San Diego Zoo

Visiting the San Diego Zoo and its affiliated Safari Park in a single day provided us with a unique opportunity to explore two world-renowned wildlife sanctuaries. Located in Southern California, the San Diego Zoo is one of the largest and most prestigious zoos in the world, hosting over 3,500 animals from more than 650 species and subspecies. Known for its conservation efforts and innovative exhibits that mimic natural habitats, the zoo offers a comprehensive view into the lives of diverse animals, from the former residents like giant pandas to critically endangered species such as the northern white rhino.

• Sony A7R III
• f/10
• 39mm
• 100
• 1/200 sec

We started our day at the San Diego Zoo, situated in the lush, expansive Balboa Park. The experience there was immersive, as we walked through tropical garden settings and observed a variety of animals in enclosures designed to replicate their natural environments. Notable highlights included the Elephant Odyssey, the Polar Bear Plunge, and Monkey Trails, which showcased some of the world’s most exotic creatures. The zoo not only allowed us to see the animals but also engaged us in educational talks and interactive sessions that deepened our understanding of wildlife conservation.

• Sony A7R III
• f/5
• 24mm
• 100
• 1/400 sec

Following our morning at the zoo, we made the short drive to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, an expansive wildlife sanctuary housing more than 2,600 animals in vast enclosures. The Safari Park offered us different types of safari experiences that allowed for close-up views of wild and endangered animals from continents like Africa and Asia, roaming in large, open-air exhibits. We took the Africa Tram, which provided a guided tour through an African savannah-like landscape, and we were captivated by the sight of giraffes, antelopes, and rhinos moving freely across the terrain. The Cheetah Run was another spectacular event, showcasing the breathtaking speed of one of the fastest mammals on earth.

• Sony A7R III
• f/9
• 139mm
• 100
• 1/400 sec

While it is possible to visit both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park in one day, we had to move quickly and accept that we wouldn’t be able to see everything. This whirlwind tour was exhilarating yet left us wishing for more time to explore each location thoroughly. Despite the pace, the day was incredibly rewarding, offering us a dual perspective on animal conservation through two distinct yet complementary experiences. This ambitious adventure is perfect for those who love animals and are eager to support conservation efforts in a meaningful way.

Load More Loading More… You’ve reached the end of the list