Réserve américaine de Thoiry, Drive-through safari and restaurant in Autouillet, France.
The Réserve américaine de Thoiry is a large animal reserve with over 1300 animals representing around 150 species across about 150 hectares. The site is designed so visitors drive through different sections in their own car where lions, bears, elephants, and other animals roam in spacious areas.
The site was established in the 1960s as one of the first European facilities to introduce the drive-through safari concept. This innovation allowed visitors to observe large predators safely from a distance while animals lived in more natural conditions than traditional cages allowed.
The site draws families seeking a direct view of large animals from their vehicles in a way traditional zoos cannot offer. This approach has shaped how people experience wildlife and remains a distinctive way to observe nature in the region.
The visit works best if you allow plenty of time since driving through all sections takes several hours. It is important to keep your vehicle in good condition and follow all on-site instructions as wild animals are present throughout the route.
The grounds were built on the property of a historic chateau that visitors can explore after completing the safari drive. The chateau and its gardens offer a glimpse of the site's heritage before it became focused on animal experiences.
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