Experiencing the natural world through the eyes of your child is one of parenting’s greatest joys. Family holidays are ideal for getting your kids out in the bush – perhaps even evoking treasured memories from your own childhood and a desire to pass on a family holiday legacy.

Children are innately filled with curiosity for the natural world. Learning about animals, plants and wild places is an essential part of child development. For some, it may even awaken a lifelong passion for the sciences and environmental conservation. That’s why it is so important for the family to put down their devices and spend time together in nature.

If you are considering a family Kruger safari this summer, a bit of planning will help to ensure a safe, stress-free and fun adventure.

Here are some tips for an upcoming Kruger safari holiday:

• Be well-prepared – It’s the height of summer over the December/January school holidays and you can expect the weather in Kruger to be comfortable morning and nights, hot around midday and sometimes rainy. Pack comfortable clothing for each family member with a focus on lightweight items that can be layered. Make sure you have enough sunscreen and hats for everyone. Bring along bug repellent and a travel first aid kit for minor aches and pains, scrapes and insect bites.
• Inspire your kids to take an interest – Your family safari experience will be so enhanced by bringing along field guides, checklists, binoculars and disposable film cameras. It’s not just about seeing the Big 5, there’s learning how to identify different antelope and bird species and keeping an eye out for the cute little guys like mongooses and bushbabies. For young kids, download and print our Kruger Gate Hotel Activity Book.
• Mix things up with other fun activities – Long hours in the car can be tough on kids, so you need to pace yourselves as a family. While on a drive through Kruger, plan stops at picnic sites, rest camps, waterholes and bird hides so you can take a break from sitting in the car. Make some time each day to enjoy the Kruger Gate Hotel amenities such as our family swimming pool, volleyball and tennis courts, outdoor putt-putt and chess. You can also take a scenic drive along the Panorama Route and stop in holiday towns such as Graskop and Pilgrim’s Rest.
• Choose child-friendly accommodation – Camping in the bush may not be comfortable for the whole family at this time. So, think about your children’s needs and find a child-friendly option. At Kruger Gate Hotel families of 3 or 4 can choose from our Deluxe Queen and King rooms with up to two children under 12 years staying free of charge with two paying adults.

Don’t delay on getting your budding wildlife enthusiasts into the bush, Book here