During the week , I decided to treat my daughters to an adventurous day trip to Atlanta Safari Park, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Commerce, Georgia.
Atlanta Safari Park covers 156 acres and houses a diverse array of free-roaming animals from around the globe. The highlight is its expansive 2-mile drive-thru safari, which took us about an hour and a half to traverse.
Upon arrival, I purchased tickets for myself and my daughters, along with three buckets of pellets and three parakeet seed sticks for the walk-in parakeet aviary.
I admit I was a bit apprehensive about potential car damage from the wild animals at the safari. However, the attendant assured me that neither vehicle damage nor injuries had occurred due to the animals.
Up-Close Encounters with Wildlife
As soon as we started our safari drive, we were greeted by an enthusiastic ostrich that eagerly approached our car. I rolled down the window and offered it a bucket of pellets. To our surprise, another ostrich joined in, creating a lively (and messy!) feeding frenzy inside the car. My daughters were initially frightened when one ostrich boldly stuck its entire head and neck inside, prompting screams of both terror and laughter.
Moving along, we encountered a friendly herd of llamas. Unlike the ostriches, they approached calmly and delicately took pellets from our hands. We also had the chance to interact with zebras, emus, and alpacas during our drive. Other animals such as Watusi, Blackbuck, Gazelle, and Eland grazed peacefully in the distance, maintaining their natural behavior.
Impressions of Atlanta Safari Park
One of the most striking aspects was how many animals voluntarily approached our car without the need for coaxing. The animals appeared healthy, and the park grounds were impeccably maintained, offering stunning views of rolling hills reminiscent of a true safari experience.
Fortunately, there was no damage to the car, although it did require a thorough cleaning to remove dust and scattered pellets.
Exploring Beyond the Safari Drive
After completing the drive-thru safari, we ventured down a small hill to visit the petting zoo. Here, we encountered Kune Kune Pigs, Boer Goats, Jacob’s Sheep, Baby Emus, and Nigerian Dwarf Goats. With the remaining pellets, we enjoyed feeding these animals and took a break at the gift shop for water and ice cream to cool off.
A Finale with Feathered Friends
Our visit concluded with a visit to the Parakeet Aviary, where we delighted in hand-feeding colorful birds with seed sticks, a serene and interactive experience.
Animal Variety and Ticket Information
Atlanta Safari Park boasts a wide range of animals including Llamas, Nilgai, Red Lechwe, Banteng, Bison, Water Buffalo, and many more. Ticket prices start at $12.99 for children (under 2 free) and $15.99 for adults. Each feed bucket costs $5.00, and Parakeet Seed Sticks are priced at $2.00. The park is open daily, ensuring flexibility for visitors.
Commitment to Conservation
Atlanta Safari Park prioritizes wildlife conservation, with proceeds from ticket sales supporting conservation efforts through the Zoological Association of America. This commitment extends globally, making a meaningful impact on endangered species worldwide.
Rules and Guidelines
Visitors are reminded to remain in their vehicles throughout the safari drive. Feeding animals directly from buckets (not hands) prevents bites, and all vehicle doors must remain closed at all times. Other rules include a speed limit of 5 mph to ensure animal safety.
What Kinds of Animals Are at Atlanta Safari Park?
- Llama
- Nilgai
- Red Lechwe
- Banteng
- Bison
- Water Buffalo
- Watusi
- Scottish Highland Cow
- Emu
- Ostrich
- Alpaca
- Blue Wildebeest
- Grant’s Zebra
- Blackbuck
- Thomson’s Gazelle
- Eland
- Scimitar Horned Oryx
- Parakeet
- Kune Kune Pig
- Boar Goat
- Jacob’s Sheep
- Nigerian Dwarf Goat
- Indian Peafowl
- Eurasian Eagle Owl
- Reticulated Giraffe
Plan Your Visit
If you’re seeking an unforgettable wildlife adventure in Georgia, Atlanta Safari Park promises a blend of excitement and conservation in a picturesque setting.
Atlanta Safari Park
6210 Highway 326
Commerce GA, 30530