Safari West, a wildlife preserve located just outside Santa Rosa, California, has been named the top glamping destination in the United States by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
Though long familiar to Sonoma County residents, the recognition has brought national attention to the 400-acre preserve, which blends luxury camping accommodations with wildlife conservation and education.
Founded in 1989 by Peter Lang, Safari West began as a private collection of exotic animals relocated from his Beverly Hills ranch.
Lang, the son of filmmaker Otto Lang—known for directing animal-centered television shows such as Flipper and Daktari—sought to give his animals more space and a larger mission.
He was later joined by Dr. Nancy Lang, a biologist and former curator at the San Francisco Zoo. The preserve officially opened to the public in 1993.
In 1999, Safari West added overnight accommodations in the form of imported luxury tents from Botswana, outfitted with hardwood floors and private bathrooms.
This early example of glamping has since grown in popularity, now drawing more than 60,000 visitors each year.
Safari West has also become a site of ongoing scientific and educational work. The preserve participates in international breeding programs aimed at preserving endangered species, including African antelopes, giraffes, and rhinos.
In 2023, Safari West celebrated a significant milestone when one of its white rhinos gave birth to the first rhino calf ever born in Sonoma County.
The Safari West Wildlife Foundation, a nonprofit affiliated with the preserve, facilitates education initiatives for youth.
These include behind-the-scenes tours, Junior Keeper programs, and virtual classroom safaris. Many participants, according to staff, go on to pursue careers in wildlife-related fields.
The preserve faced a major threat in 2017 when the Tubbs Fire swept through the region. Lang stayed behind to protect the animals, successfully saving the entire collection despite losing his personal residence.
Following the fire, Safari West increased its investment in fire mitigation and helped launch a roundtable for zoos and animal care facilities to improve disaster preparedness. Firefighters now use the preserve for training purposes.
Looking ahead, the Langs plan to continue expanding the preserve’s conservation efforts, including the potential addition of new species and improved sustainability practices.
Plans include oak replanting, enhanced water systems, and consideration of solar energy.
According to the Sonoma County Gazette, the glamping facilities are also being upgraded, with an emphasis on fire safety and improved amenities rather than expansion.
A recent digital initiative has introduced a live-stream giraffe cam in partnership with Zoolife, allowing online visitors to observe the animals in real time. Virtual safaris now bring Safari West’s mission to classrooms and viewers around the world.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality and glamping industries, Safari West’s model underscores the value of aligning immersive guest experiences with conservation and education.
Its recognition as a top glamping destination highlights a growing market interest in purpose-driven stays that offer more than leisure.
Operators considering new offerings or upgrades may find relevance in Safari West’s commitment to both environmental stewardship and guest engagement.