Safari West, Wine Country Travel Guide

4.7 (1782)

Experience an authentic African safari adventure in the heart of Sonoma County, home to over 900 animals from around the world.

Safari West, nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, offers an authentic African safari experience in California. Founded in 1993, the 400-acre wildlife preserve is home to over 900 animals from more than 90 species, providing visitors with the opportunity to observe and learn about diverse wildlife in a naturalistic setting.

A brief summary to Safari West

3115 Porter Creek Rd, Santa Rosa, California, 95404, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Safari West.

Book your safari tour in advance, as reservations are required.
Arrive early to allow extra time to relax and explore the grounds.
Consider staying overnight in one of the luxury tent cabins for a fully immersive experience.
Bring a camera to capture the incredible wildlife encounters.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking during the tour.

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Explore Safari West on the Map

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Getting There

Driving

Safari West is located at 3115 Porter Creek Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95404. From San Francisco, take Highway 101 North to the River Road exit (Exit 494). Turn right onto Mark West Springs Road, which becomes Porter Creek Road. Continue for approximately 1.25 miles to Franz Valley Road and turn left. The entrance is directly on Franz Valley Road. From Sacramento, take I-80 West to the Highway 12 Napa exit. Turn right onto Highway 29 towards Napa and Calistoga. At Rutherford, Highway 128 joins Highway 29. Remain on Highway 128 past Calistoga for 1 mile, then turn left onto Petrified Forest Road towards Santa Rosa. Go 4.5 miles and turn right onto Porter Creek Road. Go 3 miles to Franz Valley Road and turn right. The entrance is directly on Franz Valley Road. Expect heavy traffic from the Bay Area or Sacramento, especially during peak hours; allow an extra hour of travel time. Parking is available on-site.

Discover more about Safari West

Safari West was founded in 1993 by Peter Lang, a former Hollywood animal trainer, and his wife, Nancy, with a vision to create a sanctuary for exotic wildlife and promote conservation through education. The preserve is often called the 'Sonoma Serengeti'.Visitors can embark on open-air vehicle tours across the 400-acre preserve, encountering giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and other African species. Knowledgeable guides provide educational commentary on the animals, their habitats, and conservation efforts. The preserve also features a large aviary housing a variety of bird species, including flamingos, cranes, and parrots. Visitors can also get an up-close look at primates and small mammals like lemurs, cheetahs, and warthogs.Safari West also offers a unique lodging experience with its tent camp. These luxury tents, imported from Botswana, provide a comfortable and immersive stay, allowing guests to wake up to the sounds of the Sonoma Serengeti.Safari West is committed to wildlife conservation and education. The preserve participates in various conservation projects and programs, aiming to inspire wildlife advocates and promote environmental stewardship.