Family tents with bunk beds are available. Luxury tent accommodations start at $330 and up, depending on season and tent configuration. The Classic Safari involves a two-hour ride over rough off-road terrain in an antique Dodge army truck, so pregnant women and those who might be uncomfortable on such a trip might not want to go. Other safari packages are available, too. Children must be 3 years or older to go on a safari tour, and it’s probably best for kids 5 and up. Classic Safari prices range from $45 to $148 depending on the season. Safari West is open throughout the year by advance reservation only. We can’t wait to go back and experience it again!įor more information or to make reservations, visit or call 1 (800) 616-2695. The atmosphere was really magical, and the accommodating, friendly staff made us feel at home and really went out of their way to make our stay wonderful. We had a terrific time on our overnight adventure at Safari West, and we all agreed it was one of the most fun and rewarding activities we’ve done. Many of the animals at Safari West are endangered species, and some are even extinct in the wild. Leslie, our guide, took the time to explain the background of the preserve and tell us about the animals, their behavior, and personalities. In many areas there were no fences between you and the animals, which really gave the whole experience that authentic safari feel. The ride through the preserve was slow but not boring, and we found new animals-including rhinos, zebras, Watusi cattle, elands, cape buffalo, and wildebeest-around every corner. The morning was a little chilly, so fleece blankets were offered to everyone, which was a thoughtful touch. The guides will make sure everyone who wants to gets a turn sitting in the upper seat. Participants can sit both inside on the truck bed and up above the cab on elevated seats for an unparalleled view of the animals in the preserve. We then climbed aboard one of the vehicles from Safari West's fleet of Korean-war-era Dodge Power Wagon off-road trucks. Our guide, Leslie, was extremely knowledgable and informative, and led us first on a walk through the aviaries and to see the cheetahs, monkeys, lemurs, African porcupines, and even cute little dwarf antelopes called blue duikers. The next morning, after breakfast, we assembled for our 10 am tour. There's nothing quite like drifting off to sleep to the exotic animal sounds coming from across the grounds. After dinner everyone was provided with forks and marshmallows to roast over the fire.Īfter dinner we explored the grounds and then returned to our tent, where we got a good night's sleep in anticipation of our adventure the next morning. Served buffet-style, dinner included smoked chicken and beef brisket along with green salad, clam chowder, macaroni and cheese (which my daughter declared to be the best she's ever had), vegetables, rice, and bread.īeer, wine, and soft drinks were available for purchase at the bar, and coffee, tea, and hot chocolate were included. In the evening, we headed down for dinner at Safari West’s on-site restaurant, the Savannah Grill, which is centered around a traditional African fire pit or motu. We loved relaxing on the deck, complete with furniture and an umbrella, and watching the animals down below. Bathrooms, equipped with showers, sinks, and toilets, are semi open-air and can get a bit chilly at night. Safari West even provides a cooler, ice, and complimentary bottled water. While they're well appointed and cozy, they're still tents, and each one comes with plenty of blankets (including electric blankets) and a space heater to keep things warm and comfy. Our tent was located up on the hill above the lake, and had fantastic views of the preserve from its deck.Įach tent has wooden floors, rustic African-inspired furniture and decor, and running water and electricity. The tents are scattered around a small lake and a wildlife enclosure where giraffes and antelope roam. We began our adventure at the office where a staff member picked us up in a Jeep and whisked us and our luggage up to our tent. We had a chance to stay over at Safari West and take one of their Classic Safari tours, and it was an unforgettable experience. Not only can you tour Safari West, but you can stay overnight in one of their luxury "glamping" tent cabins. Tour this 400-acre preserve in Sonoma County's rolling hills and get up-close-and-personal with giraffes, rhinos, zebras, monkeys, cheetahs, and a huge variety of birds and African antelopes. Wouldn't it be great if you could take your family on an amazing African Safari adventure, but still have the convenience of being in the Bay Area? Safari West, a wildlife preserve and private zoo located near Santa Rosa offers just that!
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