My family and I have been dying to visit Global Wildlife for quite some time now. When we finally got the chance to attend, I just couldn’t pass it up! Global Wildlife Center is largest free-roaming wildlife preserve of its kind in the country and is currently home to over 4,000 exotic and threatened animals. They are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which means all ticket donations go directly back into the facility to care for the animals! The facility is located in Folsom Louisiana, which is a little over two hours from where my family and I live. We planned on visiting on May 28th, 2017 and had hopes of attending the first 9 a.m tour (yes, that means we had to leave VERY early).
When we arrived we were one of the first people in line. We were able to get our tickets and purchase feed fairly quickly. The 9:00 ride began to board at 9:15 and the workers went around passing out all of the feed that was purchased. We purchased a bucket of feed for $30, but there were other options avaliable as well. Once the feed was passed out, we were ready to go at 9:30. I love how Global Wildlife limits tickets to each ride so that everyone has plenty of room to move around comfortably.
About a yard from where we boarded is when the animals first started coming up to the vehicle. I was surprised at how quickly and easily the animals made their way to us. We were told not to feed the zebras since they are affectionate bitters, but all of the other animals easily ate straight out of our little cups! I was amazed at how lovable the animals were! They all loved being pet and were not shy whatsoever! My daughter was over the moon with all of the small deer and couldn’t believe that she was able to feed them all!
The driver honked her horn two times to let us know they would be going to the next location. Everyone sat down as the vehicle started moving again, and the animals started to follow us! I mean, they were really loving all of the snacks and rubs! As we made our way around, the tour guide gave us a little info about each animal and really made it easy to understand for the children. My daughter was so excited to learn more about each animal we came in contact with.
The entire ride took about an hour and a half. We made our way around the land and encountered thousands of animals! Giraffes, zebras, deer, bison, ducks, geese, donkeys, and so many more! There was not one part of the tour where we had to wait on animals to come up to us! We did have to wait a few moments for the giraffes to make their way into the open, however there were plenty of animals to occupy our time while we waited.
At the end of the tour, we were able to toss all of our trash into our empty feed buckets and exit the vehicle. My daughter was exhausted, but still cried to go again! We made our way to the gift shop, loaded up on goodies, and made our way home. This was truly an experience we will never forget. I can’t wait to experience a private tour next time we decide to go. It was truly one of the best days of our lives!
Basic Information about Global Wildlife
Guided Wagon Tour Donations
Adults: $19.00
Seniors (65+): $17.00
Children: $13.00
1yr and under: FREE
Private Tour
All Ages: $35
Minimum reservation: $140 (4 tickets)
Maximum reservation: 8 Adults
*Open year round, 7 days a week. Always call (985) 796-3585 first for safari check–in times and availability. Tour times are updated every Friday. Tickets are sold on a first come, first serve basis and are not sold in advance, online or over the phone. Plan to arrive earlier than the check in times listed below to purchase tickets*
Feed Prices
32oz Souvenir Cups: $2
Family Bucket: $30
Sack: $62
Bin: $75
More information on Global Wildlife can be found on their website. They can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
*I RECEIVED THE PRODUCTS MENTIONED ABOVE FOR FREE IN RETURN FOR AN UNBIASED REVIEW. I ONLY REVIEW AND RECOMMEND PRODUCTS OR SERVICES THAT I HAVE USED PERSONALLY. I AM DISCLOSING THIS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION’S 16 CFR, PART 255: “GUIDES CONCERNING THE USE OF ENDORSEMENTS AND TESTIMONIALS IN ADVERTISING”. THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS POST ARE ENTIRELY MY OWN*
Those photos looks amazing.
LikeLike
Omg looks like y’all had a total blast!!!! My daughter just love animals. She would love going to a place like this!
LikeLike
Wow by the looks of those pics your family had a great time!! What a great concept I would love to visit The Global Wildlife Center, thanks for sharing these amazing memories that your family made!!
LikeLike
Wow for $35 this tour is worth it. I would love to have this kind of tour and interact with animals. And kids will learn how to love them and give care for them.
LikeLike
Such beautiful photos. Your children look so thrilled to be there.
LikeLike
What a terrific outing. I’d love to visit this place too. The pictures of the dear were so adorable.
LikeLike
This looks so much fun! My two girls are obsessed with animals and would love something like this.
LikeLike
Your photos looks great. You and your family look like you had so much fun. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLike
We have something similar here and we love it. The kids always have a good time and learn something!
LikeLike