Butterfly Jungle at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Imagine wondering through a beautiful garden full of lush green plants, multi-colored flowers and thousands of butterflies swirling overhead. If you think this is a scene from a Tinkerbell movie, guess again! It’s actually the real-life environment of Butterfly Jungle. This annual spring sensation takes place at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park from March 14 – April 12.

Butterfly Jungle is part of the Park’s Hidden Jungle aviary that has been transformed into a sea of butterflies. You will see thousands of exotic butterflies of all colors, shapes and sizes fluttering through the air and feasting on nectar from the enclosed plants. and flowers. There are more than 30 butterfly species from Africa, Asia, Central, South and North America. You’ll also get a glimpse of exotic birds including finches, colorful turacos and sunbirds.

Make sure to wear bright colors when you visit the Jungle since the brightness attracts the butterflies. You should also move slowly to increase the chances of butterflies landing on their clothes or hats. When the insects do land, enjoy the encounter but don’t touch the little guys.

Don’t forget your camera for this special exhibit! Even if a butterfly doesn’t land on you or your kiddos, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to photograph the gorgeous creatures as they land on plants and flowers.

Before you go, make sure you download the free Butterfly I.D. Guide from the Park’s website. See how many gorgeous insects your kiddo can identify (great activity for homeschool families!).

How to Avoid the Butterfly Crowds
Butterfly Jungle attracts a crowd, so be prepared to wait in line to enter the aviary. If you don’t think your kiddos are up for the wait, there are two options to consider. Plan to arrive when the Park opens at 8 a.m. since the crowds will be less as the day goes on.

You can also take advantage of priority butterfly viewing for a nominal fee. (Talk to the staff at the Lorikeet Landing ticket booth for price.) Your ticket will allow you to cue in a separate line from the general public and you will alternately be allowed into the Butterfly Jungle aviary from a priority waiting line.

Tasty Treats and Butterfly Eats
You can always bring your snacks and lunch into the Park. But if you want to pick up a tasty butterfly-themed treat, visit the restaurants around Butterfly Jungle to find butterfly decorated cupcakes and fudge. If you’re in the mood to do something special, attend a Butterfly Jungle breakfast on April 3 or Aprill 11 at 7 a.m., before the Safari Park opens. Following breakfast in the Mombasa Pavilion, you’ll also get a special early morning viewing of the butterflies.