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Auto Safari Chapin

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

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Auto Safari Chapín is the first and largest safari park in Central America, located in the department of Escuintla, about 87 kilometers from Guatemala City. Founded in 1980, it gives visitors a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in expansive enclosures that simulate their natural habitats. The park's design allows visitors to drive their own vehicles through various sectors, where they can encounter species such as giraffes, lions, antelopes, and zebras. In addition to the drive-through route, the complex features a pedestrian area with a traditional zoo, a reptile house, and sections dedicated to the conservation of native Guatemalan fauna. Auto Safari Chapín is well-regarded for its successful breeding programs for endangered species and its focus on environmental education. The site also includes recreational facilities like swimming pools and restaurants, making it a popular day-trip destination for families. It plays a significant role in promoting wildlife appreciation and ecological conservation in the region.

Location: Guatemala
Top sights: Escuintla · Amatitlán Department · Escuintla Department
Nearby: Puerto San José (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	21	22	23	24	24	23	23	23	22	22	21	21
Rain mm	4	6	18	64	231	317	234	292	346	302	61	8

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The best season for Auto Safari Chapin is the dry season from November to April when animals are more often near the roads. In the rainy season, enclosures are often muddy but vegetation is lush.

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Best time of day

Opening hours are typically in the morning when animals are most active after the night. By late morning many animals become sluggish; an early visit increases chances of seeing big cats and monkeys.

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Etiquette

Stay inside your vehicle throughout the entire drive - exiting is not allowed for safety reasons. Do not feed any animals and do not throw litter out of the window as it can make them sick.

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What to bring

Your own car with air conditioning is beneficial as it stays cool inside while animals are visible outside. Binoculars help spot details on distant animals, and a camera with telephoto lens is recommended.

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Getting there

Auto Safari Chapin is located near Escuintla, Guatemala, and is reachable by car from Guatemala City in about one and a half hours. Follow Highway CA-9 south and then the signs to the park.

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What to expect

Some animals hide in the bushes - drive slowly and stop frequently to scan the area. Turn off the engine while waiting; shy species like deer sometimes come closer.

Geography

Coordinates

14.27400, -90.78700

Facts

The park was founded in 1980 in the Escuintla department.
It is the first facility of its kind in the Central American region.
The park is home to more than 96 different species of animals.
It has a renowned conservation program for the Central American Tapir.
The drive-through experience covers 14 distinct enclosures for large mammals.
It is located at Kilometer 87.5 on the highway leading to the Pacific coast.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Escuintla<1 km · NExplore →

Escuintla Sugar Mill1 km · SExplore →

Chixoy or Negro River3 km · SWExplore →

La Azotea Cultural Center3 km · NExplore →

Chimaltenango Vegetable Valleys4 km · SExplore →

Volcán de Agua5 km · NExplore →

Laguna del Tigre National Park5 km · WExplore →

Laguna del Tigre Wildlife Zone6 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Auto Safari Chapin (3)

Escuintla📍 landmark

Escuintla is a city in the department of the same name, near volcanoes and sugarcane plantations.

Amatitlán Department📍 landmark

Amatitlán Department is located in the Guatemalan highlands and contains Lake Amatitlán.

Escuintla Department📍 landmark

Escuintla Department stretches from the Pacific coast to the highlands and is an agricultural area.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do you tour the park?

You drive through the animal enclosures in your own car.

Where is Auto Safari Chapín located?

Near Escuintla, on the road to Taxisco.

What animals can you see?

Lions, giraffes, hippos, and many native species.

Is there a pool area?

Yes, the entrance fee includes access to the swimming pools.

Is getting out of the car allowed?

No, you must stay in the car during the safari tour for safety reasons.

Auto Safari Chapin: where is it located?

Auto Safari Chapin is located in Guatemala.

Auto Safari Chapin: what is there to see?

Highlights include Escuintla, Amatitlán Department, Escuintla Department.

Auto Safari Chapin: when is the best time to visit?