Adventure brief
Safari Park Admission
Drive through acres of roaming African wildlife and hand-feed giraffes at Mississippi’s Safari Wild Animal Park & Preserve. Discover how this accessible safari park offers a family-friendly adventure close to Memphis.
Located just south of Memphis in Como, Mississippi, Safari Wild Animal Park & Preserve stands out as a dynamic destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. Spanning an impressive 466 acres, this expansive preserve offers visitors a chance to experience the thrill of an African safari without leaving the American South. The park features over 6.5 miles of authentic safari roads accessible by car, allowing guests to navigate through herds of giraffes, zebras, camels, and other remarkable African species roaming freely in naturalistic habitats.
Beyond the drive-through adventure, the walk-through section invites visitors to get closer to the action with interactive opportunities such as giraffe feeding stations, camel rides, and a lorikeet aviary where you can hand-feed the colorful birds. For younger adventurers, the children’s petting zoo offers a hands-on introduction to gentle farm animals. What makes Safari Wild Animal Park & Preserve a standout destination is its balance of accessibility and immersive wildlife encounters.
Unlike larger, more remote safari parks, this preserve requires only a short drive from Memphis, cutting down travel time and allowing more time to connect with the animals and nature. The park is designed for all ages and caters to both casual visitors and dedicated wildlife fans. The park’s mix of African species thriving amid Mississippi’s changing seasons creates a unique natural environment.
Visitors can witness flora and fauna transitions from verdant spring growth to crisp fall landscapes, offering new perspectives year-round. Conservation-minded efforts ensure the park remains a sustainable habitat, promoting animal welfare alongside education. Whether driving through the animal ranges or wandering the paths of the walkable park areas, Safari Wild Animal Park delivers a genuine, family-friendly safari experience.
It’s a rare chance to engage closely with exotic wildlife, right in the heart of the American South.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring Your Own Vehicleessential
Experience the safari roads by driving your own car for a safe, flexible visit through the animal enclosures.
- 02Carry Cash for Animal Feedinfo
Purchasing feed on-site is required for interacting with giraffes and lorikeets, so come prepared for feeding stations.
- 03Wear Comfortable Footwearinfo
After the drive-through, explore the walking safari areas comfortably with sturdy shoes suitable for dirt paths.
- 04Arrive Earlywarning
To avoid the midday heat and crowds, start your day when the park opens and enjoy cooler, more active animal sightings.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Binoculars
Helps you spot distant wildlife and observe animals without disturbance.
Sun Protection
A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen are necessary during sunny summer afternoons.
summerEssentialComfortable Walking Shoes
Supports long hours on uneven dirt paths in the walk-through portions of the park.
EssentialWater Bottle
Stay hydrated during your drive and walks, especially in warmer months.
allEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Off-the-beaten-path lorikeet feeding aviary offering vibrant bird interactions, Quiet shaded picnic spots near the lake inside the park for a calm break
Local fauna
Giraffe, Blesbok (African antelope)
Historic heritage
Safari Wild Animal Park & Preserve opened to bring an authentic African safari experience to Mississippi, focused on education and conservation since its founding.
Mindful exploration
The park participates in habitat preservation and animal welfare programs, emphasizing sustainability and responsible tourism in the region.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Near the giraffe feeding station, Overlook points along the drive-through route, The walk-through aviary enclosure
- Subjects
- Wildlife close-ups, Savanna-like landscapes, Feeding interactions
- Best times
- Early morning, Late afternoon, Golden hour
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Can I bring my own vehicle inside the safari?
Yes, visitors drive their own cars along the 6.5-mile safari roads to view and interact with the animals.
Are children allowed in the park?
Absolutely, the park is family-friendly with special areas like camel rides and a petting zoo designed for kids.
Is food provided for animals, or should visitors bring their own?
Animal feed is sold on-site for visitors to purchase before feeding giraffes and lorikeets; outside food for animals is not permitted.
How long does a typical visit last?
Most guests spend between 2 and 4 hours, balancing driving through the safari and walking the foot safari area.
Are pets allowed in the park?
Pets are generally not permitted to maintain the health and safety of the wildlife.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The drive-through safari is accessible for vehicles, but some walking areas may have uneven terrain; contact the park for specific accessibility information.