The Alpine: Lions Tigers & Bears Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world and learn about the vital conservation efforts to protect endangered species. Visitors can enjoy an intimate, guided tour of the sanctuary, where they’ll encounter over 65 rescued animals, including majestic big cats and bears. Through engaging interactions and educational insights, guests gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing these magnificent creatures and the important role the sanctuary plays in their rehabilitation and care. With a focus on ethical wildlife experiences, the tour promises a meaningful and unforgettable encounter that showcases the beauty and fragility of our planet’s diverse ecosystems.
Key Points

- Private guided sanctuary visit lasting 1.5-2 hours, focusing on illegal wildlife trade and rescue of endangered animals.
- Interaction with over 65 rescued big cats, bears, and other animals, including feeding opportunities.
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the scenic sanctuary and historic ranch setting.
- Educational insights into the sanctuary’s rehabilitation and protection efforts for at-risk animals.
- Flexible reservation options and full refunds available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.
Contents
- Key Points
- Activity Overview
- Highlights
- Booking Information
- Participant Guidelines
- Directions to Sanctuary
- Getting to the Sanctuary
- Activities and Experiences
- Sanctuary Details
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Take Photographs During the Sanctuary Visit?
- Are Personal Cameras and Phones Allowed on the Tour?
- Is There an Option to Donate or Sponsor an Animal?
- What Time Does the Sanctuary Open and Close?
- Are There Any Restrictions on What Visitors Can Bring?
- Recap
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Activity Overview

The private guided sanctuary visit at Lions Tigers & Bears lasts 1.5-2 hours, during which visitors can learn about the illegal wildlife trade and the rescue of endangered animals.
Guests will have the unique opportunity to help feed the rescued big cats and bears, getting an up-close look at the facility’s over 65 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, bobcats, leopards, African servals, mountain lions, and jaguars.
This exclusive behind-the-scenes tour allows visitors to explore the scenic sanctuary and historic ranch, seeing the stories of these rescued creatures and the vital work done by the sanctuary to protect vulnerable wildlife.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Alpine County.
Highlights

Exclusive behind-the-scenes access allows visitors to interact with over 65 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, bobcats, leopards, African servals, mountain lions, and jaguars.
Guests will explore the sanctuary’s scenic grounds and historic ranch, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the illegal wildlife trade and the rescue of endangered species.
One of the highlights is the chance to help feed the rescued big cats and bears, fostering a deeper appreciation for these magnificent creatures.
Throughout the 1.5-2 hour private tour, guests will gain an inside look at the important work done by the sanctuary to rehabilitate and protect these at-risk animals.
Booking Information

Visitors can book the private guided sanctuary visit at Lions Tigers & Bears from €457.76 per group (up to 2 participants).
Guests have the option to reserve their spot now and pay later, keeping their travel plans flexible. Plus, full refunds are available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.
The sanctuary experience is suitable for private groups, but not for children under 18 years old.
To get to the sanctuary, guests should take I-8 East to CA-79/Japatul Valley Road, Exit #40, turn right onto Japatul Valley Road, then turn left on Martin Way.
After driving 0.5 miles up the dirt road, they’ll see the Lions Tigers & Bears sign for parking. If the gate is closed, they can use the call box to enter.
Participant Guidelines
The sanctuary experience is suitable for private groups, but not for children under 18 years old. This exclusive behind-the-scenes tour allows visitors to interact with over 65 rescued animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and more. To ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and guests, the sanctuary has established the following participant guidelines:
| Requirement | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Private Group | ✓ | |
| Children Under 18 | ✓ | |
| Advance Reservations | ✓ |
Participants must make advance reservations and follow all instructions provided by the sanctuary staff during the tour. This unique opportunity allows visitors to learn about the important work done to protect these endangered species.
More Great Tours NearbyDirections to Sanctuary

To reach the Lions Tigers & Bears sanctuary, visitors should take I-8 East from San Diego and exit at CA-79/Japatul Valley Road, Exit #40. They’ll then turn right onto Japatul Valley Road, drive 0.5 miles, and turn left onto Martin Way.
Proceeding 0.5 miles up the dirt road, they’ll see the Lions Tigers & Bears sign for parking. If the gate is closed, they can use the call box to gain entry.
The sanctuary is located in a scenic, historic ranch setting, allowing guests to explore the grounds and learn about the organization’s efforts to rescue and provide a safe haven for endangered animals.
With clear directions and easy access, visitors can look forward to an immersive and educational experience at the Alpine sanctuary.
Getting to the Sanctuary
Reaching the Lions Tigers & Bears sanctuary involves taking I-8 East from San Diego and exiting at CA-79/Japatul Valley Road, Exit #40. Visitors should then turn right onto Japatul Valley Road, drive half a mile, and turn left onto Martin Way. From there, they’ll need to proceed half a mile up the dirt road until they spot the sanctuary’s sign, which marks the parking area. In case the gate is closed, guests can use the call box to gain entry.
| Driving Directions |
|---|
| 1. Take I-8 East from San Diego |
| 2. Exit at CA-79/Japatul Valley Road, Exit #40 |
| 3. Turn right onto Japatul Valley Road |
Activities and Experiences

Visitors embarking on the private guided sanctuary visit at Lions Tigers & Bears are immersed in an enlightening experience, learning about the plight of endangered animals and the efforts to rescue them.
The 1.5-2 hour tour provides an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the sanctuary, where guests can interact with over 65 rescued big cats, bears, and other animals.
Highlights include helping to feed the magnificent creatures and exploring the scenic ranch.
Through this hands-on experience, guests gain a deeper understanding of the illegal wildlife trade and the vital role of sanctuaries in protecting these vulnerable species.
It’s an opportunity to connect with nature and support conservation in a meaningful way.
Sanctuary Details

Located approximately 40 miles east of San Diego, the Lions Tigers & Bears sanctuary sits on a sprawling historic ranch. The private guided tour allows visitors an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the extensive facility, home to over 65 rescued big cats, bears, and other animals. During the 1.5-2 hour experience, guests will learn about the illegal wildlife trade and the rescue efforts that brought these endangered animals to their new home. Visitors even have the opportunity to help feed the rescued lions, tigers, and bears. The sanctuary provides a scenic and informative experience, offering a unique chance to interact with and support the rehabilitation of these majestic creatures.
| Activity | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Private Guided Tour | 1.5-2 hours | Exclusive behind-the-scenes access, interaction with over 65 animals |
| Big Cat & Bear Feeding | Varies | Chance to participate in feeding rescued animals |
| Sanctuary Exploration | Varies | Scenic historic ranch, educational about illegal wildlife trade |
| Animal Encounters | Varies | Up-close interactions with lions, tigers, bears, and other rescued animals |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photographs During the Sanctuary Visit?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the sanctuary visit. However, they should follow any rules or instructions provided by the sanctuary staff to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals.
Are Personal Cameras and Phones Allowed on the Tour?
Personal cameras and phones are generally allowed on the tour. Guests are encouraged to capture photos and videos during the experience, as long as they follow the sanctuary’s guidelines to ensure the animals’ safety and well-being.
Is There an Option to Donate or Sponsor an Animal?
Yes, visitors can donate or sponsor an animal at the sanctuary. The sanctuary offers various donation and sponsorship programs that allow guests to support the rescue and care of the sanctuary’s endangered animals.
What Time Does the Sanctuary Open and Close?
The sanctuary is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily. Visitors can explore the grounds and interact with the rescued animals during these hours, with tours and feeding experiences offered throughout the day.
Are There Any Restrictions on What Visitors Can Bring?
Visitors to the sanctuary can bring small bags and cameras, but large bags, food, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Personal items like phones and wallets are allowed but must remain secured. Strict policies are in place to ensure the safety of both guests and animals.
Alpine: Lions Tigers & Bears Sanctuary Visit and Tour
Recap
The Alpine: Lions Tigers & Bears Sanctuary visit provides an unforgettable opportunity to connect with endangered wildlife.
Visitors can engage with over 65 rescued species, including big cats and bears, while learning about the sanctuary’s vital conservation efforts.
With unique feeding experiences, scenic exploration, and insights into wildlife protection, this private guided tour offers a meaningful and educational wildlife encounter.
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