Zoos

Darby Safari

Name: Darby Safari
Address: 2905 Kelly Rd, Charlotte, NC 28216, Charlotte, NC, US
Telephone: (704) 738-4444
Rating: 4.7

★★★★☆ 4.7 (189 reviews)

📍 2905 Kelly Rd, Charlotte, NC 28216

📞 (704) 738-4444

🌐 darbyacresfarm.com

Visit Website 📍 Get Directions

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About Darby Safari

Darby Safari is a zoo in Charlotte, NC. Darby Safari operates two separate locations—Darby Acres Farm for domestic animals and Darby Safari for exotic animals—allowing visitors to experience both farm and wild animal encounters. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 189 visitors.

Quick Facts

Type: Exotic & Farm Animal Encounters
Best For: All ages
Main Activities: Hands-on animal petting, feeding, and guided tours
Locations: Two separate facilities in Charlotte, NC
Most Immersive Experience: Kit and Caboodle Tour - $125 per person, 2-2.5 hours

💡 Did You Know?

⭐Darby Safari operates two separate locations—Darby Acres Farm for domestic animals and Darby Safari for exotic animals—allowing visitors to experience both farm and wild animal encounters
⭐The facility houses a diverse collection of exotic animals including capybaras, zebras, lemurs, fennec foxes, kangaroos, porcupines, spider monkeys, and Patagonian cavies, plus indoor residents like anteaters and mongooses
⭐Darby Safari emphasizes hands-on animal encounters with direct petting and feeding interactions, where staff facilitate educational experiences that guests report leads to significant learning outcomes
⭐The facility is recognized for rescue and conservation efforts, as mentioned by visitors who specifically noted the safari's involvement in animal rescue and conservation programs

💬 What Visitors Say

💡Book the Kit and Caboodle tour for the most immersive experience—multiple reviews highlight this tour as exceptional, with knowledgeable staff ensuring every visitor gets quality one-on-one time with animals like capybaras, otters, and lemurs.
💬Tour availability is released two weeks at a time on the website, so plan ahead and book early to secure your preferred date. Check your email confirmation for the correct address, as Google Maps may provide incorrect directions to Darby Safari.
💡Visit during Family Days with seasonal events (pumpkin painting, Easter egg hunts, photos with Santa) for added entertainment value, especially if traveling with children who want multiple activities in one trip.
💡The animals are actively cared for with enrichment activities—expect to see them digging, burrowing, and playing naturally rather than simply caged. The staff has genuine relationships with the animals, which creates an educational experience focused on animal welfare and behavior.
💬Text 704-738-4444 for tour questions rather than relying on other contact methods, and note that all sales are final with no refunds—inclement weather may result in rescheduling rather than cancellation, so plan accordingly.