San Diego Safari Park Guide: Hours, Attractions & Tips

If you’re looking for unforgettable things to do in San Diego, don’t miss the San Diego Safari Park. Just 35 miles from downtown, this massive wildlife sanctuary offers a true safari-style adventure, featuring wide-open landscapes, herds of exotic animals, and experiences that go far beyond a typical zoo. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with kids, it’s one of the best family-friendly attractions in Southern California.

About the San Diego Safari Park

Located in Escondido, just 35 miles from downtown San Diego, the Safari Park spans 1,800 acres and is operated by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. But don’t expect a typical zoo layout; this place feels more like a real African savanna, with animals roaming in wide-open enclosures that mimic their natural environments.

For convenience, there’s ample parking at the park, including preferred parking closer to the entrance for a small additional fee. This makes it easy to get in and out without having to walk too far, especially on busy days.

This park is great for families, couples, or solo adventurers. It’s calm, spacious, and surprisingly inspiring, a true gem in Southern California.

San Diego Safari Park Hours & Directions

Planning ahead makes all the difference, especially when it comes to timing your visit and getting there stress-free.

What time does the San Diego Safari Park open?

Hours can vary by season, but here’s the general schedule:

• Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Always check the official site or app before your visit, especially for holiday hours or special events.

Where is the San Diego Safari Park?

📍 Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
It’s about 35 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, located in a more open, wild-feeling part of the county.

Directions from San Diego

• By car: Take I-15 N to CA-78 E. Follow signs to San Pasqual Valley Road.
• By public transit: It’s possible but time-consuming. If you don’t have a car, a rideshare is your best bet.

Parking Info

General parking is available for a fee. If you want to be closer to the entrance, preferred parking is worth the small upgrade.

Where to Stay Near San Diego Safari Park (Without Breaking the Bank)

If you’re planning to visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and want to stay close by, some solid vacation rental options offer comfort, privacy, and even a few perks, like hot tubs and pools, without the resort price tag. These spots are especially great for families or small groups who want to have a bit more space, a kitchen to prep snacks or meals, and easy parking.

Here are two hand-picked VRBOs, both just a short 10–15 minute drive from the Safari Park, and way more comfortable than cramming into a hotel if you’re staying more than a night.

1. Private Casita with Pool Access in Quiet Escondido Neighborhood

This cozy little retreat is tucked away in a quiet, secure neighborhood just minutes from the Safari Park. It’s a great home base if you’re also exploring local breweries, wineries, or beaches. The one-bedroom casita has a Cal King bed and a sleeper sofa, plus a walk-in closet and a galley kitchen. There’s a private patio out back, perfect for unwinding with a drink after a long day, and a shared pool and hot tub (which you can reserve for private use).

While the pool isn’t gated, and the setup might not be ideal for very young kids, it’s a great option for couples or families with older children. The hosts live on-site but give you plenty of space. One perk: you get an hour of free hot tub use included, and it’s just $10/hr after that.

Bonus: You’re close to Kit Carson Park (great for walking dogs or letting kids play) and just 1.5 miles from North County Mall for food, groceries, and other essentials.

2. Family-Friendly Retreat with Mountain Views and Outdoor Spa

If you’re traveling with more people or want a little more room to spread out, this two-bedroom guesthouse is another great option. It’s attached to the main house but has its own private entrance, driveway, and gate. One bedroom is on the ground floor in an open layout, and the other is upstairs and fully enclosed, ideal for families or friends who want a bit of separation.

There’s a private outdoor spa right off the main bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a 75” TV, fast WiFi, and a high-ceiling patio where you can chill with a coffee or glass of wine. The vibe is peaceful and neighborly, just a few minutes from Felicita Park, and only a 5–10 minute drive to shops, restaurants, and the freeway.

Top Things to Do at San Diego Safari Park

Here are my favorite highlights to plan your visit around, whether you have a few hours or a whole day.

Africa Tram

This is the one you can’t miss. The Africa Tram takes you through a massive open-range habitat where animals like giraffes, rhinos, buffalo, and antelopes roam freely. It’s calm, scenic, and a great break from walking. You’ll feel like you’re really on safari.

Walkabout Australia

This trail lets you walk among kangaroos, wallabies, and other Aussie wildlife. I got to stroll just a few feet from the animals, such a unique experience and a favorite for kids and photographers alike.

Tiger Trail

This is where you’ll see Sumatran tigers lounging or playing in their forest enclosure. It’s beautifully designed and super peaceful if you need a quiet moment.

Balloon Safari

If you’re feeling bold, take to the sky in a tethered helium balloon and get a bird’s-eye view of the whole park. It’s a splurge, but one you won’t forget.

Behind-the-Scenes Safaris

These are paid upgrades, but worth it if you want a closer look. Options include the Cart Safari, Caravan Safari, or even a Roar & Snore overnight adventure.

Wildlife Shows & Encounters

Throughout the day, you can catch animal presentations, bird shows, and keeper talks that are both educational and fun. Check the app or schedule when you arrive.

Save with a 2-Day San Diego Safari Park + Zoo Pass

If you’re planning to visit both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park 2-Visit Pass Ticket is by far the best value. With just one ticket, you’ll get two days of wildlife wonder, and you can use both visits within a year of purchase. This experience has earned the Badge of Excellence, meaning it’s highly rated by travelers and has met top quality standards. It also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit, and you can reserve now and pay later, perfect if you’re still finalizing your itinerary.

What’s Included

• Entry to all exhibits and shows at both parks
• Unlimited Africa Tram rides at Safari Park
• Unlimited Guided Bus Tour and Skyfari Aerial Tram at the Zoo
• Mobile tickets for easy entry
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit

Note: Attractions are subject to availability, and both parks are wheelchair and stroller accessible.

What to Expect

At the San Diego Zoo: Explore world-class exhibits like Elephant Odyssey, see lions and jaguars, and enjoy lush landscaping and interactive zones.

At the Safari Park: About 35 miles north of the zoo, it offers wide open habitats with herds of rhinos, giraffes, wildebeests, and zebras. Ride the Africa Tram or explore walking trails like the Heart of Africa.

How to Get Around the Safari Park (and Why the App Helps)

One of the standout features I found during my visit to the San Diego Safari Park is their official app, which makes navigating the park a breeze. Whether you’re trying to meet friends at the watering hole (like I did), find a specific exhibit, or get directions to key spots, the app works like a GPS for walking. It even estimates how long it’ll take to get to your destination!

Top App Features

• Real-time navigation and directions
• Up-to-date hours and event info
• Ticket purchases and mobile entry
• Personalized visit plans with suggested activities

This app was an absolute game-changer, and I highly recommend downloading it before your visit for a seamless experience.

What to Bring (Especially If You Love Photography)

Here’s what I packed for my day at the park, especially helpful if you’re a photographer or just want to be ready for anything:

Essentials

• Water bottle
• Sunglasses + sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Snacks or lunch (outside food is allowed in limited quantities)

My Camera Gear

• Sony A7 IV
• Zoom lens (Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens with the 1.4x Teleconverter)
• Extra batteries + memory cards

There’s a lot of walking, but the photo opportunities make it so worth it, and you can rest a little on the tram ride.

What I Saw at the Safari Park: A Photo Safari Come to Life

Here’s a snapshot of the incredible wildlife I saw during my visit:

• Tiger: Resting peacefully in the shade, powerful and majestic.
• Gorillas: Watching them interact in their forest habitat was a moving experience.
• Elephants: munching on grass and playing in the dirt.
• Rhinos: Massive and calm, grazing under the California sun.
• Giraffes: Graceful and towering, just like you’d imagine on an African savanna.
• Zebras: Galloping freely with their iconic black-and-white stripes.
• Blue wildebeests, antelopes, gemsbok, African buffalo: it truly felt like being on safari.
• Kangaroos and wallabies: In the Walkabout Australia area, I got to stroll right alongside them!
• Rainforest Aviary birds: Beautiful bird sightings.

Final Thoughts on San Diego Safari Park

Even though I’ve lived in San Diego for years, this was my first time visiting the Safari Park! Wow, I can’t believe I waited this long. It completely exceeded my expectations. Sometimes, as locals, we forget to explore the amazing places right in our own backyard. This visit reminded me just how special San Diego is and how much there still is to discover. If you haven’t been yet, take this as your sign to go. Whether you’re a tourist or a lifelong San Diegan, the Safari Park is a wild, beautiful experience that stays with you.

Post originally published on April 29, 2025, and last updated on September 28, 2025.