Safari

Family Rides

Safari: From Concept to Innovation

Born from the idea of offering families the thrill of a safari adventure, the first Safari ride by Preston & Barbieri took shape in the early 2000s. This attraction invites visitors aboard sturdy off-road jeeps that navigate a guided track amid exotic scenery and wild animals—recreating the ambience of an authentic safari in complete safety.

From the very beginning, every detail was designed to captivate both adults and children. Passengers feel as if they are driving their own jeep, thanks to a functional steering wheel, even though the vehicle actually follows a hidden rail. One key difference between Safari rides and Daytona rides lies precisely in this aspect: while both follow a predefined track, Daytona rides allow guests some control over the vehicle’s direction through a fully operational steering wheel. In contrast, the steering wheel in Safari rides spins freely without affecting the route, offering only the illusion of control.

The evolution of this concept has been continuous. For example, the Cavallino Matto amusement park in Tuscany introduced its "Safari Adventure" ride in 2007, later upgrading it in 2020 with onboard laser guns to create an interactive experience where guests can hit targets along the route. This upgrade underscores the versatility of Safari rides and demonstrates how new features have been incorporated over time to offer an even more immersive experience.

Technical Evolution and Features

From an engineering standpoint, Preston & Barbieri’s Safari rides have undergone continuous improvements while preserving their adventurous spirit. Key technical features include:

• Layout and Track: The standard layout covers an area of approximately 35 × 27 meters with a guided track about 115 meters in length;

• Vehicles and Capacity: Typically, 5–6 vehicles operate on the track, each seating four passengers. This setup allows for an hourly capacity of 600–720 guests, with customizable layouts available;

• Power and Safety Systems: Each jeep is powered by an electric motor and equipped with modern safety systems. The seats are secured with shared safety bars, and a central electronic control system manages speed and spacing to ensure smooth starts, braking, and stops;

• Steering Illusion: Although young “drivers” are allowed to turn the steering wheel, their input does not affect the vehicle’s direction. This design not only enhances safety but also makes the ride more accessible compared to Daytona rides, where precise steering is required.

Over the years, Safari rides have been enriched with increasingly detailed scenery, synchronized sound and lighting effects, and interactive elements such as animatronics or targets. By incorporating these technological advancements, the ride offers a thrilling yet safe journey where design and mechanics blend seamlessly, providing visitors with an unforgettable safari experience within the amusement park setting.