Children are natural explorers, always looking for the next tree to climb or puddle to splash in. They want to be everywhere and see, touch, taste, smell everything. So what makes for good adventure vacations for kids? Those are the ones that challenge kids to be fully engaged on every level with a new environment and aim to delight them with new and exciting escapades and learning experiences far past what they might do on a typical vacation, leaving them with a sense of wonder and eager to continue exploring the vast world.
Walk with Bushmen in Botswana
Rather than having kids sit in a vehicle all day trying to spot a lion off in the distance, give them an up-close view and intimate lesson of an entirely different culture. Walking through the Africa bush with traditional Bushmen in Botswana will introduce them to the personal side of an ancient culture and how it fits into today’s world, and allow them to explore the traditional relationships between man and nature.
Learn about the Jungle at an Indian Tiger Reserve
Younger explorers will love getting involved in an authentic way with programs like the Junior Naturalist Program at Forsyth Lodge, Satpura National Park, one of India’s tiger reserves. Over three days, participants learn basic knowledge about the jungle and keys to understanding any wilderness. Sessions presented by naturalists are about two hours a day. Kids can also put their newfound knowledge to the test as they explore the wildlife with the whole family since the classes are presented between safaris and in the evenings.
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Explore History and Art in Johannesburg
Older children and teenagers won’t be bored for a second while they explore the creative and historical sides of Johannesburg, South Africa. Discover the city’s unique and important past at the Apartheid Museum. Learn about the graffiti culture and the art you won’t find in stuffy museums on a walking tour of the inner city with an experienced guide who has a passion for the street art. Stop and meet local artists who are more than happy to chat about their unique work and lives.
Join a Conservation Team in Australia
In Australia, children over ten years of age and their families can join one of two vital conservation projects, depending on the season. In March/April and in September/October, help passionate and dedicated conservationists who work to save the koala. Jump right into the action and help the conservation team carry out duties that include population surveys, setting up and reviewing camera traps, habitat assessment surveys, habitat restoration and development of innovative habitat management techniques.
In May through August, individuals can join in similar conservation projects involved in an urgent wildlife rescue mission to save the threatened tiger quoll, the largest remaining marsupial carnivore on the Australian mainland.
Sail with Traditional Fisherman in the Galapagos
The fabled Galapagos Islands are a natural fit for animal-loving children of all ages. Here, animals and people meet face to face, or foot to fin in some cases. But it is not only animals trying to survive here. Galapagos Safari Camp is involved with a pilot program with the Galapagos National Park Service that aims to engage local fisherman in tourism activities as an alternative means of income with the added benefit of protecting local fisheries from depletion. Families have the opportunity to get a truly unique and authentic experience fishing with these fishermen in safe, modern, private speedboats for the day. This is a true cultural exchange as these traditional fisherman teach the children local tricks for fishing with a net and line, while sharing stories from their culture and a lifetime spent at sea. After a long day at sea, the adventure continues as the boat lands at beaches on Santa Cruz, deserted except for the wildlife. Here you can experience pristine snorkeling in some beautiful and secret spots.
Courtesy of Big Five Tours & Expeditions
For more information visit Big Five Tours & Expeditions.