Lake Tobias

It's a zoo; it's a safari; it's an adventure that you will love! For only $4 a person, (plus $5 for the optional safari ride) Lake Tobias in Halifax is a exciting place to spend a few hours, or make an entire day of it. My children adore animals and could spend hours just walking around and watching them. Lake Tobias has lions, tigers, zebras, alligators, monkeys and many more animals to see. For an additional dollar per person, there is a reptile building with a 20 minute show. I have never seen it, so I am unable to comment on the quality. One of my children's favorite spots is the petting zoo, which has a plethora of goats, guinea pigs, a donkey, a camel, alpaca, and much more. Crackers are available to purchase to feed the animals. We found that as the day progresses the animals tire of crackers, refusing to eat any more. By mid afternoon, broken crackers were found scattered throughout the petting zoo; there was no need to purchase any here. Watch out though, the goats do like to nibble on your clothes! There are pavilions available for picnic lunches, or you can purchase food at the concession area. There is also a play area for the kids if they need a break in the day.

If you opt to do the safari ride, which I do recommend at least on one trip, buy a pack of crackers for a dollar before you board the bus. Everyone in our family got a kick out of feeding the animals including elk, llamas, and deer right from your hand. We broke the crackers up so they would last longer, but make sure to give the children larger pieces to avoid nibbled fingers! Also you'll want to hold on to hats or other personal belongings on the safari because the wind can be strong at times. If the wind gets your hat, or your child decides to throw something overboard...it's gone! We know from personal experience.

NOTE: Occasionally Buy One get One Free coupons for the safari ride can be found in the Clipper magazine or ValuePak Coupons. Also, all rates mentioned are for age 3 and older. Children 2 and under are free.