Safari Lake Geneva Wisconsin
Experience a wild adventure at Safari Lake Geneva, WI! Feed exotic animals from your car in a unique drive-thru safari.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Safari Lake Geneva Wisconsin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a wild adventure at Safari Lake Geneva, WI! Feed exotic animals from your car in a unique drive-thru safari.
"Absolutely loved the experience. We traveled more than 2 hours to do this and I will definitely do it again."
🎯 Buy Extra Feed Cups
Get 2 buckets of food; you'll want more! Animals are eager, and you might run out halfway through.
🚗 Prepare for a Dirty Car
Animals will stick heads in your car for food. Expect slobber and dirt; a car wash is likely needed!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Drive-Thru Safari Adventure
Experience exotic animals up close from your car, feeding them directly from your window. A truly unique and interactive wildlife encounter.
+1
Interactive Petting Zoo
Get out of your car to meet and pet select animals in a safe, gated area. Perfect for younger visitors to get up close.
+1
Capybara Experience
A special opportunity to interact with and feed the beloved capybaras, a fan favorite for many visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for a Messy Car
+3Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Buy Extra Feed Cups
Get 2 buckets of food; you'll want more! Animals are eager, and you might run out halfway through.
🚗 Prepare for a Dirty Car
Animals will stick heads in your car for food. Expect slobber and dirt; a car wash is likely needed!
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Tickets sell out fast! Secure your spot by purchasing admission in advance on their website.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be getting in and out of your car, especially for the petting zoo.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Buy Extra Feed Cups
Get 2 buckets of food; you'll want more! Animals are eager, and you might run out halfway through.
🚗 Prepare for a Dirty Car
Animals will stick heads in your car for food. Expect slobber and dirt; a car wash is likely needed!
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Tickets sell out fast! Secure your spot by purchasing admission in advance on their website.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be getting in and out of your car, especially for the petting zoo.
📸 Capture the Memories
Bring your phone or camera! The interactions are unforgettable and make for great photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Safari Lake Geneva for its unique and interactive animal encounters, especially the drive-thru feeding experience. Many highlight it as a fun outing for families and couples, with the animals being fearless and engaging. While some note the potential for a messy car and occasional rough roads, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many planning return visits.
"Absolutely loved the experience. We traveled more than 2 hours to do this and I will definitely do it again.
I was a little nervous driving over the cattle guards as the sides looked a little worn away and I was concerned on their stability but we had no incidents.
We went on a Monday afternoon after school was back in session, it wasn't crowded and we had the best time.
Lots of different animals-get 2 buckets of food cause you'll love feeding them!"
Rosemarie Brodeur
"I absolutely love this place! We’ve already been here twice, and every visit feels special. Driving through and feeding the animals right from the car is such a unique and memorable experience. It’s also wonderful to see how the park is improving and creating even better spaces for the animals.
The price is very fair, and it’s an amazing outing for families. One suggestion: near the end of the loop where the road turns back, it would be fantastic to have a place to buy extra feed. Many visitors use up their food by the halfway point, so on the last stretch they just enjoy the ride but can’t feed the animals anymore. Adding this option would make the experience even more fun for guests and also benefit the park.
We had a fantastic time and will definitely be back again!"
Katsiaryna Kazlova
"So much fun!!! I hadn't laughed that hard in a long time! The animals are fearless and will stick their heads right in your car. Your car will definitely get dirty and some of the path is rough to drive on. It is worth every bit of it, though. Be sure to purchase some food cups. Please note that you must purchase tickets online in advance or it will most likely be sold out. A must-do for sure!"
Janna Erickson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Safari Lake Geneva is conveniently located about 1.5 hours (90 minutes) from Chicago, making it a popular day trip destination for city dwellers.
The most common and recommended way to visit is by driving your own vehicle. The drive-thru safari experience is designed for cars.
Public transportation to Safari Lake Geneva is not practical for the full experience, as it's primarily a drive-thru attraction. Driving is essential.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors. You'll park your car before entering the drive-thru portion or after visiting the interactive areas.
Absolutely! It's a perfect destination for a day trip from Chicago and surrounding areas, offering a full day of entertainment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but typically range around $25.95 per person, with an additional cost for feed cups (around $5). It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance. They often sell out, especially on weekends and holidays, to guarantee your entry.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Safari Lake Geneva website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
While sometimes possible, it's not guaranteed, and tickets may be sold out. Purchasing online in advance is the safest way to ensure entry.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for any potential promotions or group rates.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
You can encounter a wide variety of exotic animals, including zebras, llamas, camels, bison, and more. Some visitors have also mentioned seeing monkeys and capybaras.
Yes, feeding the animals is a major highlight! You can purchase cups of food on-site to feed many of the animals from your car window. +1
Yes, it's a fantastic experience for all ages, from toddlers to adults. Kids especially love the interactive feeding, and adults find it equally fun and memorable.
Expect animals to approach your car, sometimes sticking their heads in for food. The roads can be a bit rough in places, and your car will likely get dirty. +1
Yes, Safari Lake Geneva offers a gated interactive section where you can get out of your car to meet and pet select animals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you can purchase cups of feed for the animals on-site. While there might be limited snack options, the main focus is on the animal feeding experience.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally allowed, which can be a good option for families or those looking to save money.
Information about a full-service restaurant is limited. Visitors often mention Joni's Diner in Lake Geneva as a nearby dining option.
Purchase the feed cups sold at the park. It's recommended to get at least two cups per vehicle, as animals are very eager for them.
Some reviews suggest that it would be beneficial to have an option to buy extra feed near the end of the loop, as many visitors use theirs up early.
📸 📸 Photography
Keep your phone or camera ready as animals approach your car. Be mindful of the animals' movements and the car's surroundings for the best shots.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be respectful of the animals and follow any park staff instructions.
Expect close-up shots of animals' faces as they reach for food, wide shots of animals roaming freely, and fun family interaction photos. +1
While animals are generally focused on food, it's wise to keep your camera secure and avoid dangling it where an animal might grab it.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at wildlife parks to avoid disturbing the animals. Check the park's specific policies if you plan to use one.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Capybara Experience is also a huge draw for younger animal lovers. Pro-tip for families: Bring extra wipes and be prepared for a messy car – it's part of the fun! Purchasing multiple feed cups is highly recommended to keep everyone entertained. Booking tickets online in advance is essential to avoid disappointment.
👫 Couples & Date Ideas
It's a great way to break the ice and create lasting memories. Consider combining your visit with a stroll around the charming town of Lake Geneva for a full day out. The interactive elements also add a playful touch to a date, making it more engaging than a typical outing.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1 The drive-thru format makes it perfect for a quick yet impactful stop, allowing you to stretch your legs slightly at the interactive areas without extensive walking. It's a fantastic option for those seeking interesting sights with little to no excessive walking, as mentioned in traveler requests.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Drive-Thru Safari Experience
+1Many visitors rave about the interactive nature of this part of the park. The chance to feed the animals directly from your car window is a major draw, leading to laughter and excitement. However, be prepared for your car to get messy; the animals are enthusiastic eaters and can leave behind slobber and dirt. This aspect, while potentially messy, is part of the wild charm and a common talking point among visitors.
While the drive-thru is the main attraction, some reviews suggest that the road conditions can be a bit rough in certain areas. It's also noted that feed cups can run out quickly, leading some to wish for more feeding opportunities towards the end of the loop. Despite these minor points, the overall consensus is that the drive-thru safari is a highly enjoyable and recommended activity.
Interactive Encounters and Special Experiences
+1A standout experience for many is the Capybara Experience. These gentle giants are a favorite among visitors, and the opportunity to feed and spend time with them is a highlight. This special encounter adds another layer of engagement to the visit, catering to those who want a more hands-on connection with the animals.
These interactive elements make Safari Lake Geneva suitable for a wide range of visitors, from families with young children who might be initially hesitant in a car to couples looking for a unique date activity. The combination of the drive-thru and these closer encounters ensures a varied and engaging day out.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Be prepared for your car to get dirty. The animals are eager for food and will often stick their heads into your vehicle. Many visitors recommend getting at least two cups of feed to ensure you have enough for the entire drive-thru portion, as they can go quickly.
Consider the time of year and day. Weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed experience. Dressing comfortably and wearing appropriate footwear is also advised, as you'll be getting in and out of your car.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit