Duration:
Full day
Price range:
Over £25
Suitable for:
INSIDER KNOWLEDGE
1 Safari Smarts
Pre-book your free safari truck time slot online to minimise waiting. Buggies aren't allowed onboard, so bring a baby carrier or sling if needed after disembarking part-way round.
2 Conquer the Hills
Port Lympne is vast and very hilly! Plan your walking route using the map, wear sturdy shoes, and ask staff about the on-request shuttle bus if you need help getting back up the steepest sections.
3 Dino Forest Route
The easiest way to reach Dinosaur Forest is often by getting off the safari truck at the designated stop. Alternatively, follow the walking paths, but factor in the uphill return journey.
4 Viewing Patience Pays
Animals have large, natural enclosures, so they aren't always visible immediately. Try visiting different habitats at various times and approach viewing areas quietly for the best chance.
INSIDER TIP
When boarding the safari truck, politely ask the ranger-driver if they have a favourite 'secret' animal fact they can share during the tour – they often have great anecdotes beyond the standard commentary!
About Port Lympne Safari Park
Looking for a wild and unforgettable family day out in Kent? Port Lympne Safari Park offers one of the UK’s most exciting kids days out, set across 600 acres of scenic countryside. Families can enjoy a truck safari adventure spotting giraffes, zebras, and antelope roaming freely, along with walking trails that bring you face-to-face with gorillas, big cats, primates, and more.
The park also features Dinosaur Forest, home to life-sized prehistoric creatures hidden among the trees, plus play areas, keeper talks, and breathtaking views over Romney Marsh. With its conservation focus and unique overnight stays, Port Lympne Safari Park offers a truly immersive wildlife experience and a memorable day out for the whole family.
Suggested Family Itinerary Perfect for Kids
Make the most of your visit with this suggested timeline. Adjust based on your family's interests and pace.
Arrival & Dinosaur Discovery
Arrive when the park opens and head straight to Dinosaur Forest, the UK's largest outdoor collection of life-sized dinosaurs. Explore this prehistoric world while energy levels are high.
Basecamp & Safari Boarding
Make your way back towards Basecamp near the entrance. Check the safari truck schedule and queue for your journey across the Kentish savannah.
Safari Adventure
Embark on the truck safari (included with entry) across the South American, Asian, and African Experiences. Spot giraffes, zebras, rhinos, spectacled bears, and more roaming freely.
Lunch with a View (or Pizza!)
After the safari, find a picnic spot near Basecamp or head towards Carnivore Territory for authentic Italian at Babydoll's Wood Fired Pizza (near the bears).
Carnivore Territory & Primate Trail
Begin exploring the walking trails. Visit Carnivore Territory to see majestic lions, tigers, and leopards, then follow the Primate Trail to discover monkeys and apes.
Palace of the Apes & Play Break
Visit the impressive Palace of the Apes, home to Western lowland gorillas. Afterwards, let the kids enjoy one of the adventure play areas nearby.
Nearby Bonus: Hythe Beach
After a full day, take a short drive to nearby Hythe Beach for a refreshing seaside walk and maybe an ice cream before heading home.
Pro Tips for Families:
- The included safari truck ride is essential. Check departure times at Basecamp on arrival and plan your visit around it – queues can build at peak times.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes! Port Lympne covers 600 acres and involves significant walking on hilly terrain. Check accessibility options if needed.
- Don't underestimate Dinosaur Forest! It's extensive and located away from the main entrance – allow at least 45-60 minutes to explore it properly.
- Book day tickets online in advance. Bring refillable water bottles and consider packing snacks, as cafes are spread out across the large reserve.
Opening times
☀️ Summer Opening (1 April – 28 October)
- Open daily from 9:30am to 6:00pm
❄️ Winter Opening (1 November – 31 March)
- Open daily from 9:30am to 4:00pm
- Christmas Eve: 9:30am–2:00pm (last admission for day guests and members is 12:00pm)
- Christmas Day: Closed
- Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day: 10:00am–4:00pm (last admission at 3:00pm)
🦓 Please note that last entry times may vary during special events or adverse weather, so it’s best to check the official website before your visit.
Entry prices
- Adult tickets start from £31.82, or £35 if you choose to include a 10% donation.
- Children (ages 3–15) can enter from £26.36, or £29 with the donation.
- Adult concessions are priced at £30, or £33 with a donation.
- Child concessions cost £23.64, or £26 with the donation.
Prices including the 10% donation go toward supporting the park’s important conservation work.
Children under 3 usually go free – always check the latest updates on the official website.
Kids’ Birthday Parties at Port Lympne
Celebrate your child’s special day with a wild twist at Port Lympne! From indoor party rooms to outdoor adventure spaces, it’s the perfect spot for an unforgettable kids’ day out. Add fun extras like private safaris or animal encounters to make the party even more magical.
The events team is on hand to help you plan a stress-free and exciting celebration your little one will love, just reach out over email or phone.
Things to see at Port Lympne Safari Park
Kent’s Authentic Safari Adventure
Jump aboard a safari truck for an unforgettable journey across Port Lympne’s vast 600-acre reserve! Included with your entry, you’ll explore open plains mirroring Africa and Asia, spotting amazing animals roaming freely. See majestic giraffes, herds of zebra, wildebeest, and the UK’s largest breeding herd of black rhinos – it’s a truly unique safari experience right here in Kent.
Walk with Gorillas, Big Cats & Dinosaurs
Explore diverse habitats on foot! Follow the Primate Trail to meet fascinating monkeys and the impressive Western lowland gorillas at the Palace of the Apes. Brave Carnivore Territory to see magnificent tigers, lions, and bears. Then, step back millions of years in Dinosaur Forest, the UK’s largest outdoor collection of life-sized prehistoric giants – a huge hit on any family day out!
Wildlife Wonders & Conservation
Discover over 800 animals across 75 species, including many rare and endangered creatures like spectacled bears and painted dogs. As part of The Aspinall Foundation, your visit supports vital global conservation breeding and rewilding programmes. With animal talks, play areas, and beautiful gardens to explore, Port Lympne offers a fantastic mix of wildlife discovery and family fun.
Facilities
Contact Details & Directions
Port Lympne Reserve,
Aldington Road,
Lympne,
Hythe,
Kent,
CT21 4PD
Tel: 01303264647
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