Planning a visit to African Lion Safari? This popular Ontario family attraction is much more than a zoo. Families can drive through animal reserves, cool off at the splash pad, ride the train, take a boat cruise, and spend an entire day exploring with kids of all ages.
If you’re wondering whether African Lion Safari is worth visiting with kids, what animals you’ll see, what to bring, or how to plan your day, this guide covers everything families should know before visiting.
African Lion Safari Quick Facts
Location
Cambridge, Ontario
Best For
- Toddlers
- Preschoolers
- Animal-loving kids
- Multi-age families
- Summer family day trips
Time Needed
Plan for a full day visit.
Main Attractions
- Drive-through safari
- Splash pad & water play
- Train ride
- Boat cruise
- Animal exhibits
- Playground areas
- Educational presentations
What To Bring
- Swimsuits & towels
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Stroller or wagon for younger children
What Is African Lion Safari?
African Lion Safari is Canada’s original drive-through safari adventure and one of the most popular family attractions in Ontario. The park is home to more than 1,000 animals representing over 100 species. Unlike a traditional zoo, many animals roam freely through large game reserves while visitors drive through in their own vehicle or take a guided safari tour bus.
Families can combine:
- Animal encounters
- Walk-through exhibits
- Splash pad fun
- Family rides
- Educational experiences
- Outdoor play areas
Because there’s so much to do, many families consider African Lion Safari one of the best summer day trips from Burlington, Hamilton, Toronto, and surrounding Ontario communities.
The African Lion Safari Drive-Through Experience
The drive-through safari is the biggest attraction and the highlight for many families visiting African Lion Safari Ontario.
Visitors slowly drive through multiple game reserves where animals roam in large open spaces around your vehicle. Kids love spotting animals up close from the car windows, making this a much different experience than a traditional zoo visit.
Animals You May See
Depending on the reserve and time of day, families may spot:
- Lions
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Rhinos
- Ostriches
- Antelope
- Bison
- Kangaroos
The safari drive is one of the reasons many families return year after year.
Can You Drive Your Own Car Through African Lion Safari?
Yes. Most visitors drive their own vehicle through the reserves. Families should follow all park safety rules and remain inside the vehicle during the safari experience.
If you prefer not to drive your own vehicle through the reserves, African Lion Safari also offers a Safari Tour Bus option.
Things Families Love Most at African Lion Safari
Many first-time visitors are surprised by how many attractions are included beyond the safari drive itself.
Misumu Bay Wet Play & Splash Pad
The African Lion Safari splash pad is one of the most popular attractions during summer visits. Younger kids especially love cooling off after walking through the park. If you plan on visiting during warm weather, definitely bring:
- Swimsuits
- Towels
- Water shoes
- Extra clothes
This area can easily become one of the longest stops of the day for families with younger children.
“Nature Boy” Scenic Railway – The train ride is a favourite with toddlers and preschoolers and gives families a relaxing break between attractions.
“African Queen” Boat Cruise – The scenic boat cruise offers another fun way to experience the park while giving kids a chance to rest their legs.
Playground Areas – There are playground and climbing areas throughout the park where children can burn off extra energy between animal exhibits and rides.
Pets’ Corner – Younger visitors especially enjoy the farm animal and interactive animal areas where kids can get a closer look at smaller animals.
Animal Presentations – Throughout the day, African Lion Safari offers educational presentations and animal experiences that help families learn more about wildlife and conservation.
African Lion Safari Tickets 2026
How much is it to go to the Safari? Purchase your tickets in advance online and save a few dollar on each ticket. Tickets are also available at the gate, but, we recommend pre-purchasing online to secure your spot. Click here to buy your African Lion Safari tickets.
We are always on the lookout for African Lion Safari discount codes for you, therefore watch this spot as this is where we will share them.
2026 ONLINE TICKET PRICES
| SPRING (MAY 2-15) FALL (SEPT 8-OCT 11*) | SUMMER (MAY 16-SEPT 7) | |
| ADULTS (13+ YEARS) | $39.95 | $47.95 |
| CHILD (3-12 YEARS) | $26.95 | $33.95 |
| 2 YEARS & UNDER | FREE | FREE |
2026 GATE SAFARI TICKETS
| SPRING (MAY 2-15) FALL (SEPT 8-OCT 11*) | SUMMER (MAY 16-SEPT 7) | |
| ADULTS (13+ YEARS) | $44.95 | $53.95 |
| CHILD (3-12 YEARS) | $31.95 | $39.95 |
| 2 YEARS & UNDER | FREE | FREE |
A Season’s Passport – Is It Worth It?
Season’s Passports are a great idea if you plan on visiting African Lion Safari 3 or more times. A Passport gives you unlimited visits for the season and if you love the looks of Misumu Bay Wetplay, it will be worth it to invest. Season Passport holders also receive 20% off food and non-alcoholic beverages at all on-site food service locations (this excludes vending carts). You also enjoy 20% off in the gift shops (excluding sales and batteries). Click here to buy your African Lion Safari Season Passport.
| EARLY BIRD RATE | REGULAR RATE |
|---|---|
| available until March 31, 2026 | as of April 1, 2026 |
| ADULT (13+ YEARS): $104.95 | ADULT (13-59 YEARS): $119.95 |
| CHILD (3-12 YEARS): $94.95 | CHILD (3-12 YEARS): $109.95 |
If we discover African Lion Safari coupons, coupon codes or deals, we will share them here!
Tips and FAQs
Yes, it is! You can see a detailed list of Accessible measures and specific park sections here.
Yes, they are. But please leave pets at home.
“African Lion Safari is pleased to participate in the Easter Seals Access 2 Card Program and offer both an individual with a disability and one support person, 25% off regular gate admission at the Ticketbooth.”
Yes, wagon rentals are available for $8 and wheelchairs are $5. Both rentals require a security deposit
VISA, MasterCard, Interac and cash are accepted at all locations throughout the park.
Washrooms are available at Jungle Junction, Mombasa Market Restaurant, Misumu Bay Wetplay and at the end of Tusker Trail.
Are You Ready To Visit?
If you’re looking for one of the best animal attractions in Ontario for families, African Lion Safari offers much more than a traditional zoo experience.
Between the drive-through safari, splash pad, train rides, boat cruise, playgrounds, and animal encounters, it’s easy to see why so many Ontario families make this a yearly summer tradition.
For families planning a day trip from Burlington, Hamilton, Niagara, or Toronto, African Lion Safari is one of the easiest ways to combine outdoor adventure, animals, and kid-friendly fun into one full day experience.
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