Book a tour at Safari Wilderness, an expansive 260-acre wilderness ranch in Lakeland.
Safari Wilderness: “10 Best Safaris in the U.S.”
If you’ve always dreamed of taking the family on an African safari, but just couldn’t find room in the budget, here’s your chance. Safari Wilderness Ranch is conveniently located just six miles north of I-4 between Orlando and Tampa, and was recently voted by Fodor’s Travel as one of the “10 Best Safaris in the U.S.” You’ll see wildlife herds in huge, immersive natural landscapes, and witness the inner working of a genuine farm operation. It’s not a theatrical production for visitors -it’s the real thing!
Animals You’ll See on the Tour
Safari Wilderness is home to a large herd of scimitar-horned oryx, a species extinct in its native Africa. And because they specialize in animals that do well in their 260-acre multi habitat preserve, they have been able to cultivate one the largest herds of Defassa Waterbuck in the country. Safari Wilderness Ranch also raises free-spirited lemurs, eland, Red Lechwe, zebras, fainting goats, ostriches, llamas, camels and so much more.
Small Group Tours, No Lines
Safari Wilderness is not a zoo or theme park. There are no crowds, lines or scripted presentations. You will enjoy a natural adventure while your knowledgeable and experienced guide tours you through various animal habitats and answers all of your questions about the fascinating wildlife found on the ranch.
Safari Bus Tour or Camelback Tour
Up to 20 people can board a converted bus that is oh so breezy, and super convenient to reach out of when domestic Asian water buffalo wander close for a snack or good ol’ petting.
If you’re feeling a little more daring, you can explore Safari Wilderness Ranch from a camel’s back with the assistance of an animal keeper and tour guide. Speaking of tour guides, the employees are truly passionate about what they do, which makes the experience all the more entertaining.
Lemur Feeding
You don’t just get to admire exotic animals from afar, you can feed, pet, and even ride them. You haven’t lived until you’ve fed grapes to a lemur; they will lick the juice off of your fingers. And camel kisses are the best kisses – trust us.
Even those who choose to tour the property via safari bus haven’t necessarily forfeited their chance to ride a camel. You can add an à la carte camel or horse ride to your experience if you just can’t bear for the fun to end.
Book a Tour
Visitors to the Safari Wilderness are strictly limited in number for preservation purposes. Tours are offered daily, but advance reservations are required to ensure your spot. Book online by visiting safariwilderness.com or phone 813 382 2120.
Safari Wilderness is a Florida agri-tourism project and is accredited by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA) and licensed by the USDA.
NEW! Safari Camping Experience
Like a true African Safari now you can camp out in the bush, with Safari Wilderness’ new luxury camping experience. Watch the sun go down after your day of safari, enjoy sundowner drink and have a moonlit evening meal with your friends. Safari Wilderness will host a few special people per night in 10 beautifully appointed safari tents on the property.
To book a stay visit Safariwilderness.com
Note that the camping experience is seasonal, so please reach out to Safari Wilderness if you are planning a trip.
Nearby
For places to eat, shop and things to do in the area visit our dedicated Lakeland page
