Enhance Your Day at Elephant Valley

Discover even more ways to connect with the herd

By Ellie McMillan, Senior Editor for San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, and Peggy Scott, Managing Editor of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Journal | May 6, 2026*

Step into a world you’ve never known. A world where you can experience African elephants like never before. At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley, you can do all of that and more! Our brand-new safaris that take you into the heart of this dynamic experience.

Lace up your shoes and join our family-friendly or 21+ walking tours. Or jump on a cart for a behind-the-scenes journey you’ll never forget. The possibilities to make your day unique are endless, and they all start at Elephant Valley—let’s explore them!

Together on Common Ground

If you want to walk side by side with the herd through Elephant Valley, we have the perfect options just for you. Join the all-ages, 60-minute Wildlife Trek: Walking with Elephants. This tour is perfect for families that want a deeper connection to the largest land animals on Earth.

Perk your ears up for insider stories shared by your expert guide, highlights about their dynamic world and the plant life they share it with, plus insights about how your support is making a difference for elephants worldwide through our Savanna Conservation Hub. Every moment on the savanna is as different as it is extraordinary, and this guided walking tour is no different!

Cheers to our brand-new 21+ guided Elephant Valley walking tour!

Sip and Stroll

Ready for a “spirited” elephant-focused, on-foot adventure? Our Wildlife Trek: Sip & Stroll Elephant Valley takes the casual enjoyment of a cocktail party and pairs it with the chance to get to know the Safari Park’s African elephant herd. Elephant enthusiasts ages 21 and up can start their stroll with a “Trunkful of Sunshine,” a whimsical cocktail created just for this walking tour (non-alcoholic beverages are also available).

Led by a knowledgeable guide, your stroll wends its way through Elephant Valley, where you’ll learn about these gentle giants and global conservation efforts across our Savanna Conservation Hub. As your tropical drink tickles your tongue, you’ll find out all about elephants in their native range and the communities that coexist with them. Your journey’s finale takes place at the iconic Mkutano House, where another refreshing libation awaits. It’s the perfect mix of wildlife and wonder.

During the Behind-the-Scenes Safari: Saving Giants, you might connect with greater one-horned rhinos.

Go Behind-the-Scenes

Travel off the beaten path and connect with larger-than-life species from elephants to rhinos and more. During the Behind-the-Scenes Safari: Saving Giants, your expert guide will whisk you away to areas of the Safari Park not often seen by guests. The 90-minute safari is jam packed with fun facts and fascinating stories about wildlife care and conservation here in San Diego and across the globe through our eight Conservation Hubs.

Check in at Safari Excursions and relax with your fellow wildlife allies as you get ready for your adventure. When it’s time to go, your guide will welcome you and bring you to the deluxe cart. Take advantage of the intimate group size and ask your guide all the questions you’ve always wanted to know the answer to. The destination is discovery and they’re your trusted almanac!

You may swing by and say hello to the gorilla bachelor troop, which includes Njemba (left) and Mokonzi (right).

After departing Safari Excursions, you’ll catch a glimpse of your last stop: Elephant Valley. The excitement is sure to build as your group travels past the elephant herd. For now, you’ll be transported around the world to connect with other incredible species—all from the comfort of your cart.

Go where you’ve never gone before on special paths around the Safari Park. Around one turn, you might come face-to-face with the gorilla bachelor troop. Around another, you might delight at the sight of growing giraffe calves or a sizeable group of Cape buffalo. Every turn reveals another remarkable moment you’ll fondly remember for the rest of your life.

Walk side by side with the herd at Elephant Valley.

It all leads up to Elephant Valley. Your expert guide will bring your group to a behind-the-scenes area, sheltered by lush foliage. Here you’ll get up close with the elephant herd and connect with them like never before. Feel your perspective shift as you gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of these gentle giants.

Make Lifelong Memories

Become immersed in Elephant Valley during these three safari experiences. Learn what it’s like to coexist with the herd as you learn how your support is making a difference for elephants and the communities they live alongside through our Savanna Conservation Hub.

After your tour, stop by Mkutano House or Tu Grill for inspired bites, and then browse our retail locations featuring exclusive Elephant Valley merch, handcrafted beaded masterpieces, and so much more. Grab your loved ones and fill your day at the Safari Park with wonder, joy, and the heartwarming memories you make along the way. Plan your visit today!

THIS IS HUGE! Celebrate the awe and majesty of elephants long after your visit by exploring our Elephant Collection, inspired by the unforgettable experiences of Elephant Valley. Featuring comfortable graphic tanks and tees, durable totes, fashionable hats, premium YETI® Ramblers, cuddly elephant plushies, and fun travel accessories, there's something for every wildlife enthusiast! After reading all about Elephant Valley, continue your conservation journey by choosing merchandise that gives back. Every purchase helps support San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's mission to protect elephants and other incredible wildlife around the world, making your favorite new gear part of something even bigger.

*As seen on San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Story Hub.