San Diego Zoo Safari Park 1-Day Ticket
San Pasqual Valley San Diego, San Diego
Explore 1,800 acres that are home to over 3,500 species of exotic animals on your African safari. Discover an unknown world on this journey through the plains and forests.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park Experience
San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido suits animal enthusiasts seeking immersive wildlife experiences across 1,800 acres of naturalistic habitats.
Highlights
- Get nose to nose with lions at Lion Camp
- Walk beside elephants in the new Elephant Valley
- See over 140 bird species in the Wings of the World Aviary
- Admire the California condor
- Explore themed zones like Heart of Africa and Tiger Trail
Description
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park houses more than 3,000 animals from 375 species across open field enclosures designed to replicate their natural environments. Visitors can explore themed areas such as Heart of Africa and Tiger Trail, supporting conservation programs operating in 35 countries.
Opening in early 2026, Denny Sanford Elephant Valley is the park’s largest project. This immersive space allows guests to walk alongside African savanna elephants on paths surrounded by rare plants, including endangered cycads and thorn trees. The two-story Mkutano House restaurant overlooks a watering hole, providing views of elephants’ natural behaviors. The exhibit highlights global conservation partnerships and research advancing elephant protection.
Other park features include Lion Camp, the Hidden Jungle tropical greenhouse, Wings of the World Aviary with free-flying birds, Discovery Station for interactive kids’ activities, and the Africa Tram Safari—a relaxing ride through expansive savannas. Daily animal encounters, enrichment sessions, and digital experiences like “Have you ‘herd’?” with Robert the Zebra enhance your visit. Dining and rest areas are available throughout the park.
On Saturdays and Sundays, guests can secure a complimentary Giant Panda Ticket upon arrival at the Zoo by scanning a QR code at the main entrance, selecting a time, and presenting the ticket at Denny Sanford Panda Ridge. Tickets are limited and available first come, first served on the day of your visit.
Includes
- Entrance to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Africa Tram Safari
- All shows and daily animal encounters
- Panda Ridge Access (weekends only)
Excludes
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Parking fees
Important Information
- Children 11 and under are free in October with a paid adult ticket
- Your GetYourGuide voucher can be used for park entry; skip the ticket window but not the Africa Tram line
- Mobile tickets allow line skipping to reduce wait times
- Africa Tram Safari availability varies
- Park hours may change; verify directly before your visit
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, book tickets in advance, bring comfortable walking shoes, and plan your visit outside of peak midday hours to avoid crowds.
