If you’re pining for an African safari experience but don’t want to fly halfway around the world, consider visiting the Shambala Preserve. Located in nearby Acton, Calif., roughly 70 miles northwest of Malibu near the Angeles National Forest, this preserve for abused, unwanted or abandoned exotic cats is only a couple of hours drive away.
Shambala was founded by actress Tippi Hedren, best remembered for her starring role in Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds,” which had audiences around the world on the edge of their seats back in 1963.
At the moment, Hedren is hard at work co-authoring her second federal bill titled “Big Cats and Public Safety Protection Act.” This long-overdue bill will stop the breeding of exotic felines.
“They were never intended to be bred as pets or used for commercial purposes,” says Tippi.
If you want to see what her life’s work is all about, a visit to Shambala is long overdue. Here, in this private 72-acre preserve you come face to face with more than 50 “big cats,” all living well in a natural habitat, the complete opposite of the alternative—a cramped, miserable cage.
A safari tour brings this remarkable sanctuary for exotic cats into focus. If you want to delve deeper into Shambala, there is an opportunity to spend the entire night in an authentic African tent, an event that is scheduled one weekend a month. Reservations can be made in advance and be used as a gift for special occasions such as an anniversary or birthday.
Sunset Safaris are three hours in the evening and reveal subtle changes that come over Shambala as the sun sets. You will hear the calls of the tigers and a lion’s roar, the rustle of leaves and see flocks of birds.
After a tour of the Wild Ones, Tippi’s Signature drinks are served along with hors d’oeuvres and coffee, at sunset. Limited to 35 guests, the experience is like none other. There is always a surprise celebrity guest— you’ll find who when you arrive.
Shambala evokes images of the jungle, reminiscent of a Henri Rousseau painting. He was a French artist remembered for “The Peaceable Kingdom,” a scene depicting a lush jungle where the indigenous inhabitants live together in harmony.
Shambala’s vision is one of cougars, cheetah, lynx, tigon, snow leopards, bobcats, and, of course, lions and tigers co-existing in nature. Tippi’s passion has become a beacon of hope for exotic cats while educating the public through Shambala’s fascinating programs.
There are five opportunities to reserve a Sunset Safari: May 25, June 22, July 20 (from 7 to 10 p.m.) and August 24 and another in Sept. (from 6 to 9 p.m.); the admission is $125.
Afternoon safaris start at 12 noon and are scheduled for May 18-19, June 8-9, July 13-14, August 10-11 September 14-15, October 12-13, Nov. 9-10 and Dec. 14-15; the donation is $50 per guest. Guests must be at least 18 years of age.
Exploring Shambala is an illuminating experience, whether you visit this natural habitat in the afternoon or evening.
“Our only purpose is to allow these magnificent animals to live out their lives with love and dignity,” says Tippi. Thanks to her devotion, you’ll understand why this inspiring preserve, tucked in the high desert, symbolizes “meeting place of peace and harmony for all beings, animal and human” once you visit.
For further information 661.268.0380 or visit www.shambala.org.
Pamela Price is the co-author of “Day Trips from Los Angeles,” available on www.globepequot.com.
