Global Wildlife Center
If you’re looking for things to do with the kids, you’ll love Global Wildlife Center in Folsom. In an area of St. Tammany Parish frequently reserved for country homes, plant nurseries, and equestrian farms, Global Wildlife raises four legged hoofstock of a different sort. Reminiscent of Africa, but in Louisiana, Global Wildlife is a 900-acre free roaming safari park. Gentle rolling hills and a lake, the absence of predators, and wide open spaces make it a serene habitat for thousands of animals from all over the world. Some of the furry friends you’ll meet at Global Wildlife include camels, giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, deer, bison, and more. Book online today!
Kid-friendly guided safaris are conducted in large covered wagons pulled by tractors, or you can also schedule a Private Pinz tour for your family’s own personal safari. As a safari guide explains interesting facts about the animals’ habits and habitats in the wild, visitors learn through touch as they are able to count the stripes of a zebra, wiggle a camel’s hump, nuzzle a giraffe, or feel the wooly fur of bison. The best part about Global Wildlife Center is that petting the animals is encouraged; the key to getting up close and personal comes in the souvenir cup of animal feed. The more food, the more fun animal encounters you’ll have. Whether you’re two or 92, there’s nothing like getting eye to eye with a family of giraffes to connect with your inner child.
No matter what season you visit, Global Wildlife Center offers a dynamic experience. Autumn brings the rut, or breeding season, and you’re likely to see antlers clashing and dust flying as male deer compete for dominance of their herds. The cool, brisk temperatures definitely get the animals feeling frisky, and it’s a lovely time for humans to be on safari tours, too. As long as you’re dressed accordingly (it gets windy in those fields), winter tours are exciting. The animals are especially “hungry,” many bulking up in preparation for winter. You may even be able to see a “feed-up,” when staffers broadcast feed thousands of pounds of animal feed in the Lake field. Spring brings a bevy of beautiful babies, with hundreds of deer giving birth. In fact, new baby animals are born year-round at Global, and many births have been witnessed by lucky visitors on tour.
After your safari, grab lunch nearby at Gus’s, or coffee and a pastry or sandwich at Giddy Up Folsom, both on Hwy. 25 in the village of Folsom. Little River Bluffs and The Stables at Giddy Up Folsom offer unique and memorable accommodations a short drive away.
Traveler’s tip: If feeding the giraffes is a must on your bucket list, the Private Pinz tour, in a Jeep-like vehicle with amazing access to the animals, may be your best bet. Be sure and check GlobalWildlife.com for tour availability and to book online!
Frequently Asked Questions about Global Wildlife Center
How much does Global Wildlife Center cost?
Ticket prices for the standard wagon tour are:
- $21 for adults (ages 12–61)
- $15 for children (ages 2–11)
- $19 for seniors (ages 62+)
- Free for children under 2
Private tours offer a more personalized experience and cost $49.95 per person. These tours provide an intimate encounter with the animals, guided by knowledgeable staff.
Memberships are available for those who wish to support the Center’s mission and enjoy exclusive benefits. Members receive perks, such as members-only events, and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts. For detailed information on membership options and benefits, please visit the Global Wildlife Center Memberships page
How long is the tour at Global Wildlife?
The guided wagon tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, taking you across 900 acres of scenic Louisiana countryside. During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to feed and interact with a variety of free-roaming animals, all while learning about wildlife conservation from experienced guides.
Are the wagons handicap accessible?
The Safari Wagon Tours are handicap accessible according to ADA guidelines.
Who owns the Global Wildlife Center?
The Global Wildlife Center is owned and operated by Maci Matherne, who stepped into the role after the passing of her father and founder, Ken Matherne, in 2021. Since taking the reins, Maci has brought a fresh perspective to the organization, guided by a “People-first, Animals-first” philosophy. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to ethical practices, transparency, and building a sustainable future for the Center.
When is the Global Wildlife Center open?
The Global Wildlife Center is open daily, weather permitting, and operates year-round — except during the month of January when it closes for annual maintenance in accordance with their “People-first, Animals-first” commitment. Tour hours can vary by season, so it’s a good idea to check their website or call ahead before your visit. You can conveniently book your tour online, selecting a time that best fits your schedule.
What attractions are near Global Wildlife Center?
