Explore drive-thru and walkabout sections to meet 65+ species up close, open year round for all ages
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Drive-thru safari, Walkabout zoo
Experience a 5-mile drive-thru safari and a walkabout zoo where you can meet and feed animals up close. Explore 250 acres home to more than 65 species, with scenic views and knowledgeable zookeepers.
Open daily year-round except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Park hours 10am-5pm; last drive-thru at 3:30pm and latest admission one hour before close. Severe weather or freezing temps may close the park.
All sales are final. Online rebooking is possible. Pricing may vary.
What can I expect with the Wild Animal Safari General Admission Ticket?
A: Your admission includes access to the park’s drive-through and walk-about areas, where you can see a variety of animals up close.
How much time should I plan for the Wild Animal Safari visit?
A: It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before closing to allow enough time to experience the entire park.
Is there a latest entry time for the Wild Animal Safari?
A: Yes. The last admission is allowed up to 1 hour before the park closes.
Can I use my own vehicle in the Wild Animal Safari?
A: Yes. Guests may drive their own vehicle through the park, though guided tours and rental vehicles are available if you prefer.
What happens if there is severe weather?
A: The park may close due to severe weather such as snow, ice, or very low temperatures. In these cases, operations may be suspended for safety.
Do I need to bring anything for entry?
A: Yes. Please have your tickets ready for scanning upon arrival.
Please arrive at 124 Jungle Road in Strafford, MO. Have your tickets ready for scanning at the entrance upon arrival.
This drive-through safari creates those up-close animal moments that visitors rave about long after leaving. Guests consistently highlight the interactive feeding experiences, where zebras, giraffes, and other animals approach your vehicle for treats. The special animal encounters, particularly with sloths and capybaras, earn enthusiastic praise, with staff members going out of their way to make these experiences memorable. Many recommend taking the guided bus tour rather than driving your own car, as the knowledgeable guides share interesting information while you relax and enjoy the animals without worrying about your vehicle getting scratched or slobbered on. The animals appear healthy and well-cared-for, and the staff consistently receives compliments for being friendly and genuinely invested in the animals' welfare. Families find it perfect for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. A few reviewers mention that tiger and lion enclosures feel small compared to the generous space given to other animals, and bathroom cleanliness can be inconsistent during busy times. The afternoon sloth encounters may disappoint since these animals are naturally less active later in the day. Still, the overwhelming sentiment is that this makes for a thrilling, interactive experience that creates lasting memories, especially for first-time visitors to this type of attraction.
The Wild Animal Safari and Drive-Thru Safari were a completely unplanned stop on our trip. We saw the signs on the way home and decided to check it out, and I’m so glad we did. You can purchase feed to give to the animals, which makes the experience much more interactive and fun. We did both the walk-through and the drive-thru portions. The drive-thru was definitely a little intimidating—the animals come right up to your vehicle, stick their heads inside, and sometimes even block the road. Patience is key, especially if they know you still have food (they’re in no rush to move on). We tried to ration the feed so we could give a little to as many animals as possible. Once the next car approached, the animals would slowly make their way down the line. All in all, it was absolutely worth the stop. It was thrilling to be so close to the animals, and feeding a giraffe by hand is something I will never forget.
SR
October 4, 2025
The Wild Animal Safari and Drive-Thru Safari were a completely unplanned stop on our trip. We saw the signs on the way home and decided to check it out, and I’m so glad we did. You can purchase feed to give to the animals, which makes the experience much more interactive and fun. We did both the walk-through and the drive-thru portions. The drive-thru was definitely a little intimidating—the animals come right up to your vehicle, stick their heads inside, and sometimes even block the road. Patience is key, especially if they know you still have food (they’re in no rush to move on). We tried to ration the feed so we could give a little to as many animals as possible. Once the next car approached, the animals would slowly make their way down the line. All in all, it was absolutely worth the stop. It was thrilling to be so close to the animals, and feeding a giraffe by hand is something I will never forget.
SR
October 4, 2025