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Soar Above the San Diego Zoo Safari Park: A Balloon Safari Experience

Experience the beauty of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park from above with a serene hot air balloon ride, offering stunning views and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

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The Balloon Safari at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers a breathtaking adventure high above the lush landscapes of Escondido, California. As you ascend in a beautifully crafted hot air balloon, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Safari Park and its diverse wildlife roaming freely below. This experience is not just a ride; it's a journey through the skies where you can spot exotic animals and appreciate the expansive beauty of the park from a unique vantage point. Each flight lasts approximately 10 to 15 minutes, providing ample time to capture stunning photographs and soak in the scenery. The park itself is a vibrant hub for wildlife conservation and education, featuring over 3,500 animals representing more than 400 species. As you float gently over the park, you may catch glimpses of giraffes, rhinos, and other magnificent creatures as they thrive in their natural habitats. After your aerial adventure, be sure to explore the various exhibits and attractions within the park, which highlights the importance of conservation efforts and offers interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. With operational hours from 9 AM to 4:45 PM daily, the Balloon Safari is a must-see attraction that adds an unforgettable element to your visit. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or on a solo adventure, this unique experience is sure to leave you with cherished memories and a new perspective on wildlife and conservation.

Local tips

  • Book your balloon ride in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot.
  • Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly from ground level to up in the air.
  • Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking views, but be sure to also enjoy the moment without distractions.
  • Consider visiting the Safari Park earlier in the day to enjoy the cooler temperatures and see more active animals.
  • Check the weather conditions before your visit, as balloon rides may be cancelled in high winds or poor visibility.
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A brief summary to Balloon Safari

  • San Diego Zoo Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, San Pasqual Valley, California, 92027, US
  • +1760-747-8702
  • Visit website
  • Monday 9 am-4:45 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:45 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:45 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:45 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:45 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:45 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:45 pm

Getting There

  • Driving

    If you're driving from downtown San Diego, take I-5 North to I-15 North. Follow I-15 North for approximately 30 miles. Take exit 30 for CA-78 East towards Escondido. Continue on CA-78 East for about 9 miles, then take the exit for San Pasqual Valley Road. Turn left onto San Pasqual Valley Road and follow it for about 4 miles. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park will be on your left at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027. Parking at the park is available for a fee of $15.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach Balloon Safari via public transport, take the San Diego Trolley (Blue Line) to the America Plaza station in downtown San Diego. From there, transfer to the COASTER train at the Santa Fe Depot heading north towards Oceanside. Get off at the Escondido station. From the Escondido station, you will need to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or check local bus routes (such as North County Transit District) to get to San Diego Zoo Safari Park at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027. Expect to spend around $5 for the COASTER ticket and additional costs for rideshare or bus fare.

  • Rideshare

    If you are already in San Diego County and prefer a more direct route, you can use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Simply enter the destination as 'San Diego Zoo Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027.' Depending on your starting location, fares may vary, but you can expect a ride from downtown San Diego to cost between $40 to $60.

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