Safari Wilderness Ranch is a safari park and animal preserve in Lakeland, FL. It is one of the largest privately-owned zoos in the United States. The preserve contains several hundred acres of nature trails and wildlife habitats, home to over fifty species of animals from around the world. There is a sense of calm surrounding the expansive vista of grazing animals, which is framed by cypress arches and bay trees. The park is home to over 500 animals from more than 50 different species, including Giraffes, Zebras, Ostriches, Antelopes, and many others.
Safari Wilderness Ranch is home to rare, extinct, and fascinating kinds of animals from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. It’s not a zoo or theme park, and there are no crowds or lines. Here you can have a wilderness adventure in specially designed safari trucks with shade canopies and stadium seating. You will be led by a guide to the 260 acres of wildlife habitats. Camel and horseback riding are a unique way to experience the ranch and get up close to the animals.
History of Safari Wilderness
Safari Wilderness was officially opened on March 1, 2012 by Lex Salisbury who has more than 35 years of expertise working with exotic animals. As the former President and CEO of Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, Lex worked at zoos all around the world. After visiting Africa on several occasions while traveling the world, Lex wanted to share the safari experience with others who would not otherwise have the chance to see the continent. When Safari Wilderness first opened, it was home to only a handful of animals. The park has since expanded and now includes over 500 animals from more than 50 different species.
Popular Features of POI
Safari Bus Tour
A modified bus that seats up to 20 passengers and is incredibly spacious and breezy. It’s easy to move around or reach outside the vehicle when domestic Asian water buffalo come along for snacks or pets.
Camelback Tour
With the help of an animal keeper and tour guide you can explore Safari Wilderness Ranch from a camel’s back. This is a great way to see the animals up close and personal. You will have the opportunity to feed them, as well.
Lemur Feeding
One of the many activities you can partake in at Safari Wilderness is feeding time for the lemurs. They are one of the most popular animals at the park, and visitors often flock to their exhibit to watch them play and eat. You can feed them grapes, apples, or other fruits.
Fantasy of Flight
Speedy Car Shipping Lakeland
