How about an overnight safari trip to see African animals just a half-hour drive north of downtown San Diego in Escondido? On a Roar & Snore Safari at the remarkable San Diego Zoo Safari Park (the sister property of the San Diego Zoo), have a sleepover adventure in one of 46 comfy, safari-style tents that border an expansive grazing area for giraffes, rhinos, gazelles, antelopes, and other exotic animals.
While visiting this expansive park, book a Flightline Safari—strapped securely into a zip-line, you’ll soar as high as 130 feet above the rhinos, giraffes, and other animals below. You can even record the entire experience with a helmet cam to relive your experience at home. Also on offer are exhilarating Balloon Safaris and a Jungle Ropes Safari for kids 7 and up to test their balance and jungle skills on rope bridges, tightropes, and more.
In early March 2026, the Denny Sanford Elephant Valley habitat will be an immersive new home for the Safari Park's African elephant herd. Unlike traditional exhibits, Elephant Valley will span over a vast savanna-style landscape where guests can walk alongside or above the herd and observe elephants in more natural behaviors while learning about their ecological roles and social structures. Central to the experience is Mkutano House, a multistory lodge with open-air dining overlooking watering holes, along with pathways lined with plants and features inspired by African grasslands.
All Roar & Snore Safaris, both adults-only and all-ages, include a ride on the Africa Tram and your choice of walking tours, from laid-back to active. Look for special themes throughout the year, like seasonal kid-favorite Creepy Camp during Halloween (meet spooky, creepy critters and get special treats), or the festive Holly Jolly Jungle safari in late November, just before the start of the holiday season. All overnights include special activities, an after-hours opportunity to look at resident animals, a campfire program, dinner, snack, and a park souvenir. And when you wake up in the early morning? Enjoy an open-air breakfast with views of grazing animals to photograph and observe, long before the park’s doors are open to visitors.