Feed the giraffes at Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde. Photo Credit: Kevin Korycanek

CAMP VERDE – You don’t need to travel around the globe for an (almost) authentic African safari. Just head to Camp Verde. The small town in Northern Arizona is home to the Out of Africa Wildlife Park, an interactive zoo with hundreds of wild and even friendly creatures common to Africa and other far off parts of the world.

Tiger strolls along fence at Out of Africa Park. Photo Credit: Kevin Korycanek

Unlike your traditional zoo, these animals graze in large areas that are somewhat comparable to their native lands. You can walk right up to the fences enclosing their grounds, or watch the animals in action during live shows throughout the day.

Zebra at Out of Africa Park. Photo Credit: Kevin Korycanek

General admission includes a 45-minute African Bush Safari in re-purposed buses that brings you face-to-face with giraffes, foreign antelopes, zebras, camels, ostriches and other big critters. You’ll even get a carrot to feed a giraffe or camel.

While on the tour, listen to the park guides. They really know what they’re talking about. Tune in for tidbits about the animals’ history, habits and natural habitat. For some additional cash, you can get the VIP treatment during a behind-the-scenes tour.

Ostrich at Out of Africa Wildlife Park. Photo Credit: Kevin Korycanek

Braves souls can take part in a “Predator Feed,” where they get to throw 800 pounds of raw food into the mouths of hungry tigers. Sound fun? Hopefully you have a good arm.

If You Go:

• Address: 3505 W. Highway 260, Camp Verde
• Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Admission closes at 4 p.m.; Park open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas)
• Admission: Adults $36, Seniors $34 (65+), Veterans and Active Military $22, Children $20 (3 to 12), Kids under 3 free
• Parking: Free
• More info: www.outofafricapark.com (visit for $8 coupon), (928) 567-2840