15500 San Pasqual Valley Road Escondido, California 92027-7017
Well I suppose it’s fitting I visit on the parks anniversary which happens to coincide with my 55th birthday.
I actually attended the parks opening day with my two brothers and my Grandmother. The entrance used to be a huge netted bird sanctuary funneling you to the rest of the enclosures. It was so big the birds could fly quite a distance. My Grandma made the best sandwiches to take along and eat while we were watching the bird or the elephant show. We all spent many happy hours here over the years.
Much has changed, yet much has stayed the same. I was happy to see the elephants get such a large enclosure way back when. My favorite area is the large pool as you have prime viewing of them frolicking in the water. The tram has changed from a railway to wheels. You can actually sleep over at the park when you sign up for a dizzying amount of options on their website. They have added more places to sit down, relax and eat. We found one (The Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook) with a view of the, rhino’s, giraffes and more. I liked the bathroom set up, as the sinks have a view of the outside. The food is decent and the drinks are tasty. Another favorite is you can sign up for your very own safari touring through their savannah. Perhaps I’ll sign up for this on my next visit.
Happy Anniversary to all the animals and caretakers of Safari Park! Thanks for keeping the place such a treasure to visit. Cheers to another 50 years!
Cool birthday celebration! That’s great you were there on opening day.
I just love this place! Always a favorite for me.