Gorilla Forest, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, US

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a large wildlife sanctuary that is home to over 2,500 animals in Escondido, CA. Over half of the park has been set aside as a protective native species habitat and visitors can go on a mini "safari" to see more than 300 different species of animals.Best and worst time to go to the San Diego Zoo Safari ParkThe San Diego Zoo Safari Park is open from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. every day, with extended hours from 9 a.m. -7 p.m. in July and August. Since it gets very warm in the summer, it's recommended to go earlier in the day and during the week to avoid peak crowds and to see more animal activity. Children can visit for free in the month of October, which is a great time for visitors with families.Must see/do at the San Diego Zoo Safari ParkThe San Diego Zoo Safari Park is best known for their safari adventures, which are interactive experiences visitors can take depending on their interest. Some of the safari options include zip lining and a cheetah habitat. Safari adventures vary by price and reservations are recommended. While at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, visitors should plan on taking the Africa Tram, which takes them through the wildlife sanctuary and gives them an opportunity to get up close with some of the animals.Admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari ParkA day pass to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is $48 for adults and $38 for kids 12 and under. Visitors can also get a 3-for-1 pass that lasts a week and includes admission to the San Diego Zoo and Sea World San Diego in addition to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for $157 ($128 for kids). Local residents who purchase a membership can get unlimited visits to the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park.Parking at the San Diego Zoo Safari ParkParking at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is $12 per vehicle and $17 for RV parking. San Diego Zoo Safari Park members receive a $3 discount with a valid ID, and preferred parking is available for $15.Food at the San Diego Zoo Safari ParkThe San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers a variety of different dining options including quick sandwiches and salads, BBQ favorites and a couple of sit down restaurants. The park also has a variety of snack bars and offers gluten-free dining options for visitors.Insider tips for visitors to the San Diego Zoo Safari ParkVisitors should plan to visit earlier in the day when the animals are most active, or a few hours before closing when the weather cools off. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park also offers a variety of special events in the summer before and after hours.Author's bio: Allie Fisher is an Orange County native who loves writing about food + travel. Follow her food adventures on Twitter and Instagram @socaliallie and on her blog, www.sweetpotatobites.com.

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