Tucked away in the scenic landscapes of Cameron, North Carolina, Aloha Safari Zoo offers a heartwarming sanctuary for rescued animals from across the globe. Often referred to simply as "Aloha Zoo," this remarkable establishment has gained popularity among locals and visitors alike for its dedication to animal care, education, and providing unforgettable animal encounters. If you're planning a visit or simply want to learn more about this exceptional facility, here's your ultimate guide to the Aloha Zoo experience.

1. About Aloha Safari Zoo

Aloha Safari Zoo was founded with a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and provide a safe haven for exotic and domestic animals in need. The zoo operates as a private sanctuary, with many of its animals saved from difficult or unsafe situations. Through its engaging and educational experiences, the zoo aims to foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife and raise awareness about the importance of animal welfare and conservation.

2. Getting to Aloha Zoo

Located in Cameron, North Carolina, Aloha Safari Zoo is just a short drive from Fayetteville and approximately an hour and a half from Raleigh. Visitors can reach the zoo by car, with parking available onsite. The zoo is open to the public seasonally, so it’s best to check their official website or social media pages for updated hours and seasonal information before your visit.

3. What to Expect at Aloha Zoo

The zoo houses a variety of species, including big cats, primates, reptiles, birds, and farm animals. What makes Aloha Safari Zoo truly unique is its focus on personal, interactive experiences. Here’s what you can look forward to:

a. Safari Rides

• The zoo offers guided safari rides, providing visitors an up-close view of larger animals, including zebras, bison, and camels, roaming within large, open spaces. These rides offer an interactive way to learn about each species while appreciating their natural behaviors.

b. Animal Encounters

• Aloha Zoo allows visitors to have direct animal encounters, such as feeding and petting some of the resident animals. Encounters range from bottle-feeding baby animals to petting sessions with gentle creatures like donkeys and goats. These experiences are especially popular with children and offer a hands-on approach to learning about animal care.

c. Reptile and Bird Houses

• For reptile enthusiasts, the zoo features a reptile house where guests can observe and learn about snakes, turtles, and other fascinating reptiles. The aviary is home to exotic bird species, and the zoo often hosts bird-feeding sessions where guests can interact with these colorful creatures.

d. Educational Programs

• Aloha Safari Zoo takes pride in its commitment to education. Guided tours and educational sessions are available, allowing visitors to gain deeper insights into animal behavior, the importance of conservation, and the individual stories of the animals living at the zoo.

4. Visiting Tips

• Check the Weather: The zoo experience is largely outdoors, so it’s wise to check the weather and bring sunscreen, hats, and water on hot days, or rain gear if necessary.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: With a variety of walking paths and outdoor areas, comfortable footwear will enhance your visit.
• Bring Cash for Animal Feed: Many of the animal encounters require a small fee for food, so bringing a few dollars in cash ensures you can participate in these experiences.
• Plan for a Picnic: The zoo provides picnic areas for guests, making it a great spot for a family lunch surrounded by nature.

5. Supporting the Mission

As a sanctuary, Aloha Safari Zoo depends on donations, ticket sales, and volunteers to continue their work. Visitors can support the zoo by purchasing admission tickets, participating in animal encounters, or donating directly to the sanctuary. These contributions help maintain the animals’ habitats, support their daily care, and aid in rescuing more animals in need.

6. Why Aloha Safari Zoo is Worth a Visit

The Aloha Safari Zoo is more than just a zoo – it’s a haven of compassion where animals are given a second chance at life. From the engaging safari rides to the hands-on animal encounters, each experience brings visitors closer to the animals while fostering an understanding of the importance of animal welfare.

A trip to Aloha Zoo is a rewarding experience for animal lovers of all ages, providing a blend of education, adventure, and compassion. For those looking to support a great cause while enjoying a memorable day out, Aloha Safari Zoo in North Carolina is the perfect destination.