Lion Country Safari, nestled in the heart of Loxahatchee near West Palm Beach, Florida, is not just another wildlife park. Established in 1967, it boasts the title of being the first 'cageless zoo' in the United States. Spanning over 600 acres, this drive-through safari park combined with a walk-through amusement park offers an unparalleled experience of being close to nature.
A Glimpse into the African Wilderness
Designed by visionary entrepreneurs, Lion Country Safari was conceptualized to provide families with an authentic African safari experience. South Florida, with its year-round favorable climate, emerged as the perfect location for this ambitious project. In its early days, the park even featured its own narrow gauge railroad, the Everglade Express, which was based on the design of the Jack Murphy Stadium.
Diverse Exhibits and Thrilling Encounters
The park is home to over 1,000 animals, spread across seven distinct sections in the 4-mile preserve, as well as the expansive 33-acre Amusement Park. Visitors embark on a self-driven journey in their vehicles, moving at their own pace. As they traverse the park, they can tune into a recorded narration available via streaming from SoundCloud, enriching their experience with interesting facts about the animals they encounter. Many animals, including giraffes, antelopes, and zebras, wander freely, often crossing paths with the vehicles, offering thrilling close-up encounters. However, for safety reasons, some animals like lions and apes are kept behind barriers.
Chimpanzee Island: A Unique Exhibit
One of the standout features of Lion Country Safari is its chimpanzee exhibit. These primates reside on an island system, moving to a different island daily, mimicking their natural nomadic behavior. This setting allows the chimpanzees to live in intricate social groups, similar to their wild counterparts. The park also serves as a haven for retired chimpanzees, previously used in research and entertainment.
Safari World: Beyond the Drive
Once the drive-through safari is complete, visitors can explore Safari World. This section offers a plethora of attractions, including an Animal Theater, a petting zoo, mini-golf, paddle boats, water slides, and the much-loved giraffe-feeding exhibit. To satiate hunger pangs, the park's main restaurant offers a variety of delectable options.
A Unique Wildlife Experience in Loxahatchee Groves
Lion Country Safari in Loxahatchee Groves is more than just a wildlife park. It's an immersive experience that transports visitors to the heart of the African wilderness, all while ensuring the well-being and conservation of the animals. Whether you're an animal lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking for a unique day out with the family, Lion Country Safari promises memories that will last a lifetime.
