Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Meet Giraffes in Sonoma County
Step into the heart of Sonoma County’s African Serengeti wildlife preserve. Climb aboard an open-air safari vehicle for an unforgettable adventure, spotting giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and cape buffalo in spacious habitats designed to mimic the wild.
Your journey continues with walkable areas where you can visit curious lemurs, explore the lush aviary with vibrant birdlife, and see our magnificent cheetahs in their dedicated habitat.
This family-friendly, immersive experience is guided by expert safari guides who share stories of the animals in our care and our vital conservation work. Perfect for animal lovers of all ages (guests must be 4 years or older), Safari West is a true escape into the wild—no passport required.
Every visit supports our mission of wildlife conservation, education, and the care of over 900 animals who call Safari West home.
For groups of 10 or more guests, please contact Safari West directly to book.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age is 4 years; all children must be accompanied by an adult
Please provide your contact information (i.e. 'on the road' contact number) at time booking
Guests are not permitted to take food out on the tour, but water bottles are welcome; during the summer months, the snack bar is open and guests may purchase sandwiches, chips, fruit, drinks and other items to eat during the tour break or afterward; you may also dine in the Savannah Cafe at your own expense (reservations can be made after booking)
Not recommended for pregnant women, as the tour includes a 2.5-hour drive over rugged terrain that may be uncomfortable
Hearing-impaired guests: While we do not provide interpreters, we welcome guests with hearing-related needs and encourage you to contact us in advance so our team can be prepared to support your experience.
Service animals: For safety reasons, service animals are not permitted on safari vehicles, but are allowed on the grounds. Please reach out before your visit so we can assist with planning.
Strollers: Strollers are welcome on our accessible lower grounds, but cannot be brought on safari vehicles.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time
Weather: Tours run rain or shine. Please dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.
Toddlers & Infants: Children must be at least 4 years old to participate in the Classic Safari tour. If you're visiting with younger children, please contact us to learn more about family-friendly alternatives available at Safari West.
Our Guest Policy: Safari West is for Everyone: Just like the wildlife we care for, our guests reflect the rich diversity of the world around us—no matter your background, ability, or who you love. At Safari West, we strive to be a truly welcoming space for all. All families are welcome. Come as you are and experience the wild, together.
What To Expect
Safari West
In a region known for high-end wine and sophisticated food, Safari West offers one of the most family-friendly activities in wine country, so bring your kids along! When you arrive at the preserve, about a 20-minute drive north of downtown Santa Rosa, meet your safari guide and hop in your open-air Jeep to begin your wildlife tour of the ‘Sonoma Serengeti.’ For three hours, explore the 400-acre (162-hectare) preserve both in the Jeep and on foot, and travel over rugged dirt roads in search of exotic animals. During the tour, your guide will tell you all about the wildlife at the preserve, including endangered species such as the Cape buffalo, springbok, blue wildebeest and red lechwe (a type of antelope). Learn how Safari West works to promote conservation of these beautiful wild animals. On your drive, pass by herds of African animals including gazelles, zebras, oryx, antelopes and — everyone’s favorite — giraffes, who may just come right up to the Jeep to look you in the eye. Then, hop out of your vehicle with your guide to walk for roughly 30 to 45 minutes. Admire flamingos and other colorful birds in the open-air aviary, observe cheetahs up close, check out the residents of Lemur Island, and laugh at the antics of the monkeys. When your tour ends, take some time to browse the gift shop for souvenirs such as jewelry, T-shirts and African art. You can also have lunch or dinner at the on-site Savannah Cafe (own expense; see the Exclusions for more details). Please provide your contact information (i.e. 'on the road' contact number) at time booking.
Options
Classic Safari Tour
What‘s Included
Professional guide
Transport by Jeep
Gratuities
Food and drinks (if you would like to eat at the on-site Savannah Cafe, please call Safari West to make a reservation after booking; the phone number will be on your voucher)
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
124 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Too much expectation…
Arelys S,May 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00Safari West was a pleasant experience, but it did not fully meet our expectations. The guide was knowledgeable, but the tour included many extended stops in areas with limited wildlife activity, and the commentary often felt longer than necessary. We expected more animal viewing based on the advertising. While we enjoyed parts of the visit, the experience did not quite match the impression created by the promotional materials.
What An Experience
Megan A,May 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Safari West was such an amazing adventure from start to finish. We got to see so many beautiful and unique animals up close, and the entire experience felt both exciting and educational. Our guide was incredibly informative, friendly, and passionate about the animals, which made the tour even more enjoyable. I also loved learning about the conservation efforts and hearing fun facts throughout the safari. One thing I didn’t realize before visiting was that they have cabins available for overnight stays. After seeing the property, I can honestly say it would be such a fun and memorable getaway. We are already planning to come back for a longer stay and would love to experience one of the behind-the-scenes tours next time. Highly recommend Safari West for families, couples, or anyone who loves animals and nature.
We’d really enjoyed the...
Jerry S,May 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We’d really enjoyed the outing and Kyle was awesome! To see the exhibit’s was amazing, the giraffe’s, different types of antelope and the rhinoceroses was a wonderful experience.
Safari trip
Annette G,May 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Loved the experience The first 40. Minutes are walking. Not good for someone with mobility issues Wish we had know about the add to feed animals. I hear that is memorable
Overall it was fun
dorishW1935FZ,May 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was good. I thought i’d see more of a variety of animals and i thought i would see the giraffes closer up.
Safari West was incredible!
David Z,May 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour, beautiful scenery, many different types of animals. Our guide Michelle, was awesome, made for this job! Great information, perspective and personality! Very enthusiastic and proud of the park and its mission. Worth every Penny!
Wear comfortable shoes...
Christine D,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Wear comfortable shoes and layer your clothing. Pack a lunch or plan on lunch from their deli or restaurant. The seating in the lunch area was very pleasant and you can continue to walk around and see the animals.
Fun tour
Henry B,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Gina is knowledgeable about the animals in Safari West. She even knows each animal's personal names and the back story behind them. It's easy to tell that she loves her job. It was fun and and entertaining tour that I had.
Bring binoculars. Tip...
Melitta H,May 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Bring binoculars. Tip your tour guide, they have a hard job. You can book separate private encounters with the giraffes and Rhinos.
My First Trip to Safari West
David B,Apr 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very well organized! Jack C. Was our Guide, and was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Watch out for Lucille, the ostrich!
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