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Best time to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park
The best time to visit San Diego Zoo Safari if you want to avoid crowds is during the weekdays. Winter months (from November to early March) are cooler and don’t witness as much crowd as compared to spring and summer at the Park. The animals are most active in the mornings so you should ideally start your trip when the Park opens (9am) to get maximum visibility and interaction.
Peak season: March to September
Low Season: November to March
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How to get to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
The most convenient way to get to San Diego Zoo Safari Park is by car, but there are multiple ways to reach the Park via public transportation.
By public transport
By rail: The Amtrak rail service travels across the coast of Los Angeles and downtown San Diego and stops at Oceanside. From Oceanside, you can use the Sprinter rail, which will drop you off at the downtown Escondido Transit Center. From there, you can take a taxi or ride-share to the Safari Park, a 7-mile ride.
By bus: A single bus serves the Safari Park, but its schedule is limited on weekends and holidays. If you’re traveling to the Park from downtown San Diego, you can take an MTS Express bus (235, 280, or 290) to the Escondido Transit Center. After you arrive at the Escondido Transit Center, board the NCTD FLEX 371 bus to the Safari Park.
By car
The most accessible and convenient way to get to San Diego Zoo Safari Park is by car because it’s an hour’s drive from San Diego. Car rental services and taxis are available for those who want to drive down. Once you reach the Via Rancho Parkway Exit (Exit 27), you’ll see signs guiding you straight to the Park’s parking lot. The parking is on a first come first serve basis, with EV stations and assigned spots for people with disabilities. It’s paid parking, and the rates vary based on the type of vehicle.
Know Before You Go
Facilities
Accessibility
Rules and regulations
Dining
Stay
Nearby
- Paid parking/EV charging station: Paid parking spaces and two electric vehicle charging stations are available in the parking area.
- First aid office/Nursing station: The first aid office is near the entrance turnstiles for essential medical services and doubles as a baby nursing station.
- Luggage storage: Storage for luggage and other belongings is available close to the entry area at varying prices depending on the size and quantity of the luggage.
- Toilets: Bathrooms, including accessible restrooms, are spread across the park.
- Shopping: Gift shops with souvenirs, toys, and more are located near the entrance and at key attractions throughout the Park.
- ATMs: ATMs are near the main entrance at Park Base, and on the elevator deck.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi is available at the Park.
- Information desk: The Guest Relations office is at the park's entry turnstiles.
- Manual wheelchairs/Strollers/Electric scooters: Rentals for mobility aids and strollers are located near the main entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
- ADA shuttle: The Safari Park has a complimentary ADA shuttle service for those who have mobility issues.
- Additional services: The Park also has other services for those with disabilities such as special tour buses, parking areas, and exhibits.
- Small containers of food are allowed inside the park.
- Only plants available in the gift shops are allowed outside the Park grounds.
- Professional photographers and others who want to photograph or film at the Safari Park for any other purpose except for personal use need to get prior approval and proper licensing before bringing and using equipment on the Park grounds.
- Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, marijuana, alcohol, and any illegal substances are not allowed inside the Park.
- No weapons, including replicas and toys, are allowed inside the park.
- Drones, laser pointers, noise makers, and sporting equipment are not permitted in the Park.
- Animals other than trained service animals are not allowed inside the Park.
- You cannot bring coolers larger than 12” by 12” and glass bottles or containers.
There are a lot of dining spots for you to choose from at the Park on your visit. Some popular restaurants across the Park are mentioned below.
- The Sheared Sheep: The restaurant features Australian-inspired salads, wraps, and snacks. Their signature dish is the Cassowary Wrap.
- Tucker Truck: Perfect for quick bites, especially with the casual outback setup, you can choose your perfect snack from their many french fry cone options, popcorn, pretzels, craft beers, or soft beverages.
- Barking Deer Pizza and Beer: If you’re craving some delicious pizza on your break from exploration, their brick-oven, gourmet, Neapolitan pizzas are a must-have.
- Thorntree Terrace: The ideal menu and shaded setup for a relaxed family meal. Their menu ranges from different signature and classic burgers to fish and chips.
- Mombasa Cooker: If you want to sit by the water and enjoy a relaxing and picturesque meal, the hand-battered chicken tenders are a crowd favorite from the menu offering burgers, fried chicken, and more.
- Oasis on the Rocks: For those who want a couple of refreshing cocktails and craft beers, this bar with its signature cocktails is where you need to be.
- Raptor's Nest: This is ideal for a quick stop for snacks and beverages, with their signature offering; Pretzel with Beer Cheese.
- Rift Sand Bar: Popcorn enthusiasts rejoice at the Rift Sand Bar with its scenic elevated view of the African Plains.
Budget:
Escondido Lodge (9 min/5.6 miles) | Find on Maps
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Escondido Downtown (12 min/6.7 miles) | Find on Maps
Mid-range:
Best Western Escondido Hotel (15 min/8.0 miles) | Find on Maps
SpringHill Suites San Diego Escondido/Downtown (12 min/7.0 miles) | Find on Maps
Luxury:
Bandy Canyon (10 min/5.8 miles) | Find on Maps
Rancho Bernardo Inn (15 min/9.5 miles) | Find on Maps
- San Diego Zoo: San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world, located in Balboa Park, San Diego. It houses over 12,000 animals from 650 species.
- San Diego Archaeological Center: This center is a museum and research hub dedicated to preserving and showcasing San Diego’s rich archaeological history. You can learn about ancient artifacts and the cultural heritage of the area through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
- Queen Califia's Magical Circle: Located in Escondido, this vibrant sculpture garden is the last major work of renowned artist Niki de Saint Phalle. It features whimsical, mosaic-covered sculptures inspired by California’s mythic history and offers a unique, artistic experience.
- EcoVivarium: This hands-on museum in Escondido specializes in reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods. Visitors can interact with over 200 rescued and trained animal ambassadors, making it an educational and fun experience for all ages.
- Miniland USA: Part of LEGOLAND California, Miniland USA features intricately crafted LEGO recreations of famous landmarks and cityscapes from across the United States. It’s a must-see attraction for LEGO enthusiasts and families.
Frequently asked questions about visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park
How much time should I spend at the Park?
Visitors usually spend 4–6 hours exploring the park, but if you’re planning to participate in safaris or interactive experiences, you will probably need more time. It’s recommended you visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park once it opens so that you can spend your day freely exploring the Park.
Is overnight parking available?
The San Diego Zoo park does not offer overnight parking unless you’re spending the night camping in the Park for a Roar and Snore Safari.
What accessibility features are available for use at the Safari Park?
The park provides ADA-compliant parking, pathways, and shuttle services for those with mobility needs. Wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers can be rented at the entrance. You can also check the Safari Park map which has accessible routes highlighted. You can get a copy of the map at the entrance or download it here before your visit.
Can I camp in the Park?
The Roar & Snore Safari includes an overnight stay in luxury tents, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Safari Park’s surroundings. It’s a perfect option for adventurous families or couples.
Where can I shop for souvenirs?
You can visit the park's on-site shops (spread throughout the Safari Park’s premises) for unique wildlife-themed merchandise, local crafts, and eco-friendly products.
