As we increasingly seek meaningful travel experiences that blend luxury with nature, a new trend has emerged: bucket-list luxury resorts that bring guests closer to wildlife and the natural world. From thrilling safaris to serene jungle escapes, these five luxury resorts promise unforgettable encounters with wildlife while providing top-notch amenities and services for families traveling with kids.
Main image: andBeyond Bataleur Camp, Kenya
Nestled in the heart of the Cambodian jungle, Shinta Mani Wild offers families a truly immersive experience in nature with a good dose of adventure to boot. Who needs a red carpet when you can make a grand arrival by zip line to this luxury tented camp, situated along a river teeming with wildlife, including gibbons, elephants, and a myriad of bird species. Embark on guided jungle treks, kayak along the river, or relax in the infinity pool overlooking the lush forest canopy. With its commitment to conservation and sustainability, Shinta Mani Wild provides a unique opportunity for families to connect with nature in style!
Shinta Mani Wild, Koh Kong Province, Cambodia, +855 97 561 8888 reservations@shintamani.com, www.shintamaniwild.com
They say an elephant never forgets, and you and the family certainly won’t have trouble recalling this stay! Perched on a hilltop overlooking the lush landscapes of northern Thailand, Myanmar and Laos, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is a magical mountain sanctuary housing rescued elephants and providing them with a safe and nurturing environment to thrive. You can join in a variety of activities that offer insight into the elephants' lives, from feeding and bathing sessions to guided walks through the surrounding jungle. Children will delight in learning about these magnificent creatures from knowledgeable mahouts, gaining a newfound appreciation for their intelligence and gentle nature. There’s also traditional Thai cooking classes and outdoor excursions through the jungle on a sidecar, relaxing massages and much more.
Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, 229 Moo 1, Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand, +66 53 784 084, goldentriangle@anantara.com, www.anantara.com/en/golden-triangle-chiang-rai
Renowned as Australia's Galapagos Islands, Kangaroo Island has an abundance of wildlife flourishing within its pristine and wild coastline, so channel your inner Attenborough and get thee down under! Sitting pretty between Flinders Chase National Park and Seal Bay Conservation Park, Southern Ocean Lodge is a haven for families with older children seeking luxury and adventure in equal measure. Don’t miss out on meeting colonies of seal lions or spotting kangaroos, ospreys and ochidnas around the island. Back at the lodge, indulge in gourmet dining and relax by the infinity-edge pool while watching the sun set over the horizon. Just note kiddos need to be over 10 years old.
Southern Ocean Lodge, Hanson Bay Rd, Kingscote SA 5223 +61 2 9918 4355, reserve@baillielodges.com.au, www.southernoceanlodge.com.au
The quintessential African safari experience, andBeyond Bataleur Camp is set within Kenya's iconic Masai Mara National Reserve. Renowned for their WILDchild programs filled with fun, interactive activities, the andBeyond group really prioritise little adventurers with specialized safari activities tailored for kids. With guided nature walks, junior ranger programs, and interactive learning experiences led by experienced guides, there's no shortage of ways to explore the vast savannah and encounter the Big Five! After a day of adventure, families can retire to the elegant tented suites and a sublime fireside meal.
andBeyond Bataleur, Mara Triangle, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya +254 11 101 6288, contact@andBeyond.com, https://www.andbeyond.com/
Got kids? Little Steps Asia gives you the scoop on all the things to do and see with babies, toddlers, and kids in Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Jakarta, Macau, and beyond. From family-friendly hotels, kids and baby shops, the best schools and after school activities, pregnancy tips and meet-ups and more – we have you sorted.
Sign up to receive the free Little Steps email newsletter packed with news, offers, and hidden treasures for families.
Sign up now for the latest in Hong Kong pregnancy news, monthly updates and more!
"*" indicates required fields