Exploring Out Of Africa

Ok ya'll let's take a moment to brag on the magic that is Out of Africa.

The giraffe just took a carrot out of my mouth, it was the wildest feeling (thus the reaction).

A Bit About The Park
According to the website, Out of Africa Wildlife Park was founded in 1988 and "has become home to hundreds of exotic animals from around the world, including Africa." The park is built to resemble the African Bush and is less so a zoo, and more like an experience to get close to these animals.

This little guy loved his pool.

Out Of Africa holds a special place in my heart because of its commitment to conservation and animal care. I am not a zoo person. I don't enjoy the idea of innocent animals being locked up for people to look at, take tons of photos of and be loud around. It just isn't my thing.

There is something to be said though about organizations that strive to help animals. Many of the animals at Out of Africa are in recovery, or were saved from a variety of situations. At one time they had a Rhino named BoomBoom who was rescued from a caged "hunt" where someone paid to shoot the animal while it was locked in a caged area.

Part of the park's focus is educating visitors about species. You get to interact with some of the animals.

Additionally, everything about the park is about education. During the African Bush Safari your guide will share much information about each animal, while also letting you interact with them. From giraffe to zebras to tigers to bears, you will see it all and you will learn so much about these amazing creatures.

One of my favorite animals.

Could he be any more fluffy?

Perhaps the best thing to see at Out of Africa is the Predator Feed. The workers at the park literally chuck huge pieces of meat over the fences of the hyenas, bears and tigers areas and you get to see them catch it in the air and chow down. It is amazing.

There is also a Tiger Splash where the staff actually swim with tigers. It is pretty entertaining, but since EVERYONE goes to it I usually use that time to go see the animals again with fewer people around.

You can see the chunk of meat coming straight for this tiger's mouth.

Random Information:

• They have food trucks at the park and the food is actually pretty good. 
• Bring water as it can get hot in the summer.
• I found it was best to get there pretty early in the morning, right when the park is opening.
• You get in free on your birthday!
• They have added ziplining over the tiger/bear exhibits.
• Wear comfy shoes and know you will be in dirt the entire time.
• Wear sunscreen....this is Northern Arizona, but it isn't Flagstaff.
• http://outofafricapark.com/ for more information

Directions:
Located near Camp Verde so from Flagstaff you will head down I-17 toward Phoenix. Exit #287 and turn right toward Cottonwood. Continue for about 3 miles and turn left at at Cherry Rd at the intersection. Proceed one block and take the first right at Commonwealth Drive. Proceed another block straight into the entrance. There are a lot of signs so you can't miss it!