Located 90 minutes north of Phoenix and 30 minutes south of Sedona is Camp Verde, the oldest settlement in the Verde Valley. The area is rich in western history and home to Sinaqua Indian ruins, Fort Verde, and close to many spectacular sites. It is also as close to an African experience that many may get. Going north on Hwy. 17, turn off on exit 287. Head west on 260 toward Cottonwood for three miles. Turn left on Verde Valley Justice Center Road and follow the signs to "Out of Africa."
Here in central Arizona is a wildlife park that will make you think you have traveled to Africa and are on safari. The natural scenery is similar to the African bush. Your safari truck will take you through an up close and personal encounter with giraffe, zebra, gemsbok, ostrich and other animals that can only be found in the plains of Southern Africa. There are two separate safaris. The first is a 45-minute ride through the "Serengeti" where you will be able to feed the giraffe, have wildebeest and zebra come up to your truck, and watch the ostrich come poke their heads into the sides of the vehicles. This is also a photo safari and a great way to get close shots of the animals.
Another hour-long safari truck will take you through a wildlife preserve where you can exit the truck to walk to platforms to view tigers, lions, wolves, hyena, and other predators. You may see park staff inside the enclosures interacting with the animals. The day I was there, four people were in the area of the tigers, running with them, feeding them, and playing games with them. There was one young man that laid on the ground and called for the tigers. One came over and laid on top of him. Can't see a show that good in Vegas!
They also have a reptile show with anacondas, pythons, and boas. With the help of a park caretaker, you'll be allowed to touch, pet, and even hold some of these snakes. The photo opportunities are endless. Shows are Thursday and Saturday at 3pm.
The park is open daily except Monday and Tuesday from 9:30am-5:00pm, but you have to be there before 4pm because that is the latest they will admit anyone. The cost is $28 per person and you can plan on spending about four hours there to see and experience everything. There is also a small hut that serves drinks, snacks, and hot dogs. They have a gift store which is worth stopping in and portable toilets set up through the park.
If your looking for a hotel in the area, the Lodge at Cliff Castle offers clean and comfortable rooms. There is also a casino within walking distance for food and nighttime entertainment. The hotel has a hot tub and pool to cool down in after your African experience. The rooms have air conditioning, coffee pot, microwave oven and cable TV. To make reservations, call (800) 524-6343 or (928) 567-6611. Their mailing address is 333 Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, Arizona, 86322. They are located about 5 miles from Out of Africa off exit 289. There are 80 rooms and the price is mid range. I paid $79 for a room for the night.