1 / 2The Roar Foundation/Shambala Preserve
📍 Acton, CA
True wildlife sanctuary founded by Tippi Hedren housing 30-plus rescued lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, servals, and bobcats. Guided safari tours run one weekend per month by advance reservation. No breeding or trading.
This is a really wonderful sanctuary if you ever want to see some big cats, learn about them and still feel good about how they're being treated. The volunteer workers are immensely respectful of the animals and all visitors are expected to be the same. Their mission to care for these majestic felines, that are unable to be released into the wild, is commendable. I can't think of a better wildlife organization to spend my money at.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Families with children old enough to engage with conservation storytelling — typically 8 and up — find Shambala a rare combination of proximity to big cats and ethical integrity. The tour format is educational rather than entertainment-driven, which suits children curious about rescue and wildlife welfare.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →99 Google reviews
Kalyn Caine
8 years ago
“This is a really wonderful sanctuary if you ever want to see some big cats, learn about them and still feel good about how they're being treated. The volunteer workers are immensely respectful of the animals and all visitors are expected to be the same. Their mission to care for these majestic felines, that are unable to be released into the wild, is commendable. I can't think of a better wildlife organization to spend my money at.”
Lea A
a year ago
“Loved the tour! Highly recommend. Great place doing great things for wildlife. Very clear the animals are well cared for and that their comfort and protect it put first. Nothing is for show - it’s not a zoo. It’s the only place I would go see animals like this in captivity because you know it’s for all the right reasons and none of the wrong reasons. It’s a place worth supporting.”
Suhaib Sarmad
6 years ago
“It was nice to learn about the work the foundation does to rescue and care for these amazing big cats. The staff are friendly and passionate. The animals are beautiful and some are curious enough to come up to visitors for attention and pictures.”
Kate
2 months ago
“Wonderful work to preserve and care for big cats. Shambala is an amazing place. Tours are just one weekend a month. It's a must see. The big cats are amazing.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Shambala Preserve is a legitimate rescue sanctuary — all animals are confiscated or surrendered from private ownership, with no breeding program or animal trading. Guided tours run one Saturday and Sunday per month and must be booked well in advance. Knowledgeable volunteer guides lead small groups through the grounds; some resident cats approach the fence line out of curiosity. The focus is education and animal welfare, not performance.
