2. GO WILD IN MADISON You don’t need to fly 15 hours or spend thousands of dollars to have an African-style safari experience. Instead, drive to Georgia Safari Conservation Park in Madison , the first overnight safari park in Georgia, where you can get up close to over 60 wild and exotic species of free-roaming animals, including bison, impalas, addax, kudus, elands, roans, rhinos, water buffaloes, zebras, and giraffes. Through your visit, you also help conserve species and ensure that the genetic health for critically endangered animals is maintained. Take an exciting tour riding in an open-air safari vehicle over bumpy, rugged dirt roads through 530 acres of open grasslands and lush forest canopy as you spot majestic animals frolicking around. Listen to captivating stories about the animals’ unique traits straight from the guides who care for them. If you are traveling with little ones, opt for a 90-minute safari game drive. The animals are most active in the mornings and right before sunset. Or, if you are up for a longer three-hour VIP adventure, you will get a chance to feed a giraffe and have a rhino encounter at the hi-tech barn. For an unforgettable stargazing experience, stay at one of the luxurious one-or two-bedroom canvas-tented camps fitted with expansive decks, modern amenities, and African decor. For the ultimate experience, snag the Giraffe Suite and witness the graceful movements of your barn mates unfold right from your private panoramic bedroom window, all while you lounge in your PJs and savor your morning coffee. Tame your hunger at the nearby Farmview Market for delicious farm-to-table Southern-inspired breakfast and Oconee Roasters coffee. Make sure to pick up some Georgia-grown produce, snacks, and pantry items for the drive as well. If you stay longer, there are several dining options in the charming town of Madison. Find Southern-inspired French cuisine in a casual atmosphere at Town 220 Restaurant , casual Mediterranean seafood and pasta at Ricardo’s Kouzzina , or reserve a table at The Dining Room for an intimate evening featuring a seasonal prix fixe menu. If you prefer to nest in the urban jungle with walking distance to historical homes, shopping, and dining, find your den at the refined and cozy, boutique The James Madison Inn . Or, rest your paws at the pet-friendly, retro-inspired New South Motor Inn . BOTH PHOTOS: GEORGIA SAFARI CONSERVATION PARK, MADISON | GEORGIA SAFARI CONSERVATION PARK EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG 21
Official State Travel Guide 2026 Georgia Official State Travel Guide: Page 21
