#Safari west santa rosa california full#

Safari West was founded 25 years ago by Nancy and Peter Lang – she has a PhD in Zoology (from Cardiff) and he spent his childhood with animal co-stars on Hollywood sets. My 13-year-old however was totally bewitched and listened all night. It’s not exactly a quiet night! After about 2 hours I finally did put in my earplugs so I could fall asleep. You can meet giraffes, zebras and cheetahs while touring in a Vietnam-era jeep, enjoy a South “African “Braai” meal, stay overnight in authentic safari-style tent and fall asleep to cranes calling and lemurs chattering. It’s a 400-acre wildlife preserve and has earned the nickname of the “Sonoma Serengeti”. This year we are exploring Sonoma County, just 45 minutes north of San Francisco and home to more than 400 wineries. In addition to all the foodie and wine things that adults love, there are loads of things for kids and teens to enjoy too.

We’re in California on our annual summer trip. We spent the night in an authentic South African canvas tent at Safari West. We’re spending the night in a South African canvas tent at Safari West and my teenage daughters are totally entranced by the magic of it all. I consider putting in the orange foam earplugs we were given at reception, but to be honest, I don’t want to miss anything!

#Safari west santa rosa california full#

The flamingos are in full force, chattering away in the background as if swapping stories at a cocktail party. I know exactly what it is – that big colourful bird with the really long wings! Our guide this afternoon had warned us he might be active tonight. Safari West: African adventure in heart of Sonoma (California) wine country!