Santa Barbara Safaris, Photography Nature Tours

Our day-long adventure will include a short nature walk up Cold Spring Trail, having the reputation from locals as being one of the most scenic and botanically diverse trails in Santa Barbara. After a gentle uphill trek for 1/4 of a mile we’ll reach a bench which sits overlooking a creek with small waterfalls and stop to take in the natural beauty. Massive boulders are scattered along the creek with trees lining the banks providing a canopy of shade from the afternoon sun. It’s an excellent place to relax amongst the trickling sound of small waterfalls as well as an excellent photo spot.

We then drive along the ridge of our local mountains at 3500 ft with majestic panoramic views of the Santa Ynez Valley and Pacific Ocean before we go off-road and continue into the back country to explore the diverse ecosystems of the forest. The Los Padres National Forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife including Mule Deer, Black Bears, Coyote, Mountain Lion, plus many species of birds and reptiles. The forest is also home to endangered species such as the California Condor, California Spotted Owl, Peregrine Falcon, and Bald Eagle. If time permits, visits to one of the natural hot springs for a relaxing dip can be arranged.

Photography advice will be provided by Charles (who is a graduate of Brooks Institute of Photography) -- so bring your camera to make the most of this rare opportunity. Inclusive of either the Nature Safari or the Sunset Safari is round-trip transportation from anywhere in the Santa Barbara area, guide books, binoculars, drinks, snacks, coolers (for your picnic lunch) and dining ware.

Pre-order your gourmet picnic meal direct from Lazy Acres Market the day before your safari and Charles will have it ready and packaged in the coolers before we depart.
Box Lunches
Gourmet Picnics.