Introduction to Safari World Bangkok
Safari World Bangkok is one of the go-to spots for travelers looking to explore wildlife attractions in Thailand, offering a unique mix of open zoo exhibits, marine shows, and animal encounters. However, despite its popularity, Safari World leaves some visitors with mixed feelings—while there are exciting moments, certain aspects may lead you to regret visiting. This review covers the key details you need to know before deciding whether Safari World Bangkok is worth your time and money.
What to Expect at Safari World Bangkok
Safari World Bangkok is divided into two main sections: Safari Park, a drive-through safari experience, and Marine Park, which houses animal exhibits, live shows, and interactive encounters. You’ll find over 100 animal species here, ranging from big cats like lions and tigers to exotic birds, marine mammals, and even giraffes. The attractions vary widely, from feeding stations where you can interact with certain animals to live shows that feature dolphins, elephants, and orangutans performing tricks.
Ticket Prices and Value for Money
Ticket pricing at Safari World can be a bit steep for some. Prices typically range from around 1,000 THB (approx. 27 USD) for single-entry tickets to 1,500 THB (approx. 41 USD) for the combo ticket that grants access to both Safari and Marine Parks. If you’re planning a family visit, the cost can add up, especially if you factor in extra expenses like animal feeding and on-site dining. Tour packages often include transportation and buffet meals, so you might find some savings that way. However, weighing the price against the experience is essential—especially if you have ethical concerns about animal treatment.
The Safari Park Experience
Drive-Through Safari Review
The Safari Park is a drive-through experience where visitors can observe animals up close from the comfort of their vehicles or tour buses. The route showcases animals like giraffes, zebras, hippos, and even rhinos. Carnivorous animals, such as lions and tigers, are contained in designated areas to ensure visitor safety. It’s an exciting way to view wildlife without barriers, but don’t expect a true safari experience like you might find in Africa—it’s more akin to an open zoo. Still, it’s an enjoyable segment for families and those new to wildlife encounters.
Animal Welfare Concerns in Safari Park
One of the major concerns about Safari World Bangkok’s Safari Park is the quality of life for the animals. Although animals have more space than in traditional zoos, some species still exhibit signs of discomfort, particularly in enclosures that are not fully naturalistic. If you’re sensitive to animal welfare, the setup might detract from the experience, as it’s more of a contained viewing environment than a sanctuary.
The Marine Park Attractions
The Marine Park offers a range of animal exhibits, some of which are unique and immersive. For instance, Egg World is an incubation center where you can see baby birds in various stages of hatching, while the Giraffe Terrace provides an opportunity to feed and interact with giraffes. There are also feeding areas for animals like kangaroos and camels, although these come with an extra charge. While it’s an exciting option for kids, these encounters can be pricey, especially if you plan to try several.
Notable Animal Exhibits
The Giraffe Terrace is arguably one of the biggest highlights, where visitors can get up close and personal with a large herd of giraffes. If you’re an animal enthusiast, it’s one of the few places in the world where you can be surrounded by so many giraffes at once. However, some exhibits may feel misleading—the Marine Park doesn’t exclusively feature marine animals, so you might not find as many water-based exhibits as expected.
Animal Shows at Marine Park: A Cause for Concern?
Orangutan Boxing Show
One of the most controversial attractions at Safari World Bangkok is the Orangutan Boxing Show, which has faced criticism for alleged animal cruelty. The show involves orangutans dressed in costumes performing stunts, dancing, and even mock boxing each other. While the park presents this as humorous entertainment, many visitors feel uncomfortable with the show’s apparent disregard for animal welfare. If you’re sensitive to these issues, this part of the visit could overshadow the rest of your experience.
Dolphin, Sea Lion, and Elephant Shows
Other animal shows, such as the dolphin, sea lion, and elephant performances, might seem more familiar to those who have visited marine parks. These shows involve tricks and stunts, often rewarded with food treats. While the dolphin show is generally seen as less troubling, the elephant show raises concerns due to the visible restraints and use of training tools. If you’re unsure about these performances, it’s worth researching ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Food Options at Safari World Bangkok
Dining at Safari World includes a mix of local food stalls, fast food outlets, and buffet restaurants. While the prices are higher than typical Bangkok street food, the convenience is a plus. The international buffet at Aviary and the Indian-themed buffet at Savanna are both popular with tourists, although the quality is basic. The food won’t be the highlight of your visit, but it’s a convenient option if you’re there for the entire day.
Buffet Dining Options
The Aviary buffet offers a more diverse selection with salads, chicken, noodles, and rice dishes, which many visitors find a balanced option. The Indian buffet is more limited, focusing on vegetarian-friendly options like curries and rice. While neither offers gourmet fare, they provide adequate options for families and large groups.
Getting to Safari World Bangkok
Most visitors reach Safari World Bangkok either through a guided tour package, which often includes transportation, or via Grab rideshare. If you’re going on your own, be prepared for a longer journey, as the park is located outside central Bangkok. Public transportation options are limited, and you may need to rely on a combination of trains and taxis, which can be time-consuming.
Pros of Visiting Safari World Bangkok
For all the concerns, Safari World Bangkok still offers some unique experiences that many travelers enjoy. The Giraffe Terrace, for example, allows for close interaction with giraffes, and the open layout of the Safari Park lets you see animals in a more natural environment. For families and animal lovers, the park can be a worthwhile day trip from Bangkok.
Reasons You Might Regret Visiting
Safari World Bangkok might leave you with regrets if you’re particularly sensitive to animal welfare or have high expectations for an ethical wildlife experience. Additionally, the cost, when compared to the experience, may feel steep, especially if you’re mainly interested in the safari portion. Finally, logistical issues like travel time, costs, and crowding during peak season can detract from the overall experience.
Conclusion: Is Safari World Bangkok Worth Visiting?
In the end, Safari World Bangkok offers an experience that’s far from perfect but can be enjoyable if approached with realistic expectations. While the Safari Park and Giraffe Terrace provide memorable encounters, the animal shows may not sit well with everyone. Weighing the pros and cons will help you decide whether Safari World Bangkok is a must-see or a spot to skip on your itinerary.
FAQs
Q1: Is Safari World Bangkok ethical to visit?
A: While some parts of Safari World, like the Safari Park, aim to mimic natural habitats, the animal shows have raised ethical concerns. It’s best to research each attraction beforehand to decide based on your own standards.
Q2: Can I avoid the animal shows but still enjoy the park?
A: Yes, you can skip the animal shows and focus on the Safari Park and Marine Park exhibits instead, which may offer a more enjoyable experience for animal lovers.
Q3: Are there alternative safari experiences in Thailand?
A: Yes, Thailand offers other ethical wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, like the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, which emphasize animal welfare and conservation.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Safari World Bangkok?
A: Visiting during weekdays or in the early hours can help you avoid large crowds, making for a more pleasant experience.
Q5: Is the food at Safari World worth trying?
A: The on-site food is convenient, but the quality is average. If you’re on a budget or prefer more authentic Thai cuisine, consider eating outside the park.