Into the Heart of the Wild: Safari Wilderness Ranch
A rare and enchanting experience awaits you at Safari Wilderness Ranch, a hidden gem tucked away from the chaotic urban life about 25 minutes north of downtown Lakeland. Step into a world where tranquility reigns, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of cypress domes, bay trees, and vast grazing fields. Here, the air is filled with the invigorating scent of the safari, while majestic birds soar high above, painting the sky with their graceful flight.
I recently embarked on an extraordinary journey to Safari Wilderness Ranch, and let me tell you, it was a rare and unforgettable experience. It felt like I had been transported to another world, far away from the chaos of civilization. The tranquility enveloped me, and I gazed upon the breathtaking sight of grazing animals and wandering barn cats.
What sets Safari Wilderness Ranch apart is that it's not your typical zoo or theme park. There are no crowds or long lines to contend with. Instead, you have the freedom to embark on a natural adventure from the comfort of your own vehicle. However, I opted for the bus safari tour, where the tour guide navigated through the vast wilderness in a canopied safari vehicle. The knowledgeable and experienced driver took us on an exhilarating journey, leading us through herds of exotic game spanning over 260 acres of pristine wilderness. It was an awe-inspiring sight to see these magnificent creatures up close and personal … and you get to feed a few of them!
Located in the heart of Florida's Green Swamp, Safari Wilderness Ranch is surrounded by an expansive and exclusive wilderness area. As a family-owned and licensed working game ranch, they specialize in wetland exotic species, including African Watusi and Irish Dexter Cattle. The ranch's dramatic landscape is nestled within the pristine watershed of The Green Swamp, the source of four of Florida's magnificent rivers. It's a place where the sensitivity of the area is respected, reflected in the limited number of visitors allowed to ensure the preservation of this natural haven.
Ways To Explore
Vehicle Safari - Climb aboard a customized safari vehicle for an epic game-viewing experience.
Camel Expedition - Become a part of the herd as you experience our exotic animals from atop one of our Dromedary or Bactrian Camels.
Horseback Safari - Experience herds of grazing animals while riding on one of our strong yet gentle Austrian Haflinger horses.
Kayak Safari - Navigate through our freshwater areas, get up close and personal with our wetland species, and even hand-feed the lemurs on lemur island.
Llama Trek - Trek through several ecotypes in a setting that feels right out of Africa on your very own llama.
All the experiences are expertly guided by knowledgeable safari guides, ensuring a safe and enriching journey into the wilderness. Pricing information for these extraordinary adventures can be found on the Safari Wilderness website, offering an array of options to suit every explorer's budget and desires. And if that wasn't enough, the ranch also provides exclusive animal encounters, where you can interact with fascinating creatures such as ring-tailed lemurs, cheetahs, and even adorable guinea pigs.
With over 450 animals from various continents, Safari Wilderness Ranch is a testament to the owners' dedication and passion. Since its inception in 2006, this private agri-tourism venture has captivated the hearts of visitors. Under the guidance of owners Lex Salisbury and Stephen Wehrmann, the ranch opened its doors to the public in 2012, sharing the beauty and wonder of the animal kingdom with all who venture through its gates.
With an illustrious career spanning over 35 years, Lex Salisbury stands as a true luminary in the realm of exotic animals. His remarkable journey has taken him across continents, from the enchanting landscapes of England to the breathtaking vistas of Australia, and finally to the United States. It was in 1978 that Lex first set foot in the world of zoos, driven by a profound passion for wildlife and a deep-seated desire to make a difference.
Having witnessed the limitations imposed by confined spaces in traditional zoos, Lex became determined to create a haven where animals could thrive in expansive surroundings. Inspired by the successful conversion of cattle to game ranches in southern Africa, he envisioned a place that would be a sanctuary for both animals and visitors alike. This vision became a reality with the establishment of Safari Wilderness Ranch in Lakeland, Florida, and its sister facility, Giraffe Ranch in Dade City, Florida.
Prior to his venture into private game ranching, Lex held the esteemed position as the President/CEO of Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo. Under his visionary leadership, the zoo underwent a remarkable transformation. From being labeled as one of the "Five Worst Zoos in America" in 1986 by the Humane Society, Lex spearheaded its evolution into the heralded title of "Best Zoo in America" by Child Magazine in 2004. Over his tenure of 21 years, he orchestrated the exponential growth of the zoo's budget, catapulting it from a modest $200,000 to an astonishing $20 million.
Born and raised amidst the pristine wilderness of Fairbanks, Alaska, Lex's affinity for nature and wildlife began at a tender age. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Sydney, where he pursued his Bachelor's degree. Further fueling his passion, Lex went on to earn a Master's degree in Environmental Sciences from Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia. Equipped with a profound understanding of the delicate balance between humans and their environment, he has dedicated his life's work to conservation and the preservation of endangered species.
Lex Salisbury's unwavering commitment to wildlife and his invaluable expertise have left an indelible mark on the world of animal conservation. Through Safari Wilderness Ranch, he continues to inspire countless individuals, inviting them to embark on extraordinary journeys of discovery and forging a profound connection with the natural world. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of passion and the transformative impact that one individual can have on the world around them.
My journey to Safari Wilderness Ranch was nothing short of extraordinary. It allowed me to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and immerse myself in the beauty of nature. The opportunity to witness these incredible animals in their natural habitat left me in awe of the wonders of the world. As I reflect on my adventure, I am filled with gratitude for the chance to explore and learn about the diverse wildlife that calls this ranch home. Safari Wilderness Ranch truly offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for years to come.