Despite coronavirus Safari Lake Geneva increases business

LAKE GENEVA — Many businesses are struggling to stay open during the coronavirus; however, that's not the case for Safari Lake Geneva. Businesses is better than ever for the wildlife preserve.

"It’s accurate to say we’ve seen a massive increase in traffic. Order of magnitude greater in fact 10 times greater," 'Jungle' Jay Christie, the owner and founder of Safari Lake Geneva, said.

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Since he opened his safari up for the season on May 1, he has done more business this year than compared to this time last year.

It's not just because you can get so up and personal with animals like bison, yak, and ostriches. Jungle Jay said that social distancing is in the nature of his drive through safari experience.

"They are enjoying the entire experience from the comfort and safety of their own vehicle," he said.

James Groh

People can experience the safari in a hygienic way that also offers a relative amount of peace of mind. Plus, before the Safer at Home order was struck down, he was one of the few places that were open that could accommodate large numbers of people.

James Groh

"We’re one of very few places that people can enjoy whether they be coming from Illinois or Wisconsin under these unique and uncertain circumstances," Jungle Jay said.

However, there have been changes made to the safari. There are no longer any more guided tours, all reservations must be made online - meaning no cash transactions, and a walk-through area had to be closed. All these changes will be in place for the foreseeable future Jungle Jay said.

"Just for the health and safety of our guests and our staff and volunteers, we just wanted to minimize contact."

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