During my time at Myrtle Beach Safari in South Carolina, I felt my heartbeat sync with the thunder of big cats, the gentle breath of elephants, and the chatter of chimpanzees—it felt like stepping into a live documentary. I remember thinking, “I’m walking alongside creatures I only ever see on screen.”

I joined the Wild Encounters Day Tour and spent about three hours on their lush 50-acre preserve, meeting animals face-to-face. I fed a majestic liger, hugged Bubbles the African elephant, and watched tiger cubs tumble at my feet. Each moment was both thrilling and humbling, a powerful reminder of the bonds we can form with wildlife.

In the morning glow, I reached out to pet a young chimpanzee, feeling its warm fur under my hand. It struck me: “Life’s wonder is in the touch.” The tour guide shared moving stories about each animal’s rescue and conservation—a blend of excitement and meaning that lingers long after.

Afterwards, I treated myself to lunch at Sea Captain’s House down by the beachfront. I savored a plate of shrimp and grits in buttery, smoky sauce while the ocean breeze cooled me—a tranquil, delicious counterpoint to the safari’s wild energy.

Myrtle Beach Safari — At a Glance

  • Drive Time from Myrtle Beach Airport: ~10 minutes (about 5 miles)
  • Vibe: Intimate, immersive, awe-inspiring wildlife encounters
  • Highlights: 3-hour Wild Encounters Day Tour, meet ligers, elephant “Bubbles,” chimpanzees, tigers, wolves, cheetahs, eagles, and more
  • Best Time to Visit: Early spring to late fall, with tours March–November; book early to secure a spot
  • Cost: Day Safari starts at $389 per person (seasonal pricing)
  • Hours: Day Tours begin around 9:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; Night and Sunset Tours run 6:30–9:30 p.m.
  • Access: Reservation-only; exact address provided after booking; not wheelchair accessible due to terrain
  • Address: 851 Folly Ranch Ln, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588

Recommended for

Animal lovers and wildlife conservationists
Experience up-close encounters with tigers, elephants, chimpanzees, and the world-famous liger, Hercules.

Adventure seekers
Walk among exotic animals, watch cheetahs sprint, and meet rescued wildlife in an immersive safari setting.

Families with older children
Enjoy once-in-a-lifetime animal interactions—ideal for kids ages 6 and up.

Photography enthusiasts
Capture memories with professional photo packages featuring you and the animals.

Highlights & Amenities

  • Wild Encounter Tours: Three-hour guided experiences March–October with select November–December availability
  • Meet Hercules the Liger: Guinness World Record holder for world’s largest cat
  • Elephant Interactions: Meet Bubbles, a rescued African elephant known for her gentle nature
  • Cheetah Run: Witness Ramses the cheetah hit speeds of 60+ mph
  • Chimpanzee & Gibbon Encounters: Learn how these intelligent primates communicate
  • All proceeds support: Global wildlife conservation through the Rare Species Fund

Preservation Station at Barefoot Landing

Free and open to the public, this sister attraction offers glass-enclosed tiger viewing, photo encounters with tiger cubs, and interactive conservation education in a safe environment.

Know Before You Go

  • Reservations Required: Tours must be booked in advance
  • Age Requirement: Guests must be 6+ years old to participate in Wild Encounters
  • Dress Code: No white clothing, dangling jewelry, skirts, or open-toed shoes
  • No personal cameras: Professional photos available for purchase
  • Weather-dependent: Tours may be rescheduled due to inclement weather

Insider Tip

Book early in the season and consider a combo package for professional photos and extra behind-the-scenes access—it supports global animal rescue and conservation programs.

Visitor Information

Address: 4898 South Highway 17, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Phone: 843-361-4552
Tour Hours: Seasonal; March–October (with select winter dates)
Preservation Station: Located at Barefoot Landing, open daily, no reservation required