Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Out of Africa?!?

I tend to go through phases where I get completely consumed by certain culture themes, for example I've been obsessed with anything Polynesian related my whole life, and will probably never change that infatuation. After living in Rome a few years ago I maniacally wanted everything Italian to a point that I was convinced that I may have become Italian by default. Last year I began my Middle East phase and insisted that harem pants become a part of my daily wardrobe and learning Arabic was something I needed to try.

All these obsessions still remain and just continue to add up, this year's phase: Safari! Animal prints, African tribal wear/accessories, decor and anything referencing the Lion King. I'm hooked!

Last week I turned 26 and would have it no other way than to have a Safari themed birthday. Unfortunately, I couldn't make it to Kenya or Tanzania or Namibia like I would have loved to but I did find a worthy alternative...


Who knew Africa was only an hour and a half drive from San Francisco?! Rhinos, giraffes, monkeys...oh my! We found the Sonoma Serengeti at SAFARI WEST in Santa Rosa! It's only a small teaser of what a real African safari would be, but nonetheless it was still a good time. 
Love that we can sit at the top of the truck during the safari.
Safari West isn't a zoo or drive through park, they're an authentic African preserve and working ranch, and home to 800 individual animals. Safari (driving and walking) tours start at $68 for adults and lasts about 2.5-3 hours, reservations are needed and spots do fill up on the weekends. 


You have the option to spend the night in an authentic African luxury safari tents shipped from Africa. Cottages are also available, overnight stays start at $170/night, depending on the season.

Other activities include private animal encounters like:
-Cheetah Photo Session
-Fast Cat Alley: Up close and personal interaction with cheetahs
-Barn Visit: Behind the scenes of Safari West
-Keeper of the Day: Feed and work among the animals, overnight stay included


Male giraffes "necking" or fighting for a female giraffe.
Oh hello there, this giraffe like the attention from the trucks. 








It's not Africa, but it'll suffice for now. 


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