Safari Guide IL Independent Visitor Resource
Ramat Gan, Israel

Discover Safari Ramat Gan — Israel's Premier Wildlife Experience

Explore hundreds of species from around the world in one of Israel's most beloved wildlife parks. From African lions to Asian tigers, your independent guide to every exhibit, tip, and hidden gem.

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1,600+
Animals
250+
Species
1M+
Annual Visitors
1953
Founded
About the Safari

A World-Class Wildlife Experience in the Heart of Israel

Ramat Gan Safari is a sprawling zoological park that houses over 1,600 animals across more than 250 species. Established in 1953, it has grown into one of the Middle East's most important wildlife conservation and education centers.

The safari section lets visitors drive through open enclosures featuring African-style savanna habitats — home to lions, giraffes, zebras, and more. The walk-through park area includes dedicated zones for primates, birds, reptiles, and children's petting areas.

Beyond entertainment, the safari plays a vital role in conservation breeding programs for endangered species and supports environmental education for hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Explore Animal Guides
African elephants in natural habitat

Everything You Need to Know

In-depth guides covering every major exhibit, practical tips, and insider knowledge to help you plan the perfect visit.

African lion in savanna

The Big Cats Section: Lions, Tigers & Leopards

The big cats zone is one of the safari's most impressive areas, home to African lions, Bengal tigers, and Arabian leopards. Learn about feeding schedules, best viewing times, and conservation efforts.

Large Savanna Enclosures
The big cats section is divided into several zones, each modeled after the natural habitat of its residents. The African lion pride occupies a large savanna-style enclosure where visitors can observe the group dynamics of these majestic animals.

Tiger Water Features
The Bengal tiger enclosure features a natural water source where the tigers can often be seen cooling off during the warmer months. Morning visits are recommended for the most active tiger sightings.

Viewing Tips
Best viewing tip: arrive at opening time when the animals are most active, and visit the tiger zone first as it tends to get crowded by midday. Photography is permitted without flash.

Giraffe eating from tree

Giraffe Feeding & Savanna Walk

Hand-feeding giraffes is one of the park's most popular activities. Learn the best time to visit, what to bring, and how to get the perfect close-up photo of these gentle giants.

Feeding Station Hours
The giraffe feeding station opens at 10:00 AM and operates until late afternoon. Visitors can purchase special vegetation sticks from the on-site kiosk to feed the giraffes by hand.

Savanna Walk Experience
The savanna walk area provides a scenic path through African-style landscape with views of giraffes, zebras, and antelopes from a safe elevated walkway.

Photography Advice
Tip: the light is softest during the early morning hours, making it ideal for photography. Bring a zoom lens of 200mm or more to capture the giraffes without disturbing them.

Ring-tailed lemur on branch

Primates & Monkey Islands

From ring-tailed lemurs to chimpanzee families, the primates section offers fascinating insights into our closest animal relatives. Full guide to each species, best viewing spots, and feeding times.

Multi-Continent Displays
The primates section features multiple enclosures representing different continents and environments. The lemur island is a particular favorite among visitors, offering close-up views of these playful animals.

Chimpanzee Family Dynamics
The chimpanzee family group is housed in a large enriched environment with climbing structures, pools, and natural vegetation. Morning feeding times offer the best opportunities for observing their complex social behavior.

Visitor Guidelines
Please maintain a respectful distance from the enclosures and avoid tapping on glass or making sudden movements near the primates.

Children petting farm animals

Children's Zoo & Petting Farm

The children's zoo is a wonderland of friendly farm animals and interactive exhibits designed for young visitors. Meet goats, sheep, rabbits, and more in a safe, hands-on environment.

Safe Hands-On Interaction
The petting farm allows children to get up close and personal with friendly goats, sheep, and donkeys. Staff members are always present to supervise interactions and ensure the safety of both children and animals.

Additional Activities
The children's zoo also features pony rides, a small train ride, and interactive educational stations where kids can learn about animal habitats and conservation.

Best Time to Visit
Best visited in the morning when the animals are most active and the weather is cooler. Bring sunscreen and a hat — most of the children's area is outdoors.

Pink flamingos in lake

Bird Valley & Aviaries

The bird collection includes over 300 species from five continents. Explore the walk-through aviary, flamingo lagoon, and daily bird feeding demonstrations.

Walk-Through Aviary
The walk-through aviary is a highlight of the bird section, allowing visitors to be surrounded by colorful birds from around the world. The interior features natural plantings and a small stream.

Flamingo Lagoon
The flamingo lagoon provides a stunning display of these elegant pink birds, especially striking when they gather in large groups during feeding time.

Daily Demonstrations
Daily bird demonstrations run at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, featuring trained birds performing natural behaviors in an open arena setting.

Colorful reptile on branch

Reptiles, Amphibians & Aquarium

Explore the fascinating world of cold-blooded creatures. From Nile crocodiles to colorful tree frogs, this section showcases the incredible diversity of reptiles and amphibians.

Reptile House Collection
The reptile house features species from Israel and around the world, including several venomous snakes displayed behind secure glass barriers with educational signage.

Crocodile Pool
The crocodile pool is one of the most dramatic exhibits — large Nile crocodiles can be seen lounging in the water or basking on the banks of a recreated riverbank environment.

Aquarium Displays
The aquarium section displays freshwater fish species in large themed tanks, including a dedicated display of cichlids from Lake Malawi.

Safari entrance with visitors

Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Hours & Transport

Everything practical you need to know — opening hours, ticket prices, parking, public transport options, and how to avoid the crowds on peak days.

Opening Hours
Ramat Gan Safari is open Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 5:00 PM. The park is closed on Jewish holidays.

Tickets & Pricing
Tickets can be purchased online in advance for a discount, or at the entrance on the day. Children under 2 years old enter free. Family packages are available for groups of four or more.

Getting There
Parking is available on-site for a daily fee. From central Tel Aviv, take bus lines 67 or 231 directly to the safari entrance. The nearest train station is Kibbutz Gaustadion, a 15-minute walk away.

Zoo at twilight with sunset

Best Times to Visit & Seasonal Guide

Each season brings a different experience at the safari. Spring baby season, summer evening events, autumn's cooler walking weather, and the magical winter holiday decorations.

Spring — Baby Season
Spring (March to May) is baby season — many animals give birth during this period, making it ideal for families with young children who want to see young animals.

Summer — Extended Hours
Summer brings extended evening hours and special events including outdoor cinema nights and live music in the park. July and August are the busiest months — arrive early to avoid crowds.

Autumn & Winter
Autumn and winter offer the most comfortable walking weather. December brings special holiday decorations and family activities. January and February are the quietest months with short queues.

Make the Most of Your Visit

Arrive Early

The animals are most active in the first two hours after opening. You'll get better photos and shorter queues at popular exhibits.

Bring Sun Protection

Most of the safari is outdoors. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water — especially in summer when temperatures can exceed 35°C.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park covers a large area with significant walking between sections. Allow at least 3-4 hours for a full visit with children.

Book Tickets Online

Online tickets are discounted and allow you to skip the entrance queue. Check for family bundle deals before you visit.

Food & Picnic Areas

Multiple cafes and restaurants are available on-site. Picnic areas are also permitted in designated zones outside the animal enclosures.

Photography Tips

A zoom lens (200mm+) is ideal for safari areas. Flash is not permitted near animals. The walk-through aviary is best photographed in natural light.

Visit by Season

Spring
March – May
  • Baby animal season, comfortable temperatures, school holiday peak
Summer
June – August
  • Extended evening hours, outdoor events, arrive early to avoid crowds
Autumn
September – November
  • Cooler walking weather, fewer visitors, ideal for photographers
Winter
December – February
  • Holiday decorations, baby season, shortest queues all year

Visitor Questions

The park is open Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on major Jewish holidays.
You may bring your own food and use the designated picnic areas. However, food is not permitted in animal enclosures or near animal feeding areas for safety reasons.
Yes, the park is fully wheelchair accessible with paved pathways throughout. Wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge from the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
Only at designated feeding stations — giraffe feeding and small petting farm areas. All other animal feeding is strictly prohibited for the safety of both animals and visitors.
Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants throughout the park, including a main restaurant near the entrance, a fast-food outlet near the children's zoo, and snack kiosks in the safari area.
We recommend allowing 3-4 hours for a complete visit covering all major areas. Families with young children may want to allow 5-6 hours, especially if your children want to spend time at the petting farm and play areas.