How much time do you need at San Diego Zoo?

Although one can easily enjoy a full day or more at both parks, to visitors with limited time we recommend a minimum of three to four hours to see some of the Zoo and a minimum of four to six hours to experience a portion of the Safari Park.



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When time is a limiting factor, and you can only spend one day at the San Diego Zoo, it's important to try and plan your trip during the low season. For example, you'll find the park is much less crowded from October-May when the kids are still in school than it is during the summer months.

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This is probably the best zoo that we have ever visited. Included with the zoo admission is a narrated bus tour that takes you all over the zoo. We were lucky as a lot of the animals were active during our bus tour. We took Uber from downtown and the zoo has a convenient drop-off location.

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Comparing the Animals & Exhibits. Which has more animals -- San Diego Safari Park vs Zoo: To sum it up succinctly, the San Diego Zoo has more animals both in quantity and variety. The San Diego Zoo has animals from all over the world, including Australia, Asia, Africa, Central America, South America, and more.

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The San Diego Zoo, hands down, no question- it is arguably the best zoo in the United States… particularly if you include its sister institution, about 30 miles north, the San Diego Wild Animal Park - the L.A. Zoo has nothing comparable and has always struck me as a sterile and depressing environment for the animals.

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In summary, the San Diego Zoo has a greater quantity and variety of animals from different types of habitats from all over the world while SeaWorld's animal exhibits are exclusively focused on ocean life and marine animals from various parts of the world.

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It is well known for its lush, naturalistic habitats and unique animal encounters and is home to more than 3,700 rare and endangered animals representing approximately 660 species and subspecies and a prominent botanical collection with more than 700,000 plants.

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The San Diego Zoo has a lot of walking and hills. Be prepared for climbing or plan to use some of the park transportation options.

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For a family just visiting on vacation 1 day is plenty. I think young children also need time to run around and play so don't forget beaches/parks/playgrounds etc.

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Top ways to experience San Diego Zoo Safari Park and nearby attractions. 96% of travelers recommend this experience. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 91% of travelers recommend this experience.

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SeaWorld is a top-rated, all-age attraction and a must-see for any visit to San Diego. Have unforgettable fun that sparks a passion for wild animals and wild places. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Explore different ways to experience this place.

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Distance between the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is 35 miles. Please allow 45 minutes to 1 hour travel time.

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Especially on weekends, the San Diego Zoo can get crowded fast. Arrive early— right at the 9am opening—to avoid the worst of the crowds and the southern California heat. Another great way to avoid crowds is by visiting during the week instead of the weekend.

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10 Tips for an Awesome Zoo Trip
  1. Go during the week. Let's face it – you aren't there to see the people. ...
  2. Get there early. Zoos are big with lots of things to take in so get there early! ...
  3. Make a plan. Now I love a list. ...
  4. Use the lockers. ...
  5. Bring two pairs of shoes. ...
  6. Pack your own food. ...
  7. Get Photo Phunny. ...
  8. Find the Interactive Areas.


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