts at restaurants: South Coast Plaza Shop & Dine Package & more
Get complete details here

Certain attractions require prior bookings. For the complete list, please click here
You can visit each attraction once daily for your chosen pass.

First, download the Go City App. Use your order confirmation number to add your pass to your phone. Once you visit your first attraction, your pass will be activated!
Feeling old school? You can also print your pass at home using the link in your confirmation email. You can also show this version of your pass on your phone.
Get access to pre-recorded commentary, suggested itineraries, a handy map, and more, available at your fingertips!
Your pass is activated as soon as you visit your 1st attraction and is valid for 60 days before it runs out. The days needn't be consecutive.

Free cancellation anytime before the start of your experience
These tickets are valid for 24 months from the date of purchase.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Top things to do in San Diego

San Diego Zoo

USS Midway Museum

San Diego Zoo Safari Park | Exotic wildlife adventure and thrilling safaris!

San Diego Zoo Safari Park, nestled in California’s San Pasqual Valley, is a wildlife haven that opened its doors in 1972. The park offers unique safari experiences, allowing you to get up close with over 300 species of animals like elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and rare Sumatran tigers in their expansive habitats. With a variety of safari options, each offering unique sights of the animals, the San Diego Safari Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. Stay on this page as we cover the best ticket options, what’s inside the park, and help you plan your exciting adventure!

Why visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park

1/4

Experience unique safaris

Get ready for an adventure as you embark on one of the park’s unique safaris. Whether it’s the Wildlife Safari, Behind-the-Scenes Safari, Cart Safari, or the thrilling Flightline Safari, each offers a unique perspective and a chance to see different animals up close.

Things to know before booking your San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets

Remember, some safari experiences require separate reservations alongside your general admission ticket. Book these in advance.
Some experiences like ziplining, special tram rides, and close-up animal encounters require separate reservations and fees. Book these in advance.
Large bags and suitcases are not allowed into the park. If you need to store larger items like luggage, the zoo offers bag storage for a fee: $10 per piece for small items, $12 per piece for medium-size items, and $15 per piece for large items.
The parking facility at the Safari Park is paid. Factor in the cost of parking while visiting.
Children 3 and above require tickets. Discounted rates apply for ages 3-11. All children under 15 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
You can bring your own single-person food supply in small containers. However, for safety reasons, large coolers, glass items, alcohol, party trays, candles, balloons, or decorations are not allowed.
Certified emotional support animals are allowed but pet animals and service animals still in training are not allowed for the safety of the wildlife.

Safari experiences at the park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers 8 different types of safaris, each giving you a different perspective.

Butterfly Jungle Safari

A vibrant world of pollinators awaits you. Experience the beauty of hundreds of butterflies from around the globe in a colorful aviary.

See all photos

Beyond the safaris | Activities to try out at the Safari Park

Conservation Carousel

Ready for a spin? The Conservation Carousel is a whirlwind of fun with over 60 unique animals to ride. A hit with kids and those young at heart, this merry-go-round of endangered species is perfect for a family photo ops.

Africa Tram

Aboard the Africa Tram for an immersive journey into the heart of the park’s expansive exhibits. As you glide along, you’ll be treated to up-close views of antelopes, giraffes, buffalo, cranes, and rhinoceros. It’s a must-do for nature enthusiasts and photographers!

Balloon Safari

Ever dreamed of floating in the sky? The Balloon Safari is your ticket to a bird’s eye view of the park. Soaring 400 feet into the sky, this tethered helium balloon ride offers a unique perspective and a thrill you won’t forget.

Journey Into The Wild

If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, make sure to catch the ‘Journey Into The Wild’ presentation. It’s a fascinating insight into the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s worldwide conservation work. Ideal for students and anyone eager to learn more about our planet’s wildlife.

Play Areas

If you’re traveling with little adventurers, the play areas are their jungle gym. Let them run wild and free in these safe and fun-filled zones while you take a well-deserved break.

Explore Elephants

Join the Explore Elephants tour for an unforgettable encounter. You’ll get up close with the park’s African elephant herd and learn about the challenges these majestic creatures face in their native habitats. It’s a heartwarming experience for animal lovers of all ages.

Meet your San Diego Zoo Safari buddies

Plan your visit

Timings

Getting there

Facilities

Accessibility

Rules

Dining

Shop

Stay

Visitor tips

Nearby

Regular hours: 9am to 5pm daily. Between April and August, it closes at 7pm.
Special event hours: For the ‘Wild Holidays’ event, the park is open until 8pm.
Last entry: 1 hour before closing time.
Closed on: The zoo is open on all days of the year.
Best time to visit: For the most active animal sightings, head to the park on weekday mornings when there's usually smaller crowds.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park timings

Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA, 92027, United States | Find on Maps

By bus: Bus numbers 371 from Escondido Transit Center.
Nearest stop: Highway 78 & Safari Park Outside Gate
By car: San Diego Safari Park is approximately 14 miles away from Ramona Airport.
Parking: You can park your vehicles at the safari park. General parking costs $20 per vehicle. RV parking and preferred parking start at $38.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park location

Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are located throughout the park
ATMs: ATM machines are available at the entrance of the park
Lost and found: If you've misplaced an item, visit the park base, situated at the park entrance. It's open daily until closing.
Storage: Storage for luggage is available at different prices.
First aid: First aid station is available at the guest services center at the entrance of the park
Gift shop: There are multiple gift shops present offering a variety of items.
Stroller and wheelchair rental: Available on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance.
Restaurants: There are 17 dining options available serving quick bites to full-service dining.
Parking: Paid parking available at the entrance of the park.

Most park areas and many safari tours are wheelchair accessible.
Wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters (ECVs) can be rented near the entrance on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Accessible trams are available on some of the safari tours.
You can rent strollers near the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reservations are not required to visit the Safari Park.
Proper attire is a must at all times. The park reserves the right to deny entry to anyone in clothing deemed inappropriate or disruptive.
Smoking of any kind, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, and marijuana, is strictly prohibited.
Alcohol and illegal substances are not allowed on park grounds.
Weapons of any kind, including replicas and toys, are not permitted.
Drones, laser pointers, noisemakers, and sporting equipment are considered disruptive and are not allowed.
Pet animals, other than trained certified service animals, are not permitted. However, service animals that are still in training are not allowed.

With 17 dining options for you to choose from, here are our top picks for dining at the San Diego Safari Park:

Safari Coffee Outpost: Start your day at Safari Coffee Outpost, located at Safari Base Camp. Enjoy specialty coffee drinks, warm mini doughnuts, snacks, and cold drinks while browsing unique items at the adjacent Plant Trader gift shop.
Mombasa Cooker: Dine outdoors in an African-themed setting at Mombasa Cooker. The menu includes hand-battered chicken tenders, burgers with fries, draft/craft beer, and Kid’s Meals, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
Macan Market: Located on the Tiger Trail, Macan Market offers Tiger Trail merchandise and a light luncheon menu at the Sambutan Longhouse. Enjoy snacks, draft/craft beer, and soft drinks while watching the tigers.
Raptor’s Nest: Relax at Raptor’s Nest, located at The Grove, with a view of the Flightline Safari landing area and Roar & Snore camp area. Enjoy snacks, soft drinks, draft/craft beer, wine, and specialty cocktails.

There are 8 tribal and shack styled gift shops laid across the park with a vast variety of items. Visit the following stores on your visit.

Safari Outfitters: Start your day here to pack up all your essentials for the day. You’ll find snacks, hats, strollers, ECVs for rent, and more.
Village Market: Kids will love this store where they can paint their faces and turn into their favorite animal! You’ll also find boutique items that you can gift your friends and family with.
Plant Trader: Take home garden decor and plants before you wrap up your visit.

San Diego also has an online store for wild gifts and souvenirs from the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

Budget hotels:
Rodeway Inn Escondido Downtown
Motel Mediteran Escondido

Mid-range hotels:
SpringHill Suites by Marriott
Hilton Garden Inn

Luxury hotels:
Rancho Bernardo Inn
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

The park is expansive, with diverse exhibits and activities. Allocate a full day to comfortably explore everything.
Beat the crowds and witness animals at their most active by arriving right at the opening when Walkabout Australia, where kangaroos roam freely. You'll also find shorter lines for the Africa Tram.
Don't miss the interactive presentations and shows like the flight demonstrations featuring majestic birds.
Pack a refillable water bottle. Free refills are available throughout the park. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Food options are available within the park, but packing some snacks can help you save money and manage hunger pangs, particularly if you have dietary restrictions.

Plan your visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park: This is a historic park that pays tribute to the soldiers of the Mexican-American War. It’s a short 1-mile walk from the San Diego Safari Park.
Orfila Vineyards & Winery: A renowned winery offering a selection of handcrafted wines, located approximately 4 miles from the Safari Park.
Eagle Crest Golf Club: Offering a challenging course with stunning views, this golf club is just 3 miles away from the Safari Park.
Potato Chip Rock: A popular hiking destination with a unique rock formation that resembles a potato chip. It’s located about 19 miles from the Safari Park.

Frequently asked questions about San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets

Is San Diego Zoo Safari Park the same as San Diego Zoo?

No, San Diego Zoo Safari Park and San Diego Zoo are not the same. They are two different parks, located in different areas, and offer different experiences. The Zoo is in downtown San Diego, while the Safari Park is 30 miles north in Escondido. The Zoo is more compact, and the Safari Park is more spread out, allowing animals to roam in larger enclosures.

When is 'Kids Free' month at the Safari Park?

October is Kids Free month at the Safari Park. During this time, children aged 11 and under can enjoy free admission when accompanied by an adult with a valid entry ticket. Youths aged 2 and younger are always free year-round.

Is there a 'Seniors Free' month at the Safari Park?

February is Seniors Free month at the Park, where adults of ages 65 and above can enter for free through the month.

Can I leave and re-enter the safari park on the same day?

No, currently there are no in-and-out privileges at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This means once you exit, you cannot re-enter the park on the same day.

Can I bring food and drinks into the safari park?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks into the Safari Park. However, there are some restrictions to keep in mind. The park allows non-alcoholic drinks and food that are animal-safe. Glass containers and straws are not permitted. Also, large coolers are not allowed.

Is the safari park suitable for kids?

Yes, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is suitable for kids. The park offers a unique and immersive safari experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. However, it’s important to note that the park is large and involves a lot of walking, so it’s recommended to bring strollers for younger kids.

Is it safe to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

Yes, it is safe to visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The park provides special parking, restrooms, and access to shows, tour buses, and exhibits for guests with disabilities. Also, the park staff works hard to ensure the safety of the visitors and the animals.

Is it worth visiting the San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

Yes, visiting the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is considered worthwhile, especially for animal lovers. The park is famous for its large field enclosures where herds roam free, and visitors can enjoy close-up contact with wildlife.