Sharjah Safari is a must-see for any wildlife lover. After visiting it myself, I can confidently say it’s one of the most incredible experiences you can have in the UAE. Located in the Al Bridi Nature Reserve, this massive safari park, the largest outside of Africa, offers a real chance to see animals roaming freely in an environment that feels truly wild.
My journey started with the excitement of driving to this new destination, and from the moment I entered, I knew this would be something special. The park was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi on February 17, 2022, and it’s quickly become the new spot for adventure lovers. Driving through the different environments, each inspired by Africa’s diverse landscapes, I felt like I had been transported to another continent. We acquired a Gold package with a private guide to fully enjoy this unique experience and the experience did not disappoint.
An African Adventure in the Heart of the UAE
Sharjah Safari isn’t just a zoo; it’s an immersive African adventure. From the “To Africa” zone, which simulates the lush islands of the eastern African coast, to the open Savannah teeming with wildlife, the experience is incredibly authentic. What struck me most was how the animals roamed without fences. Elephants, giraffes, lions, rhinos – seeing them move freely across vast open spaces was awe-inspiring. It felt as close as you can get to an African safari without leaving the UAE.
The park has over 120 species of animals, including endangered species, and hosts more than 50,000 creatures across birds, reptiles, and mammals. Being able to witness such biodiversity up close made me appreciate how well the park replicates these animals’ natural habitats. It’s not just a visual experience; you really get a sense of how these animals live and interact in the wild.
The Highlights of My Visit
Every zone in Sharjah Safari offers something unique. Walking through the Sahel, with its desert and pasture landscapes, gave me a glimpse of the wildlife that thrives in these harsh environments. The Savannah, though, was my favorite – it stretches across the park, offering an open, grassy landscape where I saw elephants moving gracefully in the distance, with zebras and gazelles not far behind.
I also found the Serengeti zone fascinating, where you can learn about the incredible animal migrations that happen in Africa. Standing near the recreated Mara River, I could almost imagine the Nile crocodiles lurking beneath the surface, waiting for the herds of wildebeest to cross.
One of the most peaceful spots was the Ngorongoro area, inspired by the real-life crater in Tanzania. It’s an ecosystem within itself, and it felt like I was stepping into a living, breathing circle of life, with herbivores and predators coexisting in a beautifully balanced environment.
A Commitment to Conservation
Sharjah Safari isn’t just about offering visitors a great experience; it’s also a significant effort in conservation. The park is actively involved in breeding and rewilding programs to protect endangered species and help restore populations to their natural habitats. Knowing that the park is part of a global conservation effort made the experience even more meaningful for me.
My Final Thoughts
Sharjah Safari offers so much more than a typical wildlife park. It’s a place where adventure and conservation come together, creating an experience that’s both thrilling and educational. Whether you’re there with family or exploring on your own, it’s an adventure that brings you closer to nature and leaves you with a deeper respect for the wild.
For me, the highlight was simply seeing the animals roaming free in such vast spaces. It’s a rare experience in this part of the world, and one that I would recommend to anyone looking to escape into nature. Sharjah Safari left me in awe and made me appreciate how lucky we are to have such a place so close to home.
Want to know more?
For more information and tickets, visit the official site of Sharjah Safari.
Voyagerista 