San Diego Tickets

Experience only the best of San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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4.6/5
4K+ travellers from around the world love this
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san diego zoo tickets
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From happy customers

Loved by 49 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Richard M

United States
Couple
Last week
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App worked smooth and was faster at park entrance than waiting in line at the ticket booth. Purchase ahead of time and avoid the lines!

Prabhjit K

United States
Family
2 weeks ago
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We loved everything about the Zoo including very informative bus tour, gandola, food, all the zoo animals, and very kind and friendly staff!!

Donna L

United States
Solo
Last week
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+1 more

The trolly tour was great! It was so nice to see all of the interesting sites and get off and on wherever we wanted to. All of the drivers were very friendly and informative and the trolly was comfortable. I would definitely recommend it!

Jonathan K

United States
Group
Jan 2026
‌
Was a great time. We got there early. The park was empty and the park was so clean. Such a great time. The app and maps aren't that straightforward. Could use some updating.

Meagan T

United States
Couple
Jan 2026
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+1 more

The Safari Park was an incredible experience and made so easy with Headout! It was a breeze getting our tickets the day before we wanted to go and it couldn't have been easier. My partner and I had a memorable day that we will treasure forever! Thanks Headout!

Manuel B

United States
Couple
Jan 2026
‌
Great tourist attraction. Must see when in San Diego. Highly recommend. Volunteers were great and answered all our questions. Fun trip.

Brian B

United States
Solo
Dec 2025
‌
I have been in San Diego for a month and this was the best day I have had so far. I will definitely go again before I leave in February.

Jamal C

United States
Family
2 days ago
We had an amazing time at the Zoo and the safari park!!! We didn't realize that the Zoo and Safari Park aren't near in distance and are 45 mins away from each other. Also, it's not recommended to do both the same day which we didn't realize because the two are marketed together. That was the only real disappointment. I've recommended the adventure to family and friends!

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park (TL;DR)

  • Access included: Admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, with Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, the aviary, and all scheduled shows & exhibits.
  • Zones & highlights: African Plains, Asian Savanna, Elephant Valley, Tiger Trail, Walkabout Australia, Lion Camp, Gorilla Forest, Hidden Jungle, African Outpost & Safari Outpost, Nairobi Village, Conservation Carousel, Botanical Gardens
  • Ways to explore: Self-guided exploration, Wildlife Safari (guided safari with up-close viewing), Flightline Safari (guided safari with ziplining), Behind the Scenes Safari (guided safari with behind-the-scenes access, multiple regions covered & insights).
  • Best time to visit: Early in the day for the most animal activity.
  • Best upgrade: Add the Behind the Scenes Safari with your admission ticket to enjoy a guided exploration across regions in the park with deeper insights.

Your San Diego Zoo Safari Park ticket options

ExperienceInclusionsExclusionsWhy choose this

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

Entry to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, all scheduled shows & exhibits

Ticketed guided tours

You can access all tours, shows, and exhibits with the admission ticket

San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Wildlife Safari Tour

1-hour guided wildlife safari tour, visits to one or more habitats from areas of Africa and/or Asia

Admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (separate and required)

Up close views of multiple habitat regions, along with expert insights

San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Flightline Safari Tour

1.5-hour tour of the San Diego Safari Park's savannas, open-air safari in a truck, ziplining

Admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (separate and required)

Adventure tour that combines sightseeing, guided insights, and a zipline experience

San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Behind the Scenes Safari Tour

Guided 90-minute safari tour for up-close wildlife viewings, visits to a variety of locations & wildlife care and conservation insights

Admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (separate and required)

Cover multiple areas inside the Safari Park and get an in-depth understanding of the conservation and care practices

San Diego Zoo Safari Park + USS Midway Museum Tickets

Entry to San Diego Zoo Safari Park, admission to USS Midway Museum, audio guide

Ticketed guided tours

Combine nature exploration with historic insights across 2 San Diego’s top attractions

San Diego Zoo & Safari Park 2-Visit Pass

1 visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and 1 visit to the San Diego Zoo OR 2 visits to either the San Diego Zoo or the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Ticketed guided tours

Visit both the Safari Park and the Zoo with one ticket, or enjoy the flexible choice of making it 2 Safari Park visits

What to expect on your San Diego Zoo Safari Park visit

Safari tram with visitors passing rhino and wildebeests at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park landscape with Africa Tram paths and distant mountains.
Mother African elephant with cub in lush green forest.
Person ziplining on Xline against a clear blue sky.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park's Africa Tram area with lush greenery and unique architecture.
Giraffes roaming grassy hills at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Couple of tourists in front of Tiger Trail park inside San Diego Zoo
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Experience unique safaris

Get ready for an adventure as you embark on one of the park’s unique safaris. Whether it’s the Wildlife Safari, Behind-the-Scenes Safari, Cart Safari, or the thrilling Flightline Safari, each offers a unique perspective and a chance to see different animals up close.

Explore vast regions and naturalistic habitats

San Diego Zoo Safari Park is designed around open-range habitats that mimic real ecosystems. Wander through regions inspired by Africa, Asia, and beyond, where animals roam in large, mixed-species enclosures. Each zone offers a different perspective on wildlife and conservation.

Meet a variety of animals

With over 3,000 animals from more than 300 species, you’ll get to see everything from African elephants and giraffes to zebras, antelopes, and various bird species. Don’t miss the cheetahs, lions, and the rare Sumatran tigers!

Enjoy adventurous activities

Try out the park’s adventure activities like zip lining and ballooning for an adrenaline rush like no other. Tours like the Flightline Safari combine sightseeing with excitement, which includes an open-air safari truck ride across the savanna followed by a zipline adventure soaring above wildlife habitats. You get to soar over the animals, giving you a bird’s eye view of the park.

Immersive habitat exploration

The Wildlife Safari tour brings you closer to animals in select habitats across Africa, Asia, or both. Explore areas not typically accessible on foot with a guide as you participate in unique viewing opportunities and engaging commentary throughout the journey.

Join the conservation effort

What sets the San Diego Zoo Safari Park apart is its commitment to conservation. The park spans an impressive 1,800 acres, designed to mimic natural habitats, giving you the opportunity to see animals interact as they would in the wild.

Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers

San Diego Zoo Safari Park is perfect for those who enjoy wide-open spaces and a more immersive wildlife experience. It’s especially suited for families, photographers, and anyone looking to go beyond a traditional zoo visit. With a mix of relaxed safari experiences and high-energy adventures, there’s something for every pace.

Things to know before booking your San Diego Zoo tickets

  • Ticket options: A general admission ticket to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is mandatory for participating in tours and entry.
    • Standard admission: Includes entry, access to the non-ticketed experiences, the Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, the aviary, all exhibits and shows.
    • Wildlife Safari: 1-hour guided tour across Asia, Africa, or both regions with animal viewing & insights. Admission to the Safari Park is not included with this ticket and is mandatory to participate.
    • Flightline Safari: Guided tour in an open safari truck across the savannas with a ziplining experience included. Admission to the Safari Park is not included with this ticket and is mandatory to participate.
    • Behind the Scenes Safari: 1.5-hour guided tour with expert insights into the conservation & care practices of the Safari Park, with up-close viewing across multiple habitats.
  • Combo tours: Provide flexible scheduling and access to multiple attractions.
    • San Diego Zoo + Safari Park, 2 Visit Ticket: 1-day admission to the Safari Park and the Zoo , or can be redeemed with 2 visits to either the San Diego Safari Park or the San Diego Zoo.
    • San Diego Zoo Safari Park + USS Midway Museum: Admission to both attractions , with skip-the-line access to the USS Midway Museum and audio guide.
  • Accessibility: The Safari Park is fully accessible, with accessible trams and safari vehicles on select guided tours.
  • Age requirements: Children 3 and above require tickets. All children under 15 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Safari experiences at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

View of tourists watching Giraffes inside San Diego Zoo from Tram
Ziplining through lush forest canopy.
Giraffe close-up with visitors at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Butterfly inside San Diego Zoo
Couple observing wildlife at a waterhole in an African safari camp.
Cheetah walking in the grass at San Diego Zoo Safari Park with visitors in the background.
Koala sitting on a branch at San Diego Zoo.
Elephant walking in a grassy savanna, showcasing its large tusks and trunk.
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Wildlife Safari

Journey into the heart of African and Asian habitats. Up-close views of giraffes, rhinos, and other species make this safari a memorable adventure.

Flightline Safari

For those seeking thrill, this safari lets you soar as high as 130 feet above the ground, offering a bird’s-eye view of rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife.

Behind-the-Scenes Safari

This safari offers a sneak peek into the secret lives of wildlife. You’ll get to meet the care specialists and learn about animal conservation.

Butterfly Jungle Safari

A vibrant world of pollinators awaits you. Experience the beauty of hundreds of butterflies from around the globe in a colorful aviary.

Cart Safaris

A comfortable Safari cart takes you on a 60-minute guided tour of African or Asian savanna habitats, offering a unique perspective on diverse wildlife.

Sun Up Cheetah Safari

Early morning is the best time to watch the fastest animals on land. This safari lets you witness cheetahs in their prime.

Ultimate Safari

Tailored to your interests, this custom safari provides exclusive access to habitat areas and animal interactions.

Roar & Snore Safaris

An overnight stay at the Safari Park is filled with camp activities, wildlife presentations, and the unique experience of waking up to the sounds of animals.

Beyond the safaris | Activities to try out at the Safari Park

Conservation Carousel

Ready for a spin? The Conservation Carousel is a whirlwind of fun with over 60 unique animals to ride. A hit with kids and those young at heart, this merry-go-round of endangered species is perfect for a family photo ops.

Africa Tram

Aboard the Africa Tram for an immersive journey into the heart of the park’s expansive exhibits. As you glide along, you’ll be treated to up-close views of antelopes, giraffes, buffalo, cranes, and rhinos. It’s a must-do for nature enthusiasts and photographers!

Balloon Safari

Ever dreamed of floating in the sky? The Balloon Safari is your ticket to a bird’s eye view of the park. Soaring 400 feet into the sky, this tethered helium balloon ride offers a unique perspective and a thrill you won’t forget.

Journey Into The Wild

If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, make sure to catch the ‘Journey Into The Wild’ presentation. It’s a fascinating insight into the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s worldwide conservation work. Ideal for students and anyone eager to learn more about our planet’s wildlife.

Play areas

If you’re traveling with little adventurers, the play areas are their jungle gym. Let them run wild and free in these safe and fun-filled zones while you take a well-deserved break.

Explore Elephants

Join the Explore Elephants tour for an unforgettable encounter. You’ll get up close with the park’s African elephant herd and learn about the challenges these majestic creatures face in their native habitats. It’s a heartwarming experience for animal lovers of all ages.

Animals and more at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

African penguin swimming underwater in clear blue ocean.
Indian sloth bear sitting on a tree branch in a forest setting.
Butterfly on pink flowers in a butterfly house.
Cassowary at Dubai Safari Park with vibrant blue and red head.
Japanese giant salamander on riverbed stones underwater.

Visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park with kids

San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers a more open, adventure-style experience that’s perfect for families looking to explore wildlife in naturalistic settings. With wide walking trails, interactive programs, and plenty of space to roam, kids can enjoy both learning and play in a relaxed outdoor environment.

Kid-friendly features include:

  • Play areas and kid-focused zones: Kids can enjoy dedicated play spaces where they can climb and explore between animal encounters. Areas like the Savannah Cool Zone offer water play features and shaded spots, making them perfect for cooling down on warm days. 
  • Interactive animal encounters and live programs: The park offers engaging experiences like keeper talks, feeding demonstrations, and seasonal presentations. These experiences make wildlife education exciting and memorable.
  • Safari-style tours and easy navigation: Exploring the park is part of the adventure, with tram safaris offering guided journeys through expansive habitats. These rides are especially helpful for families, providing a rest break while covering large areas.
  • Convenient family facilities: The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is well-equipped for families, with accessible pathways, restrooms with baby-changing stations, and shaded rest areas. 
  • Flexible dining options for all ages: You’ll find a variety of dining options across the park, from casual cafés to quick snack kiosks. Kid-friendly meals and flexible menu choices ensure there’s something for every appetite. 

Plan your visit

San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Regular hours: 9am to 5pm daily. Between April and August, it closes at 7pm.
  • Special event hours: For the ‘Wild Holidays’ event, the park is open until 8pm.
  • Last entry: 1 hour before closing time.
  • Closed on: The Safari Park is open on all days of the year.
  • Best time to visit: For the most active animal sightings, head to the park on weekday mornings when there are usually smaller crowds.
  • Guided tour duration:
    • Wildlife Safari: 60 minutes
    • Flightline Safari: 90 minutes
    • Behind the Scenes Safari: 90 minutes
San Diego Zoo Safari Park timings

Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA, 92027, United States | Find on Maps

  • By bus: Bus numbers 371 from Escondido Transit Center.
    Nearest stop: Highway 78 & Safari Park Outside Gate
  • By car: San Diego Safari Park is approximately 14 miles away from Ramona Airport.
    Parking: You can park your vehicles at the safari park. General parking costs $20 per vehicle. RV parking and preferred parking start at $38.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park location
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are located throughout the park.
  • ATMs: ATM machines are available at the entrance of the park.
  • Lost and found: If you've misplaced an item, visit the park base, situated at the park entrance. It's open daily until closing.
  • Storage: Storage for luggage is available at $10 per piece for small items, $12 per piece for medium-size items, and $15 per piece for large items.
  • First aid: First aid station is available at the guest services center at the entrance of the park
  • Gift shop: There are multiple gift shops present offering a variety of items.
  • Stroller and wheelchair rental: Available on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance.
  • Restaurants: There are 17 dining options available serving quick bites to full-service dining.
  • Parking: Paid parking is available at the entrance of the park.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Most park areas and many safari tours are wheelchair accessible.
  • Wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters (ECVs) can be rented near the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Accessible trams are available on some of the safari tours.
  • You can rent strollers near the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
  • Reservations are not required to visit the Safari Park.
  • Proper attire is a must at all times. The park reserves the right to deny entry to anyone in clothing deemed inappropriate or disruptive.
  • Smoking of any kind, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, and marijuana, is strictly prohibited.
  • Alcohol and illegal substances are not allowed on park grounds.
  • Weapons of any kind, including replicas and toys, are not permitted.
  • Drones, laser pointers, noisemakers, and sporting equipment are considered disruptive and are not allowed.
  • Pet animals, other than trained certified service animals, are not permitted. However, service animals that are still in training are not allowed.
  • Large coolers, glass items, alcohol, party trays, candles, balloons, or decorations are not allowed.
  • You can bring your own single-person food supply in small containers.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park

With 17 dining options for you to choose from, here are our top picks for dining at the San Diego Safari Park:

  • Safari Coffee Outpost (Safari Base Camp): Start your day at Safari Coffee Outpost and enjoy specialty coffee drinks, warm mini doughnuts, snacks, and cold drinks while browsing unique items at the adjacent Plant Trader gift shop.
  • Mombasa Cooker (Nairobi Village, African Outpost): Dine outdoors in an African-themed setting at Mombasa Cooker. The menu includes hand-battered chicken tenders, burgers with fries, draft/craft beer, and Kid’s Meals, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
  • Macan Market (Tiger Trail): Macan Market offers Tiger Trail merchandise and a light luncheon menu at the Sambutan Longhouse. Enjoy snacks, draft/craft beer, and soft drinks while watching the tigers.
  • Raptor’s Nest (The Grove): Relax at Raptor’s Nest, with a view of the Flightline Safari landing area and Roar & Snore camp area. Enjoy snacks, soft drinks, draft/craft beer, wine, and specialty cocktails.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park

There are 8 tribal and shack styled gift shops laid across the park with a wide variety of items. Visit the following stores on your visit.

  • Safari Outfitters (inside Village Market): Start your day here to pack up all your essentials for the day. You’ll find snacks, hats, strollers, ECVs for rent, and more.
  • Village Market (Safari Village): Kids will love this store where they can paint their faces and turn into their favorite animal! You’ll also find boutique items that you can gift your friends and family with.
  • Safari Animal Boutique (inside Village Market): Take home plush toys, animal-themed gifts, apparel, and other themed souvenirs before you wrap up your visit.

San Diego also has an online store for wild gifts and souvenirs from the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.

Visitor tips

  • Plan for a full-day visit: The Safari Park is large and spread out, with plenty of exhibits, trails, and safari experiences to enjoy. Set aside a full day so you can explore at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. This also gives you time to catch shows and take breaks in between.
  • Arrive early for the best experience: Getting there at opening time helps you beat the crowds and see animals when they’re most active. Head to popular areas like Walkabout Australia early, where kangaroos roam freely in the morning. 
  • Prioritize the Africa Tram ride: The Africa Tram is one of the park’s highlights and can get busy later in the day. Ride it earlier to enjoy better views and shorter queues. It’s also a great way to get an overview of the park’s expansive savannas.
  • Check show schedules in advance: Plan your day around presentations like bird flight demonstrations and animal encounters. These shows are both entertaining and educational, offering unique insights into wildlife behavior. 
  • Stay hydrated with refill stations: Bring a reusable water bottle and take advantage of the free refill stations across the park. This is especially important during warmer months when temperatures can rise. 
  • Wear comfortable clothing and sun protection: Expect a lot of walking in open, sunny areas, so dress accordingly. Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are highly recommended. Comfortable shoes are essential for navigating the park’s trails.
  • Use shaded areas and take regular breaks: There are plenty of shaded seating areas and rest spots throughout the park. Take breaks to recharge, especially if visiting with kids. This helps maintain energy levels and keeps the experience enjoyable.
  • Consider booking safari experiences in advance: Premium experiences like the Wildlife Safari or Flightline Safari have limited availability. Booking ahead ensures you don’t miss out on these popular activities. It also helps you plan your day more efficiently.
  • Bring snacks for convenience: While there are dining options inside the park, carrying snacks can save time and money. This is particularly helpful for families or visitors with dietary preferences. It also keeps hunger at bay between activities.

Frequently asked questions about San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets

No, San Diego Zoo Safari Park and San Diego Zoo are not the same. They are two different parks, located in different areas, and offer different experiences. The Zoo is in downtown San Diego, while the Safari Park is 30 miles north in Escondido. The Zoo is more compact, and the Safari Park is more spread out, allowing animals to roam in larger enclosures.