Elephant Valley Is Opening at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park — And It’s Going to Be Huge

Something big is coming to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and we mean that literally!

Denny Sanford Elephant Valley officially opens on March 5, 2026, and it’s being called the largest and most transformative project in San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s 109-year history. If your family loves animals, this is one you won’t want to miss.

What Is Elephant Valley?

Elephant Valley is an all-new habitat at the Safari Park in Escondido where families can get closer than ever to a herd of African elephants. Expect sweeping savanna landscapes, open grasslands, and a real sense of being in the wild.

The experience is designed to feel immersive. Walk alongside the herd as they roam the grounds, and on a warm day, watch them swim, splash, and cool off in Mugurr West pond.

More Than Just an Exhibit

Elephant Valley isn’t just about seeing elephants up close — it’s also about understanding why protecting them matters. The Savanna Conservation Hub highlights San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s partnership with Reteti Elephant Sanctuary in northern Kenya, where conservation teams work alongside local communities to protect elephants and their habitat. It’s a meaningful conversation starter for families with curious kids.

The experience was made possible through the generosity of more than 5,200 donors, which says a lot about how much people care about these animals.

Grab a Bite at Mkutano House

After exploring the savanna, stop by Mkutano House, a two-story restaurant right inside Elephant Valley. With three distinct dining destinations — Mkutano, Ona Lounge, and Tu Grill — the menu draws inspiration from culinary traditions across Africa with global influences woven in. You can even grab a seat and watch elephants at the watering hole while you eat.

Plan Your Visit

Elephant Valley opens at noon on March 5, 2026, and is included with general San Diego Zoo Safari Park admission. The Safari Park is located in Escondido and spans 1,800 acres, with over 3,100 animals from more than 340 species.

For tickets and details, visit sdzsafaripark.org/elephantvalley.

Looking for more family fun? Explore more family-friendly events on our blog, browse our calendar, check out limited-time exhibits and experiences, or subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates.

Categories: Blog

This post was written by Alina Na