Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Located just north of San Antonio, the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is an exciting safari park complete with hundreds of animals from over 40 native, exotic and endangered species. Spread across nearly 162 hectares of land you will find ostrich, elk, zebra and buffalo roaming freely. Don't be surprised if they come right up to your car looking for food! This is just one of the benefits of the Drive-Thru experience at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. Park the car and head over to the Walk-A-Bout area where you can get so close to the animals you could almost touch noses! Check out Lemur Island and the giraffe barn, which has recently welcomed the addition of two baby twin giraffes. Kids can feed a baby emu, cuddle a baby goat and marvel at all the gentle furry friends at the Petting barnyard.

Vehicles are not provided for the Drive-Thru so you’ll need to rent your own. Once you pay your daily entry fee, you’re given a map and a generous bag of feed for the animals. Wander through the parkland, over rolling hills, along creek beds and observe magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Usually the drive lasts anywhere between 40 minutes to 1.5 hours and you can book a guided tour with an animal specialist.

After that safari drive, you’ll want to exercise those leg muscles again and no better way than a trip to the Walk-A-Bout area. There is a mixture of environmentally designed, caged exhibits as well as animals roaming freely, some of which include parrots, peacocks and lemurs.

A great way to finish off the day is with a stop in Safari Camp Grill which serves a variety of hot and cold foods, from light bites to full meals. Even the most insatiable appetite will be satisfied here! If you would like a memento of your wonderful day, check out the Safari Trading Post where you can pick up some cool souvenirs.

It is advised to arrive early in the day when the animals are being fed as they are more engaging and energetic. Later in the day they tend to seek the shade away from the path so avoid disappointment and get there when it opens. A trip to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch really is a fun day for all ages and an experience not to be missed!