San Diego Zoo and Safari Park 2-Visit Pass Ticket

Traveling to San Diego? Then you’ve probably heard about the city’s famous zoo and wildlife park — and for good reason. The combination of lush habitats, rare animals, and extensive exhibits makes it a standout experience. This 2-visit pass gives you access to both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park, offering a flexible way to enjoy these top-tier attractions. If you’re planning a visit and want to make the most of your time, this ticket promises a comprehensive look at some of the most captivating animals and immersive environments in Southern California.

What we love about this pass? First, the ease of entry — no fussing with paper tickets, just scan your mobile device at the gate. Second, the flexibility to split your visits between two locations, or do multiple days at a single site. That means you can take your time without feeling rushed, and really soak in the sights. The only potential drawback is that covering both parks in one trip can be a bit ambitious — expect a full day if you want to see everything without rushing. This pass is perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone who appreciates thoughtfully designed wildlife experiences.

Who is this experience best suited for?

If you’re visiting San Diego and want a flexible, fun, and educational adventure, this pass is a smart choice. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer to take things slow, explore at their own pace, and enjoy guided tours and shows. The price offers great value, considering unlimited rides on key attractions, and you get nearly a year to use the tickets.

Key Points

• Flexibility to visit the Zoo and Safari Park over two days or split your trips
• All exhibits and shows are included, plus in-park transportation like bus tours and aerial trams
• Mobile tickets simplify entry — no need for paper tickets or Will Call exchanges
• One-year validity allows planning visits around your schedule
• The parks feature over 4,000 animals and extensive botanical collections
• Expect some walking — moderate physical activity required

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is roughly 100 acres of lush pathways and naturalistic habitats, home to around 3,700 animals. The highlight of any visit is its commitment to conservation and education, which is woven into every exhibit. The newest feature, The Harry and Grace Steele Elephant Odyssey, is an impressive blend of history and habitat. You can walk through a fossil dig site that showcases prehistoric creatures like mammoths and saber-toothed tigers, giving you a sense of the evolutionary journey that has shaped today’s wildlife.

This part of the zoo is designed for close encounters. You’ll find extensive walking trails that take you past rare and exotic species, from lions basking in the sun to jaguars lurking in the shadows. The Skyfari Aerial Tram offers a bird’s-eye view of the park, soaring over treetops and giving you a unique perspective — and a break from walking. During our review, we noted how many visitors appreciated the guided bus tours that introduce you to the zoo’s highlights and behind-the-scenes insights, all included in your ticket.

According to reviews, guides are highly knowledgeable, making the experience more meaningful. One visitor noted, “So many knowledgeable guides! It was worth it to see so many animals in their natural habitat.” Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak seasons, but well-maintained paths and shaded rest areas help keep the experience enjoyable.

San Diego Safari Park

A 35-mile drive northwest transports you from the city’s buzz to the sprawling wilderness of the Safari Park in Escondido. Covering approximately 1,800 acres, it’s not just a zoo — it’s a sprawling habitat with open field enclosures and carefully curated environments. The highlight here is the Africa Tram Tour, which takes visitors on a 30-minute drive through herds of elephants, zebras, and endangered species. It’s a fantastic way to see the animals in a setting that mimics their natural habitats.

Beyond the tram, miles of walking trails lead you through different ecosystems, from dense forests to grassy savannas. The Heart of Africa trail, spanning 32 acres, offers encounters with lions and tigers, and you might even catch a glimpse of the California condor, a rare and impressive bird. Many visitors praised the park for its well-maintained habitats and friendly staff, making the effort of the journey worthwhile.

You’ll find shopping and dining options in Nairobi Village, adding a touch of cultural flavor. One reviewer expressed, “Both parks are a lot to do in one day, but we managed it and had a great experience in both locations.” Expect to do some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers admission to both parks, all shows and exhibits, and unlimited rides on transportation attractions like the Skyfari, guided bus tours, and the Africa Tram. All of these are a real perk, especially since they save you money and time. The ticket’s validity of one year means you can plan your visits with flexibility, perhaps spreading them over multiple days.

However, keep in mind that your ticket does not include food, parking fees at the Safari Park, or special ticketed experiences. The zoo’s parking is free, which is a bonus, but parking at the Safari Park is an additional fee. For those traveling with young children, discounted rates are available, and children under 2 are free.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The major advantage is the convenience — your mobile ticket allows direct entry, and you gain access to a wide array of exhibits and transportation options. Plus, the parks are designed to deliver immersive animal encounters and scenic views, as noted by many visitors.

The main challenge is managing the time — both parks are quite expansive. Reviews suggest that trying to see everything in a single day can be overwhelming, especially with small children or less stamina. If you’re a dedicated animal enthusiast, you might want to allocate at least a full day to each site.

The Visitor Experience: Authentic Insights

Readers have shared their thoughts, highlighting the parks’ well-maintained habitats, knowledgeable staff, and spectacular views. One visitor raved, “The day was perfect! Not too hot or cold, and an amazing visit with the animals in their own habitat.” Others appreciated the educational value, especially the exhibits about conservation efforts and prehistoric animals.

While the parks are praised for their cleanliness and friendly guides, some reviewers noted that peak times can get crowded, making it harder to enjoy a relaxed experience. Still, the parks’ layout helps disperse crowds, and strategic planning — arriving early or late in the day — can make a big difference.

The Sum Up: Is This Pass Right for You?

This San Diego Zoo and Safari Park 2-visit pass offers a value-packed way to explore some of the most engaging wildlife attractions in Southern California. It’s ideal for visitors who want flexibility, as tickets are valid for an entire year, and for those who enjoy guided tours and rides included in the price. If you’re traveling with family or wildlife enthusiasts, this pass provides multiple ways to enjoy the parks at your own pace.

The combination of immersive habitats, knowledgeable guides, and scenic rides makes this experience both educational and entertaining. The ability to split your visits over time or use them on separate days means you can avoid feeling rushed, especially if you prefer a leisurely pace. Keep in mind, it’s a substantial amount of walking, so dress comfortably and plan your days accordingly.

The only real caveat is that covering both parks can be a full-day affair, so if you’re pressed for time or traveling with very young children, consider focusing on just one site or spreading your visits over multiple days. Still, with the parks’ high standards of maintenance and engaging exhibits, most visitors find it’s well worth the effort.

All in all, this pass delivers good value, memorable animal encounters, and the flexibility to make your San Diego trip uniquely yours. It’s best suited for curious travelers who value authentic experiences, guided insights, and the freedom to explore at their own pace.

FAQ

How do I redeem my San Diego Zoo and Safari Park Combo Ticket?
This is a direct entry ticket, so you can simply scan your mobile device at the turnstiles — no need to exchange or pick up tickets at Will Call.

Where are the parks located?
The San Diego Zoo is at 2929 Zoo Drive in Balboa Park, and the Safari Park is at 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd in Escondido. The drive between them takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

Is parking included?
Parking at the San Diego Zoo is free, but parking at the Safari Park incurs an additional fee, payable by credit, debit, or cash.

Can I visit both parks in one day?
While it’s physically possible, most visitors find it a bit tight. The parks are about 30 miles apart, so planning a full day for each is recommended if you want to see everything comfortably.

Are there any age discounts?
Yes, children aged 3-11 get a discounted rate, and kids under 2 are free.

Are food options available?
Yes, both parks have a variety of casual and full-service dining options, and you’re allowed to bring small containers of your own food.

What should I know about accessibility?
Both parks are handicap accessible, with special parking, restrooms, and exhibit access. Wheelchair rentals are available, but be aware that some walking is necessary.

Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic, a family on vacation, or someone eager to explore San Diego’s best, this ticket offers a solid, flexible way to enjoy two of the city’s most treasured attractions. Plan your visits wisely, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for a memorable adventure with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.