safari drive thru oregon

Wildlife Safari

Top ways to experience Wildlife Safari and nearby attractions

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Wildlife Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Exploring The 600-Acre Oregon Wildlife Safari Park

For many of us, a trip to Africa to see these animals roam free in their natural habitat is a dream that may never come true. But the Wildlife Safari in Winston, Oregon , just south of Roseburg, provides a rare opportunity to witness the beauty and wonder of these creatures up close and personal. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a family looking for an unforgettable adventure, or simply seeking a unique and exciting experience, the Wildlife Safari is a must-visit destination.

Wildlife Safari in Oregon

Here's a quick overview of the safari village.

The park is situated on 600 acres of land and is home to over 500 animals from all over the world.

The park offers a variety of ways to experience the animals, including a drive-thru safari, a walk-through exhibit, and even an animal encounter program where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the park's most popular residents.

The park ardently champions animal welfare and prioritizes the health of its residents , implementing numerous initiatives that contribute to wildlife conservation on both local and global scales. With a steadfast focus on animal health and well-being, the park's various programs embody its dedication to preserving and protecting the diverse species that call it home. Through these concerted efforts, the park not only raises awareness about animal health and conservation but also fosters meaningful connections between visitors and the wildlife they encounter.

The Wildlife Safari is also a great destination for families with children, as the park offers a variety of educational programs and activities for kids, including a summer camp and a junior zookeeper program.

In addition to the animal exhibits, the park also features a restaurant, gift shop, and playground area.

The park is open year-round, but hours and availability may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.

Visitors are encouraged to follow park rules and guidelines, including staying in their vehicles during the drive-through safari and respecting the animals' space and boundaries.

As you approach the park, the picturesque landscape of Southern Oregon unfolds before you, providing a glimpse of what's in store for you. Unlike typical zoos, the Wildlife Safari offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The park is home to a diverse array of amazing animals, many of which are native to Africa, and all of which roam freely in their natural habitats.

The Wildlife Safari ranks among the top 10% of accredited zoos and aquariums in the United States, a testament to its commitment to excellence.

The park's origins date back 38 years when founder Frank Hart envisioned a sanctuary dedicated to preserving and protecting endangered and rare species from across the globe. His dream has since materialized into the thriving Wildlife Safari we know today.

If you're thinking this is just another zoo or an exploitation of animal rights (“Tiger King”, I'm looking at YOU), think again. I'll probably never get to visit Africa in my lifetime, so this may be the closest I'll ever come to a real safari.

As you drive through the park in your own vehicle, you'll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the most magnificent animals on the planet.

Imagine watching as a majestic Southern White Rhino grazes mere feet away from your car, or spotting a herd of Damara Zebras frolicking in the open fields. The experience is nothing short of breathtaking.

And let's not forget about the Brindled Wildebeest, one of the park's most striking residents. These fascinating creatures, with their distinctively patterned coats and impressive horns, are a sight to behold. Seeing them in their natural habitat is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In addition to the Damara Zebra, Southern White Rhino, and Brindled Wildebeest, visitors can also see a variety of other African animals such as giraffes, cheetahs, lions, and elephants.

Among my favorite exhibits are the American Bison, Brown Bear, Ringtail Lemurs, Budgie Aviary, Sumatran Tiger, and the Safari's world-famous Cheetahs.

Wildlife Safari boasts one of the top cheetah breeding research centers on the planet and is the number one cheetah breeding facility outside of Africa and number two on Earth. Only around 10,000 cheetahs still exist in the wild, so the 219 cubs born at WS since 1972 are helping to keep this endangered species alive. You may even catch a glimpse of KJ and Rhino, the unlikely lifelong friendship between a big cat and a dog.

Watch out for the Australian Emus toward the end of your car ride, haha. They are extremely unafraid of humans, even when you're obeying the rules of keeping your hands inside the vehicle at all times.

Bombarded from all sides, this Emu took a turn at my dad as captured in this adorable video below!

Always Free Safari Village

Embark on an exciting adventure at the Always Free Safari Village, a destination that offers visitors a unique and immersive experience, open daily for all ages. This enchanting locale showcases a stunning botanical wonderland alongside a diverse range of captivating animal exhibits, including cheetahs, alligators, red pandas, and more. Throughout the day, you can enjoy informative keeper talks, interact with animals at the children's petting zoo, and explore various attractions without spending a dime.

Cheetah Encounters

Get up close and personal with Wildlife Safari's Ambassador Cheetahs at the Cheetah Spot, located within the Safari Village. The cheetahs rotate regularly to provide off-display animals with the opportunity to sprint and frolic in the cheetah drive-through. You might even spot a skunk or cavy in the area during your visit.

Camel Adventures

Experience the graceful stride of the one-humped Dromedary Camel, native to the Arabian Peninsula. Climb aboard for a memorable ride and don't forget to smile for the camera—these camels certainly will! Camel rides are available during the spring and summer seasons, weather permitting.

Safari Gift Shop

Don't leave without a souvenir to remember your Safari Village adventure! The Safari Gift Shop offers a wide range of merchandise, from t-shirts and jackets to collectible rocks, plush animals, and toys.

Satisfy Your Hunger at the Safari Grill

Treat yourself to the best burger in town at the Safari Grill. Complete your meal with delicious sides like onion rings or a chili dog, and savor your lunch either indoors or in one of the charming outdoor picnic areas.

Children's Petting Zoo

The Wildlife Safari provides a hands-on experience with friendly goats and adorable donkeys. For just 50 cents, you can even feed the animals!

Australian Walkabout

Explore the wonders of Australia by visiting the Wallaroos and the bird aviary. Be sure to greet the Kookaburra outside the Walkabout, and for just $1, you can purchase an aviary feed stick for a truly interactive experience.

Feed the Koi Fish

For only 50 cents, grab some fish feed and enjoy feeding the koi fish. Be quick, though, as the ducks might snatch up the feed before the fish get a chance!

Village Train Station

All aboard the village train for a scenic tour around the Safari Village. Members are entitled to complimentary train rides, so don't miss out on this delightful experience.

Admission Rates

Visitors can choose from the following admission rates:

Adults: 23.95

Children: 17.95

Seniors: 20.95

Upon admission, visitors will receive a map of the park to enhance their experience and help identify animals in nature.

Group Rates

Wildlife Safari offers group rates for groups of 12 or more. For more information on group rates, please contact guest services at 541.679.6761 or email them at [email protected] .

Drive-Thru Experience

Driving through Wildlife Safari typically takes about 1-1/2 hours to complete. During the drive, visitors can observe a variety of animals such as lions, tigers, bears, zebras, and more.

Come and experience Wildlife Safari's unique Drive-Thru animal park and get a chance to witness different animals in their natural habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the wildlife safari located.

The Wildlife Safari is located at 1790 Safari Road in Winston, OR 97496.

Navigating to the safari park is simple. Input the address into your GPS to guide you to the park entrance. Keep in mind that some GPS devices may become less reliable once inside the park, so be sure to follow the posted signs. To reach the park from Interstate 5 (North or South), take Exit 119 heading west toward Winston. Continue along Highway 42/99 for roughly 2 miles, then turn right onto Lookingglass Road. Watch for the signs on the right to direct you to your destination.

Contact info

Website:  https://wildlifesafari.net

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Wildlife.Safari.Oregon/

Phone: (541) 679-6761

When is the Optimal Time to Visit Wildlife Safari Oregon?

One of the prime times to explore Wildlife Safari Oregon is during the winter months, according to Destiny Molatore, who is the development director of the safari park. As the temperatures drop, the animals become more active, offering a livelier experience for visitors.

Additionally, the park tends to be less crowded in the winter, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of the safari. While Wildlife Safari is open throughout the year, the winter season presents a unique opportunity to truly appreciate the park's splendor.

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Wildlife Safari

Experience Wildlife Safari

Lions, tigers and bears –oh my! Get out your binoculars and safari hat, and take a trip to South Africa without the flight. Just south of Roseburg in the town of Winston is one of the west coast’s top attractions: Wildlife Safari. 

Sprawling out on 600 beautiful, hillside acres, Wildlife Safari is much more than a zoo. This unique destination gives visitors an up-close-and-personal drive-through experience with more than 500 free-roaming animals from around the world, including many endangered species.

Dive right into your own National Geographic as animals interact in a natural environment - and interact with you.

Animals include:

• Southern White Rhinoceros
• Hippopotamus
• Giraffes 
• Brindled Wildebeest
• African Lions
• American Elks
• African Elephants
• Sumatran Tigers
• Monkeys 

The Safari drive through allows visitors to drive their own vehicle and the trip takes about 1-1/2 hours to complete. 

The fun doesn’t stop there. Wildlife Safari includes a free walk-about zoo, Safari Village. It features additional animals such as reptiles, birds, Australian Wallaroos, big cats and more. Shows at the Safari Dome, a playground, educational activities, camel rides, train rides and food are also available. There are also a variety of encounters and special experiences with a reservation. 

While there is certainly education and entertainment, conservation is the heartbeat of Wildlife Safari. The park has the second most successful cheetah breeding program in the world and ranks number one in the Western Hemisphere. Wildlife Safari has ushered in 214 cheetahs since its opening in 1972. 

Wildlife Safari is open 363 days per year. For hours, tickets, encounters, and more – visit wildlifesafari.net .  

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Wildlife Safari Adventure

Wildlife safari drive through, “where you are captive, and they roam free”.

Hello Bend! The Wildlife Safari is a world-renown haven for hundreds of animals from all over the globe. If you’re a Central Oregon parent of kids who LOVE animals, you’ve most likely heard of it, but shuddered as you imagined the 9 hour round-trip drive time commitment to get there. Last year, right as the stay at home orders had us cooped up and slowly losing our minds, we decided to do it! Here is an overview of our adventure–we had the BEST time, and turned it into an adventure for the memory books! Not knowing what to expect along the way, or even when we got there for that matter, we kept open minds and had an awesome time. With summer right around the corner, spring break coming up, and the kids anxious for a change of scenery, we recommend the safari! Add it to your list of summer excursions or plan for an epic spring break road trip!

As we made the drive over towards Roseburg, we discovered a glorious stretch of southern Oregon we’d never explored before. There is no shortage of beauty on this drive with the North Umpqua River running parallel to the highway. The drive is flanked by a steady stream of gorgeous waterfalls nestled in the heart of the Umpqua Forest. As we drove along the river, even the kids enjoyed the scenery! It was a unanimous decision that a waterfall hike would be the perfect way to break up our long road trip and we recommend it for kids and adults! Check out our blog post on Toketee Falls  ! We can’t wait to add a few more treks on the list for next time we make the drive.

The Wildlife Safari Drive-Through is open daily to visitors allowing you to enjoy animal encounters from the comfort of your own vehicle. Plan to spend about an hour and a half to drive through the Wildlife Safari park. The setting is lovely with 600 acres of rolling hills abundant in foliage and water resources. Frank Hart, a successful business man, founded the Wildlife Safari in 1972. He was looking for a location that was ideal for a large reserve that could display animals from around the world in a natural setting, resembling African and Asian terrain, so a large variety of animal life could be supported. In 1986 the park received accreditation from The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which signifies that Wildlife Safari has established and maintains professional zoological management standards as judged by other professional members of the Association. Of the thousands of zoos, Wildlife Safari is in the ten percent that proudly passes the stringent inspections to maintain the accreditation by the AZA. We can’t just write a quarantine blog post about a wildlife safari without referencing the notorious Netflix special Tiger King. Not knowing what to expect at this Safari, and with the documentary fresh in our minds, we were pleased to find that the Safari had a feeling of sanctuary for the animals, and it held no similarities to the conditions that cemented the infamy and notoriety of the show. In fact, Wildlife Safari is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and any money paid goes towards the animals and animal conservation!

During the drive-through, you will encounter a wide variety of animals from Africa, America and Asia. The kid’s favorite were the giraffes and zebras! There are many opportunities to feed the animals at Wildlife Safari and that is one of the reasons it makes this place so fun for all ages. If feeding the animals interests you and your kids, I recommend asking which animal feeding stations are open upon arrival and making a plan to avoid confusion.

Check out their education promotions, summer camps, and Junior Zoo Keeper programs here !

“Today, Wildlife Safari is one of the largest tourist attractions in the Northwest, hosting an average of 150,000 visitors a year. Wildlife Safari is known for educational outreach programs and an internationally renowned veterinary program. Wildlife Safari’s biggest accomplishment is the Cheetah Reproduction Project, which is the most successful Cheetah Breeding program in the Western Hemisphere. Since the park’s opening, Wildlife Safari has produced 214 cubs and counting.”

There are many things to do at the Wildlife Safari, in addition to the drive through park. Check out their park “Today” Page to get updates on current events. The Always Free Safari Village is open daily and features a botanical wonderland, animal exhibits including cheetahs, alligators, cougars & more, keeper talks throughout the day, a children’s petting zoo and more, all for free!

Interested in more from Hello Bend ? Read more about our adventures HERE , SUBSCRIBE to the Hello Bend Blog , and follow along on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the know in Central Oregon.

Brenda Menzel, Broker

Cascade Sotheby’s International Realty ~ Hello Bend Real Estate

541-640-2125

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Wildlife safari: where the wild things are.

Open year-round, Wildlife Safari also hosts a walk-though exhibit displaying some of the zoo’s smaller animals. Other amenities at its Safari Village include a children’s petting zoo, a village train, a full-service cafeteria and gift shop. Keeper talks are offered daily.

During the 4.5-mile drive-through loop, we’re treated to close-ups of wildebeests, hippopotamuses, grizzly bears, lions, elephants and even the new national mammal, the American bison.  As Mate, the 18-foot male giraffe lumbers up the road ahead of us, tour guide Sheilah Swanson explains that the animal activity at the park changes throughout the day. Sheilah recommends visitors get to the park first thing in the morning, take the tour, and go around again the end of the day.

“It’s like seeing a whole bunch of different animals,” she says. On this summer day, baby animals, including six lion cubs and eight bison, remain close to their mothers. Just two months earlier, on May 15, they were joined by the park’s newest celebrity, baby Kelley, the first giraffe born in the park’s 44-year history. “We got the call that the legs started poking out at 6 a.m. Sunday morning,” explains Benji Alcantar, one of the park’s two onsite veterinarians. “We’re here at 6:10 – the ungulate (hoofed mammal) staff and ourselves.”  Kelley was born at 8 a.m. At birth, the male calf weighed 175 pounds and stood 6 foot three inches from head to toe.

“We were a bunch of first-timers,” says Benji. “Kelley was the first giraffe born in the park. First for the vets. It was my dream to see a giraffe born.” Kelley ventured outside with mom Miya approximately one month after his birth, and is now one of the park’s major attractions. He’s also part of the park’s emphasis on species preservation. “Being able to help with the giraffe population species is very exciting for us,” says keeper Sylvia Molina.Later in the day we pose for photos with Mchumba, one of the park’s three cheetah ambassadors.  Mchumba represents the long line of nearly 200 cheetahs born at the park since it opened in 1972.

With cheetah numbers dwindling in the wild, having successful breeding programs allows zoos to educate their guests and conduct research that helps the endangered species. Through its partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan for cheetahs, cubs born at the park have populated zoos across the U.S.“Wildlife Safari is one of the leading centers for cheetah breeding in the world, and the most successful in the United States,” says Benji.

Pancake, another of the park’s ambassadors and one of 17 cheetahs in residence, lays in the shade next to her canine companion, Dayo the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Born on the same day in February, 2015 this unusual pairing makes appearances in the community and at school assembly programs. While Dayo interacts with kids, Pancake shows off her unique cheetah traits during their visits. They also help spread the conservation message. In Africa, conservationists use livestock guard dogs to keep wild cheetahs away from local farms. This effort helps lower the annual number of cheetahs being shot in those regions.

While driving through Wildlife Safari allows you to view the animals from the comfort of your own vehicle, Sheilah Swanson recommends you take time to add on one of the park’s many close-up encounters. Park keepers provide commentary as you feed a giraffe, examine the dental hygiene of a hippo, or greet one of the Sumatran tiger sisters. Close-up encounters with cheetahs like Mchumba and baby Kelley and mom Miya are part of this program.“ For the guest, it’s fun,” explains Steve Tranter, park trainer. For the staff, “it’s our way of giving the animals a non-cursory examination. It’s a bonding experience that keeps the animals healthy and engaged.” According to Benji Alcantar, “Wildlife Safari is a unique and magical place for all of us.” We couldn’t agree more.

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Safari village, the always free safari village.

The Always Free Safari Village is open daily and features a botanical wonderland, animal exhibits including cheetahs, alligators, red pandas & more. There are keeper talks throughout the day, a children’s petting zoo and more, all for free!

Cheetah Spot

Meet one of Wildlife Safari’s Ambassador Cheetahs just inside the Safari Village! Our Ambassador Cheetah’s are constantly switched out to allow off-display cheetahs the chance to sprint and play in the cheetah drive through, so don’t worry if you see a skunk or cavy in this area instead!

Camel Rides

Hop on the one hump Dromedary Camel and experience the gait of the Arabian beauties. Smile for the camera, the camels sure will!

Available Spring and Summer. Weather dependent! Call in advance to verify schedule.  

Currently available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

Safari Gift Shop

Be sure to stop in the gift shop to fill all your Safari gear needs! From t-shirts, to rocks, to coats to stuffed animals and toys, the Safari Gift Shop has something for you!

Safari Grill

Stop in for the best burger in town! Grab some onion rings or a chili dog and enjoy lunch in the restaurant or in one of the outdoor picnic areas!

Safari Grill Menu

Children’s Petting Zoo

Feed the goats and pet a donkey in the Wildlife Safari Children’s Petting Zoo farm! Feed available for just 50 cents!

Austrailian Walkabout

Journey into Australia and meet Wallaroos and experience the bird aviary! Make sure to stop outside of the Walkabout to meet the Kookaburra!

Aviary is currently open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

Feed the Koi Fish

Fish feed is available for 50 cents. Make sure to feed the fish, before the ducks steal your feed!

Village Train Station

Hop on a village train tour at the train station! The train will take you on a tour of the village. Members get free train rides!

For the safety of our animals and yours, NO pets are allowed in the Safari Village nor the Wildlife Safari Drive Through. Wildlife Safari offers free onsite (unsupervised) kennels for pets, and sells locks for the kennels for a $5 fee at guest services, inside of the gift shop.

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The Family Vacation Guide

12 of the Best Drive Thru Zoos & Safaris in the US

posted by Charmaine Cortes on December 23, 2022 // last updated on June 12, 2023

To get a one-of-a-lifetime safari experience, you do not have to travel long distances or go overseas. There are plenty of drive-thru zoos in the US that enable you to encounter exotic species from the safety and comfort of your own car.

If you are an adventurer looking forward to experiencing wildlife, here are our recommendations for the best drive-thru zoos, safaris, and wildlife preserves to have an exciting road trip. 

African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio

Wildlife safari in oregon, bearizona wildlife park in arizona, phoenix zoo in phoenix, pine mountain wild animal safari park in georgia, custer state park resort in south dakota, lion country safari in loxahatchee, florida, lee richardson zoo in garden city, kansas, natural bridge wildlife ranch in san antonio, texas, southwick’s zoo in madison, massachusetts, arbuckle wilderness park in davis, oklahoma, safari lake geneva in lake geneva, wisconsin.

From alpacas, emus, llamas, zebras, and giraffes to fallow deer, white bison, and a variety of wild birds, visiting the African Safari Wildlife Park can be an unforgettable experience. This drive-thru safari is home to a lot of unique species and puts animal safety and health as its top priority. 

Here, you will also come across many species of wildflowers and plants. The safari offers various activities, including a walk-thru safari in spring, giraffe encounters, a safari cafe, and gem mining. It provides an adventurous experience and enables visitors to get up close and personal with hundreds of animals from around the world. 

Website: www.africansafariwildlifepark.com

Cost: Ticket prices range from $14.95 to $29.95; free for children of 2 and under

Note: While the African Safari Wildlife is open the whole year around, there are certain animals you can only view during the warm months, which is something to consider when going. 

In the Wildlife Safari in Oregon, you can come across a variety of species, including Tibetan Yanks, camels, African elephants, hippopotamuses, and American alligators. The accredited safari has one of the most successful cheetah breeding programs in the US, which you can support with donations.

Hop on the safari tour vehicle and meet and feed one of the most adorable animals, like red pandas or get closer to the king of the jungle and head to the elephant barn to meet with these animals and take a photo. The Wildlife Safari in Oregon offers a lot of activities and safari events. 

The Safari includes bused or open-air adventures through the park’s drive-thru, which is very exciting, but you can also sign up for activities such as hippo encounters, tiger feed, walking with cheetahs, and more. 

Website: www.wildlifesafari.net

Cost: Drive-thru safari tickets range from $17.95 to $23.95 

Note: This is an excellent 60-90 minutes experience for families. The tour features diverse wildlife from the US, Africa, and Asia. 

The Bearizona Wildlife Park provides a natural, spacious environment. The visitors drive through the largest ponderosa pine forest and view various animals in their natural habitats from their own private vehicles. 

Jump on the Wild Ride bus with their tour guides and get familiar with each animal that you encounter along this 3-mile safari. During your drive, you can also get off the bus for a unique backstage experience and view the wolf training sessions.

On this journey, you can witness a broad range of animals, such as black bears, Alaskan tundra wolves, reindeer, arctic wolves, mule deer, and so much more. The mission of the zoo is to promote the preservation through educational encounters of North American wildlife. 

Website: www.bearizona.com

Cost: Ticket prices range from $20 to $50; free for children of 3 and under

Note: Aside from the exciting drive-thru, you can also scroll through the park, enjoy unique animal encounters and dine in their themed restaurant. 

The Phoenix Zoo cares for more than 3,000 animals, including endangered species. Their guided drive-thru tours cover a wide range of animals, which makes it a thrilling experience. There are also plenty of fun daily activities happening in the zoo, including camel rides, giraffe encounters, and others. 

During the tour, you will drive past the main areas of the zoo, including the Africa Trail, where there are rhinos and zebras, and the Tropics Trail, where you will witness elephants and tigers roaming around. 

The Arizona Center for Nature Conservation also features discovery tours, backstage and premium adventures, as well as custom guided tours. Among the animals you can come across at this zoo are Asian elephants, coyotes, Mexican grey wolves, white-faced Saki monkeys, cheetahs, flamingos, and more. 

Website: www.phoenixzoo.org

Cost: $65 per vehicle 

Note: The number of vehicles per day is limited, so make sure to get tickets on time. 

Among the best drive-thru zoos in the US is the Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park in Georgia. The safari park allows visitors to encounter more than 120 species of animals, including lizards, wolves, ostriches, parrots, lemurs, and many others.

You will travel down a 2.5-mile trail and view a wide variety of animals along the way. To experience the excitement of the safari, you can use your own vehicle, rent one or get into a bus for a guide. 

Aside from seeing the wild animals, this drive-thru zoo enables horse riding adventures and exclusive animal encounters that allow you to interact with some of them. This is an animal-friendly park for visitors of all ages, where you will have a chance to meet some of the zoo’s friendliest animals. 

Website: www.animalsafari.com/georgia-park-home-about-us/

Cost: Adult (ages 13-64) – $29.00; junior (ages 3-12) – $24.00; senior (age 65+) – $24.00

Note: You can feed the animals with only park-purchased food. 

Go through the park in an open-air jeep or your own vehicle to look for prairie dogs, buffalos, elks, and pronghorns. The guided tour takes around two hours and features guides that share historical and educational stories about the wildlife and the park. The tours depart from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. every day and offer breathtaking views of nature. 

Website: www.custerresorts.com

Cost: Adults – $68; Children (under 12) – $58

Note: You need to make a reservation to get a drive-thru experience.

Despite the name, the Lion Country Safari is home to more than 1,000 animals. During the 4-mile-long drive-through, you can view animals from six different countries, such as lions, zebras, giraffes, white rhinos, chimpanzees, and more.

All of the animals roam in naturalistic habitats. The Lion Country Safari was the very first drive-thru safari park in the United States, as it was established in 1967. After you finish the drive-thru, you can also enjoy activities like boat rides, carnival rides, and water attractions.

Website: www.lioncountrysafari.com

Cost: $34-$45

Note: The safari preserve is divided into seven natural habitats you can visit. 

The Lee Richardson Zoo offers visitors a drive-thru of the park to view wild animals. The zoo is home to over 300 hundred native and exotic animals, including lions, alpacas, Amur leopards, camels, bison, bobcats, elk, giraffes, jaguars, sloth bears, and much more. Each animal is an ambassador of its counterparts, promoting the conservation of wild animals. 

Website: www.leerichardsonzoo.org

Cost: $10 per vehicle, pedestrian entry for free

Note: The Lee Richardson Zoo is open the whole year around 

Start your adventure with the 450-acre safari drive-thru in San Antonio, Texas. Here visitors can interact with animals and look at picturesque views that resemble safari in Africa. You can view over 40 species of animals from the comfort of your own vehicle and roam around the trees and the hills within the ranch.

The safari covers 6 miles and provides 1-2 hours of an incredible experience. You can also get a guided tour from animal specialists and feed the animals. During the guided tours, the visitors can learn more about the animals and come across ostriches, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and other animal species.

Website: www.wildliferanchtexas.com

Cost: Adults (12-64 years) – $28.99;  children (3-11 years) – $19.99;  seniors (65+years) – $25.99

Note: Check your map before the visit, as there are different routes to take.

Among the best drive-thru zoos in the US is Southwick’s Zoo which enables visitors to go on a self-driven tour of the 200-acre park. On such a 45-minute tour, you will come across various wild animals and download an audio tour as well. 

After the journey, the visitors can also order takeaway from the restaurant, go on rides and visit attractions, or book a giraffe, rhino, or sloth animal encounter. 

Website: www.southwickszoo.com

Cost: $60/car

Note: The guests should arrive 30 minutes before the selected tour time.

Go on a safari-like experience as you drive through 200 acres in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains and come across hundreds of exotic animals roaming free. This park is also a home for reptiles and is filled with diverse creatures from over five continents.

Llamas, giraffes, donkeys, camels, deers, yaks, zebras, and more; you can enjoy feeding animals from the comfort of your own vehicle. The Arbuckle Wilderness Park provides an exciting adventure for guests of all ages. 

Website: www.arbucklewildernesspark.com

Cost: Adults – $16.99; kids (4-11) – $14.99; senior citizens – $14.99

Note: The drive-thru safari is open every day. 

The wildlife preserve known as Safari Lake Geneva is home to animals from all around the world. You can drive through this safari park as many times as you want and view the variety of animals that are free to roam. 

Moreover, you can also purchase a bowl of grain and feed the animals as you come close to them. Here you can drive your own vehicle or rent a Zebra van if desired. You can opt for a solo trip or bring your whole family for a unique safari adventure. 

Website: www.safarilakegeneva.com

Cost: Adult (ages 16+) – $21.95; children (ages 3-15) – $14.95; infants (ages 2 and under) – free

Note: The giraffes may not be visible during unpleasant weather.

If you are on a hunt for drive-thru zoos and safaris for an unforgettable experience, you can choose the one that appeals to you the most from our list. The zoos are home to a wide number of animals which we often see on TV, and they also offer many activities for their visitors, including special animal encounters. 

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

WELCOME   to the West Coast Game Park Safari located in Bandon, Oregon.

Thanks entirely to visitors attendance, west coast game park safari has become oregon's largest, totally self-supporting wildlife attraction, dedicated to propagation, preservation and education, while reminding all that extinction lasts forever, learn about an exotic animal, daily animal presentations, 7 days a week, 10am - 5pm last entry 4:30pm.

Free Roaming Animals

When you first enter the front gates  you will be immediately immersed among hundreds of free-roaming animals including: goats, sheep, deer, and peacocks! We offer "cones" with grain in the gift shop to allow visitors to feed and get some great photo opportunities.

Meet our Ambassadors

Each day we present interactions with multiple ambassador animals. Scratch a belly, take some photos, learn about these animals and their conservation, and have the experience of a lifetime.

Interact, play, and photograph animals up close!

A handler will present our ambassador animals for specific interaction with visitor groups. Visitors will be allowed time to visit, pet, play, and photograph our ambassador animals within each given presentation area. See our featured animals under the "Presentations" tab above.

Over 450 Animals to see!

Walk the park and see over 75 species of animals.

Visitors have the ability to free roam the zoo much like the goats and deer! No matter which turn you take you'll see plenty of beautiful animals including Tigers, Lions, Leopards, Caracals, Elk, Reindeer, Bison, Camels, Wallabies, Lemurs, Chimpanzees, and many more!

MEET THE WILD FROM YOUR CAR OR WAGON.

View over 50 species of animals...all from the comfort of your own vehicle! You'll be able to see animals roam freely on our gorgeous property  Drive your vehicle on our maintained gravel road and see the animals through your windows! See everything from Auodad to Zebra and lots in between!  

Drive-Thru Safari Park .

Visit anytime between  9:30 AM and 4:00 PM,  7 days a week. No reservations necessary!

*Pricing above is subject to change.

*Feed IS NOT included, subject to an additional charge.

Adults - $23.00 Seniors (65+) - $20.00 Children (3-12) - $17.00 Ages 2 and under - FREE

Our Pricing .

Experience the self-guided Drive Thru Safari in your personal vehicle and see over 50 different species!  

DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED ON THE SAFARI!

OPEN AIR VEHICLES are NOT allowed.  Vehicles must have tops and solid doors to participate in the safari.

Guided Wagon .

Experience the guided Drive Thru Safari on wagon and see over 50 different species!  Go off the path and get up close and personal with the animals! Reservations highly suggested!

Adults - $37.00 Seniors (65+) - $34.00 Children (3-12) - $31.00 Ages 2 and under - FREE

Available seasonally from Mid-March-October 1 Hour Experience 9:30, 10:45, 12:00, 1:45, 3:00- peak season 10:00, 12:00, 2:00- non-peak season

+SAFARI FEED: INCLUDED

*Safari Feed IS included!

Also Included .

ROOS & CREW

​ Don't miss the variety of small animals at our Roos and Crew Barn.  View our animals in an intimate setting and learn all about their personalities. 

Complete with a variety of small animals, kangaroos, and our iguana it is sure to be a memorable experience!

Save Time .

Save Time by clicking the link below and completing your waiver prior to arrival!

Important Info .

ALL car occupants must purchase a full price ticket.  All safari park purchases are non-refundable!

Have any  Questions ?

4229 US-150 W, Paoli, IN 47454

[email protected]     //  812-936-4484

Proudly created by: fuhscreative.com

Man arrested for NE Portland shooting, 5 guns seized

PORTLAND Ore. (KPTV) - A 54-year-old man was arrested for a northeast Portland shooting on April 5, the Portland Police Bureau said.

On April 5 around 4:30 p.m., North Precinct officers were called out to Northeast 6th Avenue and Northeast Failing Street for a shooting.

When officers arrived, they found a man who had been shot several times. The man was taken to the hospital and is expected to live. The shooter left the scene.

During the investigation, the Enhanced Community Safety Team and Focused Intervention Team identified Terrence D. Jacbob as a suspect.

On Monday, Jacob was arrested on an outstanding warrant for attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon and felon in possession of a gun, PPB said.

Through a warrant search of Jacob’s home, officers found and took five guns.

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