San Diego Safari Park in Escondido

See the gorillas in their habitat! I have always been fascinated by gorillas, monkeys...the entire ape family. May do a story real soon about one man's love for this very special wild beast. As I looked at the gorillas at Safari Park across the ravine, and as they gave me literally their backsides, I realized how comical and engaging they are. Would love to get to know them better. Remember Gorillas in the Mist? It's my favorite Sigourney Weaver film of all time.

And see the giraffes, who, according to the guide, "grow like weeds." Those poor creatures must develop terrible arthritis as they get older. How do they keep their long, long necks and heads so erect? And we complain!!

The Zoological Society of San Diego owns the land for Safari Park, and the animals, many of whom are endangered species, live in natural habitats with truckloads of food delivered daily. Giraffes, rhinos, antelope, deer, flamengos, ostriches, gazelles, Sumarian asses, sheep, elephants, gorillas, meerkats, lions, cheetahs, and other wild beasts are there for the eye to see eating, playing, and reproducing. What natural beauty! There's also a balloon ride and carousel for the kids to ride. No horses, please, but only replicas of wild beasts to ride on this merry-go-round!

Those are Ostrich eggs to the right of the bird, which she keeps safe from mountain predators.

Zebras together. The tram ride offers a 25 minute turn around Safari Park, but you must walk to see the gorillas and other beasts. It's worth it! Take the kids and spend a day in this beautiful sanctuary.