Hotels near San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park covers about 1,800 acres (730 hectares) of savanna, forest and canyon in the San Pasqual Valley, with more than 3,000 animals living in large mixed habitats. Giraffes, rhinos and antelope share the African Plains, and the park plays a key role in breeding programmes for species such as the southern white rhino and the California condor.

For families visiting San Diego in October, the Safari Park takes part in Kids Free San Diego, which typically lets each ticketed adult bring up to six children aged 11 and under free, with the Africa Tram included subject to availability. Milder autumn temperatures make the long walks between habitats easier than in summer, though inland Escondido is often 5 to 10°C warmer than the coast.

Pro Tip: Ride the Africa Tram first thing, before queues build, and pay extra for a Caravan Safari if you want to feed giraffes by hand. Pack sunscreen and water for the hot afternoons.