Embark on the Wild Side at Georgia Safari Conservation Park

"Hey, where are y'all going?" Zebras at Georgia Safari Conservation Park watch as the safari truck drives by. photo personal collection

Picture yourself rolling through the land, capturing the interest of zebras as stopping their play to watch as you go by, stepping out of your tent and sharing a cup of coffee with a group of inquisitive ostriches, or sitting on the sofa and seeing a giraffe saunter across its living space.

Now, imagine doing any of those three less than an hour east of Atlanta, Georgia, in Madison.

About five minutes away from its historic district, filled with locally-owned eateries, boutiques, stately homes and more, is the relatively new (opened in the summer of 2024) 530-acre Georgia Safari Conservation Park.

Not a care in the world among the two Ankole-Watusi cattle. photo personal collection

The expansive landscape brings the grasslands of Africa to the state's Piedmont region. While riding on the safari truck watching elands, watusis and other animals, representing over 40 wild and exotic species, go about their business, it is easy to forget that Interstate 20 is within a short distance.

And this is just the first roll-out of five planned phases, meaning more is to come.

However, this all didn't happen overnight. Ten years in the making, Georgia Sarfari Conservation Park was the idea of partners Bill Killmer and Michael Conrads, who wanted to give back to the community while making a lasting impact on the surrounding area and continuing dialogue on conservation efforts through immersive experiences.

Take a Tour of the Wild Side

Currently, the park offers three tours: the Safari Drive-Through Experience, the Safari Drive-Through Experience + Giraffe and Rhino Encounter and a Private VIP Tour. You won't have any issues finding something that fits your interests and, more importantly, your budget. There's also the seasonal Sunset Safari, Apr. 1 - Sept. 30.

Hop aboard the safari truck to begin your adventure. photo personal collection

Hop aboard a customized safari truck for the 90-minute Safari Drive-Through Experience. On the ride, enjoy the hour-long expert-led guided adventure while learning about the animals, their habits and care. Don't hold back with questions; more importantly, keep your phone's camera ready. The other 30 minutes is dedicated to an up-close animal encounter with the park's animal ambassadors, including a sloth and spurred African tortoises. You can hear about the animals themselves, their upkeep and more. $39 per person for ages three and up; children two years and younger are free.

The 150-minute Safari Drive-Through Experience + Giraffe and Rhino Encounter (150 minutes) includes everything in the Safari Drive-Through Experience along with an up-close giraffe and rhino encounter, including feeding and photo opportunities with a keeper in the giraffe and rhino barn. $125 per person ages three and up; children two years and younger are free.

Up to eight guests (perfect for family or friends outings) can enjoy the ultimate experience on the 180-minute Private VIP Tour. It includes a private, guided safari tour in a VIP safari vehicle, a private giraffe and rhino encounter with feeding and photo opportunities, a behind-the-scenes tour of the giraffe and rhino barn, an extended animal encounter with an animal ambassador, and complimentary souvenirs. $ 2,500 for a group of up to 8 guests.

Enjoy the golden hour views from the safari truck during the seasonal 180-minute Sunset Safari Tour while watching the wildlife transition day to night. $275 per person ages three and up; children two years and younger are free.

Overnight in the Wild

Details, details, details inside the luxury safari tents. photo personal collection

As for lodging, Georgia Safari Conservation Park knows that attention to detail makes all the difference and has gone above and beyond. Within its Luxury Safari Tents are touches like a pair of binoculars, mosquito-like netting surrounding the king-sized canopy bed in the main bedroom (the other bedroom holds two XL twin beds), giving that authentic safari camp feel and a television channel dedicated to introducing the animal residents to guests. Combined with modern conveniences such as the necessary WiFi, a spacious living area to spread out in, private outdoor space and more, even with the tents tucked away, you remain connected and comfortable and have everything you need for a relaxing stay all at your fingertips. 

Main bedroom in the luxury safari tents. photo personal collection

The five bookable tents sleep up to four; a two-night minimum stay is required. The reservation includes a guided safari drive-through tour, a Keeper Chat, an animal ambassador encounter with one of the park's animal ambassadors, and complimentary souvenirs. Note these are not private experiences and will include other guests.

Addons, such as the Giraffe and Rhino Encounters with a photo and feeding opportunity, are available at an additional charge.

As for the Honeymoon Hideaway and the Giraffe Suite, they are genuinely sui generis accommodations.

Bathe in the wild. The outdoor shower and tub in the Honeymoon Hideaway. photo personal collection

What makes the one-bedroom safari tent Honeymoon Hideaway stand apart is its outdoor shower and tub, as well as two private decks, one off the bedroom and one off the main area.

Perfect for couples wanting a memorable escape or celebrating a birthday or anniversary, the Honeymoon Hideaway (two-night minimum stay) includes a guided Safari drive-through tour with an expert guide, Keeper Chat, a visit to the giraffe and rhino barn area, and an animal encounter with an animal ambassador. Note these are not private experiences and will include other guests.

View from the living area inside the Giraffe Suite. photo personal collection

Perched on the second floor of the 10,000-square-foot Giraffe and Rhino Barn in the Giraffe Suite, complete with fun giraffe accents. The large picture windows throughout the living areas offer intimate views of the daily going-ons of the giraffes. The accommodation, which sleeps four, includes a full-size sleeper sofa, a dining room and a kitchenette. The main bedroom has a king-size canopy bed and a full bathroom with a tiled shower. There is also an outside deck on which to relax and unwind.

A two-night minimum stay is required and includes a private, guided safari tour in a VIP safari vehicle, a private giraffe and rhino encounter with feeding and photo opportunities, a behind-the-scenes tour of the giraffe and rhino barn, a special extended animal encounter with an animal ambassador and complimentary souvenirs. 

Know Before You Go

For tours, reservations are highly recommended and preferred.

For lodging, there is free on-site parking, and while there isn't an on-site restaurant and sundry shop yet, stop in Madison to stock up on items. There is also access to exit (and reenter) the park for dining.