Visitors to walk through Lost Valley and encounter giraffes, elephants up close
Previously ticketed River Trail section to open free of charge
350,000 visited during spring pilot run
Program runs through late November
Everland, operated by Samsung C&T's resort division, announced Tuesday that it will launch a walk-through safari experience called the Wild Savanna Expedition starting Sept. 12.
Visitors will be able to enter Lost Valley — an ecological safari zone that previously required guests to observe animals from a vehicle — and come face to face with giraffes, elephants, rhinoceroses and other wildlife.
In addition to Lost Valley, the previously ticketed River Trail section will be opened free of charge, allowing guests to observe a total of 15 species of wild animals at close range. The River Trail follows a pontoon bridge built along a waterway between Safari World and Lost Valley, where visitors can encounter not only herbivores but also predators such as lions and hyenas.
Everland laid out an exploration path designed to offer visitors fresh natural scenery at every turn, with optimal viewing points positioned to match each animal's ecological characteristics and maximize immersion.
Around the giraffe zone in particular, autumn foliage will enhance the seasonal feel of the savanna setting. Throughout the exploration course, zookeepers will share ecological storytelling, giving visitors a natural opportunity to learn about animal behavior, ecological traits and the importance of conserving endangered species.
Earlier this spring, Everland ran a roughly month-long pilot program called the Walking Safari, drawing 350,000 visitors. The park analyzed customer experience data and feedback gathered during that run to refine the route and strengthen the program's content.
The Wild Savanna Expedition will run through late November and is free for all Everland visitors on a walk-up, first-come basis.
"Drawing on years of accumulated expertise in animal programming, we are proud to present this special walk-through safari experience," an Everland official said. "We hope many people will walk through the safari this autumn, feel the preciousness of life, and create unforgettable memories with their families."
jeongwan@heraldcorp.com
