San Diego Zoo Safari Park: A Wild Adventure
Experience wildlife in wide-open habitats at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a leading conservation center in Escondido, California.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, located in Escondido, California, offers an immersive wildlife experience showcasing animals from around the globe in vast, naturalistic habitats. Unlike traditional zoos, the Safari Park emphasizes conservation and provides a sanctuary for over 3,000 animals representing more than 300 species, including endangered ones.
A brief summary to San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, San Pasqual Valley, California, 92027, US
- +1619-231-1515
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 9 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Take the Africa Tram for an overview of the African savanna habitats; it's included with admission.
- Check the park's daily schedule for animal encounters, shows, and feeding times.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen and a hat, as you'll be doing a lot of walking in the sun.
- Consider a multi-day pass or a 3-for-1 pass for visits to both the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld to save money.
Getting There
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Driving
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027. From I-15, take the Via Rancho Parkway exit (Exit 27) and follow the signs. General parking costs $20 per vehicle. RV parking starts at $38. Preferred parking is also available starting at $38.
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Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, take the bus to Escondido Transit Center, then transfer to the bus that stops at the Safari Park. The total journey can take approximately 2-3 hours. A one-way bus fare costs approximately $6-$15. Bus service is limited on weekends and holidays.
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Shuttle
Consider booking a roundtrip shuttle service from select San Diego hotels to the Safari Park. This eliminates the hassle of driving and parking. Shuttle services typically cost around $30-$50 per person.
Discover more about San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Pasqual Battlefield State Park
1.4 km
Discover the rich history and natural beauty of San Pasqual Battlefield State Park, a unique destination in California's scenic landscapes.
Wall of Courage
9.0 km
Honor local heroes at Escondido's Wall of Courage, a moving tribute to veterans in Grape Day Park, featuring bronze sculptures and a place for reflection.
Fletcher Point
11.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Fletcher Point, San Diego's premier hiking area that invites nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Porter's House
15.0 km
Explore the charming historical site of Porter's House in Old Poway, a timeless glimpse into California's rich heritage amidst beautiful scenery.
Ken Wakabayashi Bench
16.6 km
Experience tranquility at the Ken Wakabayashi Bench, a historic landmark on the scenic Miner's Ridge Loop Trail in San Diego, surrounded by nature's beauty.
San Dieguito Heritage Museum at the Heritage Ranch
27.2 km
Discover local history and cultural heritage at the San Dieguito Heritage Museum in Encinitas, California, a treasure trove for history buffs and curious travelers.
Moonlight State Beach
29.0 km
Discover the beauty and charm of Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, California, where sun, surf, and serenity await you.
Historic San Luis Rey Bridge
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Old Mission Dam
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Oceanside Spider House
30.9 km
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Flag Assembly Area
31.2 km
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Pacific Coast Hwy (US 101)
31.3 km
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Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
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Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
32.1 km
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San Diego "S" Mountain Historic Site
32.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Balloon Safari
0.6 km
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Rancho Guejito Vineyard
3.3 km
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Hungry Hawk Vineyards & Winery
3.6 km
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Orfila Vineyards and Winery
5.8 km
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Kit Carson Park
6.6 km
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Queen Califia's Magical Circle
6.9 km
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Eureka Lights
7.0 km
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Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead
7.9 km
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Escondido Sign
9.0 km
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Jacked Up Brewery
9.5 km
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Wild Barrel Brewing Company
15.0 km
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Double Peak Park
17.2 km
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The Black Swan Gondola Company - Gondola Rides
20.2 km
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Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum
21.3 km
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Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve
22.1 km
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Essential places to dine
A.R. Valentien
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The Grill at Torrey Pines
32.1 km
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Felix's BBQ with Soul
32.1 km
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Mangia e Bevi
32.1 km
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Seasons 52
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Humphreys La Jolla Grill
33.9 km
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Steamy Piggy
34.0 km
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Urban Plates
34.2 km
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Hunter Steakhouse - Oceanside
34.6 km
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Don's Country Kitchen
35.1 km
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Chilly Bears Oceanside
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Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub
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The Plot - Oceanside
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The Privateer Coal Fire Pizza
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Best Pizza & Brew Oceanside
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mission Marketplace
32.3 km
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Gift Shop
32.5 km
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Old Grove Marketplace
32.7 km
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El Camino North
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American Cancer Society Discovery Shop- Oceanside
33.0 km
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Good Stuff Only
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Brother Benno's Thrift Shop
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The Shops at La Jolla Village
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Elam's Hallmark Shop
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La Jolla Village Square
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Sea Hive La Jolla
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Captain's Helm
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Quality Resale Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Wine Bar
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Drift La Jolla
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Shooters
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West Bar
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Maxdon's
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Pour House
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PCH Sports Bar
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1910 Tap House
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One More Thats It Pub
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The Privateer Marketplace & Wine Bar
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Blarney Stone Pub
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