Awesome places to see animals with kids
From cute and cuddly to impressive and dangerous, wildlife never ceases to fascinate grown-ups or children. For kids, observing exotic animals in their natural habitat is definitely something they will remember for a long time, so we’ve tasked our favourite travel specialists, Lightfoot Travel to give us the down-low on where to see amazing creatures.
Orang utans and proboscis monkeys
Malaysian Borneo is the homeland of orang utans and proboscis monkeys, and one of the best locations to observe them is in the Danum Rainforest National Park. This conservation area is unique in that it received this designation before there were human settlements in the area, meaning that hunting and logging never interfered with the ecology of the area. With your expert guide, you’ll encounter much more than just these famed residents – be on the look-out for rare Sumatran rhinoceros, gibbons, mousedeer, clouded leopards and over 270 bird species
Where to stay:
At Danum Rainforest Lodge not only will families be treated to a unique experience by walking along the 70m high canopy, but they will learn a lot on the region’s wildlife thanks to their extensive research facilities.
Komodo dragons
Whoever claimed that dragons didn’t exist hasn’t set foot on Komodo Island! Coming face to face with these creatures, who gave the island its name, in their natural habitat is an adrenaline-pumping experience. The Komodo National Park is the only place on earth you can observe these patient predators which impress by their size and their cunning hunting skills; always be on your guard! Combine Komodo Island with Indonesian Borneo, and you’ve got yourself a memorable wildlife holiday!
Where to stay:
Plataran Komodo Resort is a peaceful hideaway set on a secluded cove offering the best of the island’s marine life and easy access to the Komodo National Park.
Leopards
When thinking of leopards, Sri Lanka is probably not the first country that comes to mind, but the Pearl of the Indian Ocean is actually home the Panthera Pardus Kotiya, a leopard endemic to the country. The best place to see them is the Yala National Park, which has the largest densisties of leopards per square kilometre, where these gracious felines roam freely.
Where to stay:
Nothing better than Leopard Safaris, which specialises in ecotourism camping adventures to really immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s wildlife.
Pandas
Move over Great Wall, China has a new star: its beloved pandas! With just 1,600 left in the wild, 80% of which are located in the Sichuan Province, it comes to no surprise that this is the best place to get up close to these cuddly creatures. One of the most respected panda conservation centres is located in Chengdu. The Chengdu Panda Base is a 240 hectares parkland in which pandas are free to roam and is very much focused on conservation efforts including educating the population on keeping numbers up.
Where to stay:
Shangri La Chengdu offers great location, superb service and baby-sitting facilities allowing for down mom and dad time while the kids are entertained.
Tigers
If you’ve always dreamt of seeing Bengal Tigers in the wild, Central India boasts numerous national parks from which you can admire these impressive felines. Half the world’s tiger population call India home, so the chances of spotting them whilst on a safari is high!
Where to stay:
For the ultimate safari holiday in India, Pashan Garh is our go-to lodge. Located in the Panna National Park, this private jungle oasis evoke countryside charm which you will find nowhere else in the country.
Snow monkeys
One of Nagano’s main attractions is the Jigokudani Monkey Park where visitors can observe Japan’s snow monkeys bathing in the park’s natural hot springs! The monkeys tend to live in social groups, and watching their interactions is highlight entertaining. They are accustomed to human presence so you can observe them from quite close.
Where to stay:
Myojinkan, located in Matsumoto is a ryokan (traditional country inn) nestled within lush forest for big gulps of fresh air. Experiencing a ryokan whilst in Japan is an absolute must to tick off your bucket-list.
Tarsiers
Tarsiers are peculiar, small animals – no bigger than a man’s hand – that can be found in the Philippines and which are often nicknamed the world’s smallest monkey. The Philippines’ tarsier is endemic to the country where it can be seen in dense forests. Its oversized yellowy eyes may surprise a few, but it is a very docile animal.
Where to stay:
Its beachside location and playground make Ananyana a great family option when travelling to Bohol.
Takins
The country’s national animal, the takin, was chosen to represent Bhutan as it is unique, rare and native to the kingdom. A cross between a wildebeest and a musk deer, these animals even have their own festival, the Takin Festival which takes place yearly in February, and is a means to celebrate the country’s culture and crafts. Takins roam free throughout the country’s forests/wilderness but for a sure glimpse of these funny-looking animals, head to the Motithang Takin Preserve.
Where to stay:
A haven for kids and parents alike, welcome to Uma Paro. The dramatic landscape that surrounds the property will delight everyone. For kids with an adventurous side, archery is available, as is spending a night under the stars!
Elephants
Although elephant tourism has developed a bad rep in Thailand, Lightfoot Travel’s commitment to ethical animal practices has enabled them to provide their clents with a portfolio of reliable activity providers – educational, interactive and most of all, safe for these beautiful pachyderms. The Anantara Golden Triangle has a superb elephant camp where you learn to be a mahout (elephant trainer), go elephant trekking (bare-backed) and kids can partake in the ELE (Elephant Learning Experience) which is a fun, educational and interactive activity for all.
Where to stay:
Anantara Golden Triangle is hands-down the best option for families. The elephant camp will delight everyone and best of all, children under the age of 12 stay for free in their parents room.
This article was brought to you by Lightfoot Travel, a Singapore-based luxury tour operator offering expert travel advice & inspiration, tailor-made itineraries & full booking services.
All Images: Lightfoot Travel