If you’re considering a trip to Orlando that’s a bit different from the usual theme park scene, the Drive-Thru Safari Park at Wild Florida might just be worth a look. It’s a self-guided adventure that lets you explore more than 100 animals—from native wildlife to exotic species—in a relaxed, drive-your-own-car setting. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and honestly, it’s a mix of charm, good value, and some quirks that are worth knowing upfront.
What we love about this safari? First, the chance to see animals roaming freely in large open spaces, which feels more natural than traditional zoo cages. Second, the option to get up close—literally—by feeding giraffes and meeting Crusher, the park’s biggest alligator. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the experience is heavily car-dependent, so if you’re expecting guided commentary or more interactive elements, you might find it a little limited.
This experience works best for visitors who enjoy a flexible, laid-back encounter with wildlife—family groups, animal lovers, or anyone looking for a break from Orlando’s busy theme parks. It’s not perfect for those wanting a fully narrated tour or a packed itinerary, but if you’re after a simple, memorable day with animals right outside your window, you’ve found a contender.
Key Points
- Self-guided drive-through allows you to control your pace and experience.
- Over 100 animals including native wildlife and exotic species roam freely.
- Feeding giraffes and meeting Crusher offer unique, interactive moments.
- Budget-friendly at $35 per person with good reviews on value.
- Longer drive time around 2 hours, depending on how long you stop.
- Accessible and family-friendly, but you’ll need your own vehicle.
What Is the Drive-Thru Safari Park at Wild Florida?
This isn’t your average zoo visit. Instead of walking through exhibits, you get into your vehicle and drive through large open areas where animals wander freely. The main draw is the sense of space and the chance to see animals in a setting that’s closer to their natural habitat. For just $35 per person, you get a 1-day self-guided tour—a pretty decent price for the experience and the number of animals you can see.
The park is located in Florida, and as reviews mention, it’s a good alternative for those looking to avoid the crowds and commercial buzz of theme parks. The park also includes admission to Gator Park, so you can see alligators in action, adding a bit more variety to your day.
What You Can Expect During Your Visit
The park features gravel paths covering extensive acreage—you’ll need your own car to get through. The speed limit is just 5 mph, which works well for taking photos and enjoying the views without feeling rushed. Most visitors report that the drive lasts roughly two hours, but you can spend as much time as you like stopping, feeding animals, or just soaking in the scenery.
Wildlife Highlights
You’ll see a good mix of native Florida animals such as white-tailed deer, bison, cracker cows, and zebras, alongside exotic species like orxy, watusi, and different types of antelope. Many reviews emphasize the large open spaces animals have—something that makes the experience feel more authentic than traditional zoo enclosures.
Feeding and Interacting
The standout activity is feeding the giraffes—a highlight for many visitors. People often mention Leroy the giraffe as a gentle and friendly creature, with one reviewer describing him as “so sweet.” It’s a rare chance to get close enough to a giraffe to hand-feed it, adding a memorable touch to your trip.
You’ll also meet Crusher, the park’s largest alligator. Watching him and other gators in their habitat is entertaining, especially during feeding demonstrations at Gator Park, should you choose to explore more.
More Great Tours NearbyPark Maintenance and Experience Quality
Reviewers generally praise the park’s well-maintained grounds and the variety of animals. It’s clear that the focus is on providing animals with ample space and a natural environment. Several mention the cleanliness and care the staff put into the place, which adds to the overall positive feeling.
What Are the Downsides?
While many love the experience, some reviews note that the drive through can feel repetitive—mostly cows and similar animals dominate the landscape, with fewer exotic species than expected. One review pointed out, “there should be more animals than that,” indicating that the variety might not always meet everyone’s expectations.
Another consideration is the lack of guided commentary—there’s no audio guide or narration, so if you’re someone who loves learning about animals on the go, you might find yourself wishing for more info. Also, since it’s a drive-thru, it’s not ideal for visitors who prefer walking or guided walking tours.
It’s also worth noting that food and drinks are not included, and there are optional extras like giraffe feed or additional activities. If you’re hungry or want to make the most of your visit, plan ahead for meals.
How Does It Compare in Value?
Many visitors agree that the $35 fee is quite reasonable given the size of the park and the animals you’ll see. Several reviews, like one stating, “It was way more fun than Disney’s Wild Animal Kingdom,” highlight that this is a cost-effective alternative for wildlife viewing. Plus, the experience is flexible—you can spend longer if you want, and it’s not crowded or overly commercialized.
Is It Suitable for Everyone?
This experience is great for families, animal lovers, or anyone who enjoys driving through scenic landscapes. It’s especially good if people prefer their wildlife encounters in a relaxed, unhurried environment. However, it’s best for those with their own vehicle and those who don’t mind a predominantly car-based experience.
People with mobility issues might want to confirm accessibility, but reviews mention that the park is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus. Keep in mind, pets aren’t allowed, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a casual, family-friendly day that offers a chance to see animals in large open spaces, the Drive-Thru Safari Park at Wild Florida is a solid pick. The ability to drive at your own pace and stop to feed giraffes keeps it engaging without feeling rushed. The reasonable price point and positive reviews on animal variety and park maintenance make it worth considering.
That said, if you’re craving a more interactive or educational experience, or if exotic animal variety is a priority, you might want to supplement this with other activities. But overall, it offers a fun, relaxed way to see Florida’s wildlife—and maybe even get up close to Leroy or Crusher.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This tour is perfect for families with kids, animal enthusiasts, or travelers who enjoy a slow, scenic drive with frequent animal sightings. It suits those looking for a more natural setting than traditional zoos and who prefer to explore at their own pace. If you’re visiting Orlando and want to add a wildlife adventure without the crowds or expense of larger parks, this could fit the bill nicely.
Orlando: Drive-Thru Safari Park at Wild Florida
FAQ
Do I need my own vehicle for this experience?
Yes, you must have your own car or vehicle to drive through the park, as it’s a self-guided tour.
How long does the drive-through usually take?
Most visitors find they spend about two hours, but you can take longer if you stop frequently or want to enjoy feeding activities.
Are there any guided commentary options?
No, the experience is self-guided, so there’s no official narration or guide provided during the drive.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that children have a great time, especially feeding giraffes and seeing animals roam freely. Just ensure kids are safely supervised in the vehicle.
What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers drive-thru admission and Gator Park access. Food, drinks, giraffe feed, and rental cars are not included.
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Pets are not allowed, and you need to bring your own vehicle. Also, the park is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check specific needs beforehand.
In all, the Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari offers a relaxed, budget-friendly way to experience a variety of animals in a natural environment. It’s a good choice if you’re in Orlando and want to see wildlife at your own pace, with plenty of photo ops and some interactive moments along the way.
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