Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park | Buckeye

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park, located in Litchfield Park, Arizona, is the state’s largest privately owned zoological facility, sprawling over 100 acres. It is home to more than 600 species of animals, encompassing exotic, endangered, and native species, making it a premier destination for wildlife lovers, families, and tourists seeking an immersive experience with nature.

The zoo is divided into multiple thematic zones that provide a diverse range of experiences. One of the park’s main attractions is the expansive African Safari section, which covers about 15 acres. This area features iconic African animals such as lions, zebras, giraffes, and ostriches roaming in a naturalistic environment. Visitors can explore this section via the African Safari Train Ride, offering a close-up look at the animals in a setting that mimics their native habitats. For those seeking a bird’s-eye perspective, the Sky Ride Overlook provides an aerial view of the safari grounds, allowing guests to appreciate the scope of the park and observe the animals from above.

The Aquarium complex within the zoo is equally impressive. It consists of four buildings housing over 75 aquatic exhibits. The standout feature is the South Pacific Reef tunnel tank, which is the longest acrylic tunnel in Arizona, allowing visitors to walk through and see marine life swimming all around them. Interactive touch tanks offer guests hands-on encounters with marine creatures like stingrays and starfish, fostering educational engagement with aquatic ecosystems.

Beyond the animal exhibits, the zoo offers numerous opportunities for interaction and education. Daily animal shows and feeding sessions allow guests to get closer to species such as giraffes, sea lions, and lory parrots. Notably, Wildlife World Zoo was the first zoo in the United States to feature a lory parrot feeding exhibit, where visitors can hand-feed these colorful birds.

For family fun, the park includes a range of attractions and rides, such as a classic carousel, a log flume, and the exhilarating Soaring Eagle Zip Line, which provides a thrilling flight over portions of the park. Additionally, the Dino Zone features life-sized dinosaur models, blending education with entertainment and appealing especially to younger visitors.

Wildlife World Zoo operates year-round, with seasonal variations in operating hours. During the warmer months (June through September), the zoo is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, while the aquarium extends its hours until 5:00 PM. In the cooler months (October through May), the zoo’s hours stretch from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the aquarium remains open until 7:00 PM. This schedule allows visitors to plan their day to make the most of the exhibits and activities.

Admission prices are structured to accommodate families and individual visitors, with adults (ages 13 and up) paying around $52, children aged 3 to 12 at $29, and free entry for children under 2. The zoo also offers discounts on certain days for military personnel, seniors, and AAA members.

Wildlife World Zoo is committed to conservation and education, participating in various breeding programs for endangered species and offering educational programs and events throughout the year. The park also emphasizes animal welfare and habitat preservation, striving to create environments that mimic natural settings and provide enriching experiences for the animals.

Overall, Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park presents a comprehensive, engaging wildlife experience. It combines the excitement of a traditional zoo with interactive aquarium exhibits, thrilling rides, and educational programming, ensuring a rich, memorable visit for people of all ages. Whether exploring the African safari, marveling at marine life, or engaging with animal encounters, visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the diversity and wonder of the animal kingdom.