Who We Are

The Safari West Zoological Society is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation formed to advance Research, Education, and Conservation (REC). Nonprofit stewardship guides the long-term care of Safari West’s animals, the stewardship of the land and facilities, and the growth of conservation-based research and education. Federal 501(c)(3) status is currently pending IRS determination.

Our work centers on exceptional animal care, applied conservation science, and educational experiences grounded in real-world wildlife management. At Safari West, our veterinarians, researchers, and conservation staff are building a thoughtful, mission-driven foundation—ensuring that every initiative and every contribution supports a resilient future for wildlife and the preserve entrusted to our care.

Our Mission Statement

Safari West advances wildlife research, fosters environmental education, and champions ecologically sound conservation practices—while sharing knowledge that empowers individuals to make informed choices about their impact on the natural world.

At Safari West it’s all about the animals. Always has been, always will be.

Our Vision Statement

We envision a future where wildlife is better understood, respected, and protected—and where every guest leaves Safari West with a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the responsibility we share in caring for it.

From Vision to Vitality

Safari West began as a shared dream. In the late 1980s, Peter Lang and Dr. Nancy Lang began transforming 400 acres of Sonoma County wilderness into a place unlike any other. In this immersive preserve, people could encounter wildlife, connect with nature, and learn through experience.

Drawing on their unique backgrounds, Peter Lang, a builder with a vision and deep passion for animals, and Dr. Nancy Lang, a field biologist and wildlife curator, laid the foundation for what would become Safari West.

Together, they built the early infrastructure, hired the first guides, shaped the tours, and designed the signature tent camp. Every decision, from the roads to the storytelling to the canvas tents imported from Africa, was guided by collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to bringing Safari West to life.

The Story of Safari West

Tucked into 400 rolling acres of Sonoma County wilderness, Safari West began as a dream shared by Dr. Nancy Lang and Peter Lang—a dream to bring people closer to wildlife and inspire a lifelong love of the natural world.

When the Langs purchased a weathered sheep ranch in 1989, the barns were broken, the pastures bare, and the land nearly forgotten. Within months, they had moved more than 150 animals—giraffes, antelope, and exotic birds—from Southern California to their new home in the Mayacamas foothills. By 1992, friends and colleagues were lining up to take part in the first “safari” through the hills, and by 1993, Safari West officially opened to the public.

What began as a handful of animals and a shared vision has grown into a thriving wildlife preserve that welcomes thousands of guests each year and is now home to more than 900 animals representing over 90 species. From the first handcrafted tour vehicles to the now-iconic Botswana-style tent camp, every detail reflects a commitment to authenticity, conservation, and connection.

From Private Preserve to Public Purpose

In 2026, Dr. Nancy Lang and Peter Lang are transitioning Safari West’s operations, animals, buildings, and equipment to the Safari West Zoological Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This transition will mark Safari West’s evolution from a privately operated wildlife preserve to a nonprofit dedicated to conservation, education, and animal care.

Today, Safari West Zoological Society, doing business as Safari West, continues the mission that has guided the organization for more than thirty years: connecting people with wildlife, advancing education, supporting conservation, and ensuring the highest standards of animal care. Every guest experience, from tours to overnight stays, directly supports these efforts and the long-term stewardship of wildlife and habitat.

Respect for Wildlife

At Safari West, every decision begins with a simple truth: it’s all about the animals. We are committed to ethical care, responsible stewardship, and long-term conservation.

Education Through Experience

We believe people protect what they understand. Safari West was built as a place where curiosity is encouraged, questions are welcomed, and learning happens through meaningful encounters with wildlife.

Collaboration & Curiosity

Conservation is a shared effort. Our work is grounded in scientific inquiry, teamwork, and strong relationships with researchers, educators, and wildlife professionals.

Innovation, Creativity & Stewardship

Safari West was shaped by imagination—from the design of our habitats to the stories our guides share. We continue this tradition through thoughtful environmental practices, enrichment for the animals in our care, and programs that inspire the next generation of conservation leaders.