San Diego Zoo, Safari Park To Close Due To Coronavirus

SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will temporarily shut down amid the new coronavirus outbreak.

The parks will close Monday, March 16, through the end of the month. They plan to reopen April 1.

"San Diego Zoo and San Diego Safari Park are iconic destinations and we understand we play an important role in inspiring guests about the natural world, while also being a respite and escape for our audiences," said Paul A. Baribault, president and CEO of San Diego Zoo Global. "However, at this time, it is vital for San Diego Zoo Global to be a leader for the community and for our employees, and ensure we are putting the health and well-being of our greater community first."

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Staff taking care of wildlife and maintaining other "critical systems" will work at the parks, while other staff will work from home, Baribault added. All employees will be paid.

"We, of course, remain committed to providing premier care for the remarkable wildlife at our parks during this time," he said. "We have also decided all employees will be paid during this time, regardless of their job responsibilities or ability to work remotely.

"San Diego Zoo Global is a family, and the safety of our guests, staff members, volunteers, and wildlife are — and always will be — our highest priority," Baribault said. "We look forward to reopening, and welcoming visitors back to our parks at the first opportunity we can responsibly do so."

Legoland California and SeaWorld San Diego have also announced closures.

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