Safari Camp

Safari Camp takes place at Monterey Zoo and includes activities such as Rydables Tours, VIAP Tours, A Walk with the Rhinos, Crunch Time (feeding time for “Big Cats”), Buddy's Bedtime, and Walk with the Animals. Safari Camp encourages young people to appreciate and gain a better understanding of wildlife through direct interaction with the animals. The program runs during the zoo’s regular operating hours of 10am–3pm, 7 days a week, including most holidays except Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

• Schedule: Daily hours 10am–3pm, 7 days a week, including most holidays except Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day
• Price: $37.75 ages 15 and up; $27.50 ages 2–14 (under 2 free – $8 stroller fee)

Monterey Zoo is Monterey County’s first zoological property and continues to run full-time educational programs that reach thousands of children and adults annually. The zoo was founded by Charlie Sammut, who purchased the 51-acre Vision Quest Ranch in 1994. Monterey Zoo was accredited by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA) in June 2020 and received the ZAA Exhibit Award in 2023 for its “Insert Rhino” exhibit, as well as the ZAA In-Situ Conservation Award for its contribution and efforts to conserve and protect rhinos worldwide. The Monterey Zoological Society states that its mission is to provide exemplary animal care and an entertaining, educational, and conservation-minded experience that fosters public awareness and respect for all wildlife.

Last updated July 13, 2026.