Photo: Benjamin Trigani
Photo: JR Annis
Photo: Groy Pereira (Groy)
Lion Country Safari
★4.6(14,299 reviews)$$$Zoo
🕑 4-5 hours (1 hour for drive-through safari, 3-4 hours for amusement area and animal encounters)👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers are mesmerized by seeing animals up close from the car, while elementary-aged kids love the interactive feeding experiences and amusement rides. Even teenagers enjoy the safari drive and unique photo opportunities.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Lion Country Safari offers a unique drive-through safari experience where families can observe over 1,000 animals roaming freely across seven sections representing different regions of the world. Kids get the thrill of seeing lions, giraffes, rhinos, and zebras from the safety of your own vehicle, plus there's a walk-through amusement area with rides, a splash pad, and hands-on animal encounters including giraffe feeding.
Highlights
- ✓Drive-through safari where animals roam freely around your vehicle
- ✓Hand-feed giraffes at the elevated feeding platform
- ✓Safari World walk-through area with amusement rides and water spray zones
- ✓Petting zoo with goats and other friendly animals
- ✓Educational animal encounters and keeper talks throughout the day
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right when they open at 9:30 AM for the most active animals,they're more visible in cooler morning temperatures before seeking shade
- 2.Keep windows closed during the drive-through safari (air conditioning is essential in Florida heat) and bring binoculars for kids to spot distant animals
- 3.Purchase giraffe feeding tickets early as they sell out quickly, and bring hand sanitizer for after the experience
- 4.Pack snacks and drinks for the 45-60 minute drive-through portion, as there are no stops once you enter the safari
- 5.Download their free app beforehand to get the interactive map and learn fun facts about animals as you drive through each section
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings from October through April when temperatures are cooler, crowds are lighter, and animals are most active. Avoid summer afternoons when Florida heat causes many animals to rest in shaded areas.
What to Know
General admission includes both the drive-through safari and walk-through amusement area with most attractions; giraffe feeding is an additional cost. There's ample free parking, and both Safari Grill and other food stands are available, though many families pack coolers to leave in their cars.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot and humid, making animals less visible. The park occasionally offers special events during holidays like Boo at the Zoo in October and holiday light events in winter,check their calendar ahead of time.
Nearby Eats
Head to Charm City Burger Company (15 minutes away) for gourmet burgers and milkshakes kids love, or try Duffy's Sports Grill in Wellington for a casual family atmosphere with extensive kids' menu and sports on TV.
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