Last Updated on February 7, 2025 by JJ
Florida is known for its pristine beaches, bustling theme parks, and lively cities, but hidden beyond these attractions lies a wilderness teeming with exotic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. From the sprawling Everglades to hidden conservation ranches, Florida offers some of the most diverse safari adventures in the United States.
Whether you’re looking for an authentic African-style safari, a thrilling airboat ride, or a close encounter with giraffes, big cats, and endangered species, this guide will lead you to the best safari experiences in Florida. We’ve also included lodging, dining, and nearby attractions to help you plan the perfect adventure.
Safari Wilderness Ranch – Lakeland’s Hidden Safari Retreat
📍 Location: 10850 Moore Rd, Lakeland, FL 33809
🔗 Official Website
🔗 Nearby Lodging: The Terrace Hotel, Lakeland
🔗 Best Local Eats: The Joinery – Lakeland’s Top Food Hall
Why Visit?
Tucked between Orlando and Tampa, Safari Wilderness Ranch offers an authentic safari adventure without leaving Florida. Unlike a traditional zoo, this expansive 260-acre ranch allows visitors to experience wildlife in its natural habitat.
Things to Do:
- Take a guided safari tour in an open-air truck or opt for a camelback adventure for a unique perspective.
- Encounter exotic species such as zebras, Red Lechwe, scimitar-horned oryx, and lemurs.
- Hand-feed animals like giraffes, water buffalo, and eland antelope.
🌟 Pro Tip: Visit during the cooler months (October–April) for a more comfortable experience.
Everglades Safari Park – Exploring the River of Grass
📍 Location: 26700 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33194
🔗 Official Website
🔗 Stay Nearby: Miccosukee Resort & Gaming
🔗 Dining Recommendation: Coopertown Airboat Restaurant – Classic Gator Bites & Seafood
Why Visit?
Located west of Miami, Everglades Safari Park immerses visitors in the vast, untamed wilderness of the Everglades, one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.
Things to Do:
- Experience an airboat ride across the famous River of Grass, home to alligators, turtles, and wading birds.
- Watch wildlife shows and learn about the alligators, snakes, and native species of the region.
- Hike the Everglades boardwalk trail to see the diverse flora and fauna up close.
🌟 Pro Tip: Book the private airboat tour for a more personalized and immersive experience.
Lion Country Safari – An African Adventure in Florida
📍 Location: 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470
🔗 Official Website
🔗 Stay Nearby: Hilton Palm Beach Airport
🔗 Dining Recommendation: Okeechobee Steakhouse – Florida’s Oldest Steakhouse
Why Visit?
Located in Palm Beach County, Lion Country Safari is Florida’s largest drive-through safari park, allowing visitors to see free-roaming animals up close.
Things to Do:
- Drive through 1,000+ acres of land where animals roam freely, including lions, giraffes, rhinos, and wildebeest.
- Walk through the Safari World Adventure Park, featuring animal feeding stations and interactive exhibits.
- Enjoy the water play area, paddle boats, and amusement rides.
🌟 Pro Tip: Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing during the safari drive.
Giraffe Ranch – A Conservation-Driven Safari Experience
📍 Location: 38650 Mickler Rd, Dade City, FL 33523
🔗 Official Website
🔗 Stay Nearby: Hampton Inn Dade City
🔗 Dining Recommendation: Kafe Kokopelli – Unique American Cuisine
Why Visit?
Giraffe Ranch offers a small-group, immersive safari experience, focusing on conservation, education, and up-close animal encounters.
Things to Do:
- Take a guided safari tour in a 4×4 truck, camel, or Segway for a unique view of the wildlife.
- Hand-feed giraffes, kangaroos, and rhinos in an intimate setting.
- Learn about global conservation efforts and how Giraffe Ranch helps protect endangered species.
🌟 Pro Tip: Reservations are required, so book your tour in advance.
Big Cat Rescue – Advocates for Exotic Cats
📍 Location: 12802 Easy St, Tampa, FL 33625
🔗 Official Website
🔗 Stay Nearby: The Barrymore Hotel, Tampa Riverwalk
🔗 Dining Recommendation: Ulele – Tampa’s Top Spot for Fresh Seafood & Game
Why Visit?
Big Cat Rescue is one of the largest accredited sanctuaries for rescued big cats, providing a safe haven for lions, tigers, leopards, and bobcats.
Things to Do:
- Take a guided tour to learn about the stories of rescued big cats.
- Support conservation efforts by adopting a cat virtually.
- Visit the on-site gift shop, where proceeds go directly to animal care.
🌟 Pro Tip: Unlike other safari parks, this sanctuary does not breed or trade animals, making it a true conservation-based experience.
What to Bring for Your Safari Adventure
✅ Comfortable Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking outfits work best.
✅ Sunscreen & Hat: Florida’s sun can be intense, even in shaded areas.
✅ Bug Spray: Many safari locations are in natural environments with mosquitos.
✅ Camera & Binoculars: Capture unforgettable wildlife moments.
✅ Closed-Toe Shoes: Many safari experiences require walking on uneven terrain.
Best Time to Go on a Florida Safari
🌿 Cooler Months (October–April): The best time to explore, with mild temperatures and more active wildlife.
☀️ Summer (May–September): Hotter temperatures, but also lush greenery and baby animals.
Final Thoughts: Experience Florida’s Wild Side
From the thrilling airboat rides in the Everglades to feeding giraffes in Dade City, Florida’s safari experiences offer unforgettable adventures for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking an African-style safari, an up-close animal encounter, or a conservation-driven experience, these destinations provide a deeper connection to nature and wildlife education for all ages.
So pack your gear, hit the road, and discover the wild heart of Florida! 🦁🌿
Additional Resources & Travel Planning
📍 Find More Florida Safari Parks
📍 Florida State Parks & Wildlife Reserves
📍 Plan Your Stay with Florida Lodging Guide
Have you been on a Florida safari? Share your experience in the comments! ⬇️ 😊
Comments are closed.