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Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari
Lion Country Safari offers an unparalleled wildlife experience, where visitors can get up close to some of the world’s most incredible animals while learning about conservation efforts to protect them. From the immersive drive-through safari to the interactive walk-through park, Lion Country Safari provides an adventure-filled day for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience the thrill of a safari without leaving Florida. File photo: Mariakray ShutterStock.com, licensed.

Lion Country Safari, located in Loxahatchee, Florida, just west of West Palm Beach, is one of the most unique and exciting wildlife experiences in the United States. Opened in 1967, it was the first drive-through safari park in the country and remains one of Florida’s top attractions for animal lovers and families. The park spans over 600 acres and is home to more than 1,000 animals from all over the world.

Visitors can experience a close-up view of animals roaming freely in naturalistic habitats by driving their own vehicles through the safari, making it feel like a real safari adventure without leaving the state. In addition to the drive-through safari, Lion Country Safari also features a walk-through amusement park, where guests can enjoy animal encounters, rides, water attractions, and educational shows.

The park’s mission is to provide a safe, naturalistic environment for animals while educating visitors about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.

History and Legacy

Lion Country Safari was founded with the idea of bringing an authentic African safari experience to the United States. Inspired by the safari parks of Africa, the founders aimed to create a space where visitors could see animals up close, free from the confines of traditional zoos. When the park first opened, it featured a variety of African species, including lions, which roamed freely within gated sections of the park.

Over the years, the park expanded to include animals from around the world, as well as additional attractions for families. Today, Lion Country Safari is one of the most recognized wildlife parks in Florida, blending adventure and education with fun family-friendly experiences.

Safari and Animal Encounters

1. Drive-Through Safari: The drive-through safari is the centerpiece of Lion Country Safari and is divided into seven distinct sections, each representing different geographic regions and ecosystems. The 4-mile journey takes guests through habitats where animals roam freely, with many species walking right up to or crossing in front of vehicles.

  • Las Pampas: A South American-themed section where visitors can see rheas, tapirs, and the majestic greater rhea, a flightless bird similar to an ostrich.
  • Ruaha National Park: Modeled after the national parks of Tanzania, this area is home to African animals like zebras, ostriches, impalas, and water buffaloes.
  • Kalahari Bushveldt: Visitors can spot herds of giraffes, wildebeests, and white rhinos grazing in this section, along with majestic elands and gemsbok.
  • Gorongosa Reserve: Inspired by Mozambique’s Gorongosa National Park, this area features watusi cattle, giraffes, and other herbivores.
  • Gir Forest: Modeled after the forests of India, this section is home to the Asiatic lions, which are protected by barriers but can be seen from a safe distance as they lounge in the grass or on elevated platforms.

Throughout the drive, guests can use an audio tour, available via the park’s app, to learn about the different species they encounter and the park’s efforts to conserve wildlife.

2. Lion Country Safari’s Animal Species: The park is home to a diverse collection of species from around the world, with an emphasis on African wildlife. Some of the notable animals you’ll encounter include:

  • Lions: The park’s namesake, the lions, are one of the most popular attractions. They live in a large, enclosed area where they can be observed safely.
  • Rhinos: Lion Country Safari is part of a conservation program for southern white rhinos and is known for its successful breeding program, making it one of the top rhino sanctuaries in the U.S.
  • Giraffes: Giraffes roam freely in the safari area, and guests can later feed them at the giraffe feeding station in the walk-through park.
  • Chimpanzees: The park has a large troop of chimpanzees living in a naturalistic habitat. They are part of a long-term research and conservation project.
  • Zebras, ostriches, wildebeests, antelopes, and kudus are also commonly seen along the safari route.

3. Walk-Through Safari World: After completing the drive-through safari, visitors can explore Safari World, the park’s walk-through section. This area combines a zoo-like environment with family-friendly activities, rides, and shows.

  • Giraffe Feeding: One of the highlights of Safari World is the opportunity to feed the giraffes from an elevated platform. Guests can purchase lettuce and offer it to the gentle giants, who lean down to eat from their hands.
  • Safari Splash Water Park: A water play area with slides, splash zones, and fountains, perfect for cooling off during a hot Florida day.
  • Lemur Island: A walk-through exhibit where guests can observe ring-tailed lemurs in a natural habitat.
  • Flamingo Pond: Guests can see vibrant flamingos up close and learn about their unique feeding behaviors.
  • Budgie Feeding: In the aviary, visitors can interact with colorful budgerigars (budgies) by feeding them seeds, creating an immersive bird-watching experience.

4. Safari Rides and Experiences In addition to animal encounters, Safari World offers a variety of rides and attractions:

  • Paddle Boats: Guests can take paddle boats out on one of the park’s large lagoons.
  • Safari Queen Boat Tour: A relaxing boat ride where visitors can see aquatic wildlife and learn more about the park’s animals.
  • Carousel and Train: Classic rides for younger guests, offering a fun break from the wildlife viewing.

5. Animal Shows and Education Programs: Lion Country Safari hosts daily educational shows and presentations to engage guests with the animals and promote wildlife conservation. These programs feature zookeepers introducing various animals, explaining their behavior, habitats, and conservation needs. Visitors can also take part in behind-the-scenes tours, where they can learn more about the care and feeding of the animals.

Conservation Efforts

Lion Country Safari is dedicated to wildlife conservation and participates in numerous international and local initiatives to protect endangered species. The park plays a critical role in breeding programs for species like the southern white rhinoceros and is an active participant in the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which ensures genetic diversity and population stability for endangered species in captivity.

Additionally, Lion Country Safari partners with organizations such as Save the Rhino International and Chimp Haven, providing financial support and expertise to help protect animals in the wild and improve conservation efforts globally.

Vicinity of Lion Country Safari

About the Area

Loxahatchee is a rural area known for its natural beauty and wildlife. The region is home to a number of outdoor attractions, including the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, which preserves part of the northern Everglades ecosystem. The proximity of the park to Palm Beach and other South Florida tourist destinations makes it an accessible and popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

The safari park also serves as an important community partner by offering school programs, field trips, and conservation education, helping to inspire the next generation of wildlife advocates.

Additional Details

  • Location: Lion Country Safari is located at 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470.
  • Hours of Operation: The park is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with the last vehicle admitted at 4:30 PM. Hours may vary seasonally, so it’s recommended to check the official website for updates.
  • Admission: Admission covers both the drive-through safari and Safari World walk-through park. Prices vary for adults, children, and seniors, with discounts available for Florida residents and special groups. Annual passes are also available for frequent visitors.
  • Parking: Parking is free, and the park has ample space for cars, RVs, and buses.
  • Accessibility: The park is wheelchair accessible, and vehicles that drive through the safari must have air conditioning to ensure the comfort of visitors. Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent.
  • Dining and Shopping: There are several on-site dining options, including snack stands and a café that offers burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The park also has a Safari Shop where guests can purchase animal-themed gifts, souvenirs, and educational items.

For more information visit: https://www.lioncountrysafari.com