The San Diego Zoo is one of the area’s best-known attractions. The zoo also operates a Wild Animal Park offering an array of fantastic safari-style experiences.
One of the amusing moments during our recent visit to the park was this vision of a lion sleeping on this range rover. OK, so that’s not really what happens in Africa, but nonetheless, it’s nice to see these animals so relaxed and comfortable in their environment.
Wildlife parks produce mixed emotions for me. Confining animals meant to be free seems unfair, yet ultimately, exposure to animals people otherwise never see is an important part of inspiring conversation. All-time favorite zoos for me are the Singapore Zoo (orangutans galore) and Sydney’s Taronga Zoo (kangaroo and koala love).
I’m a fan of San Diego’s Wild Animal Park too. The expansive terrain means many animals roam relatively free and kids have the chance to see a variety of animals in a gorgeous natural setting.
What makes the park unique is the wide variety of ways to explore the terrain from electric carts, to flightline (riding a cable, for ages 10 and up), to photo caravans where you get to feed giraffes. This makes the park interesting for families with kids of all ages, plus there are multiple opportunities to get really close to the wildlife.
Birds are often under-appreciated but we loved the bird show and the opportunity to see spectacular species like this red falcon in flight.
The highlight of our family was a glimpse of the baby elephants. Ridiculously cute! For more Photo Friday posts, head over to Delicious Baby.
Relevant Links:
Review of Legoland’s new water park
Ciao Bambino Recommended San Diego family hotels
San Diego family vacations
San Diego family travel, top kid-friendly activities
San Diego with kids, favorite winter family activities
San Diego Surf Camp for kids
Visiting Legoland with kids
Fun at the San Diego Zoo
Topics: Blogsherpa, California, Destinations, Photo Friday, San Diego, Tips, USA