Safari Aitana in Penàguila is one of the most unique attractions in the Province of Alicante. Nestled in a spectacular mountain landscape, the park offers an experience that is still quite rare in Spain: the opportunity to observe wild animals up close from the comfort of your own car. Imagine a giraffe crossing the road directly in front of your vehicle while zebras graze peacefully just a few metres away. This special combination of nature, adventure, and wildlife makes Safari Aitana an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

However, Safari Aitana is much more than just a wildlife park. It reveals a side of the region that many visitors do not expect. While most people associate the Costa Blanca with beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and picturesque coastal towns, the inland area offers an entirely different but equally fascinating world. Just about an hour from the coast, you will discover breathtaking mountain scenery, unspoiled landscapes, and one of the region's most popular day-trip destinations.

Whether you are a tourist, a property owner, or considering relocating to Spain, a visit to Safari Aitana demonstrates just how diverse and varied the Province of Alicante truly is. For families, nature lovers, and anyone wishing to explore the Costa Blanca beyond its famous coastline, this remarkable destination deserves a place on your must-visit list.

The History of Safari Aitana

Safari Aitana was founded in 1975 and remains one of the few safari parks in Spain that can be explored in your own vehicle. Located in the mountains of Alicante Province near the small village of Penàguila, the park covers more than 1.5 million square metres.

The original concept was to provide animals with spacious habitats while allowing visitors to experience wildlife in a more natural environment. Unlike many traditional zoos with smaller enclosures, Safari Aitana was designed with large open spaces where animals can move more freely and display more natural behaviours.

For more than five decades, Safari Aitana has been one of the most popular attractions in the Costa Blanca hinterland, welcoming thousands of visitors every year.

Where is Safari Aitana Located?

Safari Aitana is situated in the Sierra de Aitana mountain range, approximately:

• 45 minutes from Benidorm
• 50 minutes from Altea
• 60 minutes from Calpe
• 70 minutes from Moraira
• 75 minutes from Jávea

The journey itself is part of the experience. Winding mountain roads lead through stunning landscapes filled with almond trees, olive groves, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Many of my property clients are surprised to discover how diverse this region is. Just a short distance from the beaches, you can find a completely different world of mountains, natural parks, and traditional Spanish villages.

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What Animals Can You See?

Safari Aitana is home to animals from several continents. During your visit, you may encounter:

• Elephants
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Camels
• Ostriches
• Rhinoceroses
• Antelopes
• Buffaloes
• Lions
• Tigers
• Jaguars
• Monkeys
• Emus

One of the most impressive sections of the park is the area inhabited by free-roaming herbivores. Here, visitors drive directly through the animals' habitat, often coming within just a few metres of giraffes, zebras, and camels.

Another highlight is the guided tour through the predator enclosure, where staff accompany visitors and provide fascinating information about lions, tigers, and other big cats.

The Safari Experience in Your Own Car

What makes Safari Aitana truly special is the opportunity to observe wildlife directly from your own vehicle.

The route extends over several kilometres and passes through different animal habitats. Visitors remain inside their cars throughout the drive, experiencing the animals from a completely different perspective than in a traditional zoo.

Children often find this particularly exciting, but adults are equally amazed by how close some animals come to the vehicle.

The driving speed is low, allowing plenty of time to take photographs and observe the animals at leisure.

Admission Prices

Prices may change over time, but currently they are approximately:

• Adults: around €25
• Children: around €20
• Toddlers: reduced price or free, depending on age

It is always advisable to check the latest prices on the official website before your visit.

Best Time to Visit

Safari Aitana is open throughout the year.

The most pleasant seasons to visit are:

• Spring (March to May)
• Autumn (September to November)

During these months, temperatures are milder and many animals are more active.

Although the mountain location is often cooler than the coast during summer, it is still important to bring plenty of water.

For the best wildlife viewing opportunities, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Arrive Early
During summer and weekends, the park can become quite busy. Arriving early helps avoid queues.
Prepare Your Vehicle

• Keep windows closed
• Ensure your air conditioning is working properly
• Make sure you have sufficient fuel

Why Safari Aitana is More Than Just a Wildlife Park

Many visitors expect a traditional zoo and leave pleasantly surprised. The vast landscapes, stunning mountain backdrop, and close encounters with animals create a truly unique experience.

For people considering moving to the Costa Blanca or purchasing a property here, Safari Aitana also offers a glimpse into the region's diversity. The Costa Blanca is far more than beaches and holiday resorts. Its inland areas provide nature, tranquillity, and authentic Spanish charm.

My Personal Opinion

Having lived on the Costa Blanca for many years, I have visited Safari Aitana several times with both family and friends.

What impresses me most every time is its location in the mountains. Even the drive to the park is beautiful and reveals a side of the Costa Blanca that many tourists never discover.

Of course, it does not replace a safari in Africa, but for Spain it offers a truly remarkable wildlife experience. Children, in particular, often talk about the giraffes, elephants, and magnificent lions long after their visit.

What I personally enjoy most is the combination of nature, wildlife observation, and the feeling of spending a day away from the typical tourist hotspots.

If you are visiting or living on the Costa Blanca, Safari Aitana is definitely worth experiencing at least once.