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.
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.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
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)
118 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Christine D,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
Wear 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.
Henry B,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
Gina 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.
Melitta H,May 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
Bring binoculars. Tip your tour guide, they have a hard job. You can book separate private encounters with the giraffes and Rhinos.
David B,Apr 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
Very well organized! Jack C. Was our Guide, and was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Watch out for Lucille, the ostrich!
Biznouk,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was an amazing time with friends in this gorgeous property. The tour by Gina was spectacular … she was so knowledgeable and it was so fun to be with her in the fantastic jeep. We discovered … Wonderful animals from Africa and birds around the world. Do not miss the boutique full of products from Africa .. it’s possible also to stay in this gorgeous property and to have an excellent dinner. What a place … A GEM🙏❤️❤️
Corinne M,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
Wonderful tour and the guide was so patient and kind and so knowable. I loved the small group. Would highly recommend this tour.
Shemaiah S,Apr 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
Was a great safari tour. Truck and walking tours were great. Jack was extremely knowledgeable about each animal and their history. Show up 15-20 minutes early and bring $ for tip!
kelly S,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
a fun 3 hour adventure packed with information about a diverse habit full of beautiful animals and birds. Our tour guide did a great job diving into the background, habits, etc for each. Loved the tour.
Terrance W,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
If you are looking for a safari adventure without the added expenses for traveling to Africa, you have come to the right place. Dano, our tour guide, gave an excellent presentation on the various animals that roam the property and the various habitats in which they thrive. We will definitely be going back in the near future.
DanK226,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Clean, but underwhelming experience. There are more animals at Oakland Zoo. The overnight stay can be skipped. Nothing special. Just turn on "animal noises" on Spotify for the same experience.
Operated by Safari West