St. Augustine is one of the oldest and most exciting places to visit in Florida! The lake views are immaculate, and the scenic nature provides a peaceful and serene environment for parties of all ages. The St. Augustine Wild Reserve offers a unique and adventurous experience, getting a glimpse into the lives of exotic animals. 

Join us as we explore the Wildlife Reserve in-depth and give you a firm understanding of what makes the Wildlife Reserve so special.

A Haven for Wildlife

Soul of the Wolf Wildlife Sanctuary and Educational Foundation Inc., or St. Augustine Wild Reserve, was founded by Deborah Warrick-Rossi in 1995. It was created under the principle of providing shelter for unwanted and abused exotic animals. An increase in individuals purchasing exotic animals, only to later get rid of them, created a need for the haven St. Augustine Wild Reserve provides.

Their mission is to provide top-quality care for the animals for the duration of their lifetime at the sanctuary. The reserve is unique in that they do not breed any of their animals; they rescue them from their prior habitats and ensure a safe space for them to live.

The center creates a close and personal relationship with the animals through their educational tours. Guests often experience a desire to protect the animals and preserve their habitats after experiencing the tours.

Touring the Reserve

St. Augustine Wildlife Reserve offers educational tours for all ages. Your family won’t want to miss this opportunity, as it is one of the best things to do with kids in St. Augustine. The tours start every Monday and Wednesday at 2 p.m.

Additionally, on Fridays, they have a special VIP tour that lasts from 12 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. It is important to note that all tours are by appointment only.

The tours are guided by an experienced wildlife professional, creating an experience unlike any other. Witness a day in the life of these exotic animals, and get up close and personal to each of them, through a more private tour offered at various times on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday. The cost and booking process is as follows for the tours:

Standard Tour

• $35 per person
• $25 for children ages 3-10
• $5 for children 2 and under

Private Tour

• $650 for up to a group of 5
• $100 per additional individual beyond 5
  

Booking Your Tour

To book your tour at the wildlife reserve, check out their website where you can directly book a standard tour. To book a more private experience, please contact the reserve's email, where arrangements for the tour can be made.

Please note that photography isn’t allowed unless stated otherwise by the tour guide, as it will ensure protection for the animals. However, they have a flash drive with photos of the animals that can be purchased for $10 at the end of the tour.

A variety of exotic animals are available to look at during your time at the reserve. Here are some animals that you just might encounter during your tours:

Tigers

Three different types of tigers are within the reserve, namely Bengal tigers, white tigers, and a golden tabby tiger. Each of these magnificent cats offers a fascinating viewing experience 

Lions

Often referred to as the “king of the jungle”, lions are one of the strongest cats in the world. Come see these lions up close and personal at the St. Augustine Wildlife Reserve! Whether it is one of their African lions or their Barbary Coast Lioness, it is a sight that cannot be missed!

Leopards

Their beautiful black and spotted coats are one of the first things you will notice as you learn more about leopards and what makes them unique. Two black leopards graze the fields, along with a spotted Asian leopard. Witness the intricate designs of their coats up close and personal on their personalized tours!

Wolves

These wise creatures can be studied and learned about within your interactions with the center. There are several types of wolves, too! Gray wolves and arctic wolves are among the most commonly found in our reserve. Come see them for yourselves!

Bears

These playful creatures will showcase their personalities amongst each other, offering a unique perspective for viewers of all ages. Their Florida Black bears are sure to entertain as they bathe, play, and rummage through their enclosures!

Other Animals

Other animals include lynxes, hyenas, porcupines, ti-liger (a cross between a tiger and a liger), cougars, and more!

Animals at the Reserve