Top 5 Family-Friendly Safari Destinations You Should Visit

From seeing majestic lions roam to watching playful giraffes munch on leaves, these experiences offer both excitement and valuable learning opportunities for kids of all ages.

Let’s explore five top-notch family-friendly safari spots where you can witness wildlife up close.

From seeing majestic lions roam to watching playful giraffes munch on leaves, these experiences offer both excitement and valuable learning opportunities for kids of all ages.

Let’s explore five top-notch family-friendly safari spots where you can witness wildlife up close.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park, California

Located in sunny Escondido, California, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a massive 1,800-acre park that feels just like the African savanna. It’s home to over 3,500 animals from all over the world, and many of them roam freely in huge, open spaces that look just like their natural homes.

Here are some amazing adventures you can experience here.

Africa Tram Safari: Hop on a guided tram tour and journey through wide-open grasslands where you’ll see herds of giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and other cool African animals living their best lives, says Joshua D’Souza, Co-Founder & CEO of CloudSafaris.

Cheetah Run: Get your heart racing as you watch these lightning-fast cats sprint across a special track.

Lorikeet Landing: Step into a colorful world filled with lorikeets and hand-feed these friendly birds as they land right on you!

Tiger Trail: Get a glimpse of these powerful Sumatran tigers as they explore their lush, green home.

Anthony Acosta, Digital Marketing Expert at Big Horn Golfer, adds, “The park makes sure everyone stays safe and has a good time. The tours and animal encounters are led by experts who keep a safe distance and teach you all about the animals. The park is also easy to get around, with wide paths, ramps, and plenty of space for strollers, so everyone in the family can join in on the fun.”

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is open every day, and you can buy tickets online or at the entrance. It’s a good idea to get there early to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler morning weather.

Even the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a beloved destination, welcoming over 1.5 million visitors each year.

Its vast savannas and diverse animal collection make it a top choice for families seeking an unforgettable wildlife adventure.


Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Florida

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge in Florida offers a unique experience — a safari adventure right from your hotel room! The resort is designed to feel like you’re in the heart of Africa, with beautiful architecture, authentic decorations, and most importantly — animals roaming freely on the savannas surrounding the buildings.

Here are some animal adventures you can enjoy.

Savanna View Rooms: Choose a room with a savanna view for the full safari experience. You’ll have a private balcony or even a special viewing window in the bathroom to watch the animals wander by.

Guided Safaris and Tours: Join expert guides for a safari or tour around the savannas. They’ll teach you all sorts of interesting facts about the animals and their habitats, making it both fun and educational, shares Josh Pather, Founder of Photo Booth International.

Animal Encounters: Get up close and personal with some of the Lodge’s coolest animals, like feeding a giraffe or meeting a giant tortoise. These special encounters create lasting memories for the whole family.

Themed Dining: Enjoy delicious African-inspired food at one of the Lodge’s restaurants, many of which have amazing views of the savannas. It’s a feast for your eyes and your stomach!

Sumeer Kaur, Founder of Saree, shares, “The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a dream come true for families. Besides the incredible animal experiences, the resort has tons of other fun things to do. Kids will love swimming in the pools, playing on the playgrounds, and joining in on special activities just for them.”

To make things even easier, book a package that includes park tickets and meals. This can save you money and take the stress out of planning. And don’t forget your camera to capture all the amazing moments, says adds Khashayar Shahnazari, Chief Executive Officer at FinlyWealth.


The Wilds, Ohio

The Wilds in Ohio might surprise you. This sprawling conservation center is dedicated to protecting endangered species and offers an open-range safari experience that feels like you’ve stepped into the heart of Africa. Here, you’ll encounter animals like rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more, roaming freely across vast pastures.

Here are the unique safari experiences you can find here.

Open-Air Safari Tours: Hop aboard an open-air safari vehicle and journey through the diverse habitats of The Wilds. You’ll get incredibly close to the animals and learn fascinating facts from your knowledgeable guide.

Specialty Tours: For a more in-depth experience, consider one of the specialty tours, like the Sunset Safari or the Wildside Tour, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at the conservation efforts taking place.

Zipline Safari: Soar above the animal pastures on a thrilling zipline adventure, offering a unique perspective of the wildlife and stunning scenery.

Overnight Adventures: Spend the night in a yurt or cabin and experience the magic of The Wilds after dark. You might even hear the calls of distant animals as you drift off to sleep.

The Wilds isn’t just about entertainment — it’s also a center for education and conservation. Through various programs and exhibits, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing endangered species and the efforts being made to protect them.

Plus, The Wilds in Ohio offers a unique safari experience, attracting around 120,000 visitors annually. Its focus on conservation and open-range habitats create a truly immersive encounter with endangered species.


Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, Texas

Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center offers a unique drive-thru safari experience where you can encounter over 1,100 animals roaming freely across 1,800 acres of scenic landscapes. This conservation center is dedicated to preserving endangered and threatened species, providing them with spacious habitats where they can thrive.

Here’s what you can expect.

• Drive-Thru Safari: Buckle up and embark on a self-guided driving tour through the park. You’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and even endangered species like Attwater’s prairie chickens and black rhinos.
• Guided Tours: For a more personalized experience, opt for a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff who will share fascinating insights about the animals and their conservation stories.
• Scenic Overlook: Take a break from driving and enjoy panoramic views of the park from the Scenic Overlook. It’s a great spot for a picnic lunch or a photo opportunity.
• Nature Trails: Stretch your legs and explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, which offer a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area up close.

Bearizona Wildlife Park, Arizona

Bearizona Wildlife Park offers a unique drive-thru safari experience showcasing the diverse wildlife of North America. Encounter majestic bears, wolves, bison, and other fascinating creatures as they roam freely in their natural habitats.

Here’s what you can get there.

• Drive-Thru Safari: Go on a scenic drive through the park’s 3-mile Ponderosa Pine Forest and encounter a variety of North American wildlife, including black bears, wolves, bison, and more.
• Fort Bearizona Walk-Thru Area: Step out of your car and explore Fort Bearizona, a walk-thru area featuring smaller animals like otters, foxes, and reptiles. You’ll also find interactive exhibits and educational displays.
• Raptor Free Flight Show: Witness the impressive aerial skills of birds of prey during the daily Raptor Free Flight Show.

Bearizona Wildlife Park is a popular drive-thru wildlife park, hosting approximately 30% (300,000) visitors each year. Its diverse collection of North American animals and interactive exhibits make it a favorite among families and nature enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it — five fantastic family-friendly safari destinations! Whether you’re looking for a wild adventure in California, a magical stay in Florida, or a conservation-focused experience in the heartland, there’s something for everyone.

Pack your bags, grab your binoculars, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories with your loved ones!