Starting December 13, Dubai Safari Park will unveil a night safari experience. Khaleej Times was granted an exclusive sneak peek of this distinctive attraction, which enables visitors to delve into the secrets of the animal kingdom under the cloak of darkness. The experience will run from 6pm to 8pm until January 12, 2025. The park is home to over 3,000 animals from 87 species, providing a rich mix of entertainment and education. As the sun sets, Dubai Safari Park metamorphoses into a lively nocturnal environment.
Guests will embark on tour trucks equipped with strategically placed lights to illuminate the park’s exotic residents. Visitors can look forward to spotting animals such as the Arabian sand gazelle and the imposing southern white rhinos, which are notably active during the night.
Kennedy Gitonga, a Kenyan tour guide, remarked, ‘Visitors might be astonished to see animals that were resting during the day. The night safari offers an entirely different viewpoint.’ Highlights include the elegant movements of the towering mountain gazelles and the elusive pygmy hippos, famous for their nocturnal activities. The night safari unveils a realm of activity that many might not anticipate. Tigers can be observed playfully chasing each other, a stark contrast to their usual daytime rest near water or under trees. Lions roam freely, exhibiting their majestic aura. One visitor exclaimed, ‘I’ve never seen the pygmy hippos out of the water before; they’re usually submerged during the day, but tonight they’re all out feeding!’ Crocodiles are also seen basking above the water, gathered together in a display of their natural behavior.
As animals dart around the carts, a dynamic and exhilarating atmosphere is created. Kennedy shared intriguing details about the park’s inhabitants, elaborating on the mountain gazelles—the national animal of Palestine—known for their unique ability to consume poisonous plants without harm. The cooler evening temperatures enhance the experience, allowing guests to witness animals in their more natural habitats. The night safari not only improves visibility but also provides a unique opportunity to observe these creatures engaging in behaviors often missed during daylight hours.
The safari features two nightly tours led by expert guides, who will share insights into the animals’ adaptations for nocturnal life, such as enhanced night vision and echolocation. Visitors will also have the chance to engage in interactive activities, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Dubai Safari Park prioritizes animal welfare, ensuring that only nocturnally active species participate in the safari. This approach allows guests to observe animals in their natural behaviors without disruption. Ahmad Al Zarouni, Director of Public Parks and Recreational Facilities at Dubai Municipality, emphasized the park’s mission: ‘We aim to inspire a deeper appreciation for wildlife and advocate for animal welfare. With the introduction of the unique night safari, we are excited to reveal a new perspective on the world of wildlife after dark.’
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