Wow! So happy we stopped here for a visit. You arrive and are greeted by friendly staff and clean facilities. The tour started off by learning about one of the ambassador animals, ours was a bearded dragon. Then we hopped on the truck which was also clean and spacious. Our tour guide Katelyn was so knowledgeable and a great speaker. We learned so much about all of the animals and the facility. They did not rush any part of the tour, so what was advertised as a one hour tour was actually about an hour and half. It's clear that everyone here takes great pride in each of their jobs and we can't thank you enough for providing such a fun place to explore.
Im definitely not saying this experience was all bad but it definitely wasn't what my family expected. The tour guide and driver were wonderful. She had a lovely presence and personality. HOWEVER we were expecting atleast a little encounters with some animals yeah no! Most of the animals were so far off in the distance we could barely see what they were (rhinos, giraffe, a goat (maybe) we couldn't tell what those white animals were. Maybe we had the wrong idea of a safari tour was or had our expectations set to high. All the adults felt this tour lacked that little razzle dazzle. The toddlers didn't notice the difference. Not sure if we will return.
It's an amazing place. The safari tents are beautiful and well-appointed; glamping at its best! The staff is great. Jamie and Lorna, out guides, were exceptional and knowledgeable! However, the property needs a higher profile--people who know about it will come! Signage coming out of Madison and from all directions would be helpful,, as well as a greater on line presence. We will be back!
Wow, what an awesome place to visit that's only a short drive from Gwinnett County. This new one-year-old conservative safari in Madison GA right off Interstate 20 is well worth the road trip for both the young and old. The staff is incredibly nice and knowledgable. Our safari guide did a great job of story telling and educating in fun and humorous manner. Our group looks forward visiting again as the center has plans to grow add to their current herds of animals.
We visited on Halloween Day (October 31) and spent over $800 expecting a fun, family-friendly safari experience. Unfortunately, it was not what was advertised. The environment was not kid- or sensory-friendly . normal child behavior was discouraged, and when my child became overstimulated, we were asked to leave before the experience ended.
The tour lasted about 3 hours with only two bathroom breaks and no food or drinks allowed on the bus, even though guests are seated for over an hour at a time. There’s no play area or open space for kids to move around, making it difficult for families with small children.
Our tour guide started off friendly, but by the end became rude and impatient, and the zookeepers leading the tour were unfriendly and dismissive. The overall atmosphere was judgmental, and several guests and staff gave disapproving looks when the kids were simply being kids. We were the only family with kids on the tour .
Honestly, this specific tour should be marketed as an adults-only luxury experience, not a family activity. While the property is beautiful, it is not inclusive or welcoming for young children or kids with disabilities .
My kids would have had far more fun at the zoo, where they could explore, play, and actually enjoy themselves.
I have not been yet, but I am going next month, so stay tuned for my final review. I really wanted to post a comment about how professional and kind the staff is, and so far, I have only booked my excursion. I have finalized all of my paperwork and their assistance has been top notch. I can hardly wait to arrive at for my overnight stay in the Giraffe Suite and watch giraffe's and eat my chocolate covered strawberries. Shout out to both Hannah's, they're so sweet and kind. ♥️
We have completed our trip and I must admit that for me, it's not a vacation destination, it's a way of life, I will be figuring out how to pay for this at least twice annually if not more frequently.
My soul was fed, my aptitude for nature was stretched and I learned so much that I will absolutely continue to return.
Huge shout outs to Katherine, Tyler and Jamie. I am completely overwhelmed with the first class service they've all extended to me and my Bestie Brenda.
The moment we arrived on the property after our five hour drive and our amazing farm to table buffet lunch along with our one hour horse back riding trail ride at the Southern Cross Ranch was phenomenal. No one on Earth is closer to Jesus than the folks who live and work in Georgia! I can attest to that!!!