San Diego Zoo Safari Park The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, located about two hours south of Los Angeles in Escondido, offers a truly immersive safari experience. This expansive wildlife park is home to thousands of animals from around the world, set in large, naturalistic habitats that give visitors a sense of being on an African safari.
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens The Los Angeles Zoo, located in Griffith Park, is a popular destination offering a range of animal exhibits and special experiences. While it’s not a safari park in the traditional sense, it provides several unique opportunities to interact with wildlife.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens Located in Palm Desert, about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens focuses on desert ecosystems from around the world. This unique attraction offers an immersive safari experience with a focus on desert wildlife and conservation.
Santa Barbara Zoo Situated along the California coast in Santa Barbara, this zoo offers beautiful views and a variety of animal exhibits. While smaller than some other options, it provides a charming and intimate experience with several interactive opportunities.
Moorpark College’s America's Teaching Zoo Located in Moorpark, this teaching zoo offers a unique opportunity to learn about animal care and behavior from students studying to become animal professionals. It provides an educational and interactive experience with a variety of animal species.