San Diego Zoo Safari Park: A Wild Adventure
Experience a world of wildlife at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where conservation meets adventure in a sprawling natural setting.
Experience the thrill of an African safari in Southern California at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This expansive wildlife sanctuary is home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 300 species, roaming freely in vast, naturalistic habitats. It's a unique opportunity to witness herds of giraffes, rhinos, and other exotic creatures interacting as they would in the wild.
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 make the most of your day, especially if you plan to take the Africa Tram.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking and being outdoors.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the park is large and offers limited shade.
- Check the park's website for the daily schedule of shows, animal encounters, and feeding times.
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money.
Getting There
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Driving
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027. From I-15, take the Via Rancho Parkway exit (Exit 27) and follow the signs to the park. Parking is available on-site. General parking costs $20 per vehicle. RV parking starts at $38, and preferred parking is also available starting at $38.
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Public Transport
While public transportation options are limited, you can reach the Safari Park by bus. From downtown San Diego, take an MTS Express bus (routes 235, 280, or 290) to the Escondido Transit Center. From there, transfer to the NCTD FLEX 371 bus, which provides direct service to the Safari Park. Note that the FLEX 371 bus does not operate on weekends. A one-way fare on the MTS Express bus is $2.50, and the NCTD FLEX 371 bus fare is $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From the Escondido Transit Center, a taxi or ride-share to the Safari Park is a convenient option. The ride is approximately 7 miles and costs around $20-$30, depending on traffic and the ride-share service.
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
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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
Experience the Flag Assembly Area in San Diego, a historical landmark dedicated to honoring military service and fostering community remembrance.
Pacific Coast Hwy (US 101)
31.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway, an iconic route filled with stunning views, charming towns, and rich history.
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
Soar above the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for breathtaking views of wildlife and the scenic San Pasqual Valley. A unique safari experience!
Rancho Guejito Vineyard
3.3 km
Explore the enchanting Rancho Guejito Vineyard in Escondido, California, where stunning landscapes meet exceptional wines in a serene atmosphere.
Hungry Hawk Vineyards & Winery
3.6 km
Experience the best of California wine country at Hungry Hawk Vineyards & Winery, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking vineyard views.
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
Explore the whimsical sculptures of Queen Califia's Magical Circle, a vibrant artistic sanctuary in Escondido, California, that inspires creativity and wonder.
Eureka Lights
7.0 km
Experience the magic of the holidays at Eureka Lights, a dazzling display of synchronized lights and music in Escondido. A free, festive tradition!
Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead
7.9 km
Explore a preserved 1870s farmstead, offering a glimpse into pioneer life in San Diego County. Free tours on Sundays!
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
Experience the romance of Venice on Lake San Marcos with a unique gondola ride, creating unforgettable memories in a serene setting.
Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum
21.3 km
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Los Penasquitos Canyon County Preserve
22.1 km
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Leo Carrillo Historic Park
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Essential places to dine
A.R. Valentien
32.0 km
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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
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Steamy Piggy
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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
35.2 km
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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
33.0 km
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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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TERI Inspired Resale
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Mar Y Lana
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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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Raised by Wolves
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Rookies Sports Bar
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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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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Middle Earth Lounge
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Sun God Lounge
33.4 km
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Woo Karaoke
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Ladies Love Outlaws
35.3 km
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Blue Agave Night Club
35.5 km
Discover the energetic nightlife at Blue Agave Night Club in San Diego, where vibrant music and affordable drinks create unforgettable nighttime experiences.
The Jazzy Wishbone
37.3 km
Experience the vibrant melodies and lively atmosphere at The Jazzy Wishbone, Oceanside's premier live music bar for an unforgettable night out.
Nite Owl Cocktail Lounge
38.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Nite Owl Cocktail Lounge in Pacific Beach, San Diego, where great cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
The Comedy Store - La Jolla
39.0 km
Experience an unforgettable night of laughter at The Comedy Store in La Jolla, California - where humor and entertainment meet stunning coastal charm.
Pechanga
40.7 km
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The Collective
41.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Collective, Pacific Beach's premier venue for live music and handcrafted cocktails.
PB Avenue
41.3 km
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Bert's Bar West
41.9 km
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Spin Nightclub
43.5 km
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Beachcomber
44.3 km
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The Pennant Bar
44.3 km
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