This wasn't on the plan but we visited this place based on a hunch that we could give this pit stop a try after seeing their billboards on the highway. No regrets at all. They are a conservation effort to providing safe haven for many kinds of cats - lions, mountain lions, tigers, jaguars. leopards, bob cats, lynx etc. They offer only guided tours, every half hour. Every tour is about 1.5-2 hours long. Very good and very informative. Our host was wonderful at answering questions and very knowledgeable. She kept the momentum with interesting facts and kept kids engaged. Highly recommend!! read more

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We took a trip up with my kids. It was easy to find and a nice drive. The gift shop staff were knowledgeable and guided us in buying our tickets and what to expect in our tour. The docent was really nice and gave us info on each animal we saw. They answered all our questions and had plenty of time to take photos. Highly recommend, make sure to wear walking shoes and wear sunscreen! read more

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An unique sanctuary for larger felines. It was surprising to see such a haven in the middle of nowhere. The parking lot was free but dusty and hilly. Likewise the tour required lots of walking uphill and downhill so make sure to bring good tennis shoes. We were welcomed in groups and general admission was checked at the very end of the tour. Admission was $19 per adult, including a conservation fee. Unfortunately I saw some people skip out on the payment which was a shame considering the good work the volunteers and employees were putting into this haven. Our tour guide was friendly and knowledgeable. Our tour took closer to 1.5 hours than the expected 1 hour. Our guide answered all of our questions and even looped back around if a cat wasn't visible so then we had a chance to see everyone. Some cats lazed out while some approached the fence to interact with the crowd. The total walk was about 1/4 mile but adding in the incline made it feel much longer. At the very end, the gift shop contained a huge variety of souvenirs. I especially liked how there were custom magnets of all of the cats so you can buy one to support your favorite. Such an intimate and interesting experience for a reasonable price. This felt like an advanced zoo experience without the large crowds and noise. This was highly recommended for children and adults alike. read more

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The Cat Haven is easily seen from the road with their big sign. There's some amount of parking. It's a short walk to the building and make sure you keep your limbs behind the fence. You'll check in at the front desk within the gift shop. They even have those souvenir squished penny machines! There's restrooms with hilarious pictures of big cats on toilets. You also get little wooden tokens for where you'll like some donation to be allocated for cats worldwide. The tour was about an hour. Our tour guide was very fun and passionate about the animals. The cat seems chill and happy enough considering this is how they can be kept safe and rescued. It was hot that day so the cat were understandably sleepy and hiding in the shade. We still saw most of them easily. We were even able to hear the cheetah purring! read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - Cheetah - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

Best Sunday learning about these big beautiful cats. Grateful to all the volunteers teaching us the importance of these sanctuaries. Amazing to see and hear these big cats thriving with volunteers that monitor and ensure a great quality of life for these cats. read more

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Surprised at how great an experience this was! Well worth a visit! Very interesting to walk with the tour guides. We learned a lot about big cats. read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - Snow leopards - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

We were visiting my parents and were going to visit the giant Sequoias, but my mom has always wanted to visit Project Survival's Cat Haven after years of driving by. We are so glad we decided to stop! A tour had just started so they went over the tour guidelines and we were escorted to join them. Our tour guide was fantastic: friendly, fun, knowledgeable and it was quite obvious she loved the cats there. I was worried my 4 year old was going to be too rambunctious or loud for the cats, but she enjoyed getting such good views of them and sitting in the dirt. The walk was pretty easy. My dad has a hard time walking long distances, but there are frequent stops to look at and learn about the cats. I always feel a bit torn when I go to zoos, but these cats looked happy and healthy, and were also born in captivity. We learned quite a bit about the conservation efforts and have a greater understanding of the challenges that face these cat populations in the wild after visiting, and I am glad the visit helped foster a greater love for these animals for my kids. read more

It all began with a hidden turn, where we unexpectedly discovered Cat Haven. Curious, we stopped by to gather some information for a potential future visit -- and we're so glad we did. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and we were lucky enough to join the final tour of the day, led by our passionate and knowledgeable guide, Dale -- or as the cats know him, "Catman." It was an unforgettable experience to be surrounded by such majestic wild cats, all in one place. Watching them interact so affectionately with Dale was heartwarming. His deep connection with the animals was evident -- they recognized him instantly and clearly adored him, as you can see him on some of the pictures I have taken. Visiting Cat Haven was absolutely worth the stop. If you're planning a trip to Sequoia or Kings Canyon, make sure to include this unique sanctuary on your itinerary. Not only will you witness the beauty of these incredible creatures up close, but you'll also have the chance to support a meaningful cause -- preserving the legacy of the wild and those who came before us. Highly recommended! read more

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Excellent guided tour, our guide was super enthusiastic and you could tell she really cared about the cats. Out of the way but a phenomenal experience read more

Fantastic gem of a place to visit. Our tour guide, Zachary, was very patient with my kids, ages 5 and 8, both of whom are on the spectrum. He gently reminded them of the rules to stay on the trail and not to run. We were treated to the sight of many exotic cats and their nice enclosures here at Cat Haven. This was one of the most unique experiences we have done with our kids. Highly recommend this! Thanks Zachary for being so patient and understanding, not only during my kids' the rock picking time at the gift shop when you were manning the register before and after the tour! read more

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Loved this place. Animals are very well taken care of the cages like very secure and safe and you get to get up close to some beautiful creatures. My 9 and 12 year-old enjoyed it along with their friends. read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - Bengal tiger - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

A very cool place indeed. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. The tour is well worth the cost. I will say, be sure you use the restroom before the tour starts. We asked to go back about 15 mins in, because when you're 7 years old and you gotta go, you gotta go! They told us AFTER we left the tour that we would not be able to go back to the tour. And while that makes sense, if they would've told us that, I would've told my daughter to hold it and just hope for the best. My daughter was very upset we couldn't go back and the staff was able to let us join the next tour. It was a bummer we got separated from our group. But I'm glad we got to go on the whole tour we paid for because it was very interesting and we had a good time. Still giving 5 stars for the overall experience being unique and fun, but if there are rules like this, I think they should be discussed at the beginning of the tour for sure. read more

the tour is very fun and informative and the people working here are friendly, well informed, and clearly care for the animals. my only issue is that it is NOT a sanctuary like the sign outside says; it is a nonprofit zoo. the cats are mainly from breeders or other zoos, not rescues-- with the exception of some bobcats. overall, I would recommend I just wish it was better advertised that it is not a sanctuary. read more

Took a spontaneous trip to Cat Haven. This was our first time here. Thought our toddler would enjoy seeing some animals. Alittle over a 30min drive from our home we arrived around 1pm. Free parking and you enter/ buy tickets for their tour through their gift shop. There are many tour options and membership options and prices vary but quite affordable. The tour is about 1-1.5hours. Our tour guide was very kind and knowledgeable she answered our groups questions and it was very educational. Loved seeing all the different cats and how beautiful they look also getting to learn the difference between each. It's quite a bit of walking up and down hill so it's best to wear comfortable shoes. So glad to have gone and had a great experience. Highly recommending to visit at least once if you've never gone. read more

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The Staff is so knowledgeable and so kind. Very profesional. The cats seen to have everything they need and seen to be very well-fed. So many beautiful cats and such a cute tour. A bit of walking but very manageable even for those who like me, are out of shape. read more

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There are a lot of people who complain about Cat Haven due to cage size or caging in general. I don't like to see animals in cages either, but I do believe Cat Haven provides a service to these animals. The people seem to be very caring and supportive of the situation they have there. I suppose, with enough money, things could change for the better for the animals, but if they were not there doing what they can, the animals would be worse off. Maybe even euthanized. I know some people support euthanasia over caging, but I can't agree as long as individual health prevails. I saw a lot of happy cats when I was there making me believe that thy, too, would rather be caged than killed. I may be wrong, but It appears to me the people who operate Cat Haven are doing a great job with what they have and believe they are doing right. I don't know how anyone can say otherwise without being in Cat Haven's shoes. Keep up the good work, guys! read more

I came across this place on accident and I'm so glad I did. I loved this place! The staff is super knowledgeable and friendly and the cats are so amazing and beautiful. If you get a chance to visit and support this sanctuary you should! read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

My daughter and I had a great time at Cat Haven. Our tour guide Walker was fantastic and very knowledgeable. My daughter (6 yo) declared it was the best day ever and wanted to give this place more than 5 stars. We'd definitely go back if we are ever in the area and bring my son and husband along! Thanks again for a fun and unique experience read more

If you like seeing big wild cats up close, this is the place! I plan on going again once the weather cools down a bit.

A 45 minute drfrom Fresno. Clean, well-maintained facility with bathrooms and outdoor seating for lunch with a view of tigers! The tour is docent lead only, my 3 year olds did well. Would highly recommend for a quick day trip with the family. read more

I love this place! I've been here a couple of times. It is truly a hidden gem! It is incredible to see the animals up close. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly. 10 out of 10. Would do it again! read more

This is a guided tour the guide was very informative the kids really enjoyed it.. the only things was it was really hot going in July and let me tell you the heat did not effect our guide she was still taking her time and making sure we seen everything and were able to ask questions. Although she did carry a water bottle in case we needed a little cool off.. was not sure what to expect but the lions were walking in there cages we were able to see all the cats they had.. the only thing is you may miss it the sign is only visible on one side of the road so we passed it good thing we were looking forward it.. read more

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My daughter loves big cats and we passed by this place on the way to the Sequoias, stopped, turned around and checked it out. Very clean and everything seems new. The enclosures seemed to be properly sized for each kind of cat. The tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly. My daughter had an amazing time and wanted to buy everything in the gift shop. read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - White tiger seemed very friendly and kept staring at my daughter. - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

Just finished a personal guided tour with Dave. He has been raising these cats for many years. Many of which were just little baby's that he was able to play with like house cats. It's a beautiful facility up here, a bit of walk so wear some good walking shoes. There are cold drinks available in the souvenir shop with many t-shirts and cat paraphernalia to purchase to remember your trip. read more

Love this place! It's a bit of a hike, so wear good shoes. For those with disabilities unable to make the walk, call ahead and they can try to get a golf cart for you. The cats are amazing and you get to see them pretty close up. It's a guided tour, and they talk about each animal, including their names, often how they came to be there, and facts about them. Our tour guide Walker was awesome! He was super nice, patient, and funny. I especially enjoyed how he stayed so calm when Apollo (bengal tiger) wanted to eat him. Lol. On your way out, stop at the gift shop and buy some cute stuff for a good cause. Will definitely visit again. read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - Jet the black leopard - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

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Project Survival's Cat Haven was such a nice experience not too far from Fresno. We saw about 30 different cats and our tour was about 1.5 hours. Our tour guide Nathaniel was very knowledgeable and kind. It is a beautiful drive up and down the mountain as well. Wonderful first time experience. Highly recommend! read more

If you love cats this is the place to visit! I found Cat Haven on my way to King's Canyon about 2 years ago. At that time I became an adoptive supporter for their handsome Barufo. He was such a delight to see how cute he played last time. I saw him this visit but was not on the field. It was great to see how much he grew and that beautiful mane just wow. This go around I became an adoptive supporter for Dianna, their bengal tiger. Those amazing blue eyes got me . They have several cats living in captivity as they would most likely not survive in the wild. Attached are only a few of these beautiful cats. Thank you for having this place for these beautiful cats read more

*750th REVIEW* The dude and I decided to take my nieces to Cat Haven on 3/27/21 which was suppose to be a trip for Valentines Day with the girls but it rained that weekend so we had to reschedule and the day we went in March was probably the hottest day ever of Spring. Any who, the drive up was very awesome as it was very green and luscious with flowers and the high cliffs without any rails were scary but I didn't look down too much. My nieces were oblivious but noticed we were going higher and higher into the Mountains. I distracted them by telling stories and giving them snacks along with Car karaoke for the win! Upon arrival we parked and it was a pretty hot day...we took a couple of pictures and my impromptu photo shoot. The dude, the nieces, and myself entered CatHaven. We were immediately greeted by a worker who informed us that the next tour will be in 30 minutes as one just left as we entered. She encouraged us to use the restroom as during the tour there are no bathrooms and shared the tour can last up to an hour to an hour and a half. We all potty and we looked around the gift shop which is inside the building. We let the girls pick out something small as we already gifted them a really nice goodie bag to celebrate going to Cat Haven. We paid for a tickets and children 4 and under are free. Anywho, for 2 adults and one child (my four year old niece was free) it was very reasonably priced. Our tour started in about 40 minutes as the previous tour was late to return which wasn't a big deal as we enjoyed getting the fresh air and looking around at the scenery. Finally The tour was set to go and the tour guides went over boundaries, things not to do and the things we can do during the tour. The tour lasted about an hour to an hour and a half and my nieces were getting restless as it was really hot as the day went on. However, they did really really well for their age and development and we're very excited to see all the different styles, colors, big, small cats. We all wanted to the touch and pet the cats but unfortunately we can't. Along the journey we saw private tours going on which the dude and I didn't know or were aware that private tours were possible. They also have very exciting activities you can do with the cats such as take them for a walk and feed them or even have brunch with them - something like that! Definitely check out their Facebook page or their actual website to get more information regarding such cool activities you can do. However with Covid some activities could be discontinued so I'm not sure it's better to call before hand. *****IMPORTANT****** Make sure to wear very comfortable and sturdy shoes as you will be climbing up and down the hills. I didn't get that memo and wore flip-flops/sandals and it was very difficult navigating the hills. They do have handrails in certain steep areas but definitely be careful because you can definitely injure yourself if not paying attention or underestimating how steep the areas are. Luckily, my nieces were wearing the appropriate attire for the day so that was good! As well as the Dude. I am bummed out I forgot our tour guides name but he was very incredible and knowledgeable of the history of Cat Haven and the history of all the cats on display. He was very patient, calm and really stuck to the rules as some people in the tours would takeoff their mask and he immediately reminded them to put it back on or they would be removed from the tour, therefore due to Covid all Masks are required to be worn at all times during the tour. You are allowed to drink water and beverages alone as the tour is 1.5 miles long. Overall, the dude, the nieces and I enjoyed ourselves touring Cat Haven, looking at all the different cats and their habitats and the grounds. The scenery, the nature is very beautiful and I would highly recommend to take your family, friends, dates or any occasion to Cat Haven as it is definitely something to explore!! I would love to return to have a private tour or even walk one of the cats and somehow hopefully one day be able to pet one if they allow it in the future. Celebrities from all over I visited Cat Haven and you can see them in the pictures in their gift shop. Highly recommend you won't be disappointed. read more

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This is a great place! Another thing so close to Fresno that we don't take advantage of. About a 40 minute drive from basically anywhere in Fresno, easy to find and easy to get to, along with nice scenery for the drive. $15 for adults as if 8/9/19 which I felt is more than reasonable. They are guided tours which is also good, our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and able to answer all questions; serious and/or funny. At the beginning they go over a small presentation about current and related projects that they sponsor or contribute to, there is a place for anyone to donate to a specific project they like. They don't hound you or make you feel like you need to. Which I also appreciate. We seen about 12-15 cats, both small and large cats. Most cats were up and some even engaged. Some just slept or laid there, as most cats do. The enclosures make you feel safe, so nothing to worry about in that regard. Decent size enclosures for the cats to move around and exercise, not necessarily to run. It is in the mountains so it can be pretty hot (depending on the season) and the terrain is rugged and does have some inclines, nothing too crazy. Just wear a hat and some tennis shoes, preferably. Tour lasted about an hour long. Small gift shop with snacks and beverages along with souvenirs. All in all I really enjoyed this. Great for a small little drive to get away from home, or if you're traveling to the Sequoias I encourage you to stop and check it out. read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - Sleepy lioness. - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

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This cat haven for endangered species is a must for any cat lover. You can take photos of the animals yourself or buy photos or postcards of them from the gift shop. read more

I discovered this place while googling "hang out with cheetahs". Right there on their website, it said that I could "walk with their cheetahs." I called them up and confirmed if this was true. "It says on your website that I can WALK WITH A CHEETAH. Are you sure that I can actually walk NEXT to an ACTUAL cheetah?" They said yes and I drove up there that weekend to do the "Walk with a Cheetah" experience. It was amazing and I have since become obsessed with this place. I have gone back several times since (wish they were closer to Los Angeles!) and just really, really love this place. The cats (big and small!) live a great life there. They receive healthy food, proper healthcare, and plenty of enrichment activities. The owners, Wendy and Dale, and the keepers really love the animals. That is evident every time I go there or watch their facebook live videos. I highly encourage anyone who loves big cats to visit this place! read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - This is Jazz, an incredibly beautiful male cheetah, at the Cat Haven! - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

A remarkably dedicated staff. For sure they believe in what they are doing. The cats wind up in places like this because of unfortunate circumstances mainly caused by humans and the only other alternative is euthanasia. With that said, this will likely be my last visit to this sort of place. Couple things on the negative side, the area is infested with mosquitoes, which is fine but they didn't give any warning. I recommend the infrequent evening tour but not the dinner. The staff prepared the food and it was just okay. Again, the staff were dedicated, informative and lovely. read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - Jaguar - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

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CLOSED ON TUESDAYS! This was such a wonderful experience. We actually didn't plan on coming here... we passed by it on our way to Sequoia and I screamed CATS! and the rest was history. My boyfriend and I absolutely loved this place. You can't see the cats on your own. It is $15 per person for a standard guided tour. They have several other special tour options (including expensive ones where you get to walk a cheetah, help feed, and so on). They have all this information clearly outlined on their website: https://cathaven.com/about-us/visit-us/special-tours/ The cats are fantastic. Some are rescues from the entertainment industry, etc. Some of them allowed the guide/cat caretaker to pet them. Most of them were visible and/or came out to say hello. The lion was incredible. He pawed at the ground and made a rumbling sound that sent chills down my spine. We had an excellent guide/caretaker that was very knowledgeable. She explained the differences and the strengths of each cat. She had an answer to EVERY question (and let me tell you, there were a couple of children that wouldn't stop asking questions). Plenty of available parking. Highly recommended! read more

Project Survival's Cat Haven - Such a beautiful and awe-inspiring creature... Also super cute with his head on his tub. - Zoos Near Me - Dunlap, California

What a pleasant surprise ! After few days in the mountains We were looking to entertain the kids without going through the curvy roads in the sequoia park. The tour guide was very helpful and provided us with many details on the cats. Totally better than any typical zoo would have. They have nice collection of cats, including jaguars, tigers, mountain lions and others. One suggestion would be to add some ice cream station inside to help cool down the kids during the day arm days in the summer ! read more

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Great tour and tour guides. We finally made our way up to see the big cats and loved every second of this experience. The cats are beautiful and you get a up close look at them from a safe distance. The tour guides we had were awesome and so knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend to take the drive up and see these beautiful animals. read more

My grandma used to bring me here so I have very fond memories driving over from Fresno. I do remember once a black panther spotted me standing by the fence with my back turned and he came up and ran across the fence so fast and scared the hell out of everyone. But, lovely place to go see some big kitties especially for the kids. And if I remember correctly it isn't very expensive to go either. Not super crowded from when I've gone so you do get more one on one time when you get a guided tour to ask all the questions you want read more

Educational, guided tour. Great scenic walk. Friendly professional staff. Family or date friendly.

Cat Haven is awesome. We went all the way to Fresno just to see the huge cats! They have rescued everything from a lion, bobcat, leopards, jaguars, serval, cheetas, etc. Ivan, the Siberian linx was my favorite. He kept sitting in his baby pool and if you crouched down he'd act like he was going to pounce on you. The staff plays with all of the cats and the animals get very excited and happy when they see them coming with a tour. The lion licked our tour guide's hand- so jealous! Seeing the cats up close and living good lives was awesome. It wasn't like at the San Diego zoo where you see the serval going INSANE and pacing back and forth for hours at a time with no interaction from people he recognizes. For only $9 and a good cause you can see all of these beautiful animals and take as many cool photographs as you want. They brought a golf cart along on our tour and two elderly ladies were riding on the back of it. The dirt trails get a little crazy and it was a bit hot. I don't think any of the younger children on the tour were really enjoying themselves- they kept asking when it would be over and getting into trouble (ie. put down that stick!, stop going so close to the tiger!, etc). They are closed on Tuesdays.. so don't try to go then. read more

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Today was my fifth visit to the Cat Haven. Every visit has been terrific and I must say that each visit continues to get better! The cats are well taken care of and their enclosures are great for them. The Cat Haven, though, continues to improve and enlarge the enclosures and add enhancements for the cats' in so many ways, their comfort, their play-things, etc. while taking into account the ability of the visitors to be able to see, enjoy and learn about each of the fabulous animals. The staff is great. Our docent for today was Dave. He deserves top accolades as he was extremely knowledgeable and great with the visitors. He had tremendous patience with the children and was genuinely pleased to be leading the group. He has held a multitude of positions with the Cat Haven, so knows it intimately and can answer any question the group asks. This is a great learning experience for young and old alike. Feel free to visit and enjoy all there is to be had at the Project Survival's Cat Haven. read more

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Near diverse car experience I have seen. They are up close, healthy, active, detailed tour guide. Would recommend to anyone who loves cats.