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November 2024 by Tracie Thompson
Unfortunately, there were not very many animals to see lots of empty pens. I suppose that’s actually a good thing.
Playground: It is inside the main building
Toilets: Lots of restrooms, plenty along the walkways the building that you start in the building at the other end and several in between also very clean
Dog-friendliness: This is not a place for you to bring your dog at all. It would need to stay in the car and if it’s hot outside, they will call animal control. They have it posted at their front door and on their website.
Picnic area: There’s a big parking lot and lots of open areas where you could sit and have a picnic
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October 2024 by Michael Kirsh
My wife and I visited this facility in Oct 2024. It is the second time we have been there and we had some positive and negative experiences so I will be covering a few topics.
Positives: The concept behind the Sanctuary is great in that the animals here have been rescued and are allowed to live out their lives stress free, well cared for, and well fed.
Price: It costs $50 person ($20 over 69, children 3-12 $30, free for age 2 and below) which makes it somewhat expensive. However, the facility is supported by these entry fees and donations which makes the cost reasonable.
Negatives: We went during the afternoon and had to leave just before the closing time of 4:30 PM, the animals were hard to see and were not really doing much. If you want to be entertained by animals, this is not the place for you. During our visit, near the far end of the walkway, my wife was taking pictures and one of the staff members came along and scolded her for disturbing the animals. The website encourages people to take photos and discusses at length that being overhead does not disturb these animals. This was really confusing. Also, there were others doing the same thing and this employee said nothing to them. We really did not know if the woman was acting on her own or if there was a policy in place. In addition, the animals we saw were resting and did not even know we were there. We paid a lot of money for our visit and this patronizing attitude towards us was unacceptable. We will not be back.
Location: The Sanctuary is located in a remote area of Weld County and it takes awhile to get there. We live nearby but it's still a trip. If you are coming from a distance (either flying in or driving) prepare for a long drive just to get there.
Alternative: We have also visited the Out of Africa Park in Camp Verde, AZ and had a much better experience. However, the animals there were no where near as isolated from people as they are at the Sanctuary. These are entirely two different types of facilities however, the animals at Out of Africa seemed to well cared for. It is also cheaper.
Suggestion: If you want an animal experience, visit Out of Africa facility instead and then you can donate to the Sanctuary without the expense and hassle of getting there.
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October 2024 by Jon Crowther
So much to see & enjoy.
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October 2024 by krystal white Hawk
Loved the sanctuary and its people. Safe place to learn, and freedom to explore without harm.
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October 2024 by Stephanie Chapman
Great Experience and Wonderful Staff
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October 2024 by M Tec
If you want to see the animals and not just take a two-hour walk in the sun over Colorado prairieland, make sure you go in the early morning or late afternoon. This cannot be stressed enough. The animals are most active during these times and may disappear into their burrows or shelters during midday. If you go early or late, you will likely see several bears, tigers, lions, & wolves. Now, the sanctuary works really hard at letting every patron know that this is not a zoo. And that is very much true. Unlike a zoo, you MIGHT have an opportunity to observe these amazing creatures from an elevated walkway. Unlike a zoo, there are no special presentations or shows. Unlike a zoo, there are no feeding or petting areas. Unlike a zoo, you will not see giraffes, elephants, crocodiles, rhinos, or other typical zoo animals. While most of our family did enjoy the sanctuary, we cannot give it full stars due to the astronomical entrance fees. A zoo is about $25 per person. This place is double that, but, again, this is isn't a zoo. I suppose double the enclosure, double the price. But kudos on helping rescue God's creatures.
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October 2024 by surimaribo24
The most memorable experience of the wild in the wild you will have . They are taken care off and we must support this place .. a must if youre in town about an hour away from denver . The staff are superb verry helpfull . Mr. Lenny is a amazing human being a blessing to this place for sure
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October 2024 by Deb Baldwin
Don't get too excited, very disappointing cisit, only a few animals to see.
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October 2024 by Alan Zheng
Great experience for a great cause. Some animals are little far and hidden but you have to understand that is not a zoo. I will recommend bringing a binoculars and wind breaker, being high up in the walk path could be chilly at times. Take your time, no need to rush through the exhibit.
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October 2024 by Malcolm O'Brien
If you are looking to visit, its important to understand this is not a zoo. If you are interested in learning about their conservation efforts, it is well worth the trip. The enlclosures are set up for the animals welfare, not the pleasure of visitors. That being said, we thoroughly enjoyed it. We have been donors for over 20 years and it was our first visit. They do very good work and Ibhighly recommend them as a charity.
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October 2024 by Brandon Pitchford
Largest carnivore sanctuary. Saw bears, jaguar, foxes, lions, Tigers, and more. Food was good. Friendly staff.
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October 2024 by Kaela Edwards
Amazing animal place - love the trail system which provides a high-level overview of all the animals! Definitely worth coming out to & visiting!!
Toilets: Restrooms & water every 1/4 mile and rest stops.
Picnic area: Eatery & snacks at the beginning and end of the trails.
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October 2024 by William Kutscher
I took my girlfriend there because she had been wanting to go. However, I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. You get to see many wild animals in a natural setting. Three things to keep in mind if you are thinking about going: 1. You must be fit enough to walk three miles. 2. Bring a good pair of binoculars. 3. Do not bring your dog; all dogs (including service and support dogs) are strictly forbidden.
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October 2024 by Ann Berens (anni-b)
I unfortunately haven't been there for years but hope to over Thanksgiving again. It's absolutely fabulous and I can't wait to take my grandchildren there.
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October 2024 by Bill Masure
A wonderful place that gives abused and neglected animals peace.
