Lion Country Safari | Palm Beach

Lion Country Safari, located in Loxahatchee, Florida, is a unique wildlife park that combines the excitement of an African safari with the fun of an amusement park. As the first cageless zoo in the United States, it has been offering visitors the opportunity to experience wild animals in a more naturalistic, open environment since its opening in 1967. The park spans approximately 600 acres and is divided into different sections, with both a drive-through safari and a walk-through amusement park.

Drive-Through Safari

The primary attraction at Lion Country Safari is its 4-mile drive-through safari, which is divided into seven themed sections that simulate different habitats around the world. Visitors drive through these areas at their own pace, allowing them to see over 900 animals from six continents, many of which roam freely. It’s a very interactive experience, as animals often cross the road or approach vehicles, providing close-up encounters.

Las Pampas: This section features South American species, including tapirs, rheas, and guanacos. Visitors may also spot the Nandu, a species of ostrich native to South America.

Ruaha National Park: Inspired by a real park in Tanzania, this section is home to African animals like zebras, ostriches, and impalas. The area mimics the savanna and is perfect for observing herds of grazing animals.

Kalahari Bushveldt: This section is dedicated to African wildlife, particularly those native to the Kalahari Desert. Visitors can see giraffes, wildebeests, white rhinos, and springboks.

Gorongosa Reserve: Modeled after Mozambique’s Gorongosa National Park, this area features species like watusi cattle, giraffes, and zebras, offering a unique insight into the diverse ecosystems of Africa.

Gir Forest: This section is named after the Gir Forest National Park in India, where Asiatic lions are protected. At Lion Country Safari, visitors can see these majestic lions in a simulated habitat.

Serengeti Plains: Inspired by the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, this section has animals like wildebeests, waterbucks, and Ankole cattle. It’s one of the most popular areas for watching wildlife in action.

Hwange National Park: In this section, visitors can spot species native to Zimbabwe, including white rhinos, zebras, chimpanzees, and antelope.

During the safari, guests can use an audio tour available in their vehicle, which provides information about the animals and their environments, enhancing the educational value of the visit.

Safari World Amusement Park

After completing the drive-through safari, visitors can continue their adventure in Safari World, the park's walk-through amusement area. Safari World features a variety of attractions, including animal encounters, water activities, rides, and more.

Rides and Attractions:

Flying Elephant Ride: A family-friendly ride where guests can fly through the air on elephant-shaped vehicles.

Carousel: A classic carousel with animal-themed seats.

Rio Grande Train: A mini train that takes visitors around the park, perfect for younger children.

Water Attractions:

Safari Splash Sprayground: A fun water play area where kids can cool off in the Florida heat.

Safari Water Slides: For a thrilling water ride experience.

Safari Falls: A larger water slide designed for guests of all ages to enjoy.

Animal Encounters:

Visitors can feed and interact with giraffes in a designated feeding area, and experience up-close encounters with lorikeets (colorful birds) in the Lorikeet Landing.

The petting zoo offers hands-on experiences with domesticated animals like goats, sheep, and pigs.

Additional Attractions:

Gemstone Mining: A fun activity where children can search for real gemstones.

Mini Golf: A 9-hole mini-golf course perfect for families.

Hedge Maze: A classic maze challenge for visitors to navigate.

Fun Slide: A large slide for visitors to enjoy after exploring the park.

Most attractions in Safari World are included in the price of admission, but certain activities, like gemstone mining, may require an additional fee.

Lion Country Safari KOA Campground

For guests wishing to extend their visit, the Lion Country Safari KOA Journey Campground offers a unique opportunity to stay near the park. The campground includes both RV and tent sites, as well as cabins for a more comfortable stay. Amenities include:

Swimming pool

Playground

Campfire areas

Close proximity to the safari park, allowing easy access to the animals and attractions.

Hours of Operation

Monday through Friday: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Saturday and Sunday: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Admission Fees

Adults (ages 10–64): $45

Children (ages 3–9): $34

Children under 2: Free

Parking: $8 (included in online ticket purchase)

It is recommended that visitors allow at least 4 hours to fully explore the safari drive-through and the Safari World amusement park.

Additional Information

Location:
Lion Country Safari
2003 Lion Country Safari Road
Loxahatchee, FL 33470
Phone: (561) 793-1084

What to Expect:

The safari offers a highly interactive experience where animals roam freely in natural environments.

Visitors should expect to see animals such as lions, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and monkeys, among others. There are also opportunities to get up close with some animals through feeding and petting experiences.

The park is family-friendly, with a variety of attractions catering to children and adults alike.

Tips for Visiting:

Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen, as the Florida sun can be intense, especially during the warmer months.

Bring a camera to capture the incredible animal interactions and scenic views.

Stay hydrated and take advantage of the various shaded areas around the park.

Conclusion

Lion Country Safari offers a distinctive blend of adventure and education, where visitors can enjoy a close encounter with wildlife from around the world in a safari-like setting. Whether you're looking for a thrilling drive-through experience, an interactive amusement park adventure, or a peaceful stay at the campground, this park has something for everyone. It’s a must-visit for animal lovers and families in the South Florida area.