Bali Safari Park, from its 2007 opening to a complete destination

A third Taman Safari park designed for Bali

On 13 November 2007, the Taman Safari group opens its third park in Gianyar after Bogor and Prigen on Java. Covering roughly forty hectares, the new site follows the group’s established approach: visitors travel through broad habitats by vehicle rather than moving only between separate enclosures on foot.

The route moves through landscapes inspired by Indonesia, India and Africa. This imagined geography gives Safari Journey its central role, linking large mammals, big cats and Asian species in one continuous passage. From the beginning, however, the project is more than a generic savannah setting. Hindu references, gardens and Balinese architectural forms root the park firmly in the island.

More than a safari from the earliest years

Photographs taken in July 2008 show that the water play area and the Fun Zone carousel are already part of the park less than a year after opening. The site therefore presents itself very early as a complete family destination, alternating wildlife observation with recreation. In 2009, Atlantis Spin strengthens that direction as the main mechanical landmark of Fun Zone.

Balinese culture becomes a signature

Ganesha Park, Pura Safari and Bali Theatre gradually give the grounds a depth unlike that of a conventional animal park. The large Ganesha figure marks the approach to the theatre, while Pura Safari remains an active Hindu place of worship. On stage, Bali Agung combines traditional dance, costume and contemporary theatrical techniques. These places are more than scenery: they place the safari within Bali’s religious and artistic landscape.

From a park to a place where guests can stay

Mara River Safari Lodge then extends the experience beyond the hours of a conventional day visit. Located within the grounds, the hotel has forty-five rooms and terraces facing the animal landscapes. Tsavo Lion Restaurant, Uma Restaurant, Kiboko Pool and breakfast experiences with close wildlife views gradually turn the park into a stay-over destination. The same principle remains: animal landscapes are a continuous presence rather than a single show.

A land-based identity that remains recognisable

More than fifteen years after opening, the original thread remains clear. Safari Journey is still the main passage through the grounds, while Rainforest Trail, Ranthambore Palace, Kampung Gajah and the Bali starling programmes deepen the wildlife dimension. Fun Zone, Bali Theatre and the lodge do not replace that land-based core; they surround it and explain how Bali Safari Park became a place where safari, local culture, family recreation and accommodation share one history.