SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — The San Diego Zoo Safari Park announced Thursday that its largest and most ambitious project ever — the Denny Sanford Elephant Valley — will officially open to the public on March 5, 2026.

Park officials say it’s the most transformative project in the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s 109-year history, with Elephant Valley aiming to deepen visitors’ understanding of elephants while spotlighting the conservation work happening both locally and across the African savanna.

According to the Wildlife Alliance, Elephant Valley was designed not only as a new habitat but as an immersive journey that connects guests with the cultures and communities in Kenya where people and elephants live side by side. The exhibit will showcase global conservation partners working with San Diego scientists to protect elephant populations and support coexistence strategies.

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The all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will officially open on March 5, 2026. (Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance)

The all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will officially open on March 5, 2026. (Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance)

The all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will officially open on March 5, 2026. (Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance)

The all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will officially open on March 5, 2026. (Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance)

The all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will officially open on March 5, 2026. (Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance)

The all-new Denny Sanford Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will officially open on March 5, 2026. (Courtesy of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance)

At the center of the new experience is Mkutano House, a two-story dining complex featuring three eateries: Mkutano, Ona Lounge and Tu Grill. The menus will draw inspiration from diverse African culinary traditions blended with global flavors.

“Every dish will invite guests to embark on a rich culinary journey that celebrates discovery and connection,” park officials noted in a press release.

The Safari Park, located on 1,800 acres in Escondido, is home to more than 3,100 animals representing over 340 species. Elephant Valley will be included with regular Safari Park admission.

For more information, visit sdzsafaripark.org/elephantvalley.

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