Take a guided wagon ride through Louisiana’s wetlands with Magnolia Wilds’ Safari Wagon Experience. Witness local wildlife and learn about rich habitats just outside Ethel, LA.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated during the wagon ride
Wildlife
History
The area around Ethel reflects centuries of Cajun and Creole culture carved from Louisiana’s wetlands, shaping the land management practices today.
Conservation
Magnolia Wilds promotes sustainable wildlife encounters that prioritize habitat preservation and minimal environmental impact.
Magnolia Wilds
Take a guided wagon ride through Louisiana’s wetlands with Magnolia Wilds’ Safari Wagon Experience. Witness local wildlife and learn about rich habitats just outside Ethel, LA.
Magnolia Wilds is an immersive wildlife preserve and adventure destination in Louisiana known for hands-on animal encounters and outdoor activities. The preserve offers a diverse lineup of experiences that range from high-adrenaline ziplining across 32 acres of hardwood forest to intimate, staff-supervised Otter Swim sessions in a temperature-controlled pool. Guests can encounter sloths, kangaroos, giraffes, and other animal ambassadors during guided Wild Discovery tours, safari wagon rides, and full-day packages that combine animal meet-and-greets with lunch, live shows, and a Tipsy Safari giraffe feeding experience. Seasonal and community-focused events include goat yoga, a family-friendly Pumpkin Patch on October and November weekends, Teacher Night, homeschool hangouts, and Wild Nights at the Movies. Magnolia Wilds organizes both self-guided campus walks like Sips with Sloths and structured programs such as All Day Tours and specialized combinations featuring zipline, sloth safaris, and otter swims. Trained staff oversee interactions and safety protocols for all animal encounters and aquatic activities. Reservations are recommended for limited-capacity experiences such as otter swims and full-day tours. Magnolia Wilds serves families, groups, educators, and animal lovers seeking memorable wildlife interactions paired with adventure activities, presenting a mix of educational programming and recreational offerings.
Preserve Size
32 acres
Hardwood forest zipline course
Longest Zipline
900 ft
Final ride overlooking Comite River
Tours Offered
17 experiences
Zipline, swims, safaris, events
Animal Encounters
Sloths, Otters, Giraffes
Kangaroos and other ambassadors
Reserve popular experiences—zipline, otter swim, sloth safari, or goat yoga—before spots fill up.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing by bringing binoculars to catch distant animals and birds along the route.
Wear Bug Repellent
Mosquitoes and biting insects are common; apply repellent before your trip to stay comfortable during the ride.
Dress for Variable Weather
Wear layers and waterproof gear, especially in spring and summer when showers are frequent.
Arrive Early for Best Light
Arriving early in the day increases your chances to see active wildlife and capture great photos in soft light.
Binoculars
Helps spot and observe wildlife from safe distances during the wagon ride.
Bug Repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and other insects common in wetland areas.
spring|summer|fall
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry during sudden rain showers and damp conditions.
spring|summer|fall
Comfortable Closed-Toe Shoes
Provides stability and protection for boarding and disembarking the safari wagon.