And while much of the magnificence of a safari holiday is in the scenery, silence and serenity, it also makes for a memorable family holiday.
And while many parents will argue that neither silence nor serenity is something they associate with a family holiday, there is no reason to delay ticking “safari” off your travel bucket list just because the kids are coming along.
In fact, a Kruger Park safari is particularly well suited for a family holiday, irrespective of the age of the children. With some research and good planning, keeping kids engaged on safari could be as simple as spotting Impala on a guided game drive!
At Kruger Gate Hotel we regularly welcome families and we’re very proud to be family friendly. From the room options that cater specifically to families and a child-friendly pool area, to activities like mini golf and a buffet menu that is designed to satisfy even the fussiest eater, we’re here for families.
And when it comes to making safaris fun for kids we’ve got great tips and tricks – our safari guides are all brilliant at ensuring their commentary appeals to the younger (smarter?!) guest in the vehicle.
Games
Turn your guided game drive into an interactive safari experience by preparing to play games. The classic iSpy is an easy one, but with just the right amount of complexity as you spy something green, for example, when much of the surroundings is green!
A game of animal bingo takes a bit of preparation beforehand but is a fantastic way to keep everyone alert. And the reward for the first “bingo!” could be a delicious milkshake back at the Pool Bar and Viewing Deck. In preparing the bingo cards, our guest relations team would be happy to give parents some tips on the animals you’re most likely to see on your game drive to make sure they feature on the bingo card.
Refreshments
Most parents and caregivers will attest to this: If the children are fed and hydrated, and have access to snacks and treats, you’re more than halfway to keeping them happy.
At Kruger Gate Hotel our morning guided safaris come with a complimentary breakfast box filled with goodies, but you’re also welcome to pack your own – our restaurants and gift shop on the property stock a lovely selection of snacks. It can also be arranged with your safari guide to stop off in Skukuza where there are restaurants, cafes and restroom facilities, should you need it.
Equipment
For most adults, getting away from a screen is one of the many appealing things about a safari holiday and a guided game drive. But you may want to consider “equipment” of a different kind. Binoculars are very useful for spotting flora and fauna at a distance, or hidden in a tree. Younger children tend to love the action of looking through binoculars, as a sort of oddity, but it also helps them to actually see what the fuss is about.
Similarly, you may not want them playing games on their tablets or smart phones when the real game is within view, but they could bring along their devices (or use yours) to snap a few photographs of what they see. This can be turned into an educational game for the safari where the focus is on capturing something from a unique angle or looking out to capture something un-typical.
Ultimately, there’s no reason to delay or put off a safari holiday because of children. You may not be able to prevent boredom on tours entirely – and that’s fine too – but you are able to engage them at an age-appropriate level.
It’s a privilege to be in a position to take them on safari and a great way to open their minds to the wonders of the natural world. And seeing something as awe-inspiring as the Kruger National Park through the eyes of a child elevates the experience even more.