Wow... that is getting up close and personal!!
I grew up near Whipsnade Zoo in England...which was an "open Zoo"... and I remember the feeling of being on the African Plains as we drove though in the car.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whipsnade_Zoo
http://www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo/
Here in New Zealand, we have some wonderful zoos and wildlife parks. Many years ago when I first visited Christchurch, I went to our local Orana Park to see the new lion cubs. It was great, but increased safety laws meant they later closed some of the lion access. Many years later, they have managed to reopen the popular lion encounter rides... which are apparently very exciting...
http://www.oranawildlifepark.co.nz/lions.htm
Both offer a chance to see lions at close quarters...
Me - I will always love the noise... the deep rumble and power of the roar.
I might stay away from the teeth though.
