Wild at Heart: Encountering Florida's Safari Spectacles
Wild at Heart: Encountering Florida's Safari Spectacles
Exploring Florida’s Diverse Safari Adventures: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to exploring Florida’s wild side, there's no shortage of safari adventures waiting to be discovered. From the iconic Everglades to the hidden gems scattered across the state, each safari operator offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and encounter exotic wildlife. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo expedition, here’s everything you need to know about the top safari destinations in Florida.
1. Safari Wilderness Ranch: Lakeland’s Untamed Beauty
Location: 10850 Moore Rd, Lakeland, FL 33809
How: Located between Orlando and Tampa, Safari Wilderness Ranch is easily accessible by car from major cities in central Florida.
Why: Safari Wilderness Ranch offers an authentic safari experience, with personalized small group tours and encounters with a variety of exotic animals.
When: Open year-round, with tours available daily. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to April.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the tour package, starting from $32.95 for children and $64.95 for adults.
Good for Kids: Children of all ages will enjoy the interactive animal encounters and educational experiences at Safari Wilderness Ranch.
Highlights:
Encounter herds of Defassa Waterbuck, lemurs, eland, Red Lechwe, zebras, and scimitar-horned oryx.
Choose between Safari Bus tours or camelback adventures for a unique perspective on the wildlife.
2. Everglades Safari Park: Exploring the River of Grass
Location: 26700 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33194
How: Everglades Safari Park is located west of Miami, easily accessible by car via the Tamiami Trail (US-41).
Why: Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades and encounter alligators, snakes, and birds on thrilling airboat rides.
When: Open daily, with airboat tours departing every 20-30 minutes.
Cost: Admission prices start from $29.95 for adults and $19.95 for children (ages 4-11), with additional fees for airboat rides.
Good for Kids: Children will love the excitement of gliding through the Everglades on an airboat and spotting wildlife up close.
Highlights:
Experience the thrill of airboat rides through the “River of Grass.”
Watch wildlife shows and encounter alligators, snakes, and other native animals at the park.
3. Lion Country Safari: Africa in the Heart of Florida
Location: 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470
How: Lion Country Safari is located in Palm Beach County, easily accessible by car from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando.
Why: Drive through a safari adventure and encounter lions, giraffes, rhinos, and other African wildlife in a naturalistic habitat.
When: Open daily, with hours varying by season. Safari drive-through experience is open rain or shine.
Cost: Admission prices start from $29.99 for children (ages 3-9) and $39.99 for adults, with discounts available for seniors and military personnel.
Good for Kids: Children will delight in seeing exotic animals up close from the safety of their own vehicle.
Highlights:
Embark on a self-guided safari drive through large, open habitats.
Enjoy animal feeding experiences and encounters with giraffes and lorikeets.
4. Giraffe Ranch: Conservation and Education
Location: 38650 Mickler Rd, Dade City, FL 33523
How: Giraffe Ranch is located northeast of Tampa, easily accessible by car from major cities in central Florida.
Why: Get up close and personal with giraffes, zebras, and other African wildlife on guided safari tours and camel expeditions.
When: Open year-round, with guided tours available by reservation only.
Cost: Prices start from $29 for children (ages 2-11) and $59 for adults, with discounts for seniors and military personnel.
Good for Kids: Children will love the hands-on experiences and opportunities to interact with animals at Giraffe Ranch.
Highlights:
Experience guided safari tours on safari vehicles or camel expeditions through lush landscapes.
Learn about conservation efforts and the importance of preserving endangered species.
5. Big Cat Rescue: Advocates for Exotic Cats
Location: 12802 Easy St, Tampa, FL 33625
How: Big Cat Rescue is located northwest of Tampa, easily accessible by car from downtown Tampa and neighboring cities.
Why: Learn about rescued big cats and their stories while supporting conservation efforts to protect these majestic animals.
When: Open for guided tours on select days, with reservations required in advance.
Cost: Prices start from $39 for adults and $29 for children (ages 10-12), with discounts for seniors and military personnel.
Good for Kids: While not a traditional safari experience, children will enjoy learning about big cats and their conservation at Big Cat Rescue.
Highlights:
Take guided tours to see rescued lions, tigers, leopards, and other big cats living in sanctuary.
Support conservation efforts and learn about the issues facing big cats in captivity and in the wild.
From the lush landscapes of Safari Wilderness Ranch to the thrilling airboat rides at Everglades Safari Park, Florida’s safari adventures offer something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking an up-close encounter with exotic animals or a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation, these safari destinations promise unforgettable experiences and a deeper connection to the natural world. Plan your adventure today and embark on a journey into the wild heart of the Sunshine State.