Some forty kilometers from central Bangkok, Safari World combines a safari park traversed by vehicle and a marine park with aviaries and shows. Designed as a family day trip, the site remains one of the largest animal complexes in the Thai capital, but it is also subject to documented criticism regarding animal welfare that you should be aware of before visiting.

Why Visit Safari World?

Safari World is primarily aimed at families seeking a day of animal activities on the outskirts of Bangkok. The main appeal lies in the unusual format for the region: an eight-kilometer drive through enclosures of African and Asian herbivores and large carnivores, complemented by a second area dedicated to marine animals and birds.

The site is the only Thai park of this scale listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, making it also a major economic player in Bangkok's tourism industry. Before planning your visit, it is useful to be aware of the ethical controversies detailed further down in this guide.

History of Safari World

Safari World opened its doors on February 17, 1988. The park initially covered 80 acres (approximately 32 hectares), to which was added a 72-hectare area dedicated to birds. The commercial success of the project led managers to undertake extensive renovations starting in 1989, with the addition of a 200-hectare marine zone.

In 1994, the company was renamed Safari World Public Company Limited and listed on the Stock Exchange. It has since been among the rare leisure park operators listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

What to See and Do at Safari World?

The complex is divided into two distinct sections, accessible separately or via a combined ticket.

Safari Park: The Drive-Through Route

The first section reproduces the classic format of an African safari. Visitors travel by car, or aboard a park vehicle, through a circuit of approximately eight kilometers dotted with various enclosures.

You can observe a large herd of herbivores: black wildebeest, impalas, giraffes, gazelles, zebras, Cape buffalo, camels and dromedaries. The route also crosses more imposing animals such as rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, lions, Asian black bears and American black bears. The tropical vegetation has been arranged to evoke the African bush.

Marine Park: Birds and Aquatic Animals

The second area, the Marine Park, groups together marine animals, shows and Mini World, a sector composed of several aviaries. You will see pink flamingos cohabiting with Carolina ducks and mandarin ducks, hundreds of sun conures, as well as hornbills recognizable by their disproportionate curved beaks.

The Marine Park also hosts the shows that bring the site its reputation: dolphin, sea lion, orangutan and elephant performances. These representations are precisely those that concentrate criticism from animal protection organizations.

Ethical Controversies to Know

Safari World has been subject to repeated controversies concerning the welfare of its animals. Several international organizations have questioned the training methods of orangutans (used in particular in boxing performances) and elephants, as well as the breeding conditions of young lions and tigers. These elements are public and documented; it is up to each visitor to decide, with full knowledge of the facts, whether they wish to support this type of establishment or prioritize other formats of animal observation.

Practical Information

The Safari Park and Marine Park apply distinct hours and rates, generally with slightly longer opening hours on weekends. A combined ticket, more advantageous than the sum of the two separate entries, allows access to the entire complex on the same day. Plan for a full day to visit both parks without rushing.

Two restaurants are located on site, one with a capacity of 1,700 covers and the second with 800, primarily in buffet format. A gift shop offers handicrafts and merchandise featuring park animals.

When to Go?

The best time to visit Safari World corresponds to the dry season in central Thailand, from December to February: more moderate temperatures, low probability of rain and pleasant conditions for the drive-through route. The months of March to May are decidedly hot, which can make the day arduous. Favor weekdays, which are significantly less crowded than weekends and Thai school holidays.

How to Get There?

Safari World is located in the Min Buri district, approximately 40 km northeast of central Bangkok. No public transportation directly serves the park.

• Taxi or ride-sharing from the center: the simplest option, expect around 45 minutes to 1 hour of travel depending on traffic.

• Combined transport: take the BTS to Mo Chit station, then bus 26 or 96 to Fashion Island Mall, and finish by taxi for the last few kilometers.

• Organized tour: many Bangkok agencies offer a round-trip transfer including entrance tickets.

What to See in the Surrounding Area

Several sites can complement or extend a day at Safari World:

• Dream World, an amusement park located nearby;

• Siam Park City, the country's largest water park;

• The Chatuchak market, on the return route to the city center;

• The Lumphini Park, for a quieter end to your day in the heart of Bangkok.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prepare Your Thailand Trip

Safari World generally integrates into a larger stay in the capital and its surroundings. To build a complete itinerary, consult our Thailand travel guide and our suggestions for attractions in Bangkok.