Monarto Safari Park and Resort shine at SA Tourism Awards

Monarto Safari Resort has won best new tourism business at the 2025 SA tourism awards, last Saturday November 8.

Getting silver in the same category was Mannum's Dairy Adventures run by local couple Narelle and Joel Zanker.

Monarto Safari Park was also awarded the best people's choice experience and runner-up in major tourist attractions.

More than 220,000 people visited the park in the past year, supporting both regional tourism and vital species conservation.

Dr Phil Ainsley, Chief Executive of Zoos SA said it's one of the highest honours to receive.

"This award belongs to every visitor who came on safari, every member who supports our mission, and every staff member and volunteer who brings Monarto Safari Park to life.

“People come for the animals, but they leave connected to our purpose – protecting wildlife and creating a future where nature thrives," he said.

In 2025, Zoos SA opened Wild Africa – a 550-hectare savannah-style expansion where guests can view free-roaming rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, ostriches, antelope and even hippos.

It's the perfect setting for the new Monarto Safari Resort, giving guests the chance to stay overnight with spectacular views across the plains.

Over 26 categories showcased South Australia's most exceptional tourism businesses; an industry currently worth almost $10 billion to the state’s economy.

Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison congratulated the winners and thanked them for their commitment.
 
"The diversity of winners at the 2025 South Australian Tourism Awards is a terrific demonstration of what makes the State a must-visit destination worldwide."
 
"The passion and dedication of everyone who is part of our visitor economy enables our state’s tourism sector to be the success it is," she said.

Winners will go on to represent South Australia at the Australian Tourism Awards.