Safaris on Foot

Discover Whole New Worlds at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

March 14, 2025*

Picture a vast, 1,800-acre haven where wildlife thrives in sweeping savannas, lush tropical forests, and chaparral landscapes. That’s the magic of the “no place like it on Earth” San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where you can step into ecosystems from across the globe and connect with wildlife in whole new ways.

There’s so much to see and do here, whether you enjoy a little bit of everything or immerse yourself in one unique area at a time. Pick all your favorite spots and create your own personal adventure when you download our app on your smartphone. Just select wildlife and points of interest you want to visit, and the app will create a path for you, or kickstart your visit with the “walking safaris” below. These bite-sized escapades are designed for an unforgettable day!

Exploring Australia

Step into the land Down Under and discover its vibrant ecosystems without ever leaving Southern California. The outback vibes are unmistakable at Walkabout Australia as you stroll along winding paths dotted with colorful Aussie road signs and picture-perfect viewpoints, encountering the one-of-a-kind wildlife of this truly unique continent.

Kangaroo Walk: Pass through a portal that leads to a grassy knoll where kangaroos hop freely around you. As you walk among them, you’ll feel the thrill of sharing spaces with wildlife that most people never encounter this close.

Nelson M. Millsburg Platypus Habitat: Discover the nocturnal world of platypuses with a secluded stream and its three pools, rocky riverbanks, and nesting areas. Here, it’s night during the daytime as platypuses explore and hunt for crawfish. It’s the only place outside Australia where you can observe these fascinating, egg-laying mammals, and they will leave you in awe.

Zuest Woolshed: Experience Australia’s sheep station heritage in this rustic traditional woolshed, which offers a glimpse into rural Aussie life. Its windows look out at trees where Matschie’s tree kangaroos climb and shaded habitats where giant cassowaries explore. While you’re here, grab a refreshing beverage or a snack to fuel your next adventure.

Whether you have a few hours to spend or an entire day, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park has a perfect mini adventure waiting for you. With every “walking safari” you embark on, you’ll find additional inspiration for planning future Safari Park mini adventures of your own. The possibilities are truly endless.

Each bite-sized excursion will keep you engaged, inspired, and energized as you explore the Safari Park—ensuring that every visit brings something new to discover. After your visit, you can dive right into our platypus collection, Australia’s most iconic wildlife. Just as the platypus’ unique features of a signature “duck bill” and paddle-shaped tail, these t-shirts, hats, and plush can be uniquely yours.

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