Billionaire Larry Ellison has purchased Lion Country Safari in Loxahatchee for $30 million, according to a deed recently filed in Palm Beach County.
The wildlife park announced on Nov. 19 that ownership had transferred to the Ellison family, ending 58 years of ownership by its founding family. The acquisition was made by a company led by Ellison, the former CEO of Oracle.
In a statement posted on its website, Lion Country Safari stated: “Our proud history and exemplary record in animal care, welfare and preservation will continue to be a core focus in the future.”
The park added that operations would continue as normal and its commitment to guest experience and wildlife conservation would remain intact. Officials with Lion Country Safari were unavailable for additional comment.
The 254.2-acre property at 2003 Lion Country Safari Road was transferred through two transactions. Lion Country Safari Inc., managed by Charles Richard Koppel, first sold the land for $12.71 million to Waverly Inc., also managed by Koppel, and terminated its lease on the property. Waverly then sold the land for $30 million to LCS Property LLC, which lists the same Walnut Creek, California address as the Larry Ellison Foundation. Representatives for Ellison’s foundation could not be reached for comment.
Opened in 1967, Lion Country Safari is the only drive-through safari park with large animals in South Florida. The attraction features free-roaming herds from six continents, including zebras, ostriches and rhinos, as well as a traditional zoo and wildlife park.
According to Forbes, Ellison has an estimated net worth of $250 billion, ranking him third among the world’s wealthiest individuals. In 2024, he acquired the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa and owns a home in North Palm Beach. Earlier this year, he also opened a wildlife conservation center in California.
Source: SFBJ
