A Friendly Look at the WoW Safari Thoiry Entrance Ticket
If you’re considering a day trip outside of Paris that combines wildlife, family fun, and a bit of adventure, the WoW Safari Thoiry experience might just be worth exploring. While I haven’t personally been there, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear idea of what it’s like and what you can expect. Overall, it seems like a solid choice for animal lovers and families eager to see animals in semi-freedom without straying too far from the city.
What immediately draws us in are a couple of standout features: the chance to see giraffes, elephants, and zebras roaming freely while you drive through the park, and the up-close encounters via glass tunnels that make the animals feel surprisingly accessible. Plus, the feeding demonstrations of wolves and big cats seem to add a little extra thrill to the day. However, a minor consideration is that the experience feels quite structured—if you’re after a totally unplanned, leisurely stroll, this might seem a bit organized. That said, it’s perfect for families, animal enthusiasts, or anyone looking for an engaging day close to nature.
This tour suits travelers who want a full day of wildlife viewing with a mix of on-car safaris, foot exploration, and some kid-friendly activities. The price point ($37 per person) offers decent value considering the variety of sights and the length of stay. It’s a flexible, stress-free way to enjoy animals in a safe setting—ideal for those who prefer their wildlife experiences with some comforts and structure.
Key Points
- Accessible Location: Only 40 km from Paris, making it an easy day trip.
- Diverse Animals: Over 1,200 animals from more than a hundred species in a large park.
- Variety of Experiences: Drive-through safari, foot crossings, and animal islands provide multiple ways to see the animals.
- Family-Friendly: Playgrounds and kid-focused attractions make it suitable for young visitors.
- Value for Money: At $37, you get a full day with multiple activities included.
- Additional Attractions: The castle is free to visit (though it’s separate from the zoo), and there’s a zipline and other activities available for extra fun.
What to Expect at WoW Safari Thoiry
Starting from the moment you arrive, you’ll notice this isn’t just a zoo—it’s a sprawling, wooded park that makes you feel like you’ve escaped the bustle of Paris. It’s about 150 hectares, which is quite sizable, and it’s mostly covered in trees, providing a natural backdrop for the animals and giving the whole experience a more authentic, less sterile vibe.
The Safari Drive is the main event. You’ll hop into your car or a designated vehicle (some people bring their own, others rent on-site) and begin a journey through the animal enclosures. Here, zebras, giraffes, elephants, bears, and lions roam relatively freely, which adds an exciting element of unpredictability. You’re not just looking through fences or glass—you’re observing animals in a semi-natural setting, which makes for better photos and more genuine encounters.
Feeding shows add a lively touch. Watching wolves and tigers being fed is not only fascinating but also gives you a glimpse into their behavior. The guide (or staff) usually explains a bit about each species, which enhances the experience, especially if you appreciate learning as you go. According to reviews, knowledgeable guides really make a difference, helping visitors understand the animals’ habits and environments.
Foot crossings and animal tunnels are next-level features here. The glass tunnels, especially around lions, tigers, and hyenas, allow you to walk through and see these predators at eye level—pretty thrilling, even for those who aren’t used to such close encounters. Lemur islands offer a chance to see these playful primates up close, adding a bit of liveliness to the day.
Additional attractions include the Mysterious Island Playground, which is a hit with kids, and the Land of Goriilas. The newer ‘Gorilla Lands’ houses four male gorillas, providing insight into one of our closest relatives. The park is also home to an ‘Ark of Small Animals’—a special exhibit showcasing intriguing and ecologically important species. For those seeking even more adventure, the Safari Air Park offers a netted area above the safari, giving a different perspective on the park’s landscape.
The castle, separate from the zoo, is included with your ticket but has limited opening days, usually closed on Mondays. If you’re into castle visits, it’s an added bonus, though keep in mind that closures can happen beyond the zoo’s control.
The Practicalities
Your ticket grants skip-the-line entry, saving you some time, which can be precious on busy days. Once inside, you can choose to start either at the zoo or the safari—flexibility that’s appreciated. The park opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm, with foot access ending at 4 pm. There’s free parking, and you’re allowed to bring your own picnic, which is handy if you want to avoid onsite food prices.
Note that pets aren’t allowed, and you shouldn’t feed the animals—rules designed to keep everyone safe and the animals healthy. Wheelchair accessibility is available, and on-site hires make things easier if needed.
The Value and Pricing
At $37 per person, this experience hits a good middle ground. It’s not a bargain-basement zoo, but when you consider the variety of animals, the multiple ways to experience them, and the added attractions, it’s fair. The park is big enough that it could easily fill a full day, especially if you take your time and enjoy the playground or explore the castle.
Reviews echo this sentiment, with one traveler mentioning how easy it was to book and how everything went smoothly. The reviews also highlight the knowledgeable guides, which significantly enhance the experience by providing context and answering questions.
Downsides to Keep in Mind
While most reviews are positive, it’s worth noting that the experience is quite structured—if you’re the type of traveler who prefers spontaneous wandering, this might feel a bit planned out. Also, the park closes its foot access by 4 pm, so if you’re running late, you might miss some parts. The castle’s closures can be disappointing if that’s on your wish list.
Lastly, the zipline and other extra activities are not included in the ticket price. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, you’ll need to pay extra, but these are optional.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Experience?
This trip is perfect for families with kids, thanks to the playground and close animal encounters. Animal lovers who want a chance to see a variety of species in a well-organized setting will also appreciate the park’s diversity. If you’re staying near Paris and looking for a manageable day trip that combines nature, animals, and some leisurely exploration, WoW Safari Thoiry fits the bill.
It’s less suited for travelers seeking a totally relaxed, unstructured visit or those craving a completely wild, untamed experience. The emphasis here is on a safe, informative, and family-friendly environment.
FAQ
Is the ticket valid for a full day?
Yes, your ticket grants access from 10 am until the park closes at 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.
Can I start with the zoo or the safari?
Absolutely. The ticket allows you to begin your visit either with the safari or the foot attractions, offering some flexibility.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not permitted on the premises, so plan accordingly.
Is parking free?
Yes, parking is free of charge.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes, picnic is allowed, which is great if you want to bring your own snacks or lunch.
Are wheelchairs available?
Yes, wheelchairs can be hired on-site, making the experience accessible to more visitors.
WoW Safari Thoiry Entrance Ticket
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a well-rounded day of animal viewing within a manageable distance from Paris, WoW Safari Thoiry offers a good mix of excitement, education, and family-friendly fun. The chance to see animals like giraffes, lions, and gorillas in semi-natural environments is especially appealing, and the added foot crossings and feeding demonstrations enrich the experience.
The park’s structure and variety make it suitable for travelers who prefer an organized outing with multiple activities, rather than a casual stroll through a traditional zoo. With knowledgeable staff, a large park, and extra attractions, it’s a solid choice for a day out that promises both fun and learning.
In essence, if you value seeing animals in more natural settings and appreciate some interaction with wildlife, this is likely to be a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. Just remember to plan ahead for the timings and consider your interests—if your main goal is a relaxed day in nature, this offers a good balance of adventure and comfort.
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