If you’ve ever dreamed of going on a safari but didn’t want to board a plane to Africa, let me introduce you to a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Louisiana. Just an hour north of New Orleans, the Global Wildlife Center in Folsom offers an unforgettable experience that feels like stepping into another world—one where animals roam free and you, the visitor, become part of their landscape.
This isn’t your typical zoo. There are no concrete enclosures or distant fences. Instead, imagine boarding an open-air safari wagon and rolling across 900+ acres of pastures and forests teeming with giraffes, zebras, bison, kangaroos, and more. It’s immersive, interactive, and magical—especially for kids, photographers, and anyone who finds joy in seeing animals thrive.
But for me, what made it even more magical was sharing it with our grandchildren.
A Family Safari to Remember
We’ve had wonderful family outings over the years, but this one—this felt different. Watching our grandchildren experience the Global Wildlife Center for the first time was like rediscovering wonder through their eyes.
From the moment the wagon pulled into the open fields, they were wide-eyed and bursting with anticipation. The giggles came quickly—when a deer nudged in for a snack, when a llama leaned in a little too close, or when a giraffe’s long purple tongue wrapped around a treat in my granddaughter’s and grandson’s tiny hands. Their laughter, their gasps of amazement, their complete and total joy—those moments were unforgettable.
There’s something special about seeing animals in such a natural setting, but there’s something extraordinary about seeing your grandchildren experience it for the first time. I caught my wife smiling every few seconds, the kind of quiet, content smile that comes from watching joy unfold all around you.
We weren’t just observers—we were participants in something deeply connective. Not just to the animals, but to each other. And that’s a gift.
A True Safari Experience
From the moment you arrive, the vibe is different. You’re not just here to observe animals from afar—you’re here to experience them.
The adventure starts with a guided safari tour, either by covered wagon or private vehicle, led by knowledgeable staff who are equal parts educators and entertainers. As the vehicle rumbles into the vast, open landscape, animals begin to appear on all sides: antelope herds bounding alongside the wagon, giraffes gracefully walking through the trees, and zebras grazing peacefully in the distance.
When a giraffe leaned down and looked directly into my grandson’s eyes before taking a snack from his hand, it was like watching the veil between worlds thin for just a second. He was stunned—speechless—and then lit up with a joy I’ll never forget.
Feed Them, Touch Them, Be Amazed
One of the center’s most unforgettable features is how hands-on the experience can be. With a bucket of specially formulated animal feed (available for purchase before your ride), you’re suddenly the most popular guest on the prairie. Deer nuzzle up to you, llamas gently take treats from your hand, and curious camels peer in, hoping for a snack.
It’s not just the feeding that makes this place special—it’s the connection. When a bison snorts nearby or a zebra trots confidently up to say hello, you realize how rare and precious this moment is. Although, it is recommended not to get too close to the Zebras, unlike the other animals. These animals aren’t behind glass or wires. They’re part of the environment, and for a short time, so are you.
And yes, it’s safe. The staff takes animal welfare and guest safety seriously. You’re reminded to feed flat-palmed, respect the animals’ space, and let them come to you. The result is a natural, respectful interaction that feels like a gift.
For our grandkids, it felt like a dream come to life. For us? It was like time slowed down just long enough for us to really be together, without distractions—just joy, laughter, and a field full of new memories.
An Extraordinary Collection of Species
The Global Wildlife Center is home to over 4,000 animals from around the globe. From African eland and red kangaroos to rare Barasingha deer and enormous American bison, the diversity is staggering. It’s not every day you find yourself surrounded by animals that would otherwise require a passport and a 12-hour flight to see.
What’s more impressive is how they live. These animals roam in herds and family groups, forming natural social structures across open spaces—no cages, no concrete. It’s as close as you can get to seeing animals as they were meant to live, all within reach of southern Louisiana.
You’ll likely see:
• Giraffes up close and personal (yes, you can feed them!) My favorites. Something about feeding an 18 foot tall giraffe is magical, even more when holding your 4 year old granddaughter in your arms so she can get to them and feed them by hand.
• Zebras mingling near the wagon trail
• Red kangaroos lounging in the sun and even a small one called Popcorn . How amazing, even more so when my grandchildren got to touch them up close. I’ll write an entire post on that experience.
• Llamas and alpacas vying for your attention (and snacks)
• Scimitar-horned oryx, once extinct in the wild, now thriving here
Educational and Entertaining for All Ages
Whether you’re bringing toddlers or teens, going on a date, or indulging your own curiosity, the experience hits the sweet spot between fun and learning. Guides share fascinating facts throughout the ride—how giraffes sleep, which species are endangered, and why certain animals bond so well with others.
And for those of us blessed to bring grandchildren along, it’s even better. Every moment becomes a chance to connect—through discovery, through wonder, through shared laughter and wide-eyed stares.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to the Global Wildlife Center, here are a few tips to enhance your experience:
1. Book in advance. Safari tours fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
2. Spring and fall offer ideal weather. While the animals are out year-round, cooler temperatures mean they’re often more active. Although we went in June and they were very, very active. Marvelously so.
3. Bring your camera. You’ll want to capture that moment when a giraffe gently takes a treat from your hand.
4. Buy the feed bucket. It’s worth every penny. The animals love it, and it transforms your experience.
5. Consider a private tour. If you’re visiting with a group or celebrating a special occasion, a private ride offers more time, more access, and more personal interactions.
A Place to Return To
We’ve already talked about going back. The grandkids are still talking about it—and truthfully, so are we. There’s something deeply calming about being surrounded by creatures great and small, especially in a setting so removed from the noise and stress of everyday life. Each visit brings new surprises—different animals, new babies, or a funny moment you didn’t expect.
Final Thoughts
In a world where so much feels fast, fenced-in, and filtered, the Global Wildlife Center offers something truly rare: connection. Connection to the natural world, to majestic creatures who allow us into their space, and to the childlike wonder that still lives within all of us.
But most of all, connection to each other.
So if you’re anywhere near Louisiana—or even if you’re not—consider putting Folsom on your map. It may not be Africa, but for a few unforgettable hours, it feels wonderfully close.
Learn more: https://globalwildlife.com
