Safari Visitors Get The Shock Of Their Lives After Huge Lion Jumps Into Their Car
One safari ride turned into the kind of moment people do not forget, especially when a lion decided the car was part of the welcome committee.
What makes it even more surprising is that Filya is not the only lion at the park who likes getting close to visitors. The big cats there have a habit of climbing into cars and greeting guests up close, which is thrilling for some people and nerve-racking for others.
That mix of danger and affection is exactly why this story stands out. Read on.
A lion-sized hug
A party of safari tourists received the most fantastic surprise when a large lion greeted them in the warmest way possible.
The men and women were touring the Taigan Safari Park in Bilohirsk, Crimea, when a lion named Filya leaped into their car and began to give everyone lion-sized hugs.

A dream come true
Most of the tourists would have been happy just to see the lion, but the cuddles he offered were the icing on the cake for them.
Filya sat on a tourist’s lap while the others hurried to pet him. He stayed this way until everyone got a piece of him before jumping off the vehicle.

More for everyone
Filya enjoyed the tourists’ attention so much that he climbed in a second time for another session of hugs and kisses.

Reactions
Someone captured Filya’s adorable gesture on camera, and it had people gushing about him worldwide. Who wouldn’t love him after this? We’re certainly in love with him already.
That clip did exactly what it was supposed to do, it got everyone talking.
And if you think a lion jump is intense, see what happened when a lion woke a lioness with a bite and instantly regretted it.
Routine hugs and kisses
People were surprised to find out that this wasn't just Filya’s routine, but that several other lions at the park also enjoy interacting with visitors. They love people, so they often climb into the cars to welcome guests to the safari.
It turns out Filya is not the only one making house calls.
While it's essential to always stay guarded and protect oneself from harm when interacting with wild animals, it’s also important to open yourself up to beautiful moments like this.
We’re so happy for the tourists who got to experience Filya’s affection. Maybe we’re a little jealous of them too. Aren’t you?
Would you like a warm hug from Filya? Tell us in the comments section below!
Some safari memories come with a lot more teeth than others.
For more safari chaos, watch lions mating on a jeep and leaving tourists laughing.