safari park san diego cheetah run

Cheetah Run

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15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd

Escondido, CA 92027

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Worth the price of admission. You'll be amazed that this attraction isn't sponsored by Jaguar Motors. What an amazing experience - watching a cheetah dash across the run within a minute with a top speed of almost 70 mph! It does get busy and I highly suggest paying the $15 per person for exclusive access. You can thank me later.

Just finished

If you have never seen a cheetah run at full speed then come see this daily event! It happens once a day! I highly recommend arriving about 30-40 minutes early! It's a small area with limited viewing spots. They only promise one run but if the cheetah is healthy for a second run then they will do a second one. This is a beautiful way to end your day at the zoo! You will see both the cheetah and a dog run fast! The dog is the best friend to the cheetah and lives with the cheetah.

See all photos from Mathew G. for Cheetah Run

20 minutes of waiting and 2 seconds of racing. I'm not sure it's worth it dealing with the crowds in the heat but in typical Safari Park fashion they'll offer you a spacious and shaded view for $6 additional bucks.. - There always seem to be large crowds for the Cheetah run even when it's on a weekday. - Take this opportunity to take the tram while everyone else is waiting to see the Cheetahs.

Reserved viewing $6

Cheetah run is one of the many attractions at the San Diego Safari Park. This furry feline accelerates from 0 to 60 in seconds and the cats race every day at 3:30. Crowds of onlookers congregate around the run to witness this free event. The magnificent cheetah is a fearful animal, so her pal, a beautiful white dog runs the course first to make her feel comfortable. The run takes a second or two, but the memories will last for years to come. A mechanical lure incites the fast cat to pounce with her lightning quick speed as onlookers gawk. Front row viewing opportunities are available for a mere $6.00, so you can get in on the action without fighting the crowds. Don't try to record the run, or you will miss the action!

See all photos from Vicki C. for Cheetah Run

How many time have been able to watch a cheetah running at full speed up close? The cheetah run takes place in a grassy section of the park that is surrounded by fencing. There were thick crowds all around the fencing so we actually viewed the run from a hill by the campground that looks down on the area. What's interesting is that zoos are now pairing cheetahs with (cute!) dogs to help with their skittish demeanor. The dogs actually do the first run through the course and then it's time for the cheetah to take off. It's pretty amazing how much speed they can build up so quickly. This experience doesn't last long. How could it? Cheetahs run in short sprints so that has to be expected. I was glad that we took the time to watch this.

The Chetah Run at the San Diego Zoo is awesome if you have an interest in learning about this quick cat (fastest land animal). The demonstration is in 2 steps, first the Chetah's buddy (a dog) runs after the lure to show that its safe. Once done, the Chetah does its run 0-60 in 3 seconds (top 70mph). Blink and you may miss it. My daughters and I arrived 30 minutes early and were able to get a good viewing location (free). There's an option to pay for a more guaranteed good viewing spot and that might be of consideration if crowded and coming late ($15 per person I believe). The show seems to be once a day. I captured the run on video real time and my daughter captured it in slow motion. These will be for great memories and we were still enjoying this experience days later. However, If done wrong, you will most likely miss the run.

Cheetah and best friend (dog) post run

The cheetah run is included in the San Diego Safari Park ticket. It's located near the African Tram area. There is no seating, but you have to stand around the fence area to see the cheetah. Get there early before the show starts to get a good point of view. You can pay extra to be seated under the shade and away from the large crowds. You get a private show with the animals up close, but I thought it wasn't worth it. You can see the animals from a far and if you stand close enough you can hear the presentation. The cheetah run is quick and only does one run but if you're lucky then you get to see two. If you're only going to the Safari Park once, then make sure to take advantage of watching this event.

Nice cheetah!

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• Class:  Mammalia (Mammals)
• Order:  Carnivora
• Family:  Felidae
• Genus:  Acinonyx
• Species: jubatus

Spotted sprinter.  If ever an animal was born to run, it’s the cheetah. People have marveled at this fastest of land mammals for thousands of years. Egyptian tombs and rock temples show representations of the cheetah, and many ancient cultures used the cheetah for its hunting prowess, much the way falcons are used in many countries to accompany hunters. The cheetah has adorned the courts of kings, queens, and emperors, and its amazing grace and beauty still amaze the world today.

Social life on the savanna.  Cheetahs are found primarily in the eastern and southern ranges of Africa south of the Sahara Desert, with small populations in North Africa and Iran. They are neither solitary nor social but are a little of both. Females are solitary except when they have young. Some males are solitary, but related males, usually brothers, live in small groups called coalitions. Adult males are larger than females and have a “mane” on the shoulder area that can also be seen on cubs. Cheetahs are peaceable except at breeding time, when males fight over females and have been known to kill each other. Cheetahs hunt alone and don’t have any of the group behaviors that lions do.

Run like the wind.  Long and lanky, cheetahs are the sprinters of the cat world. Their bodies are uniquely designed to run very fast for fairly short distances, allowing them to catch prey that other big cats can’t get. A cheetah’s ability to run starts with its flexible spine, which allows the front legs to stretch far forward on each stride. Its claws are hard and sharp like cleats, giving the cat great traction when running. A cheetah can retract its claws a bit, but the fleshy sheaths that protect the claws of most cats are absent in the cheetah. Most of the claws are exposed all the time, so they don't stay sharp like those of other cats. 

A small, cone-shaped piece of bare skin on the back of each front leg serves as a brake. The cat’s long tail is used as a rudder during high-speed chases, and its enlarged nostrils, lungs, and heart are adaptations that help a cheetah exert itself.

While running, a cheetah covers 20 to 22 feet (6 to 6.7 meters) in one stride, about the same distance as a racehorse. But a cheetah is so much faster—the fastest racehorse runs 43 miles per hour (69 kilometers per hour), while a cheetah can run at speeds of up to 70 miles per hour (112 kilometers per hour). A cheetah is off the ground more than half of its running time! 

Running down a meal.  Chasing prey is hard on a cheetah. Once caught, a cheetah holds its prey with a strangling bite to the neck. The cheetah pants intensely, and its body temperature can reach as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit (41 degrees Celsius). It takes 20 minutes for its breathing and temperature to return to normal, the same time it takes for the prey to suffocate. A cheetah has smaller teeth and larger nasal passages than other big cats, which may be an adaptation that allows the cat to take in more air during the recovery period after a sprint.

HABITAT AND DIET

Home on the range.  The cheetah survives in parts of Africa and a small population lives in Iran. They prefer grasslands and open plains. Here, they are well camouflaged and have room to run down their prey.

Fast food.  Once they’ve recovered from chasing down a meal, cheetahs must eat quickly, as leopards, lions, baboons, jackals, vultures, or hyenas can drive them away. Cheetahs aren’t strong enough to hide or guard their catch, so they have only one chance to eat their meal. They must kill more often, expending more energy than other big cats. They eat the meat (not usually the skin or bones) of antelope (usually Thompson’s gazelles), ground-dwelling birds, rabbits, porcupines, and ostriches. Unlike other African predators, cheetahs don’t usually scavenge for food. They tend to hunt in the morning and again at dusk. They can hunt during the middle of the day if they have to, but during the heat of the day they prefer to rest.

Cheetahs hunt by sight. But before the cat attacks or even begins to stalk its prey, the cheetah watches a herd from a high vantage point like a termite mound or a tree. It picks out its prey—perhaps an individual that is young or very old and that isn’t quite keeping up with the rest of its herd, or one that wanders away from the herd—and creeps as close as it can without being noticed. It stalks its prey in a semi-crouched position with its head lowered and freezes or drops to the ground to avoid being discovered. A cheetah tries to get within about 165 feet (50 meters) before it charges. You might think that a cheetah’s prey doesn’t stand a chance, but cheetahs don’t always catch the prey they’re chasing. In fact, cheetahs catch their prey in only half of the hunting attempts they make.

At the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, the cheetahs eat a special ground-meat diet made for carnivores.

FAMILY LIFE

Hear that?  San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance scientists began studying communication in African cheetahs and soon learned that cheetahs were much more vocal (and possessed a larger vocabulary) than originally thought. A chirp call, which sounds a little like a small dog’s bark, is uttered often by both males and females and has a variety of meanings, ranging from “good morning” to “I’m not happy with you,” and even “What just happened was kind of scary!” Mothers use the same sound to call their cubs. They also purr, growl, snarl, hiss, cough, moan, and bleat, but cheetahs cannot roar like lions or tigers do. 

Scientists have learned that, during mating season, cheetah males make a unique sound called a “stutter-bark,” which is a very rhythmic and repetitive call that sounds like a cross between a purr and a rumbling stomach. The stutter-bark seems to play a role in getting an available female “in the mood” for breeding. Scientists can play a recording of this call to female cheetahs at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park to encourage breeding. Two cubs born in 2009 were the result of this method.

Tiny spots.  Female cheetahs usually give birth to three to five cubs, but some females have had up to eight cubs in one litter. Cubs are born with all their spots, so they appear much darker than the adults. They also have a stripe of long, silver fur called a mantle that runs down their back. This extra fur may help to protect the cub from weather or camouflage it in the tall grass. 

At about six months of age, the mother teaches her cubs how to hunt and avoid predators. Cubs live with their mothers for about 18 months but often become prey to lions, leopards, and hyenas. Scientists found that lions and hyenas kill up to 70 percent of cheetah cubs. To protect her cubs, a mother moves them frequently. Littermates stay together for about six to eight more months, sharing a territory. Then the females head off to live on their own, while the males stay together in small groups until they are mature.

CONSERVATION

Once widespread throughout Africa and the Arabian Peninsula and into central India, cheetahs have disappeared from huge areas of their historic range. Cheetahs hunt by day, which means tourists taking safari rides into cheetah habitat can affect their daily routine. Their habitat is open savanna, the most likely areas to be occupied by humans. There are around 7,000 cheetahs left in their native habitats, down from as many as 100,000 just 100 years ago. Ranchers sometimes shoot them because the cats feed on livestock. 

Wildlife parks in Africa help protect some of the cheetahs as their habitat shrinks. Zoos will play an important role in securing a future for cheetahs. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has been working to solve the unique problems that cheetahs have breeding in managed care. It has one of the most successful cheetah breeding programs in the world, with 157 cheetahs born here to date, and is considered a top organization for successful cheetah management.

Help for cheetahs.  In Namibia, prickly thornbush has been taking over farms and grasslands, injuring the cats’ eyes and causing them to prey on easier-to-catch livestock, much to the farmers’ dismay. The Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) sent wood chippers to chop up the brush to make it easier for cheetahs to hunt. The chipped thornbush is turned into blocks and sold as fuel. The Fund also introduced a very successful guard dog program in Namibia, using Anatolian shepherds to protect livestock. These working dogs are fiercely protective of the livestock in their charge, and the cheetahs are not about to argue. Providing the dogs free of charge to households and educating people about the value of native wildlife has helped cheetah populations recover in Namibia. Laurie Marker, Ph.D., who founded CCF in 1990, received San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's prestigious conservation medal in 2008 for her work for these cats.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a member of the national cheetah Breeding Center Coalition (BCC). The Coalition’s nine member facilities are breeding cheetahs with the goal of creating a sustainable cheetah population. As a leading partner, we are working closely with the other BCC members to ensure that cheetah numbers increase significantly over the next decade, ultimately resulting in a sustainable “safety net” population.

You can join conservation organizations that protect big cats and African habitat, including the Cheetah Conservation Fund and Africats. You can encourage people not to wear fur coats. While it can be hard to help cheetahs directly, when you make your voice heard on environmental issues, you can help the Earth as a whole. 

Visiting the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park helps support our work to learn more about a disease affecting cheetahs. Feline herpesvirus can cause respiratory disease and skin ulcers in cheetahs. To prevent this, our conservation scientists are studying the risk factors that cause this infection in cheetahs and creating a database of infected individuals, including management and wildlife care practices from zoos across North America. We can then recommend changes in the care of cheetahs to reduce the virus risk for these cats.

By supporting San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, you are our ally in saving and protecting wildlife worldwide.

Up to 17 years in expert care, about 12 years in the wilderness

Gestation: 3 months

Size at birth: 5 to 10 ounces (150 to 300 grams)

Maturity: 2 to 3 years old

Height at shoulder: 2 to 3 feet (63 to 94 centimeters) 

Body length: 3.6 to 4.4 feet (1 to 1.4 meters)

Tail: 26 to 33 inches (66 to 84 centimeters)

Weight: 84 to 143 pounds (38 to 65 kilograms), males are larger than females

Cheetahs are the only cats that, while sprinting, can turn in midair to follow their prey.

Cheetahs don’t need to drink water, as they get the moisture they need from their prey.

Cubs have a long mane on their neck and shoulders that disappears as they get older.

Cheetahs can accelerate to freeway speeds in just a few strides.

King cheetahs have lengthwise stripes and are very rare.

The word cheetah comes from the ancient Indian Sanskrit word chita or chitra, meaning “distinctively marked” or “variegated, bright, or speckled.”

Cheetahs are the only cats with black “tear marks” on their face.

A group of cheetahs is called a coalition.

DISCOVER WILDLIFE

More animals & plants from san diego zoo and san diego zoo safari park.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park – What You’ll Want to Do & See – 2024

How to do San Diego Safari Park from Africa Tram to zebras. Here’s a gorilla-sized tips guide to animal exhibits, shows & tours. A day planner’s included with animal encounters and entertainment events pre-loaded. You’ll know what you want to do, and when to do it to have a great day.

At San Diego Zoo Safari Park you can have an African Safari experience without going to Africa. Walk and see wild animals in large natural field enclosures and exhibits like Lion Camp. Enjoy activities like Africa Tram, Cheetah Run, overnight camping, ziplining, ballooning, playgrounds, and shows.

* Save with a secret promo code on each San Diego Zoo or Safari Park 1-Day Pass. Go any day. Go directly to the gate. Click  HERE  to get your code, instructions & discounted tickets by email. By clicking the link above you agree to receive an automated email message. Valid only at aRes Travel , San Diego’s local authorized ticket seller. Read my full privacy policy .

If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated. Read my Advertising Disclosure for more info. Thanks! ~ Nancy

That’s the quick summarized version of what there is to do at Safari Park. But there’s a lot more to discover below. Also, check out my Safari Tours reviews to discover how much time each takes to make organizing your day easier.

What Can You Do At San Diego Zoo Safari Park?

At safari park you’ll walk…a lot .

You’ll be getting your steps in during your day at San Diego Safari Park. It was designed first as a breeding facility for rare and endangered species. Because of this, the animal exhibits have more room here than at a ‘normal’ zoo. And thus you’ll be strolling a bit further between them. 

Safari Park is 1800 acres large. But the area that is open to general admission ticket holders is only about 80 acres ( Link to my page with the maps ). Still, that’s a lot of ground to cover.

If you have limited mobility there are wheelchairs and electric scooters for rent. There’s also an ADA (American With Disabilities Act) shuttle bus to get you around the park. Those who have difficulty with standing in line may request an “Easy Access” pass at the entrance to Safari Park. The pass offers you and 3 more members of your group preferred boarding and seating if needed. Download the park’s “ Guests With Disabilities ” guide for more information.

You Can Take a Safari Tour

There are 9 different types of Safari add-on experiences, and 27 different variations.They range from animal photo and feeding opportunities to sleepovers and activities like zip lining that will get your adrenaline going. You’ll need to make reservations well in advance. They fill up quickly and you can plan your day around them.

TIP: Make sure that you arrive at least 10 minutes early for your Safari. If you’re late or miss it you will not be given a refund or a raincheck in most cases. Cancellations for full refunds must be done 5 days in advance.

Below you’ll find quick summaries of all 9 Safari tours. For detailed information including how much time you’ll need, costs and other requirements see my page on Safari Park Tours .

Caravan Safari Is the Most Popular Paid Tour at San Diego Safari Park

This is our favorite Safari, we’ve taken it several times. You ride a flatbed truck out into the wild animal herds in their large field enclosures. These include even the dangerously unpredictable cape buffalo who are sometimes called “ the black death ”. Fortunately, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide familiar with their behavior to keep you out of trouble. The guides also point out other (safer) animal behaviors and answer your questions. 

They’ll also help you feed the giraffes and sometimes rhinos if the critters are feeling curious and hungry. There are always so many great photo opportunities on this trip it’s sometimes hard to choose where to point your camera. 

Roar & Snore Safari Is More Than Just Camping Overnight

Experience the sights and sounds of an African safari without the killer plane ticket cost. You get to fall asleep to the sounds of elephants snorting and giraffes walking by. And the sounds of lions roaring may wake you the next morning. You get a tasty, filling dinner and a hearty breakfast. There’s also a night campfire where you can make gooey s’mores. There are guided night walks through some behind-the-scenes areas and a morning keeper presentation. 

For more information, here’s my review of our Roar & Snore evening .

The biggest downside of the Roar and Snore experience is if you need to sleep on a good mattress. If that’s the case, this is not the tour for you. But don’t worry. I’ve written a guide to the best local hotels around Safari Park . There, your sleeping problem is solved!

Behind-the-Scenes Safari Shows You San Diego Safari Park’s Secret Places

Explore behind the scenes into areas not accessible to the general public. This guided safari’s a  great way to get an insider’s view of some of the animals at safari park and the organization’s conservation efforts. You’ll also get a chance to meet and maybe feed some of the Safari Parks animal ambassadors. There are 7 different types of Behind-the-Scenes safari; platypuses, elephants, tigers, rhinos, kangaroos, cheetahs or butterflies. 

Cart Safari is a Relaxed Tour Around the Large Field Enclosures

On the Cart Safari tour you get a chance to observe herds of giraffes, rhinos, antelope and other animals in a natural setting. Your driver is also an experienced guide. They’ll point out significant behaviors and would love to answer your questions about what you’re seeing. 

It’s a more relaxed trip than the Caravan Safari and offers lots of photographic opportunities. 

Flightline Safari -Fly Over San Diego Safari Park

Get your pulse pumping, and feel the wind in your face as you fly 2/3rds of a mile over herds of antelope, rhinos and giraffe. 

You’ll get a training session from professional staff and take a short practice flight to get your landing technique down. Then you’ll take a truck up to a high ridge above the park and fly down. 

TIP : Pay the little extra for a helmet camera to record your trip down. Using your cell-phone to make your own live video is not possible. You’ll need your hands free to hold your harness when you land.

Cheetah Safari – Meet the Spotted Speedsters

Watch the Cheetah Run at speeds close to 70 miles per hour from a prime reserved trackside spot. Then meet the speedy sprinter afterward for an exclusive close-up experience. 

There will be plenty of opportunities to take amazing cheetah close-ups. But don’t waste your time trying for the perfect selfie with a cheetah. The Safari Park employees will make sure that you get a great shot with the big cat. 

Another African animal ambassador will also be brought out for you to meet before the run. This Safari is relatively inexpensive so it fills up fast. Make your reservations early. 

Balloon Safari – Get Above It All

Soar 400 feet above the scenic San Pasqual Valley and the herds of wild animals below. This is a tethered ride, so you don’t have to worry about floating away and landing within Lion Camp. This safari is very dependent upon favorable weather conditions.  

Try to schedule your ride between 9 AM and noon. Winds tend to pick up speed in the valley during the afternoon. And the balloon safari does not fly during the Cheetah Run. It can spook the cats.

Ultimate Safari – Wish Fulfillment for Animal Lovers

Build yourself a custom safari experience with the assistance of the Safari Park’s professionals. Visit off-exhibit areas. Have close encounters with the animal ambassadors that interest you most. Make it as adventurous as you wish, zipline, balloon ride and rope courses, cape buffalo, feeding an elephant. Dream big. Explore Safari Park with your personal tour guide for up to 8 hours.

Board These Safari Park Rides

Africa tram is a must-do safari park activity.

Africa Tram is a must-do activity especially if you aren’t going on one of the paid safaris. When you hop aboard it’s like you’ve been transported to the plains of Africa. You’ll see herds of giraffe, rhino, antelope and birds living together just as you would there. The tour guide drivers are very knowledgeable and quite often funny. They’ll point out unique animal survival tactics and adaptations and new babies in the large field enclosures. 

TIP: The animals are most active when it’s coolest. On hot days try to catch the earliest tram rides or the latest ones. The tram starts running at 10 AM. It stops 45 minutes before the park’s closing. I’ve written an in-depth review with extra tips on my Safari Tours page . 

Conservation Carousel

Have your kids (or you)  ever dreamed of riding a tiger, a bear, or maybe even a zebra? You can do it on this merry-go-round. It features 60 endangered animals and was opened in 2005 . There’s a $6 fee to ride the carousel. (open 10 AM to closing).

Watch Shows and Keeper Talks at San Diego Safari Park

Shiley’s cheetah run is a must-see at safari park.

Don’t even THINK about visiting San Diego Safari Park without attending Cheetah Run . See one of these leggy cats explode out of its carrier and sprint after its prey (a stuffed animal on a motorized tether) at speeds close to 70 miles an hour. Six or 7 seconds later it comes to an abrupt halt at the end of the 100 meter run. It’s long tail whips around for balance and dirt goes flying as its feet dig into the turf. Spectacular. Hang around. Depending upon how the cheetah feels they sometimes run the course twice.

TIP : Get to the Shiley’s Cheetah Run track at least 30 minutes ahead of time. Good viewing areas are on the bridge close to Savannah Cool Zone and on the walkways closest to it. The entire presentation lasts about 20 minutes and usually starts at 3:30 PM. Confirm the time when you arrive at Safari Park.

Tiger Keeper Talk

Get close-up views of tigers and inside information on how they’re cared for at Safari Park. The keepers use this time to provide enrichment to the tigers as well as give them a quick physical exam. The Sumatran tigers are the smallest tiger. But they’re still intimidating as you see them stretch up on their hind legs to reach a meaty treat. 

TIP : Arrive at least 20 minutes early for the 11:45 AM Tiger Keeper Talk. The 15-minute tiger training session is very popular. 

Frequent Flyers Bird Show

(Temporarily canceled due to avian flu)

This is an entertaining show, perfect for an afternoon sit-down break. You’ll experience exotic birds like owls, parrots, and large vultures flying just inches above your head. They’re close enough to reach up and touch (but don’t).

They’re not caged or tethered in any way. It’s an impressive example of the power of positive behavior conditioning and the patience and kindness of the keepers. The 20-minute show is presented twice, once at noon and again at 2:00 PM. 

Animal Ambassador Stage 

Get within a couple of feet of various Animal Ambassadors here. You never know what the keepers will bring out. I’ve gotten up close to tiny Kestrel hawks, echidna (an Australian spiny anteater which has spines like a porcupine, a beak like a bird, a pouch like a kangaroo, and lays eggs like a reptile) to a golden eagle and African serval cats. 

Training Talk

Get an up-close look at free-flight bird training. Most people don’t bother with this presentation. That’s what makes it so good. You can often sit in the front row and see firsthand how expert animal trainers establish trust with their charges. Aside from being able to view exotic birds up close, it’s easier to ask questions in this forum. If you pay attention you can pick up tricks that can be applied to your cats, dogs, and maybe even kids to encourage them to do what you want them to.

Talk with Robert the Zebra

Chat with a digital, interactive zebra. He’s snarky, and clever and will keep your children occupied for 20 minutes with stories about what it’s like to be a zebra. Kids are fascinated by this cartoon zebra that carries on a conversation with them from a large-screen TV. You can talk to Robert every hour on the hour from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Visit These Can’t-Miss Safari Park Animal Exhibits 

The platypus are a must-see at safari park in san diego.

These are the only platypus on exhibit outside of Australia…anywhere. So go see them. Give yourself some time and exercise a bit of patience in this exhibit.

First, it’s dark and you’ll need to let your eyes adjust to the bright San Diego sun.

Second, platypi move fast and rarely stay put in one spot. Getting a good photo can be a challenge. Just have fun looking at these energetic creatures. 

Gorillas have always been one of the most popular animals at Safari Park and the Zoo. Go anytime. They are fed five or six times per day with leaves, stems, fruit, seeds, and roots. Be sure to check out the Gorilla Activity Center. Compare your arms to those of an adult male gorilla on a drawing, listen to their vocalizations, and watch a video on how the keepers care for them. 

Elephant Valley

(Elephant viewing may be limited due to the construction of the new, larger ‘Elephant Valley’ exhibit.)

There are few things as wonderful as seeing elephants playing in the water. There are two swimming pools for the San Diego Safari Park herd in this 5-and-a-half acre habitat.

There are two main yards. One is usually open while the other is being cleaned of copious amounts of elephant dung and stocked with treats. In most cases, the Elephant Viewing Patio will be the best place to watch them. 

NOTE: Open observation points may differ during the construction of the new Elephant Valley exhibit.

The lion exhibit at San Diego Zoo is justifiably famous for its design. It’s both visitor friendly and great for the lions themselves. There are many places to view lions from the large windows by the air conditioned rocks, to rock piles and an ‘abandoned’ jeep that sometimes hosts a very large sleeping feline. The lions have wonderful views of the large field enclosures filled with tasty meals on the hoof. Think of it as must-see cat TV. 

Tiger Trail Sambutan Longhouse

If you love tigers, you’ll love Tiger Trail. It’s green and lush and the perfect place to watch tigers watching you. For more information on what’s there and why you should go there, check out my “ 11 Coolest Reasons to See San Diego Safari Park Tiger Trail ” page. 

Kangaroo Walk in Walkabout Australia

At Kangaroo walk you can go inside the exhibit and see wallabies and kangaroos go bounding by on all sides. And if you’re lucky, maybe one will stop within petting distance. They’re super soft and feel like they’re covered is fuzzy wool. 

Petting Kraal

Kids love brushing and petting the three types of small African goats here. One word of caution. Goats will try to eat ANYTHING. So make sure that your cameras, purses and wallets are tucked away safely. Any children that are intimidated by the rambunctious kraal critters can relax next door at the Village Playground. Because of their proximity, it’s easy to keep an eye on both areas. 

Kids Love These Playgrounds At San Diego Safari Park

Samburu jungle gym .

This will be your favorite playground at Safari Park. Your kids can climb on a rhino or pretend to be driving a jeep across the African plains. And you can watch their antics while relaxing in the shade at Samburu Terrace. Sip a cold one and have lunch while your offspring work off their excess energy. 

Savanna Cool Zone

Your kids can have a wet and wild time here while you sit in the shade and keep an eye on them from tables by Lion Camp Slush and Snacks.. It’s perfect for hot summer days. There are play statues shaped like lions and tortoises with squirt fountains coming from their heads on a soft spongy play surface.

Camp Play Area

Kids climb, slide and run on tree trunks in a simulated logging camp hidden within the lush wooded landscape of Tiger Trail. There are also statues of a tiger mom and her cubs where you can take memorable photos of the kiddos. 

Village Playground

KIds have fun experiences in this interactive play area designed as an African Village. It’s located next to the Petting Kraal in Nairobi Village. This is great planning because some children are frightened by the curious goats poking their noses everywhere looking for treats. It’s much easier for parents with several kids to keep an eye on everyone here. 

Jameson Research Island

Your kids will have buckets of wet fun here…literally. Buckets periodically dump cooling water in one of the play areas on the island. Even though the African Loop that goes past the flamingos and colobus monkeys goes over water, the path can get very warm in the summer and early fall. 

Explore These Gardens at San Diego Safari Park

Bonsai pavilion is the best garden at san diego safari park.

The Bonsai Pavilion at San Diego Safari Park is fascinating even to those who aren’t into gardening.  These aren’t just plants, they’re art.

Bonsai is a Japanese word that roughly translates into “tree in a tray”. Ordinary young trees are shaped by pruning and cutting to mimic the natural effects of centuries of wind and weather on a small scale. 

Baja Gardens, Old World Succulent Gardens, and California Nativescapes Garden

Take a walk on the wild and spiky side in the World Gardens. These three gardens will amaze you with the wide variety of plant shapes, colors, and sizes found in the world’s arid areas. It’s like a journey through a Dr. Seuss book with elephant trees , euphorbias , and over 200 boojums . 

TIP: Bring a water bottle. These gardens are located at the highest elevations in the park that are open to the public. They can be physically challenging, especially during the hot afternoons in August and September. The best time of the year to see these exhibits is early May when many of the plants are blooming.

Epiphyllum Trail

The blooms in this garden are spectacular from April through early July. At other times this garden is rather boring.  

Epiphyllum are cacti indigenous to central America and Mexico. They live in the crooks of trees and get water from the moisture in the air. Almost all of the plants are hybrids that combine the characteristics of several different naturally occurring species. 

Herb Garden

Give your nose a treat. Take the thyme to smell the roses, it won’t cost you a mint because entry to this garden comes with your San Diego Safari Park admission, Herbs have been used for centuries to flavor food, treat illnesses and make us smell good. There are over 20 different species of herbs here. 

Hidden Jungle

Wander through a tropical rainforest complete with towering trees, flowering vines, and exotic birds. Many of the birds are named for their colors like the blue-capped cordon bleu, pink pigeon, and purple grenadier. 

In springtime, half of this exhibit is home to Butterfly Jungle and you’ll see many more colorful wings than usual. The other half of Hidden Jungle is reserved for birds that eat butterflies and other insects. It’s a natural way to keep the butterflies inside.

TIP: Visit this exhibit in the morning or late afternoon. This is an enclosed greenhouse. It can be hot and humid. 

Mombasa Lagoon

Even though this area is listed by Safari Park as a garden, the major attraction here is the birds, not the plants. At any given time there are over 150 avians here from about 25 different species. There are cormorants fishing, storks, ducks, and my favorite, the shoebill. It looks like something out of Jurassic Park. 

If you see some of the birds taking off and flying away, don’t worry. They’re most likely local freeloaders like great blue herons, egrets or migratory birds like mallards. 

Additional Tips for Visiting San Diego Zoo Safari Park

How long does San Diego Zoo Safari Park Take?

People in online forums say that it’s possible to see Safari Park in two hours. They’re wrong.

San Diego Zoo Global recommends allocating at least 4 hours . The only way to “do” Safari Park in 2 hours is to just walk to Africa Tram to ride it and then walk back to the parking lot. Keep in mind that the park is at least 45 minutes of travel time from downtown San Diego…each way. Then add another 30 minutes for parking and walking to and from the entrance. 

If you’ve only got 2 hours and you’re near downtown San Diego, just go to the Zoo in Balboa Park. Take the money that you’d have spent for getting to Safari Park and buy a nice dinner with some wine at Albert’s Restaurant .

What’s the best day to go to San Diego Safari Park?

The best days to visit Safari Park are typically Tuesdays and Wednesdays on weeks without a major holiday. The park is less crowded on these weekdays . If you’re going on a holiday weekend, get there at 9:00 AM when it opens .

Click HERE to check your date(s) to see if Safari Park will be crowded. 

Safari Park can get very warm in late August and September. These are the days when temperatures can be over 100°F (38°C). It doesn’t happen very often, but make sure that you’ve packed hats and refillable water bottles if you decide to go then. 

Don’t let a bit of rain keep you from going to Safari Park. It can be a delightful experience. Here’s a page that I wrote giving you tips and hints for enjoying Safari Park in the rain . 

What’s the Best Time to Arrive at San Diego Safari Park?

It’s best to arrive at San Diego Zoo Safari Park just before opening at 9:00 am. Many of the animals at Safari Park will be more active when it is cool. Also, keepers generally put out enrichment and treats first thing in the morning. That encourages the animals’ natural foraging behaviors and keeps them from getting bored.

Where’s the Best Place to Eat in Safari Park?

The best restaurant in San Diego Safari Park is The Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook. But it may not be the best for you. So I’ve written an entire page about all the restaurants and eateries at and around Safari Park . Chow down!

7 Things You Should Wear to San Diego Safari Park

Closing thoughts.

I hope that you’ve found this post on what to do at San Diego Safari Park useful in planning your day. Because this attraction is not your ordinary zoo, some people can get overwhelmed by all the options and just decide not to go. I didn’t want this to happen to you. Let me know if you have questions on any of the Safari tours, rides, activities, play areas or if you know of a great tip for visiting San Diego Safari Park.

Nancy Ulrich

I'm nuts...about animals, polymer clay, mixed media art & husband Bob. Happily planted in San Diego among good friends, family that I would have chosen if given the choice and optimism for a bountiful future for us all.

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San Diego Safari Park – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect, kids activities

San Diego Safari Park is a wildlife paradise in Southern California. 

The 1,800-acre Safari Park houses more than 2,500 animals of 300 species in open field enclosures. 

The park is divided into habitats such as African Plains, Asian Savanna, and Australian Outback, each housing animals native to those regions.

In addition to the animals, the park has a variety of botanical gardens featuring over 1.5 million plants representing more than 4,500 species. The gardens are designed to showcase different types of plants worldwide, including succulents, bamboo, and orchids.

It is San Diego Zoo’s sister and often gets referred to as San Diego Zoo Safari Park. 

This article shares everything you must know before purchasing your San Diego Safari Park tickets. 

Top San Diego Safari Park Tickets

# 1-day San Diego Safari Park ticket # Safari Park + San Diego Zoo: 2-Day Ticket

Table of contents

What to expect at safari park, san diego, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, san diego safari park ticket prices, safari park + san diego zoo: 2-day ticket, discounts for san diego safari park, how to reach san diego safari park, san diego safari park opening hours, how long does the tour take, best time to visit  , san diego safari park free entry, what to do at san diego zoo safari park, kids in san diego safari park , weather at san diego safari park, san diego safari park map, faqs about san diego safari park.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park provides a unique and immersive safari experience.

The Safari Park is home to a diverse range of animals worldwide. You can expect species like elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, etc. The park aims to create naturalistic environments for the animals to thrive.

One of the main attractions is the safari tours that allow you to get up close to the animals. There are various safari options, such as wildlife, behind-the-scenes, cart safaris, and more, where you can observe animals in settings that mimic their natural habitats.

You might also find educational exhibits and programs highlighting the work of preserving endangered species and ecosystems.

The park features beautiful botanical gardens with a variety of plant species.

The park hosts animal shows and presentations, where trainers showcase certain species’ natural behaviors and abilities. These can be both entertaining and educational.

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Tickets for San Diego Safari Park are available online and at the attraction box office window.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.

Because the attraction sells limited tickets, they may sell out during peak days. Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

Once you purchase San Diego Safari Park tickets , they get delivered to your email address.

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket.

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you visit the attraction. Proceed directly to the turnstiles; you do not have to stand in line at the ticket booth.

The Safari Park San Diego ticket is priced at US$69 for all visitors aged 12 years and above.

Children between three and 11 years pay a discounted price of US$59 for entry.

Infants aged two years and below can enter for free.

San Diego Safari Park tickets

This popular skip-the-line San Diego Safari Park ticket gets you access to almost all exhibits to see and experience. 

The Safari Park ticket gets you access to the following:

• Africa Tram Safari (subject to availability)
• Cheetah Run

Frequent Flyers Bird Show

Animal Ambassador Stage

• Hidden Jungle
• Kangaroo Walk

Tiger Keeper Talk

Training Talk

Lorikeet Landing

Nairobi Station

• Jameson Research Island
• All kids play areas

This ticket doesn’t get you access to any of the paid safaris. 

Paid safaris at San Diego Safari Park are nice but unnecessary because the 30-minute Africa Tram Safari is already included with this ticket. 

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (12+ years): US$69 Child Ticket (3 to 11 years): US$59

Infants up to two years can enter the park for free.

San Diego Zoo is San Diego Safari Park’s sister, located 56 km (35 miles) away.

The travel time between the two wildlife destinations is approximately 45 minutes. 

This combo ticket is popular amongst tourists who love wildlife and are in the region for at least two days. 

This ticket helps you save 20% on the ticket costs and gets you one entry into the San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park and San Diego Zoo.

You can visit the same attraction twice if you don’t want to try the second location.

Adult Ticket (12+ years): US$118 Child Ticket (3 to 11 years): US$108

If you prefer to view animals in a not-so-open environment (which is far more convenient for visitors), opt for the 1-day San Diego Zoo ticket .

Active military professionals can enter the zoo for free by showing their ID. Their dependents qualify for a 10% price reduction. 

San Diego Zoo offers a 15% discount on the ticket price to seniors (65+ years) and students (12+ years) with valid photo ID cards. 

However, the Military, Seniors, and Student discounts can only be availed at the ticket window.

The best way to save money on your San Diego holiday is by opting for the  Go San Diego Pass . With this one pass, you get to visit  San Diego Zoo , San Diego Safari Park,  SeaWorld San Diego , and 30+ other city attractions for free.  Find out more

The San Diego Safari Park in the San Pasqual Valley area of San Diego, California, near Escondido.

Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, United States. Get Directions .

It is 56 km (35 miles) northeast of the San Diego Zoo near Balboa Park in San Diego.

Depending on the time of the day, it takes 45 to 60 minutes to travel from the Zoo to Safari Park.

You can reach the park by car or public transportation.

The nearest bus stop Highway 78 & Safari Park Outside Gat e is 1.2 km (0.8 miles) from the park. Board the bus 371 to reach the nearest bus stop and take a cab to get to the Safari Park.

Amtrack Railway Service is a better option if you plan to visit a wildlife attraction from another city, such as Los Angeles.

At 43 km (27 miles), Oceanside Amtrak Station is the closest station to San Diego Safari Park. 

From Oceanside, you must board the light rail service called Sprinter to get to Escondido. 

After 53 minutes and 14 stops, you must get down at Escondido Transit Center .

From Escondido Transit Center, you can take a taxi.

If you wish to travel by car, turn on Google Maps and get started.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s general parking costs US$20 per day. 

Preferred parking (a spot closer to the Safari entrance) is US$18 extra, which means you pay US$38 for parking your vehicle. 

Credit cards, debit cards, or cash are accepted. 

There are numerous parking garages around the safari park.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park, including holidays, opens at 9 am throughout the year. 

During the summer months of April to August, when the park gets lots of visitors, it closes at 7 pm, and the rest of the year, at 5 pm. 

Visitors need at least four to five hours to explore San Diego Zoo Safari Park to satisfaction. 

If you plan to explore the bare minimum – walk in, go on the Africa Tram at the Safari Park, and step out – you need around 90 minutes.

Some visitors wonder if they can shorten their visit by driving through the safari park. 

Unfortunately, that’s impossible because San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a walk-through sanctuary.

Note: During peak summer months, the queue for the Tram ride can be long, leading to longer waits. 

It is best to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park when it opens at 9 am because the animals are most active during the first half of the day. 

As the day gets hotter, animals tend to look for shade.

Heat can also affect your experience at the Safari Park, so a fair-weather day is recommended.

On Weekdays, expect the longest lines at San Diego Safari Park between 11 am and 1 pm; on weekends, it is between 11 am and 3 pm. 

However, the crowd doesn’t affect your experience if you purchase your tickets in advance. 

San Diego Safari Park is most crowded from June to August and during school vacations. 

Best time of the year

The best time of the year to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park is spring – from mid-March to mid-June. This is also known as the birthing season. 

The park sets up nursery exhibits where you can see baby animals take their first steps into the wild. 

Tourists on a budget holiday tend to compare San Diego Zoo and Safari Park and then decide where to go.

With four fantastic zoos, California State is a wildlife lover’s destination. Read about all the  Zoos in California .

All through the year, infants up to two years and active military professionals can enter the zoo for free.

Besides this, everybody must purchase a ticket. 

Seniors free days

Adults 65 and older can visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park for free throughout February. 

Kids free days

In October, every child aged three to 11 years gets free admission to San Diego Safari Park as long as a paying adult accompanies them. 

Only kids aged 12 and above need to purchase tickets this month. 

The animals at San Diego Safari Park are divided into 11 primary areas, which you can walk around and explore.

You can interact with the wildlife at the Park in many exciting ways.

Africa Tram

The Africa Safari is a 30-minute guided tour on an open-air tram.

The tram takes a 4 km (2.5 miles) long route through San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s field habitats, and visitors get to wild animals such as giraffes, rhinos, elephants, antelopes, etc.

African Tram Safaris start from the African Outpost, a 20-minute walk from the attraction entrance. 

The Tram trips start at 10 am and continue till 45 minutes before the park closes. 

The African Tram Safari is free with the regular San Diego Safari Park ticket .

To avoid waiting in queue to board the safari tram, be at the African Outpost in San Diego Safari Park before 11 or after 3 pm. 

At 11.45 am, the Tiger Keepers at San Diego Safari Park conduct a training session with the animals at the Sambutan Longhouse. 

This keeper talk is a fantastic opportunity to meet the San Diego Safari Park’s tigers up close. 

Since the talk is popular, plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early for the 15 minutes long Tiger Keeper Talk. 

The majestic animal gets a brief physical visual examination by their caretakers and lots of treats. 

The San Diego Safari Park Animal Ambassador Stage is an open platform for showcasing different animals. 

Visitors get a chance to get within a couple of feet of animals that aren’t available in an exhibit. 

The stage is at Safari Base Camp close to the park entrance, and there are two shows daily – first at noon and the last at 4 pm. 

If you are lucky, you may interact with the massive python ‘Julius Squeezer,’ cheetah, Kestrel hawks, or the high-jumping servals and caracals.

At the Nairobi Station, visitors get close-up views of some of the smaller animals at San Diego Safari Park.

Don’t miss out on Robert, the safari’s interactive digital zebra.

The Animal Care Center houses the baby animals and is also at Nairobi Station.

Expect some waiting time when baby lions or cheetahs are cared for at the center. 

Petting Kraal

Open from 10 am to 4.45 pm, the Petting Kraal is an excellent opportunity for your kids to interact with the Safari Park’s friendly goats.

Kids can feed the Pygmy, Nubian, and Boer goats and have fun. 

At Lorikeet Landing, visitors can engage with a colorful rainbow of parrots from 10 am to 3.45 pm.

The entrance to the exhibition is free, but the nectar you feed the parrots is for sale. 

A small bowl of nectar can get these parrots to land on you and make for beautiful, funny photographs. 

At Lemur Walk, open from 9 am to the Safari Park’s closing time, visitors get to spend time with the Lemurs. 

You walk along a path inside the habitat as ring-tailed lemurs hang around in the trees or walk with you. 

Only visitors over five years of age are allowed. 

The 20-minute Frequent Flyers Bird Show at San Diego Safari Park is scheduled twice daily – at 12 noon and 2 pm. 

The exciting show is perfect for a quick break mid-way through exploring the park. 

Visitors see exotic birds like owls, parrots, and large vultures flying just inches above your head. 

The Training Talk happens in the amphitheater between Gorilla Forest and African Woods.

It is an opportunity to get a closer look at free-flight bird training as the birds prepare for the famous Frequent Flyers show. 

Most people ignore this show, which means you can get the front seat row. 

Shiley’s Cheetah Run

San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Cheetah Run is held once a day, at 3.30 pm.

You see an agile Cheetah run down a 100-meter (330-foot) long track and reach its top speed of nearly 112 km (70 miles) per hour.

It is better to be at the spot 15 minutes earlier because it is a massive hit with visitors. 

Cheetah Run is different from Cheetah Safari. Read up on the other safaris at San Diego Safari Park .

Safari Park Gardens

If you love greenery, check out Safari Park’s World Gardens, which has thousands of plants representing geographical areas worldwide. 

Our favorite gardens are Baja Garden, Old World Succulent Garden, Epiphyllum Trail, Bonsai Pavilion, and California Nativescapes Garden.

Conservation Carousel

The Conservation Carousel is at the Safari Base Camp and costs US$6 per person for an all-day bracelet.

It is a good entertainment option for kids, with 60 reproductions of rare or endangered animals that rotate around an axis. 

Kids can choose their favorite animals, such as giraffes, rhinos, zebras, cheetahs, etc., to ride on. 

It is open from 10 am until the Safari Park closes. 

San Diego Zoo Safari Park is very kid-friendly, and more than half of the visitors on any given day are children.

Besides the animal exhibits, which are always a hit, many activities and experiences are designed for children. 

Village Playground

The Village Playground is designed like an African village, next to the Petting Kraal in Nairobi Village.

The interactive play area is open from 9 am onwards. 

Savanna Cool Zone

Located in the Lion Camp, this is an excellent way for your family to beat the heat. 

The kids can have a wet and wild time even as you relax in the shade with snacks.

Kids love the play statues shaped like lions and tortoises with water squirting from their heads. 

Samburu Jungle Gym

This is a hit for kids and adults, located below the Benbough Amphitheater in the African Woods. 

Children love climbing up and exploring in this safari-themed play area, even as the parents put their feet up in the shade at Samburu Terrace and keep an eye on them. 

Tiger Trail Play Area

Also known as the Camp Play area, this spot is part of the lush wooded landscape of Tiger Trail. 

Children love climbing, sliding, and running on tree trunks in a simulated logging camp. 

Besides this, kids also love Petting Kraal and Conservation Carousel, which are paid activities. 

All play area images from Sdzsafaripark.org

Stroller Rentals for kids: San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers strollers for rent on a first-come, first-serve basis. The daily charge for a single stroller is US$16, and a double stroller is US$20. 

Because of some odd zoning rules, the Safari Park is in San Diego, referred to as the San Diego Safari Park.

However, Safari Park’s geographical location is Escondido.

Escondido is around 32 km (20 miles) inland and usually 5 to 7 degrees Celcius (10 to 14 Fahrenheit) warmer than oceanfront San Diego.

Since the Safari Park is an outdoor attraction, it makes sense to dress up in layers during your visit. 

The weather gets warmer as the day progresses. 

With more than 2500 animals to see, a San Diego Safari Park map is helpful.

Besides the animal enclosures, a map helps you identify visitor services such as viewing points, petting areas, restaurants, restrooms, etc.

Keeping the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s layout handy is highly recommended if you are visiting with kids because you won’t waste time looking for the exhibits and, in the process, get exhausted.

You can also download the GPS-enabled San Diego Zoo app from the Android or iOS store .

Here are some frequently asked questions about the San Diego Safari Park:

While the San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park, the Safari Park is in Escondido. The Safari Park offers a more expansive and natural setting, allowing animals to roam in larger habitats that resemble their native environments.

Tickets for the safari park can be purchased online or at the park ticket window. We recommend buying your tickets online in advance to avoid last-minute disappointment.

The Safari Park is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, rhinos, lions, cheetahs, and many more. Visitors can experience up-close encounters with various species through safari tours and walking trails.

Yes! Visitors can bring their single-person food supply in small containers into the parks. No facilities are available for food storage other than lockers. For the safety of the guests and the wildlife in care, no large coolers, glass items, alcohol, party trays, candles, balloons, or decorations are allowed on the grounds.

Yes! There are a variety of options to assist you and your family. In addition, complimentary shuttles assist you and your party access the lower canyon areas. Please stop at Guest Services to request the ADA Packet, which includes information on the services, habitat descriptions, and show access. You can check the full details on the services for guests with disabilities .

Pets, comfort animals, and emotional support animals are prohibited at the Safari Park. The park houses significant populations of rare and endangered species; the Safari Park is a quarantined facility. State and federal regulations for such facilities do not allow access to pets, comfort animals, or emotional support animals accompanying guests to these facilities.

Sources # Sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org # Wikipedia.org # Tripadvisor.com # gocity.com The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy .

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# San Diego Zoo # Los Angeles Zoo # San Francisco Zoo

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This article was researched & written by

She has a passion for both traveling and photography, which help her document her memories forever. She loves to explore city streets taking in the people, the colors, and the culture surrounding her. Occasionally she loves to step away from the hustle-bustle of urban lifestyle, and chill-out either alone or with friends. Favorite Cities: Istanbul, London, Marrakech, Venice

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Safari Park Escondido Cheetah Run - San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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• San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Safari Park Escondido Cheetah Run

At the Safari Park in Escondido Ca., there is a cheetah Run tour. Its well worth it to go to the tour which is extra not with the paid admission and you can make advanced reservations for it. You get up pretty close to the Cheetah with his dog partner and the keeper that talks about the Cheetah and the run and any questions you might have. There is photos taken and you can buy the photos later at the park of you and your family with the Cheetah if you want it is not included with the Cheetah run but is extra but the photos are very good and ones you will not get by taking them yourself. They give you a bottle of water and it can get hot in the sun so bring a sun hat or visor against the glare of the sun. The run itself is very good but of course fast. Cheetahs run very fast and your camera might not get the pics. Do watch it for if you have your face to a camera to take pics you cannot get the hold impressive run of the cheetah. You can watch free from above the run but you do not get the keeper talk or the close view of the cheetah just feet from you. Also a video of the Cheetah came out very good on our cell phone and got the whole thing where pics never caught the whole run its so fast.

This park is wonderful for people of all ages and their pro-animal and pro-conservation attitudes are presented respectfully and effectively. I feel I will go back to this park over and over. Very user friendly and we couldn't see the whole place in one afternoon.

The Wild Animal Park is much less known than the Zoo because it is a reasonably far distance from the touristy Downtown SD area. It is however in my opinion a better option. The animals have room to roam, there are less crowds, it tends to have less crowds and there are more unique events held there. Overall a great call if you are in the San Diego Area and have access to a car.

This place is one of the best Zoo's in the world. So much to see and do. And they are not for profit so every cent you spend here goes straight back into helping the animals. They have great messages and educate everyone on the things they are doing world wide. They are world leaders in animal conservation. The cart tour is the best bit as you get to go around and see so many of the big African animals. We also saw 2 white rhinos. There are only 7 left in the world and they will become extinct which is sad. We learnt so much we didn't know and we have been to quite a few zoos around the world. The animals you see are great and all the big animals are not caged up they have a whole park to roam around in so they look happy and are treated well. They even have a show where they show you the cheetah running more than 100km per hour. The views around the zoo are spectacular as well. Go see it, its better than the other Zoo there and you will not be disappointed. Its such a great place for everyone.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park way outshines the San Diego Zoo. If you can only go to one, I highly recommend the Safari Park. The animals have huge areas and you see them in the open. It does not feel like they are in cages for the most part. Take the free tram ride and see the open areas they roam in. We paid extra for the cheetah safari and it was just so amazing to see the cheetah walk and sit a foot away from you. The free bird show is amazing too. You can bring in backpacks with drinks, snacks, food etc to cut down on the food costs. Love this place!

The San Diego Sarari Park is another zoo! It is part of the San Diego Zoo system. It used to be called the Wild Animal Park when we were here 5 years ago. The park is expensive but worth it! Spend the whole day here and count on 1.5 hour round trip from San Diego at least! The website is http://www.sdzsafaripark.org/ for your organizing efforts. We started out during the tram tour of "African Country". It is a nice ride but the animals are not always so easy to see. But it is worth the ride and views. Then set your priorities. One of ours (and I hope one of yours) is the magnificent CHEETAH RUN. It is usually done once a day and the area where you see it fills up early so go there at least 1/2 hour ahead. Line up by the bridge at the finish area for the best view! We were so lucky because they did a double run on our day, meaning they ran two different cheetahs one shortly after the first one. If you line up at the ending point, you will be 20 feet away from cheetah when it stops running. Then they feed the animal for a few minutes and you are so close to all of this!! The amazing thing is that the cheetahs cover the 100 yd course in about 5.8 seconds! Go the website (http://www.sdzsafaripark.org/) for photos. We forgot our camera that day, ugh.

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Cheetahs are the world's fastest land animal—capable of reaching speeds up to 70 miles per hour. Throughout history, these remarkable cats have adorned the courts of kings, queens, and emperors, and their amazing grace and beauty still captivate the world today.

The Zoo has several cheetah animal ambassadors. You may see a cheetah walking around Zoo grounds with a wildlife care specialist, playing in the animal ambassador area, or participating in our Animals in Action experience.

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Cheetah Cub Thriving at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

In between eating her morning meal, a 7-week-old cheetah cub played and pounced in an indoor nursery area at the Ione and Paul Harter Animal Care Center, at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The curious little feline hasn’t yet been named, and weighs just over 5 pounds. Since the cub arrived at the nursery at 2 days old, wildlife care specialists have been bottle-feeding her a formula specifically designed for cheetahs, weighing her daily to monitor her health and simulating the grooming she would normally receive from her mother. As she has grown, the bottle feedings have become less frequent and the cub is now primarily eating formula mixed with meat. She recently moved from the nursery to a larger area so she has more room to run and play as she grows larger.

“While we always prefer for the mother to raise its cub, it is a privilege for us to care for the cub when its mother can’t provide what it needs to survive,” said Eileen Neff, senior wildlife care specialist, San Diego Zoo Safari Park. “This little one has adapted very quickly to her surroundings. She is eating well, super confident and sure of herself, and very playful.”

The female cub was born April 29 to first-time mother Mary Jane, at the Safari Park’s Cheetah Breeding Center. Cheetahs that give birth to only one cub, called a singleton, generally cannot produce enough milk to keep the cub alive and will often abandon the cub. To ensure survival of this cub, experts from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) made the recommendation for this cub to be hand raised.

The youngster will remain at the Safari Park for about three months and then will move to the San Diego Zoo, joining other cheetahs and becoming an ambassador for her species.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is one of nine breeding facilities participating in the cheetah Breeding Center Coalition (BCC). The goal of the coalition is to create a sustainable cheetah population to prevent extinction of the world’s fastest land animal. It is estimated that the worldwide population of cheetahs has been reduced from 100,000 in 1900 to just over 7,000 today, with about 10 percent now living in zoos or wildlife parks.

The cheetah breeding program is just one of the ways that San Diego Zoo Global works to save species around the world. To support  San Diego Zoo Global’s conservation efforts, go to SanDiegoZoo.org/Donate or SDZSafariPark.org/Donate . Those wishing to help via traditional mail can send a donation of any amount to San Diego Zoo Global, P.O. Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112.     

At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, guests can see animals in herds of mixed species in expansive habitats. Safari tours offer savanna views of African and Asian animals, trails take visitors to experience Australian and North American habitats, plus there are opportunities for up-close encounters and unique behind-the-scenes perspectives. Known for its leadership in rhino conservation, the Safari Park is home to the Nikita Kahn Rhino Rescue Center, which is devoted to groundbreaking work to bring back the northern white rhino. As visitors discover the rare and endangered species at the Safari Park, they are directly contributing, through admission and on-grounds sales, to the efforts of San Diego Zoo Global, an international nonprofit conservation organization that works to fight extinction through recovery efforts for plants and animals worldwide. To learn more, visit sdzsafaripark.org , or connect with us on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram or YouTube .

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One easy purchase saves big on admission to San Diego's top attractions and theme parks, including San Diego Zoo Safari Park, SeaWorld®, and LEGOLAND®. 

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Cheetah Run at San Diego Safari Park with Ruuxa

Award winning journalist and filmmaker

Animal ambassadors, cheetah Ruuxa and dog Raina, took a walk through the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, to the enjoyment of Park guests, before taking to the track to show their speed at Shiley's Cheetah Run. While Raina, the female Rhodesian ridgeback, ran as fast as her legs would carry her, she couldn't best the time of her cheetah pal, Ruuxa, as he did what cheetahs do best: run fast.

Ruuxa, one of the Park's youngest cheetahs, made his debut at Shiley's Cheetah Run recently. This is quite a feat for the energetic year-and-a-half-old cheetah, which at a young age was diagnosed with a growth abnormality in his forelegs. The growth plate in the ulna--the thinner and longer of two bones in the foreleg--stopped growing before the radius, causing a bowing of the limbs.

The Safari Park's veterinarians determined Ruuxa needed surgery to correct the problem so he could lead a normal, active life. At four months of age, on Sept 3, 2014, Ruuxa underwent surgery at the Safari Park's Harter Veterinary Medical Center--with his faithful dog companion, Raina, never far from his side. Ruuxa recovered quickly from his surgery. He returned to playing and physical activity much more quickly than expected.

"Given his early health issues, we didn't know if Ruuxa would ever be able to run. We're beyond thrilled he is now participating in Shiley's Cheetah Run," said Janet Rose-Hinostroza, animal training supervisor, San Diego Zoo Safari Park. "Ruuxa, in Somali, means "spirit"--and Ruuxa has amazed all of us with his spirit and determination to overcome his health challenges and meet or surpass any goals we, as his trainers, set for him. And he did all of this with his faithful companion, Raina, by his side."

Ruuxa and Raina were placed together at four and five weeks of age, respectively, to be raised as ambassador animals after the cheetah cub was rejected by his mother and had to be hand raised by keepers. The pair bonded quickly, and that bond remains incredibly strong. Raina provides Ruuxa the feeling of having a "sibling" from his earliest memories. She gives him the confidence to face situations in which he may feel uncomfortable. Raina's body language communicates to Ruuxa that there is nothing to fear in new or public surroundings, which relaxes and calms him.

Visitors to the Safari Park may see Ruuxa and Raina with their trainers on a walk around the Safari Park, on a Behind-the-Scenes Cheetah & Friends Tour, or at Shiley's Cheetah's Run.

About San Diego Zoo Global

Bringing species back from the brink of extinction is the goal of San Diego Zoo Global. As a leader in conservation, the work of San Diego Zoo Global includes on-site wildlife conservation efforts (representing both plants and animals) at the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, as well as international field programs on six continents. The work of these entities is made accessible to children through the San Diego Zoo Kids network, reaching out through the Internet and in children's hospitals nationwide. The work of San Diego Zoo Global is made possible by the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy and is supported in part by the Foundation of San Diego Zoo Global.

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MULTIMEDIA NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 18, 2020 CONTACT:   San Diego Zoo Global  Public Relations 619-685-3291 WEBSITE:    SDZSafariPark.org

Cheetah Cub Thriving

At san diego zoo safari park.

In between eating her morning meal, a 7-week-old cheetah cub played and pounced in an indoor nursery area at the Ione and Paul Harter Animal Care Center, at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The curious little feline hasn’t yet been named, and weighs just over 5 pounds. Since the cub arrived at the nursery at 2 days old, wildlife care specialists have been bottle-feeding her a formula specifically designed for cheetahs, weighing her daily to monitor her health and simulating the grooming she would normally receive from her mother. As she has grown, the bottle feedings have become less frequent and the cub is now primarily eating formula mixed with meat. She recently moved from the nursery to a larger area so she has more room to run and play as she grows larger. 

“While we always prefer for the mother to raise its cub, it is a privilege for us to care for the cub when its mother can’t provide what it needs to survive,” said Eileen Neff, senior wildlife care specialist, San Diego Zoo Safari Park. “This little one has adapted very quickly to her surroundings. She is eating well, super confident and sure of herself, and very playful.”

The female cub was born April 29 to first-time mother Mary Jane, at the Safari Park’s Cheetah Breeding Center. Cheetahs that give birth to only one cub, called a singleton, generally cannot produce enough milk to keep the cub alive and will often abandon the cub. To ensure survival of this cub, experts from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) made the recommendation for this cub to be hand raised.

The youngster will remain at the Safari Park for about three months and then will move to the San Diego Zoo, joining other cheetahs and becoming an ambassador for her species.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is one of nine breeding facilities participating in the cheetah Breeding Center Coalition (BCC). The goal of the coalition is to create a sustainable cheetah population to prevent extinction of the world’s fastest land animal. It is estimated that the worldwide population of cheetahs has been reduced from 100,000 in 1900 to just over 7,000 today, with about 10 percent now living in zoos or wildlife parks.

The cheetah breeding program is just one of the ways that San Diego Zoo Global works to save species around the world. To support  San Diego Zoo Global’s conservation efforts, go to  SanDiegoZoo.org/Donate  or  SDZSafariPark.org/Donate . Those wishing to help via traditional mail can send a donation of any amount to San Diego Zoo Global, P.O. Box 120551, San Diego, CA 92112.      

At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, guests can see animals in herds of mixed species in expansive habitats. Safari tours offer savanna views of African and Asian animals, trails take visitors to experience Australian and North American habitats, plus there are opportunities for up-close encounters and unique behind-the-scenes perspectives. Known for its leadership in rhino conservation, the Safari Park is home to the Nikita Kahn Rhino Rescue Center, which is devoted to groundbreaking work to bring back the northern white rhino. As visitors discover the rare and endangered species at the Safari Park, they are directly contributing, through admission and on-grounds sales, to the efforts of San Diego Zoo Global, an international nonprofit conservation organization that works to fight extinction through recovery efforts for plants and animals worldwide. To learn more, visit  sdzsafaripark.org , or connect with us on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram or  YouTube .

B-roll footage includes: 

• B-roll of cheetah cub in the Ione and Paul Harter Animal Care Center nursery at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park 
• Sound bite from Eileen Neff, senior wildlife care specialist, San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Photo with embedded caption.
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