When considering the most WILD experience and environment on the planet, of course, an African Safari comes to mind. The once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the BIG Five and experience the Savanna is not a realistic road trip for everyone…but what if you could travel an hour to see a giraffe wandering next to zebras and rhinos?
The Georgia Safari Conservation Park in Madison, GA was birthed out of the desire to promote responsible tourism attractions while encouraging the conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife. The park is for anyone who wants to gain a greater appreciation for these majestic animals, understand their habits and connect with the natural world that is unique to different regions in our world.
STAY: The park offers a variety of lodging experiences for a unique opportunity to stay overnight on the property to fully experience wild times with the animals. Nestled within the forest canopy overlooking a private Savanna, the park has six luxury safari tents with two bedrooms inside, or have a wild time in the ‘honeymoon hideaway’ that includes an outdoor soaking tub. The luxury suite inside the state-of-the-art giraffe barn offers 24-hour views of the giraffes offering an unparalleled experience. Imagine waking up to the gentle giants of the animal kingdom, as zebras gracefully graze just a few steps away from your private deck. Each accommodation location has been carefully designed with African charm, modern amenities and extraordinary views of the animals.
PLAY: The park offers safari tours in open-air jeeps just like you see in the movies racing across the Serengeti and private animal encounters. By seeing these animals up close, the park hopes guests will become inspired to protect their habitats, advocate for their well-being and raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. Each of the stays includes a guided safari drive-through tour with one of the expert guides, a chance to encounter a giraffe and rhino and a little one-on-one conversation with animal keepers and ambassadors who affectionately know each animal’s deep desires, tricks and personalities. When was the last time a hotel offered an animal encounter you WANTED to experience? If that’s not enough excitement, Madison is a historical gem where you can take an audio walking tour with 28 stops in the downtown area.
EAT: While the animals are well-fed on the property, you can take a short drive into downtown Madison for all the charm and treats while visiting the safari park. Grab a pizza from Amici Italian Cafe or stock up on fresh French bread and pastries at Patisserie on Main to take back to graze on while you watch the animals graze from your safari tent deck overlooking the amazing views. Grab an app and cocktail from Towne 220 or The Sinclair before heading back for stargazing and being lulled to sleep by the sounds of the Savanna.
“The Wild Is Better Up Close” is the tagline and the Georgia Safari Conservation Park provides truly a wild experience in the peach state!