Visiting Out of Africa Wildlife Park Camp Verde, Arizona is like stepping into a live safari documentary. If you love wildlife, up‑close animal experiences, or family‑friendly adventure, this wildlife park delivers in spades. In this article you’ll learn what it offers, why it’s unique, how to plan your visit, and tips to make the most of the adventure.
What is Out of Africa Wildlife Park?
- Location: Camp Verde, in the Verde Valley region of Arizona. Tripadvisor+2Instagram+2
- Establishment: Opened in 2005. Wikipedia
- Founder / Ownership: Owned by Dean Harrison. Wikipedia
- Purpose: It’s both a zoo and wildlife sanctuary, offering animal rescue, conservation education, and interactive wildlife experiences. Tripadvisor+2Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+2
What Makes It Unique
- Safari Experience: You can ride in a safari bus/tour through open‑areas with animals roaming, rather than confined pens. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1
- Interactive Animal Encounters: Feeding giraffes, animal shows, predator feeds, etc. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+2Tripadvisor+2
- Sanctuary & Rescue Focus: Some of their animals are rescues; part of the mission is wildlife education and animal welfare. Tripadvisor+1
- Shows & Events: Reptile shows, predator shows, “Tiger Splash,” etc. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+2Tripadvisor+2
Must‑See Attractions & Highlights
| Attraction | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Safari Tour | Guided bus rides that let you see large animals roam, see habitats up close. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1 |
| Feeding Giraffes | A fan favorite: get up close and feed giraffes. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1 |
| Predator Feed & Shows | Watch feeding times for big cats, learn from staff about their behaviors. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1 |
| Reptile House & Creature Feature | For those who love snakes, lizards and more. Educational and a bit adventurous. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1 |
Best Times & Tips to Visit
- Hours & Timing: Arrive early in the day to enjoy cooler hours and more active animals. Shows and feeds have scheduled times. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1
- Wear Comfortable Footwear: There is walking and sometimes uneven terrain. Bring sun protection.
- Hydration & Weather: Arizona can be hot — hats, sunscreen, water bottles are essential.
- Purchase Tickets in Advance: Especially in high season or weekends. Some shows or tours may sell out.
- Planning Shows: Check the schedule in advance so you don’t miss major events like “Tiger Splash” or the predator feed. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1
How to Get There & Stay Nearby
- Address: 3505 W State Route 260, Camp Verde, Arizona. Instagram+2Tripadvisor+2
- From Nearby Cities: It’s reachable by car from Phoenix, Flagstaff, Sedona. Depending on where you stay, plan for driving.
- Lodging Options: There are hotels, motels, and vacation rentals in and around Camp Verde / Verde Valley. Choosing a stay near the park or centrally in the valley gives you flexibility.
Pricing & What’s Included
- Admission: There are general admission tickets and add‑ons (animal feedings, special tour). Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary
- Shows and Tours: Many are included; some special‑experiences require extra fees. Always check what your ticket covers.
- Time Needed: Plan for a half‑day or full ‑day visit depending on how much you want to explore and attend shows. Some visitors spend 3‑5 hours. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1
Conservation & Education
A key part of Out of Africa’s mission is wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and education. Visitors not only get entertainment, but also insights into:
- Animal behaviors
- Habitat preservation
- Threats faced by wild species
- How sanctuaries and wildlife parks help with rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Tripadvisor+1
Pros & Cons: What to Know Before You Go
Pros:
- Unique, up‑close wildlife experiences
- Great for families, children, and animal lovers
- Educational and fun mix of shows, tours, interaction
Cons:
- Can be crowded during peak seasons
- Heat can be intense — midday can be uncomfortable
- Extra costs for certain experiences might add up
Summary & Why It’s Worth Visiting
If you appreciate wildlife, immersive experiences, and learning while visiting, Out of Africa Wildlife Park Camp Verde is more than just a zoo — it’s an adventure. You’ll leave with memories of feeding giraffes, watching big cats, enjoying shows, and perhaps a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation. For many, it’s a highlight when exploring Arizona.
FAQs
What are the park hours?
They vary by season; check their official website to confirm opening‑times and show schedules. Out of Africa Wildlife Park & Sanctuary+1
Do I need tickets in advance?
It is recommended, especially for special experiences or busy days. Yelp+1
Is the park wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Many of the paths are walkable, though some paths may be uneven. It’s best to check with the park about accessibility options.
Are there places to eat?
Yes, there are food/snack options inside the park. You might want to bring water and light snacks too.
Is Out of Africa Wildlife Park good for kids?
Yes — children usually love the interactive parts: animal encounters, feeding, shows. Always keep safety in mind near animals.
How long should I plan to spend there?
If you want to see most shows, take the safari tour, and enjoy a leisurely pace, plan for about 4 to 5 hours. If visiting only some parts, half a day may suffice.
