Go to Africa and Asia, and leave your passport at home. We did just that when we visited the San Diego Zoo Safari Park near Escondido, California.
The Safari Park is a truly unique destination. It is home to more than 2,600 animals representing more than 300 species, and more than 1.5 million plant specimens representing more than 3,500 species.
A tour of the park is like going on safari through the savannahs, plains and jungles of Africa and Asia. We were able to enjoy the sight of so many different animals from fleety meerkats to powerful gorillas. Here the lions lie out in the sun, the tigers play, and the cheetahs run - and you must go see Shiley's Cheetah Run to see how fast a cheetah really can run!
There are many ways to enjoy your safari adventure. We hit the Jungle Ropes Safari where we were able to swing from the trees and ramble across rope bridges like monkeys. We also took the Flightline Safari for a bird's eye view of the safari park on a 2/3 mile zip line.
The park offers tons of exhibits. We loved the hands-on exhibits where we were able to touch a real live armadillo and other animals.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park opens every day including holidays. Operating hours vary by season so be sure to check their website when planning your visit.