Discover the Wild Side of UAE: Exploring Sharjah Safari Park
Located within the city of Sharjah, Sharjah Safari Park offers visitors an immersive experience that differentiates it from other wildlife sanctuaries. The world’s largest safari park is 2.5 square kilometers and features 12 different environments, each home to various African trees, animals, and birds. Visitors can spot over 120 species in the park, including gazelles, crocodiles, rhinos, and elephants.
The park’s Bridi Nature Reserve offers the perfect surroundings for a thrilling adventure into the Serengeti. Gold and silver ticket holders can enjoy special attractions such as a safari drive, bird of prey show, and elephant encounters. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi created the park, and its conservation efforts help preserve wildlife and promote education and awareness. Overall, Sharjah Safari Park ensures visitors have a unique wildlife experience while becoming more informed about conservation and the importance of environmental protection.
The History of Sharjah Safari Park
In 2014, Sharjah Safari Park was established to promote environmental conservation and provide visitors with a safe and controlled environment to learn and interact with wildlife. The park covers over 100 hectares and has three main sections: the African Village, the Asian Village, and the Safari Village. Each section is designed to replicate the natural habitats of the animals that live there.
Sharjah Safari Park Timings
Sunday: 06:30 AM – 06:30 PM
Monday to Saturday: 08:30 AM – 06:30 PM
Note:
The last entry for gold ticket holders is at 2.30 pm.
The last entry for silver ticket holders is at 2.30 pm.
The last entry for Bronze ticket holders is at 4 pm.
Sharjah Safari Park Ticket Prices
Bronze: Walking tour with a guide.
- Adults: AED 40
- Children (3-12 years): AED 15
- Children (under 3 years): Free
Duration: 2-3 hours
Silver: Tour by regular bus with a guide
- Adults: AED 120
- Children (3-12 years): AED 50
- Children (under 3 years): Free
Duration: 5-6 hours
Gold: Luxury Vehicle with a private tour guide.
- Adults: AED 275
- Children (3-12 years): AED 120
- Children (under 3 years): Free
Duration: 5-6 hours
Getting to Sharjah Safari Park
If driving from Dubai, take the E311 (Emirates Road) towards Sharjah and exit at Al Dhaid Road. Follow the signs to Sharjah Safari Park. If you’re coming from Sharjah, take the E88 towards Al Dhaid and follow the signs to the park. The park is open seven days a week from 9 am to 5:30 pm.
What to Expect at Sharjah Safari Park
Sharjah Safari Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. There are over 50 species of animals to observe, and the park offers visitors an immersive experience. Here are some of the highlights you can expect to experience at the park:
The African Village
The African Village is home to some of the most iconic animals of the African savannah, including zebras, giraffes, and ostriches. Visitors can take a walking tour of the village and get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. You can also opt for a Safari Drive, which takes you through the African Village in an open-air vehicle for an even more immersive experience.
The Asian Village
The Asian Village is home to a wide variety of animals from the Asian continent, including Bengal tigers, Arabian wolves, and hyenas. Visitors can take a walking tour of the village and observe these incredible animals in their natural habitats.
The Nocturnal Animals House
The Nocturnal Animals House is a must-see for those who love creepy crawlies. This section of the park is dedicated to animals that are active at night, including bats, owls, and even aardvarks.
The Reptile House
The Reptile House is a fascinating park section dedicated to snakes, lizards, and other reptiles. You’ll find various species worldwide, including pythons, cobras, and monitor lizards.
The Bird Aviary
The Bird Aviary is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 50 species of birds worldwide, including parrots, macaws, and hornbills. Visitors can walk through the aviary and observe these beautiful creatures up close.
Activities at Sharjah Safari Park
Sharjah Safari Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal family outing. Here are some of the highlights:
Safari Drive
The Safari Drive is a guided tour of the African Village in an open-air vehicle. This is a great way to get an up-close look at the animals and learn more about their habits and behaviors.
Giraffe Feeding
Visitors can purchase food for the giraffes and feed them from a platform. This is a unique experience that’s sure to create lasting memories.
Petting Zoo
The petting zoo is a great option for younger visitors who want to interact with some of the park’s friendlier animals. Here, you’ll find goats, sheep, and other domesticated animals used for human interaction.
Horse Riding
Sharjah Safari Park offers horse riding tours for those who want to explore the park on horseback. This is a great way to see the park from a different perspective and get some exercise simultaneously.
Dining and Shopping at Sharjah Safari Park
When you’re ready for a break from exploring the park, there are plenty of options for dining and shopping. Here are some of the highlights:
The Safari Restaurant
The Safari Restaurant offers a range of dining options, from light snacks to full meals. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating areas to dine in the air conditioning or the open air.
The Souvenir Shop
The souvenir shop is perfect for picking up a memento from your Sharjah Safari Park visit. You’ll find many souvenirs here, including t-shirts, hats, and stuffed animals.
Tips for Visiting Sharjah Safari Park
To make the most of your visit to Sharjah Safari Park, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Plan Ahead
Check the park’s opening hours and plan your visit accordingly. You may also want to purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance.
Dress Appropriately
The park can get quite hot during the day, so dress in lightweight, breathable clothing. You should also wear comfortable shoes, as much walking is involved.
Follow the Rules
To ensure the safety of both visitors and animals, it’s important to follow the park’s rules and regulations. This includes not feeding the animals, staying on designated paths, and refraining from making loud noises.
FAQs
Is Sharjah Safari Park suitable for young children?
Yes, Sharjah Safari Park has several activities and exhibits suitable for young children, including a petting zoo and horse riding.
Are there any restaurants or cafes in Sharjah Safari Park?
Yes, there is a restaurant called The Safari Restaurant that offers a range of dining options, from light snacks to full meals.
Can guests bring their own drinks and food into the park?
No, outside food and beverages are prohibited in the park. However, there are numerous dining alternatives within the park.
Is there a gift shop at Sharjah Safari Park?
Yes, there is a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase a variety of mementos for their visit to the park.
Can visitors interact with the animals?
While visitors can observe the animals up close, they cannot touch or feed them outside designated areas, such as the petting zoo or giraffe feeding platform.
Conclusion
Sharjah Safari Park is a unique and exciting destination in the UAE that offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most majestic animals. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, Sharjah Safari Park has something for everyone.
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