While many people dream of going on an African safari, there are several American safari parks that offer wildlife watching experiences closer to home and at a fraction of the cost. These parks provide the opportunity to observe zebras, giraffes, buffalo, elk, bobcats, moose, bighorn sheep, and more in their natural habitats. Whether you prefer a self-guided tour or a guided expedition, here are some of the most incredible American safaris to consider:
Safari West
Located near Sonoma, California, Safari West is a 400-acre wildlife reserve primarily known for its vineyards. This park allows cheetahs, gazelles, wildebeest, and giraffes to roam freely for conservation and propagation purposes. Visitors can embark on a safari in an open-air vehicle and may also spot lemurs and flamingos. For a unique experience, guests have the option to spend the night in an elevated safari-style tent.
Alley of the Moose
Maine is home to the second-largest moose population in the United States, after Alaska. With approximately 70,000 moose in the state, the best time to observe them is during the spring when they come out to lick the salt off the roadways. To see these magnificent creatures, you can join a guided trip with Maine Moose Watching Tours in Greenville or the New England Outdoor Center in Millinocket.
Serengeti in the United States
Lamar Valley, known as the “American Serengeti,” is home to a wide variety of animals, including wolves, bison, elk, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and foxes. Xanterra Parks & Resorts offers photo safaris and guided trips during twilight, which is the optimal time to spot wildlife.
Spotting Wolves
Northeastern Minnesota is the best location in the United States to observe timberwolves, as it is home to the majority of the country’s population. To see wolves, you can visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) or Voyageurs National Park. The BWCAW covers 1.2 million acres in northeast Minnesota’s Superior National Forest and offers over 1,000 lakes, rivers, and streams. For self-guided tours, you can explore Voyageurs National Park, which is accessible only by watercraft or canoe.
Jeep Safari in Buffalo
Custer State Park in South Dakota offers a unique safari experience with its 71,000-acre park inhabited by various species such as buffalo, pronghorns, and elk. Visitors can either take a guided jeep tour or drive the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road on their own to see these majestic animals.
Image Source:Gwen Weustink@Unsplash
