The Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari and Gator Park offers a unique way to explore the diverse wildlife of Florida from the comfort of your vehicle, followed by an exciting visit to the Gator Park. Located just a short drive from Orlando, this wildlife experience allows you to see animals from around the world as well as iconic Floridian species like alligators in their natural habitat. Whether you’re a nature lover, a family seeking adventure, or a wildlife enthusiast, this combination of drive-thru safari and gator park is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari and Gator Park, including the highlights of the safari, what to expect in the Gator Park, and tips for making the most of your day with Florida’s fascinating wildlife.
Why Choose Wild Florida’s Drive-Thru Safari and Gator Park?
The Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari allows you to get up close to exotic and native animals without ever leaving your car. This unique experience makes it possible to see over 100 different animals roaming freely across 85 acres of lush Floridian landscape. After the safari, you can continue your wildlife adventure at the Gator Park, where you can interact with Florida’s famous alligators and enjoy various exhibits and activities.
Key Benefits of the Wild Florida Safari and Gator Park
- Self-Guided Drive-Thru Experience: Explore the safari at your own pace from the comfort of your vehicle. With no rush, you can take your time observing the animals as they roam freely.
- Gator Park Adventure: After the safari, experience Florida’s famous alligators up close at the Gator Park, where you can see gator shows, hold a baby alligator, and learn about the conservation of these incredible reptiles.
- Diverse Wildlife: The park is home to a wide variety of animals, from zebras and giraffes to bison and alligators. You’ll also see species native to Florida’s wetlands, such as deer, wild boar, and birds of prey.
- Family-Friendly: This adventure is perfect for families, as both the safari and gator park offer a fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike.
What to Expect During the Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari
Your journey begins with the Drive-Thru Safari, a self-guided tour that takes you through 85 acres of carefully designed natural habitats where the animals roam freely. As you drive, you’ll have the opportunity to see a wide variety of animals up close, all from the comfort and safety of your vehicle.
Highlights of the Drive-Thru Safari
- Exotic Animals: The safari is home to animals from around the world, including zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and watusi cattle. These majestic creatures are often seen grazing or wandering across the open plains of the park.
- Native Florida Wildlife: In addition to exotic species, you’ll encounter animals native to Florida’s natural habitats, such as white-tailed deer, wild boar, and turkeys. The park’s layout mimics the natural wetlands of Florida, providing a more immersive experience.
- Drive at Your Own Pace: One of the best aspects of the drive-thru safari is the ability to go at your own pace. If you spot an animal you want to observe more closely, you can stop your car and take your time watching it in its natural habitat.
- Up-Close Animal Encounters: With no barriers between you and the animals (aside from your vehicle), the experience feels more intimate. Giraffes may stroll near your car, and you might see zebras crossing the road just in front of you.
Animal Feeding at the Safari Park
At Wild Florida, you can also purchase food to feed the giraffes at the Giraffe Feeding Platform, an opportunity that gives you a personal and hands-on interaction with these gentle giants.
Exploring the Gator Park
After completing the safari, the adventure continues at the Gator Park, where you can learn all about Florida’s most famous reptile—the American alligator. The park also houses a wide range of other animals, providing additional opportunities for fun and learning.
Highlights of the Gator Park
- Alligator Exhibits: The Gator Park is home to numerous alligators of all sizes. You can watch them bask in the sun, feed in their natural environment, or see them in action during live gator shows.
- Live Gator Shows: The gator shows feature professional handlers who demonstrate how to safely interact with alligators. You’ll also learn about the anatomy and behaviors of these fascinating creatures and the conservation efforts to protect them.
- Hold a Baby Gator: One of the highlights of the Gator Park is the opportunity to hold a baby alligator. This hands-on experience is a favorite among visitors and makes for a memorable photo opportunity.
- Exotic Animal Encounters: In addition to alligators, the Gator Park is home to a variety of other species, including lemurs, tropical birds, and sloths. You can meet these animals up close and learn more about them through interactive exhibits.
- Airboat Rides: For an additional fee, you can extend your wildlife adventure with an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades. These thrilling rides take you deep into the wetlands, where you can see alligators, turtles, and other native species in their natural habitat.
Gator Park Shows and Presentations
Throughout the day, the Gator Park hosts educational presentations about the park’s residents. The presentations are not only entertaining but also give visitors a deeper understanding of the animals and the conservation work being done at Wild Florida.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Wild Florida Safari and Gator Park Visit
- Arrive Early: The safari can take up to 1.5 to 2 hours, so arriving early ensures you have plenty of time to enjoy the drive-thru experience and the Gator Park without rushing.
- Bring Binoculars: While many animals will come close to your car, bringing a pair of binoculars can help you spot wildlife in the distance, especially in the open plains.
- Pack Snacks and Water: While the park offers food and drinks, bringing your own snacks and water can help keep you energized throughout the day, especially if you plan on spending a few hours at both the safari and the Gator Park.
- Dress Comfortably: The Gator Park includes outdoor exhibits and walking paths, so be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the Florida sun can be intense.
- Giraffe Feeding: If you want to feed the giraffes, be sure to purchase food at the gift shop before heading to the feeding platform. This experience is a great way to interact with the animals and take some fun photos.
- Check Show Schedules: The Gator Park’s live shows and presentations are scheduled throughout the day, so check the schedule when you arrive to make sure you don’t miss any of the performances.
How to Book Your Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari and Gator Park Experience
Booking your Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari and Gator Park experience is simple and can be done through Viator, a trusted platform for tours and attractions. Most tickets include:
- Access to the drive-thru safari, where you can explore the park from your own vehicle.
- Entry to the Gator Park, including live shows and animal exhibits.
- Giraffe feeding (optional, with additional fees).
For more information and to reserve your tickets, visit Viator for the latest availability and pricing.
Conclusion
The Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari and Gator Park offers an exciting and immersive way to experience Florida’s wildlife up close, combining the thrill of a safari adventure with the chance to see and interact with alligators and other exotic animals. From the comfort of your car on the safari to hands-on experiences in the Gator Park, this tour is perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and fascinating creatures of Florida.
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Disclaimer: This information is accurate at the time of writing. Please refer to the booking page on Viator for the latest updates and availability before making reservations.
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