San Diego Zoo and Safari Park 2-Visit Pass Ticket

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park 2-Visit Pass Ticket Review

Visiting the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park is often on many travelers’ bucket lists, and for good reason. These two iconic attractions offer a chance to see thousands of animals in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments, all within a manageable trip. While we haven’t personally taken this specific pass, plenty of reviews and the offered details paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What we really like about this 2-visit pass is its flexibility—you can split your time between the Zoo and the Safari Park or choose to revisit one if you fall in love with it. The inclusion of all shows and exhibits plus in-park transportation makes it a practical choice, especially for those who want to maximize their experience without worrying about extra costs.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this ticket involves some travel between the two sites—about 35 miles apart—so it’s not a quick pop-in. That means planning your day well is a good idea, especially if you’re pressed for time. But overall, this pass works best for travelers who want a comprehensive San Diego animal adventure that they can tailor to their preferences.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, enjoys seeing animals in expansive habitats, or is looking to get good value for money, this experience could be right up your alley. Let’s unpack what makes this tour special, what to expect at each stop, and who will truly benefit from booking this pass.

Key Points

• Flexible visit options: You can split your time or revisit either park, making it adaptable for different travel styles.
• All-inclusive access: All animal exhibits, shows, and transportation rides are included, saving you money and hassle.
• Two distinct parks: The Zoo offers a lush, detailed environment with California animals and prehistoric exhibits, while the Safari Park provides space and open habitats for a wide variety of animals.
• Convenient digital entry: No need to exchange tickets at Will Call—scan your mobile ticket directly at the gates.
• Good value for a multi-day experience, especially with the included transportation options, guides, and shows.
• Consider the travel time: The Safari Park is about 35 miles from the Zoo, so plan your day accordingly.

First Impressions and Overall Experience

The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are renowned for their attention to animal welfare and naturalistic habitats. This pass gives you the opportunity to see this firsthand without the rush of a single-day visit. Our impression is that the experience offers a good balance of structured sightseeing and freedom to explore at your own pace.

What makes this pass stand out is its flexibility. You’re not locked into a specific schedule, which is great for adjusting plans based on weather, energy levels, or particular interests. Plus, the inclusion of all shows and exhibits is a big plus—these can add a lot of value, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want to catch the best of what each park offers.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Day 1: The San Diego Zoo

Located in the heart of Balboa Park, the Zoo covers 100 acres and is a lush, vibrant space filled with well-designed habitats. The highlight here is the Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey, the newest exhibit, where you can get up close with elephants and learn about prehistoric animals like mammoths and saber-toothed cats. This exhibit offers a fascinating mix of history and conservation.

Expect to spend about four hours here, and you’ll want to take advantage of the guided bus tours and the Skyfari Aerial Tram—both included with your ticket. The tram offers sweeping views of the zoo and surrounding park, making it a relaxing break during a busy day.

You’ll love the chance to see a variety of animals, from lions and jaguars to exotic birds, in habitats that mimic their natural environments. As one reviewer said, “The environment is well designed to see all the animals,” and guides are knowledgeable, adding context that enhances the experience.

Day 2: San Diego Safari Park

Travel about 35 miles north to Escondido, where the Safari Park sprawls across 1,800 acres. It’s a different experience—more of an open landscape safari than a traditional zoo. You’ll see animals like giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, and California condors wandering freely.

Included in your pass is the Africa Tram, a 30-minute guided tour through the savannas and forests that house elephants, zebras, and other endangered species. This is an excellent way to see the park’s highlights without tiring yourself out.

Expect to spend four hours exploring, with ample walking trails leading to overlooks where you can spot lions, tigers, and other exotic creatures. You can also stroll through Nairobi Village, a lively spot for shopping and dining.

Travelers say that “both parks are a lot to do in one day,” but if you’re up for it, you’ll get a truly immersive experience. The park also features guided tours and shows, which visitors find knowledgeable and helpful.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $128 per person, this pass hits a sweet spot for many travelers. It might seem like a significant upfront cost, but with all the included features—unlimited rides on the Safari Park’s Africa Tram, Skyfari, guided bus tours, and access to all exhibits—it’s a convenient, cost-effective way to see both parks.

The ability to split your visits over a year adds flexibility, especially if weather or energy levels fluctuate. Plus, since the ticket is valid for a full year from purchase, you can plan your visits around your schedule.

Parking is free at the Zoo, but the Safari Park charges an additional fee, which is worth considering if you’re driving. The parks are accessible with wheelchair rentals and service animals, making it friendly for a range of visitors.

One aspect to keep in mind is that visiting both parks in one day can be a lot, especially during peak times or school holidays, when reviews mention crowds and noise. That said, many find this manageable with good planning, especially since transportation and shows are included.

Real Traveler Perspectives

From reviews, it’s clear that guided tours and knowledgeable staff make a difference. “So many guides are well-informed,” said one visitor, which really enhances the experience. Many reviews highlight the parks’ well-maintained environments and the variety of animals seen.

Some travelers noted that parking costs at the Safari Park could be a drawback, but overall, visitors feel that the value for money is good, especially with the ease of mobile ticketing and the ability to revisit within a year.

A few comments pointed out that crowds can be intense during school breaks, and parking at the Safari Park is paid, so plan accordingly. Yet, most agree that the chance to see a wide range of animals and enjoy the parks’ natural settings outweighs these inconveniences.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This 2-visit pass works especially well for animal lovers and families looking for a comprehensive experience in San Diego. It’s perfect if you want to see both parks without feeling rushed or paying for separate tickets. The included transportation options and guided tours are great for those who prefer some structure or want to learn more about the animals.

It’s also ideal for travelers who want flexibility—fitting visits into a longer trip or spreading them out over a year. If you’re comfortable walking moderate distances and enjoy outdoor environments, you’ll find this an enjoyable, well-rounded way to explore.

However, if you’re pressed for time or prefer small, focused visits, this might feel like a lot to cover in a single trip. Also, those less mobile or traveling with very young children should consider the physical demands involved, especially at the Safari Park.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park combined offer a fantastic opportunity to see a vast array of animals in thoughtfully designed habitats. This 2-visit pass offers excellent value, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace and revisit within a year.

You’ll love the guided tours, transport rides, and immersive exhibits, especially if you appreciate knowledgeable staff and a wide variety of animals. The parks are well-maintained, lively, and full of interesting encounters—perfect for animal enthusiasts or families seeking a memorable adventure.

While it’s not a cheap outing, the included features and the chance to see both parks make it a practical choice for those wanting a comprehensive wildlife experience. Be prepared for some traveling between parks and possible crowds during peak times, but overall, this pass offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day out in San Diego.

FAQ

How do I redeem my San Diego Zoo and Safari Park Combo Ticket?
This ticket is a direct entry—no need to exchange it at Will Call. Simply scan your mobile ticket at the gates for easy access.

Where is the San Diego Zoo located?
You’ll find it at 2929 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101.

Where is the San Diego Safari Park located?
The Safari Park is at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, about 35 miles from the Zoo.

Is parking included at both parks?
Parking is free at the Zoo but costs extra at the Safari Park, so plan a few extra dollars if you’re driving there.

Can I visit both parks in the same day?
While it’s possible, many find it better to spread out the visits over two days due to the distance and size of each park.

How much time should I allocate for each park?
Plan for at least 4 hours at each to see the major highlights comfortably, especially if you want to enjoy guided tours and rides.

Are there food options at both parks?
Yes, both parks have various casual and full-service dining options, and you can bring small food containers but no coolers or alcohol.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Yes, there are discounted tickets for children, and many exhibits are suitable for kids. Just keep in mind the walking involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and consider sun protection—hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses—as you’ll be outdoors most of the day.

What if it rains?
The parks are open rain or shine. Some animals might go indoors during heavy rain, but overall, your visit can still be enjoyable.

If you’re after an easy, flexible way to experience San Diego’s wildlife treasures, this pass offers a great mix of convenience and value. Just plan your days well, and you’ll be rewarded with a memorable animal adventure.