San Diego Zoo Safari Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is San Diego Zoo Safari Park?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Kids get free play areas, cooling zone, Africa Tram, lion and tiger trails, age-fit safaris and carousel, with stroller rentals and change tables, but hilly paths may tire small legs.
Positives:
- Up-close animal encounters: Kids can meet kangaroos, see platypuses and watch lions at Lion Camp
- Family-friendly zones: Play areas and mist stations offer fun rest stops between exhibits
Challenges:
- Large grounds: The park covers 1,800 acres, so plan frequent breaks and use the tram or shuttle
- Limited shade: Many pathways and waits are in full sun; pack hats, sunscreen and refillable water
What is San Diego Zoo Safari Park?
- A wildlife sanctuary spanning 1,800 acres in Escondido, north of San Diego, California
- A conservation and breeding center housing over 300 species of African and Asian wildlife
- A network of open-range savannas, woodlands and themed botanical gardens replicating natural ecosystems
What is so special about San Diego Zoo Safari Park for with kids?
- Ride the open-air Africa Tram through savanna habitats
- Enjoy four themed play areas with slides, climbing and mist sprays
- Wander among kangaroos and see the only platypus outside Australia
- Watch the Journey into the Wild show for live animal demos
- Opt for guided cart safaris to learn about key species from a guide
Recommended visit duration: 1 day
Why 1 day visit duration is ideal for with kids: A full day lets your family enjoy trams, play areas and exhibits at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Africa Tram:
Board a 25-minute open-air tram through African savanna habitats.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes after opening to secure seats before crowds build.
Journey into the Wild:
Watch a 15-minute live show with wildlife care specialists and ambassador animals.
Tip: Check the app for the daily 1 PM showtime and arrive 10 minutes early.
Play Areas:
Explore four themed zones with climbing structures, slides and mist sprays.
Tip: Plan a mid-morning break at Savanna Cool Zone to beat the heat.
Walkabout Australia:
Wander a 3.6-acre habitat with kangaroos, wallabies and cassowaries.
Tip: Ask Guest Services for the feeding schedule to watch close-up encounters.
Cart Safari:
Take a guided open-air cart tour past key species with a park guide.
Tip: Reserve your cart spot online or at Safari Base Camp early in the day.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Start early: Arrive at opening to secure tram seats and enjoy cooler morning temperatures
- Use the app: Check showtimes, tram schedules and restroom locations on the official Safari Park app
- Easy Access Pass: Ask at Guest Services for faster boarding on the tram and express entry to exhibits
Reviews of San Diego Zoo Safari Park
MM TT
I visited the San Diego Safari Zoo and really liked it. The zoo is very big, spacious, and clean, and it’s a great place for walking and spending the day. We didn’t see some animals, possibly because it was winter and they were not very active. I recommend coming early, around 9–10 a.m., if you want to walk the entire zoo. Staying until about 5 p.m. gives you enough time to see all the different ...
Jess Nagel
Free for Active duty! The animals are well cared for and the workers are very knowledgeable. Got to learn a lot about local wildlife and conservation. Dont miss out on the baby giraffes! One was just born early 2026 and 2 others in 2025.
Joel D.
My wife and 2 young boys had a very fun and happy experience when it came to seeing all the amazing animals in the different habitats. We were able capture some great photos. The park staff were all so kind and knowledgeable of the animals. They made me leave feeling like an expert. We even got annual passes because we had such a great time and we look forward to our next visit and being able to t...
Soumyaroop Nandi
We spent a full day at the San Diego Safari Park, which sits roughly 30 miles outside the city, and it was a memorable trip. Parking costs $20 and tickets are $76, so it’s definitely an investment, but the park is spacious, scenic, and very well run. I loved observing the lion, tiger, and massive Burmese python, all of which were closely monitored in thoughtfully designed habitats. The safari rid...
Tim bird
We visited on a weekday and it was super quiet!! We loved the zoo it was super accessible (relative with newborn baby) which was great! Amazing for families and kids. We loved how large the zoo was with spacious areas for animals to roam!! With a wide array of habitats theres plenty to see. We had lunch at a restaurant overlooking the savanna and it was great delicious food and good views. Zoo ...
When is the best time to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park (San Diego, United States)?
In summer, start early and use mist play zones at midday. In cooler months, layer clothing and book outdoor rides in the afternoon for milder temperatures.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 4× general admission | USD 288 |
| Stroller rental | USD 20 |
| Conservation Carousel | USD 6 |
| Snacks and drinks | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 334 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
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About San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 619-231-1515Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
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