I’d always been intrigued by the open lands of Africa. I like to imagine being up close and personal with dark-eyed cheetahs and exotic birds. Like many folks, however, reality always got in the way. Hearing about all those jungle diseases, and rough and tumble conditions talked me out of it every time.

In recent years with so much conversation about the world’s vanishing species I thought perhaps my chance to see it all had passed.

Then I kept seeing write-ups about this place called Safari West. I put it on my someday list.

When the holidays arrived this year I noticed a special safari feast offered for a most reasonable price at this mysterious little Africa in the hinterlands of Santa Rosa.

I signed up and when the day arrived we were transported from the bucolic suburbs of north Napa to (it seemed) the open lands of Africa within a mere hour. About six miles past Calistoga the road climbs deep into the hills where very little civilization can be seen from a wandering jitney.

Other than an area cleared for parking the entire grounds resemble a scene from a travel documentary at a wildlife preserve in the midst of Africa. We checked in at the thatched hut and made our way past the lively sculpture garden to the outdoor cafe area. There were rustic trellises rising high above beautiful weathered wood tables and handcrafted chairs made of dark tree branches. Some overhangs looked like wood tent coverings straight out of an old Clark Gable movie.  

Then, as we looked up the hill, there was a row of the most beautiful creatures I’d ever laid eyes on — at least up close. Two baby giraffes were amongst a smattering of mothers and fathers lumbering about on a stretch of lush grass. Feasting on the blanket of green and occasionally bending down for drink of creek water they seemed, for the most part, oblivious to the flock of humans. Mesmerized, we quickly grabbed a front row table that had a perfect view of the long-necked creatures.  

The tables were all festively decorated and one could easily imagine you’d just come back from safari into camp. A few of the tall beauties sauntered over to the fence thinking the two-legged folk might have some tasty goodies for them. As we marveled at the size of their tongues, screeching noises brought us quickly to attention. A few dark crane-like creatures were making themselves known. In the distance, antelope lay on a hill basking in the sunshine.  

Luncheon was a delectable feast. Safari fare — Narobi dressing and turkey drumsticks — preceded traditional American dishes like mashed potatoes, pumpkin and pecan pie. It was all quite tasty and made more so by the fine company at our table. There was Elisabeth and her mother Bobbi who had been coming to the feast for years; and Capt. Phil and Janet, who had lively tales of the sea. Later, after everyone had vanished, Margaret from Zimbabwe sat down with her two charming daughters and reminisced about the real Africa where she had lived for 40 years.  

We strolled about after dessert and the giraffes allowed some close up shots while they paced the open fields. Their coloring was fascinating. It has been copied so many times on fashion materials, it was fun to see the true originals. If you’re a bird watcher you’ll be in feather heaven as you gaze upon East African cranes, cockatoos, egrets, hornbills and jungle fowl. The porcupines are known to put on quite a show and the gazelle is another favorite of visitors.

A number of the animals and birds at Safari West are endangered so the chance to view these creatures in a natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime deal. I can’t believe I lived in the Napa Valley eight years before I discovered this local treasure. Forget the amusement park this year. For the same price or a little more you can help protect our lovely furry friends. One day we all may have no choice but to watch these magnificent creatures on a wide screen TV.

One doesn’t hear the word enchanted much anymore but the place was just that: a land of enchantment tucked away in the quiet northern hills.

Safari West Wildlife Preserve is at 3115 Porter Creek Road  Santa Rosa. Info, 579-2551 or 1-800-616-2695, www.safariwest.com  

Directions: Take Highway 29 past Calistoga. Turn left at Petrified Forest Road (4.5 miles) then right on Porter Creek Rd (3 miles). At Franz Valley Road,  turn right into entrance.