The San Diego Safari Park

San Diego Safari Park is more than an exhibition of exotic animals. It is more than a place to take the family for a day of amusement. San Diego Safari Park is our entrance into a world that exists beyond our borders, taking us into the heart of natural habitats otherwise out of reach for most.

Here you will enter enclosed aviaries with birds flying in the open, often landing just a few inches from your feet. The tropical trees and bushes reveal colorful perched African Jacanas, exotic Blue Pigeons, and many other rare bird species. Charts are posted with photos and names of each bird for easy identification.

For an even closer encounter, enter the Lorries' cage with a small cup of nectar and you will be surrounded by neon green, red and blue Lorries that will perch on your hand, arms, shoulders, and head.

In the botanical section of the park, one exhibit houses carefully tended bonsai trees. One tree is said to be over 1000 years old. These miniatures trees include pomegranates, olive, and evergreens. The very knowledgeable attendant in the exhibit will gladly answer any questions you have about the bonsais. There are also Old World Succulent Gardens, Baja gardens, and the Kupanda Falls Botanical Center nearby.

Of course there are enclosed zoo exhibits for apes and lowland gorillas. There is an enclosure for lions and lioness, along with Red-Cheeked Gibbons. The San Diego Safari will allow you to see hundreds of animals with several options for viewing.

One of the most popular ways to see the herds of animals in open spaces is taking the African Tram Safari-a 25 minute guided tram ride across several continents of large wild animal species--often just a few feet behind the enclosed fence. This tour skirts the outer perimeter of the open tundra where herds of animals roam.

There are special tours if you want a different viewing experience--each cost from $20 up to $150 in addition to the cost of admission:

--Photo Caravan- See animals close up in a flatbed truck with the chance to feed giraffes. For photographers, this is a great opportunity to get close-up shots.
--Flightline-this is a zip line adventure that allows you to see the open safari from the air.
--Rolling Safari- A two-hour program riding on Segway X2s rolling along, off-road, near herds of wild animals.
--Balloon Safari-a tethered hot air balloon that soars over 400 feet. This gives you a stunning view of the expansive park from a unique vantage point.

San Diego Safari Park Private tours and VIP tours are also available for $490 per tour with a maximum 10 people.

Tips for visiting the San Diego Safari Park

--Disabled visitors will encounter many hills, making pushing a wheelchair very difficult. Some areas are not wheelchair accessible.
--For seniors and visitors with disabilities-there is a cart available to take you to and from the African Tram Safari. Inquire at the front gate for instructions and other helpful assistance during your visit.
--Guided tours run from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. The busiest times are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
--Some of the best photo shots are on the last tour during the winter months when the sun is low in the sky.
--Animals are most active during feeding times.
--Get a map when you enter. Due to the layout of the park, getting lost or missing a popular exhibit is likely without one.
--Take lots of water.
--The park is very hilly in some places. Pushing a stroller can be an extreme workout.
--The cost for nectar for the Lorikeets is $3 each.
--Distance from San Diego Zoo to the Safari Park is 35 miles. (Takes about 45 min. to an hour to get there depending on traffic).
--Military discounts are available. Active military get in free with military ID. Other options for military dependent discount tickets can be purchased through base MWR (Morale Welfare and Recreation).

San Fiego Safari Park Entry Fees for general admission:
$40 adults and $30 children for a one day pass.
Parking is $10 per vehicle.

San Diego Safari Park Hours of Operation
--Winter Hours
9 a.m.-5 p.m.
--Spring and Summer Hours
9 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (or 7:00 p.m.) depending on the day
The park is open every day of the year, including all holidays.

San Diego Safari Park Address:
15500 San Pasqual Valley Road
Escondido, California 92027-7017.
Phone: 760-747-8702.

Source:
Personal visit 1-26-11
http://www.photogirlstudio.com/
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/park/index2010