Looking for a Unique Animal Encounter in Florida? Should the Giraffe Ranch in Dade City, FL be on your list?
If you’ve ever dreamed of feeding a giraffe, riding a camel, or going on a real-life safari—without leaving Florida—then the Giraffe Ranch in Dade City, FL needs to be on your bucket list. This hidden gem offers immersive animal adventures just north of Tampa, making it an ideal day trip for tourists and locals alike.
What Is the Giraffe Ranch?
The Giraffe Ranch is a working wildlife preserve and licensed zoological facility located in the rolling hills of Dade City, FL. Unlike a traditional zoo, this experience brings you up close to animals in wide-open habitats through small, guided tours. You’ll learn about conservation and wildlife biology in a hands-on, unforgettable way.
Safari Tour Options at Giraffe Ranch
There’s a safari for every kind of adventurer:
- 🦒 Vehicle Safari Tour — Ride in a covered safari truck through the preserve with a knowledgeable guide.
- 🐫 Camel Safari — Yes, you can actually ride a camel while viewing animals!
- 🛴 Segway Safari — Glide through the terrain on a guided Segway tour alongside giraffes and antelope.
- 🚗 Drive-Thru Safari — Enjoy the safari from the comfort of your own car.
Tour Times:
Tours are offered daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM by advance reservation only.
Admission Prices (as of 2025)
- Custom Safari Vehicle Tour: $135 per person
- Drive-Thru Safari: $175 per vehicle (up to 4 people)
- Camel Safari: $265 per person (ages3+)
- Segway Safari: $265 per person (ages14+)
Reservations required in advance via girafferanch.com.
Animals You’ll Encounter
The Giraffe Ranch is home to a stunning variety of wildlife from around the world, including:
- Giraffes (yes, you can feed them!)
- Zebras
- Lemurs
- Camels
- Warthogs
- Tapirs
- Otters
- Oryx, Eland & Other Antelope Species
- Hippopotamus
Each tour offers a chance to get incredibly close to these animals while learning about their habitats and behaviors.
How to Visit the Giraffe Ranch
Giraffe Ranch
38650 Mickler Rd, Dade City, FL 33523
(813) 482-3400
Reservations & Info: girafferanch.com
Located about an hour from Tampa or 90 minutes from Orlando, this destination makes for the perfect wildlife-filled day trip. Pro Tip: If you’re traveling from the Orlando area, add a stop in Clermont for lunch at Salt Shack on the Lake.
Why You Should Visit
- Unique wildlife encounters you won’t find at a typical zoo
- Educational and conservation-focused experience
- Small group tours for a personal and immersive feel
- Great for families, photographers, and nature lovers
- Easy access from Orlando and Tampa
Final Thoughts
We had a beautiful time at this experience! Whether you’re a local looking for a fun weekend outing or a tourist seeking something off the beaten path, the Giraffe Ranch in Dade City, FL delivers one of the most exciting wildlife adventures in Central Florida. I hope you get the chance to get nose-to-nose with a giraffe—it’s a memory you’ll never forget!
Looking for more animal adventures in Orlando? Check out this bucket list Orlando experience!
Thanks for reading!
Xx Autumn
