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Experience the best of San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Ditch the city grid for the wide-open wilds of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, set in the rolling hills of the San Pasqual Valley. Hop on the Africa Tram and cruise past rhinos grazing on the African savanna or lions lounging in the Asian plains. Check out larger animals like elephants and gorillas roaming free-ish in sprawling habitats designed to mirror their natural stomping grounds.
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Slide 1 of 13, Visitors on Africa Tram viewing giraffes at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Visitors on Africa Tram viewing giraffes at San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Embark on a thrilling adventure at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, exploring 2,600+ animals in their natural habitats and witnessing spectacular live shows.

  • Feel the thrill of being in the wild as you explore one of the world's largest and most advanced safari parks as you meet over 2,600 animals in their natural habitats.

  • Strap in for the Africa tram tour, an unforgettable journey through a recreated African savannah in California, and spot giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles along the way.

  • Witness the sheer speed of the Cheetah Run; these magnificent creatures will leave you in awe as they showcase their natural hunting prowess.

  • Choose the 2-visit pass for more flexibility; experience San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park or spend extra time at your favorite.

More details

  • Embark on a thrilling adventure at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, exploring 2,600+ animals in their natural habitats and witnessing spectacular live shows.

  • Feel the thrill of being in the wild as you explore one of the world's largest and most advanced safari parks as you meet over 2,600 animals in their natural habitats.

  • Strap in for the Africa tram tour, an unforgettable journey through a recreated African savannah in California, and spot giraffes, rhinos, and gazelles along the way.

  • Witness the sheer speed of the Cheetah Run; these magnificent creatures will leave you in awe as they showcase their natural hunting prowess.

  • Choose the 2-visit pass for more flexibility; experience San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park or spend extra time at your favorite.

from
$78
Slide 1 of 12, African tram touring San Diego Zoo Safari Park with scenic landscape and palm trees.
African tram touring San Diego Zoo Safari Park with scenic landscape and palm trees.

San Diego Zoo & Safari Park 2-Visit Pass

Explore at your pace

  • Choose how to use your 2-Visit Pass: visit San Diego Zoo and Safari Park once each, or return to either attraction for a second day.

  • Explore wildlife from around the world, including rare and endangered species, across naturalistic habitats designed to reflect their native environments.

  • Visit the San Diego Zoo and see polar bears, koalas, penguins, tigers, and other wildlife while exploring its extensive collection of animal habitats and exhibits.

  • Explore San Diego Zoo Safari Park and experience a safari-style setting where you can spot gorillas, Sumatran tigers, kangaroos, and other animals across expansive habitats.

  • With experiences for all ages, the pass is a flexible choice for families, young explorers, and anyone interested in wildlife, conservation, and nature.

More details

  • Choose how to use your 2-Visit Pass: visit San Diego Zoo and Safari Park once each, or return to either attraction for a second day.

  • Explore wildlife from around the world, including rare and endangered species, across naturalistic habitats designed to reflect their native environments.

  • Visit the San Diego Zoo and see polar bears, koalas, penguins, tigers, and other wildlife while exploring its extensive collection of animal habitats and exhibits.

  • Explore San Diego Zoo Safari Park and experience a safari-style setting where you can spot gorillas, Sumatran tigers, kangaroos, and other animals across expansive habitats.

  • With experiences for all ages, the pass is a flexible choice for families, young explorers, and anyone interested in wildlife, conservation, and nature.

from Original price$154.37
$130

16% off

Slide 1 of 13, San Diego Zoo entrance with visitors and ticket booths.
San Diego Zoo entrance with visitors and ticket booths.

San Diego Zoo Tickets

Explore at your pace

  • Experience wildlife up close at the San Diego Zoo with over 3,500 animals, guided bus tours, Aerial Tram rides, shows, and interactive encounters.

  • Come face-to-face with a polar bear at the Conrad Prebys Polar Bear Plunge, and ride the Skyfari aerial tram, providing a downhill perspective of the exhibits.

  • Your ticket includes a guided bus tour, giving you a whirlwind introduction to this world-renowned sanctuary.

  • Interact with nature’s most fascinating creatures, from petting Galápagos tortoises to hopping on an Arctic research helicopter; it's all part of your day.

  • Unlock more wildlife encounters with the 2-visit pass, granting access to San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park or a return visit to one.

More details

  • Experience wildlife up close at the San Diego Zoo with over 3,500 animals, guided bus tours, Aerial Tram rides, shows, and interactive encounters.

  • Come face-to-face with a polar bear at the Conrad Prebys Polar Bear Plunge, and ride the Skyfari aerial tram, providing a downhill perspective of the exhibits.

  • Your ticket includes a guided bus tour, giving you a whirlwind introduction to this world-renowned sanctuary.

  • Interact with nature’s most fascinating creatures, from petting Galápagos tortoises to hopping on an Arctic research helicopter; it's all part of your day.

  • Unlock more wildlife encounters with the 2-visit pass, granting access to San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park or a return visit to one.

from
$78
Slide 1 of 11, San Diego Zoo Safari Park kangaroo encounter and USS Midway Museum aircraft deck scene.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park kangaroo encounter and USS Midway Museum aircraft deck scene.

Combo (Save 5%): San Diego Zoo Safari Park + USS Midway Museum Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Roam the Safari Park's expansive habitats and get up close with wildlife on the Africa Tram adventure.

  • Skip the lines at the USS Midway Museum and explore historic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and Navy crew life.

  • With flexible booking, visit the Safari Park and USS Midway on separate days or in one go to fit your plans.

More details

  • Roam the Safari Park's expansive habitats and get up close with wildlife on the Africa Tram adventure.

  • Skip the lines at the USS Midway Museum and explore historic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and Navy crew life.

  • With flexible booking, visit the Safari Park and USS Midway on separate days or in one go to fit your plans.

from Original price$118.98
$113.03

5% off

Slide 1 of 20, Couple kayaking on ocean near San Diego with Go City Explorer Pass.
Couple kayaking on ocean near San Diego with Go City Explorer Pass.

Go City San Diego Explorer Pass: Choose 2 to 7 Attractions

Extended validity
1 more
  • Access over 45 attractions and save up to $37 with Go City's San Diego Explorer Pass.
  • Eliminate the hassle of buying individual tickets to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, and a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off tour by Old Town Trolley tour and save 48%.
  • Choose between a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice pass, and don't worry about standing in line as your pass is completely digital!
  • Visit your first attraction, get your pass scanned and it's activated. Your pass is then valid for 30 days.
  • Some attractions that are included in your pass are Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass, 45 Min. Jet Ski Rental and San Diego Speed Boat Adventures.
More details
  • Access over 45 attractions and save up to $37 with Go City's San Diego Explorer Pass.
  • Eliminate the hassle of buying individual tickets to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, and a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off tour by Old Town Trolley tour and save 48%.
  • Choose between a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-choice pass, and don't worry about standing in line as your pass is completely digital!
  • Visit your first attraction, get your pass scanned and it's activated. Your pass is then valid for 30 days.
  • Some attractions that are included in your pass are Belmont Park Ride & Play Pass, 45 Min. Jet Ski Rental and San Diego Speed Boat Adventures.
from
$124
Slide 1 of 11, San Diego Zoo treetop walkway and USS Midway Museum aircraft display.
San Diego Zoo treetop walkway and USS Midway Museum aircraft display.

Combo (Save 8%): San Diego Zoo + USS Midway Museum Tickets

Explore at your pace
Audio guide

  • Get more for less with this combo ticket that lets you experience the San Diego Zoo and the USS Midway Museum, two of San Diego’s most popular attractions, in one convenient booking.

  • With flexible booking, you can visit both attractions on the same day or spread them across different days, ensuring your visit fits your schedule.

  • Wander through lush exhibits and meet over 3,700 animals from across the globe. The San Diego Zoo offers a world-class wildlife experience.

  • Walk the historic decks of the USS Midway, where you can see over 25 restored aircraft and dive into the fascinating stories of naval aviation.

  • With just a 16-minute drive between the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum, visiting both is simple and convenient, making the most of your day.

More details

  • Get more for less with this combo ticket that lets you experience the San Diego Zoo and the USS Midway Museum, two of San Diego’s most popular attractions, in one convenient booking.

  • With flexible booking, you can visit both attractions on the same day or spread them across different days, ensuring your visit fits your schedule.

  • Wander through lush exhibits and meet over 3,700 animals from across the globe. The San Diego Zoo offers a world-class wildlife experience.

  • Walk the historic decks of the USS Midway, where you can see over 25 restored aircraft and dive into the fascinating stories of naval aviation.

  • With just a 16-minute drive between the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum, visiting both is simple and convenient, making the most of your day.

from Original price$118.98
$109.46

8% off

Slide 1 of 11, San Diego Zoo polar bear swimming and Old Town Trolley near historic ship.
San Diego Zoo polar bear swimming and Old Town Trolley near historic ship.

Combo (Save 5%): San Diego Zoo Tickets + Old Town Trolley Tour

Explore at your pace

  • Combine a visit to the San Diego Zoo with a 1-day unlimited hop-on hop-off trolley tour to experience wildlife and explore San Diego in one flexible combo.

  • Enjoy Zoo admission with access to its animal habitats, shows, exhibits, Kangaroo Express, Guided Bus Tour, and Skyfari Aerial Tram.

  • Ride the Old Town Trolley’s Orange Route with 11 stops, letting you hop off near popular attractions and continue sightseeing at your own pace.

  • Benefit from live conductor commentary, free audio-guided walking tours, a map with a day planner, and $30 worth of discount coupons.

  • Easily combine both experiences with Stop J located near the San Diego Zoo, making it convenient to switch between city sightseeing and wildlife exploration.

More details

  • Combine a visit to the San Diego Zoo with a 1-day unlimited hop-on hop-off trolley tour to experience wildlife and explore San Diego in one flexible combo.

  • Enjoy Zoo admission with access to its animal habitats, shows, exhibits, Kangaroo Express, Guided Bus Tour, and Skyfari Aerial Tram.

  • Ride the Old Town Trolley’s Orange Route with 11 stops, letting you hop off near popular attractions and continue sightseeing at your own pace.

  • Benefit from live conductor commentary, free audio-guided walking tours, a map with a day planner, and $30 worth of discount coupons.

  • Easily combine both experiences with Stop J located near the San Diego Zoo, making it convenient to switch between city sightseeing and wildlife exploration.

from Original price$135
$128.25

5% off

Pro tips to help you make a pick

The park is around 45 minutes away from downtown San Diego and the San Diego Zoo, so plan your visit accordingly.

Most animals are very active in the morning, so consider booking a guided tour or a safari in the morning to see more animals.

Some safari experiences require separate reservations alongside your general admission ticket. Make sure to book these in advance.

Experiences like ziplining, special tram rides, and close-up animal encounters require purchase of separate tickets in advance.

Children 2 years and below do not require tickets. You can avail discounted rates for children between the ages of 3 to 11 years. An adult must accompany all children under 15 at all times.

Similar things to do in San Diego

About San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is one of the largest safari parks in California and home to more than 3,000 animals from across the world. These include Western grey kangaroos, African rhinos, elephants etc.

Address15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
Also known asWild Animal Park
Year opened1972
Founded byCharles Faust
Visitors per year4000000
Expected wait time - Standard0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park was initially used as a supplementary breeding facility for the San Diego Zoo.

Spread across 1,800 acres, the Safari Park is home to more than 3,000 different animals representing around 300 species. Additionally, it is also a spectacular botanical garden featuring over 1.3 million plants.

The safari has played an important role in the recovery and conversion of the California condor, the largest North American land bird.

Antelopes from India and zebras from East Africa were the first two species transported to the San Diego Zoo Safari. The first ten cheetahs were brought to the safari for breeding purposes from South Africa.

Why visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

Open-air safaris

Travel in an open-air vehicle with an expert guide for a thrilling adventure. Get up close with different animals from Asia Savanna and the African plains. You can also opt for a personalized safari experience tailored to your interests for a seamless experience.

Relaxing adventures

It is never a dull moment at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Enjoy sweeping views of the park from a soaring balloon safari or take the African Tram for a relaxing adventure. There are plenty of thrilling activities for all age groups.

Themed dining

Enjoy a delicious meal against the beautiful backdrop of African plains or at an African-themed restaurant surrounded by giraffes, rhinos, and other wildlife. Pick from more than 10 excellent dining options and enjoy the different culinary experiences in a unique, yet vibrant atmosphere.

Global wildlife

From cheetahs, African rhinos, antelopes, and camels to elephants and kangaroos, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to more than 3000 animals and 300 wildlife species predominantly from Africa and Asia.

Plan your visit

Main entrance

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has one main entrance located near the car parking and the Conservation Carousel. We recommend booking your tickets for different activities in advance to ensure a smooth experience without delays.

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What our guests say

Jack F

United States
Couple
Last week

+2 more

The San Diego Zoo was by far the best experience of my entire trip to San Diego, and nothing short of remarkable. It is set in the iconic Balboa park and is in close proximity to other amazing places and activities in the park including the Japanese Friendship Gardens or the gorgeous Botanical Gardens. Headout made the ticket purchasing and entry process incredibly easy with not only a seamless and non-confusing UI, but most importantly the ability to access tickets without an internet connection. This eliminated the stress of waiting on slow or unreliable connections at busy ticketing lines, and made my experience at the Zoo much more enjoyable in general. The Zoo is a perfect example of what I think a modern zoo should be, with a great balance of engaging and entertaining exhibits, while making it evident that animals are extremely well taken care. Habitats are beautiful and reflect the natural environments of the animals they house. It is hard to find zoos that feel ethical while also providing the classical amusement park feel of a large zoo. San Diego balances this perfectly with a wide selection of activites, concessions, etc; while maintain ethical standards and clean and proper habitats. My favorite parts of the Zoo were the "Lost Forest" pathways that really immerse you in the environment and make you feel like your really walking through a true jungle. I would recommend wearing capable footwear as the park is massive and is built upon many different hills and cliff sides that brings way for many uphill and downhill walks. However, the park is accessible for those with disabilities as there is a guided 35 minute bus tour that takes you throughout the park and has visible views of the animals, as well. The park also has plenty of food and beverage options for both kids and adults, or individuals with food allergies like myself. I was able to find several gluten free options, most notably carne asada tacos at the sabertooth grill near the elephant habitat. They were delicious and reasonably priced for in-park food. There is also alcoholic beverage stations around the park to really amp up the experience. Overall, the San Diego Zoo is a perfect excursion that is situated in an accessible area of the city and is suitable for everyone!

San Diego Zoo Tickets

Rosa M

Group
Last week

+1 more

Using Headout was so easy. Purchasirng in advance allowed me to skip the long entrance line and allowed me to utilize all the extra time seeing the animals.

San Diego Zoo Tickets

Deanna W

United States
Solo
2 weeks ago

+3 more

I loved your site. It was easy to use. It sent me a reminder my trip was in pending, just in case I forgot. It might be nice if the site could somehow integrate with a weather forecast site so that we would know what the weather temperature would be when we book our tickets. That's the only thing I can think of that might have made it better. But my visit was exactly everything I wanted it to be.. I got to sit on the patio and eat wonderful food and watch elephants. That was the whole reason for my trip.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

Brandon G

United States
Solo
3 weeks ago

+1 more

I went to the San Diego zoo and also the safari park it was amazing I had a lot of fun and seen a lot I of animals recommend 💯.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tickets

Maria C

Group
Aug 2026
The convenience of the frequent stops allowed for exploring many places in a short amount of time, while the knowledgeable guides added engaging personal twists to the experience. Overall, it was a fantastic trip that inspired a strong recommendation and a desire to take it again.

Combo: San Diego Zoo Tickets + Old Town Trolley Tour

Carol L

United States
Couple
May 2026

+2 more

We have been to San Diego many times, but never taken the Hop on Hop off Trolley before. All of the drivers were friendly and informative. We saw and learned about places we had never been, like the Barrio Logan, Little Italy, and the amazing Star of India and other ships that we could explore! It was a great way to see the beautiful architecture of the city and enjoy the variety of the areas so conveniently. We give it 10 stars!!

Combo: San Diego Zoo Tickets + Old Town Trolley Tour

Fabrizio C

Solo
Apr 2026

+1 more

When you're in San Diego, you simply can't miss the USS Midway. Everything about it is wonderful. The staff and former crew members who served on that ship are truly courteous. When you talk to them, you can feel their devotion to their country, to the flag, and to the esprit de corps that, in a way, defines all of "us" who belong to the Armed Forces.

Combo: San Diego Zoo + USS Midway Museum Tickets

Nancy B

United States
Couple
Last week
Everything at the park is very well planned. We loved the animals homes that give them room to roam around. The tram was a great way to see more of the park and the Elephant walk is amazing. Very well thought out and gives you several areas to see them in as well as watching the staff feed them. Now my favorite zoo.

Combo: San Diego Zoo Safari Park + USS Midway Museum Tickets

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