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Nofa Wildlife Safari
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Nofa Wildlife Safari, located approximately 60 km northwest of Riyadh, covers an area of about 100 km². Opened in 2018, it is one of the largest safari parks in the Middle East. The park hosts over 100 animal species, including lions, giraffes, and zebras, in expansive enclosures that mimic natural habitats. Notably, the park is committed to conservation, participating in international breeding programs for endangered species like the Arabian oryx. The landscape features sandy plains and rocky outcrops reminiscent of the African savanna. Visitors can explore by 4x4 vehicles or guided walks. Education is a key focus, with workshops on animal ecology. With over 200,000 visitors per year, it is a major tourist attraction and economic contributor to the region.
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Nearby: Riyadh (69 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 16 | 21 | 26 | 31 | 33 | 35 | 35 | 31 | 26 | 20 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 3 | 2 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The cooler months between November and March are generally the most comfortable time to enjoy an open-air safari experience near Riyadh, avoiding the extreme summer heat.
Best time of day
Booking a tour for the early morning or late afternoon typically provides the best lighting for photography and ensures the animals are more active rather than resting in the shade.
Etiquette
Visitors must usually remain inside their safari vehicles throughout the guided tour, maintaining a respectful distance from the animals and refraining from throwing any food.
What to bring
A camera with a decent zoom lens is highly recommended to capture the African-inspired wildlife, alongside sunglasses, comfortable clothing, and a sun hat for the open vehicles.
Getting there
Located within a reasonable driving distance from Riyadh, access typically requires advance booking for the guided safari tours, as spontaneous entry might not be guaranteed.
What to expect
Although this is a managed safari experience designed for viewing, the animals roam across large enclosures, so observing their natural behaviors still requires a relaxed, unhurried attitude.
Geography
Facts
- Area: approx. 100 km²
- Opened: 2018
- Number of animal species: over 100
- Distance from Riyadh: 60 km
- Annual visitors: over 200,000
- Participation in international breeding programs
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can I expect from a safari at Nofa Wildlife Park?
You will see exotic wildlife in an impressive environment adapted to the desert space.
Do I need to book the safari in advance?
Yes, a prior reservation is absolutely necessary.
Is the park suitable for small children?
Yes, as long as they can sit quietly in the vehicle during the ride.
How long does a safari tour last?
Tours usually last about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Are the animals there in the wild?
They live in a very large, spacious, but enclosed area.
Nofa Wildlife Safari: where is it located?
Nofa Wildlife Safari is located in Saudi Arabia.
Nofa Wildlife Safari: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Nofa Wildlife Safari: why is it worth visiting?
Nofa Wildlife Safari, located approximately 60 km northwest of Riyadh, covers an area of about 100 km².
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