an Diego Wild Animal Park is an unmatched experience very different from traditional zoos. Here wild animals roam freely in large herds, flocks and charges inside canyons and along ridges. Did you know a group of rhinoceroses is called a "charge?"

Take the Wgasa Bush Line Railway on a 55 minute guided tour of the Animal Park's major field enclosures of Asia and Africa. What a thrill to see rare and endangered species moving freely, playing and eating like they would in the wild. Herds of elephants, giraffes, rhinos and antelope are just a few of the animals you'll see here. Ride is free with admission.

Take the 32 acres of Heart of Africa walking safari, where you'll see a great many of the park's animals including cheetah, cape buffalo, okapi and numerous birds such as the African spoonbill and African sacred ibis. Be sure to notice the landscaping which also features plants from around the world.

Nairobi Village: is a lush, bustling village centered around the beautiful Mombasa Lagoon. Walk over the authentic Congo Fishing Village atop a waterfall, meet the park babies personally at the Petting Kraal or stroll through the shops and enjoy the restaurants of the village.

Lorikeet Landing: Pick up a cup a nectar, extend your arm and you'll become best friends with a rainbow lorikeet. Their tongues are especially adapted to extracting nectar and pollen from flowers in their native rainforests of Australia.

You won't want to miss the Gorilla Habitat, the Interactive Bird Show or the Elephant Encounter. Take the Kilimanjaro Safari Walk to see the Wild Animal Park's larger residents like the elephants, rhinos, tigers and lions. Be sure to notice the extensive botanical gardens along the way.

The San Diego Wild Animal Park is known for their conservation efforts in saving rare and endangered animals. Condor Ridge spotlights 13 rare or endangered North American species in a unique program of conservation to protect and preserve their species. At the end of the 430 foot trail is an interpretive center that gives information on the recovery efforts for the California Condor and big horn sheep.

Learn more about the Wild Animal Park and see their hours and latest schedule of activities...

Discounts and specials for vacation condos or hotel rooms by the day or week at Grand Pacific Palisades Resort and Hotel.

All zoo images are courtesy of and copyrighted by © 2000 Zoological Society of San Diego