Lion Country Safari was originally developed by a group of South African and British entrepreneurs who wanted to bring the experience of an African game park, then and now an expensive and time-consuming trip, to families who would otherwise not be able to experience an African safari. South Florida and Western Palm Beach County proved to be an ideal location for the park due to its year-round outdoor climate, plentiful land, a growing population and tourists who visit from all over the world.

Safari World, the walk-through area of the park, has been developed and improved since the park opened. The restaurant and gift shops were among the earlier additions. The petting zoo, merry-go-round, boat rides, aviaries, bird, reptile, alligator, and squirrel monkey exhibits, added over the years, have greatly enhanced the visitors' experience at the park. The KOA Campground was opened in the 1980's to provide overnight accommodation for visitors.