When the 2017 Sonoma County wildfires threatened the Safari West Wildlife Preserve, owner Peter Lang, 77, went to work to protect the nearly 1,000 animals on the 400-acre property. Fortunately, the winds shifted at the right time and the camp’s animals were left unharmed. The fire did affect parts of the Santa Rosa property, however, which included Safari West’s overnight glamping tents.
But as of March 1, the 30 luxury accommodations—each of which include a private viewing deck, hardwood floors, and continental breakfast—will reopen for guests. After spending a day getting to know the camp’s exotic animals, retreat to the plush canvas tents and relax to the sound of wildlife in the distance. For a couple's getaway, consider the Romance on the Savannah package, which includes a safari tour, Swedish massage, and wine and chocolate. Insider tip: If you make a reservation for opening night, you’ll receive a complimentary glass of California wine with your dinner.
By day, you can get up close and personal with the camp’s bison, giraffes, ostriches, cheetahs, rhinoceroses, and many more on a variety of tours. Take the popular African Safari Tour for an open-air guided tour of the “Sonoma Serengeti,” or go behind-the-scenes with a visit to the cheetah barn or warthog pen. Considering you'll be surrounded by world-class grapes, take the opportunity to learn about animals while sipping on Sonoma's best varietals on the private Winos & Rhinos Safari Adventure.
