New Animal Safari Tour Delights Costa Rica Travelers

Feeding carrots to giraffes and zebras in Costa Rica? Don’t be ridiculous. They don’t live in this part of the world.

But wait. Now they do, thanks to the efforts of entrepreneur David Patay and his new Africa Safari Adventure Park. Visitors to Guanacaste Province can now say, “Call me Bwana.”

Unlike a zoo where wild animals are caged, this is an expansive natural setting. Call it a ranch, covering 700 acres. The landscape evokes visions of the Serengeti. At Patay’s creation, everyone can enjoy exotic animals, hiking trails, waterfalls and other activities that blend with nature.

Forget promotional brochures or websites with a boldface footnote that reads: “Wildlife sightings, while common, cannot be guaranteed.” Here they are waiting to meet you. Plus every visitor who wants to feed zebras, giraffes and camels receives a supply of carrots.

“What impresses me is how close you can get to the animals,” says Cassio Carvalho, shore excursions manager with Princess Cruises. “Guatemala has a drive-through animal park, but you have to stay inside the bus and look out the window. This Africa safari is the real thing.”

A tractor drawn, open-sided wagon painted in zebra stripes is your transportation. There are padded bench seats and a PA system. As you journey, the guide opens the gates to each section of the ranch.

Africa Safari Adventure Park is approximately a two-hour drive from the capital of San Jose. Cost is $70. Minimum age is 12 years old. A variety of packages are available that also include lunch at the on-site La Pampa restaurant. Besides the safari adventure, kayaking, ATVs and ziplining are offered.

Source: Caribbean News Now