Take a step towards the wonders of nature!
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Grootbos Kids Explorers programme
Grootbos effortlessly integrates young children into our world. The Explorer Programme is thoughtfully designed to make sure that every family member enjoys their Grootbos experience. Young explorers, with or without their parents, can enjoy nature-immersive activities tailored to their age and interests. This way, families can learn, share and create a rewarding holiday to remember forever.
Inspiring Young Minds
Ignite a Love of Learning
- Age-appropriate activities
- A safe and caring environment
- Adventure together as a family or leave the younger ones in safe hands.
The Explorer Programme encourages learning and discovery through interactive activities and is carefully designed so that every family member, age 4 to 100, has a nature-inspiring experience to remember.
A variety of activities are located throughout the reserve, introducing young minds to different aspects of nature and tailored to appeal to different ages and interests. Parents have the option to leave little explorers under the care of an expertly trained team in a safe environment, or can join in on the fun, or take on a self-guided family adventure using self-guided pamphlets.
Matching Age & Interest
A 4-year-old is very different from an 11-year-old, which is why we tailor our experiences to suit different age groups. We also match interests to activities, making sure our young explorers have their very own version of a Grootbos experience.
Nature's Tales
Carefully designed with children in mind, our activities encourage exploration, discovery and lessons from nature. From horseback riding to investigating rock pools, the more we discover about nature, the more we understand our world.
In Safe Hands
Let young explorers embark on adventures under the care of expertly trained guides in a safe and controlled environment. Moms and dads can relax, knowing their little ones will be kept happy and busy discovering many awe-inspiring things about nature.
New Connections
Not only will curious minds spark a connection with nature, they will also have the wonderful opportunity to connect with other children, forge new friendships and have the best holiday adventures together.
Experience Packed with Adventure and Discovery
Various activities take place in six different locations around the Grootbos reserve. Each location offers a unique set of experiences suited to explorers of various ages and interests. Every adventure is a fresh chance to see and learn something new.
Discover Something Every Day
Each location holds new lessons to learn. Grootbos has a range of experiences designed for curious young minds. The goal is for every family to enjoy flexible fun.
Lodge
Things get arty and crafty at Grootbos Garden Lodge. Hands can get sticky while making cookies, and fingers get fancy with bracelet making. Whatever happens to be happening on the day, it is always filled with laughter, learning and fun.
Coastal Clambers
Explore the treasures of the Atlantic coastline with us. Peep into nature-rich rockpools to see creatures big, shy and small. Travel back in time to a World Heritage site cave and keep those eyes peeled for other seaside secrets. All that’s required is a hat, sunscreen and a curious mind.
Farmyard Fun
Collecting freshly laid eggs in a basket on the farm or taking a super close look at the indigenous plants in the reserve, our Grootbos guides will share the miracles of nature. Why is an egg oval? Which plant leaves can soothe stings? And why are arum lilies and frogs often seen together?
Saddle Up for Fun
There is never a dull moment at the Grootbos stables and farmyard. Feed carrots to the horses, shoo the cheeky ducks into their pens, get to know the ponies or adventurous spirits can take a ride into the reserve to soak up the sunshine and fresh coastal air.
Exploring on Foot
Go frog hunting in the lush gardens, wander through the reserve’s ancient forests and discover the different friendships that exist in nature between animals, birds, plants and insects. Mother Nature really is the greatest playground of them all.
Kids Zone
Enjoy supervised games, arts and crafts, spontaneous play, or snuggle down with popcorn and a laugh-out-loud movie after a long day of fun outside, leaving mom and dad to have a boring grown-up dinner alone.
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Gallery
Discover the adventures in nature that awaits the whole family.
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Testimonials
A Natural Wonderland for Every Family
Grootbos is a family-friendly destination. From the accommodation layout and menu options to our experienced childminders and age-appropriate nature adventures, everything is purposefully designed to create memories that last a lifetime.
Faq
What time can I check-in?
From 14:00 on the day of your arrival.
When do I need to check-out?
You need to check-out by 11:00 (late-check-outs only on request)
Do the suites have internet access?
Yes, all our suites are equipped with internet access. Wireless internet is available in the main lodges as well.
Do you offer room service?
We don’t offer room service due to the nature of the setup of our suites.
When is the full payment for my accommodation due?
Full payment is due 30 days prior to arrival. You can pay via credit card (AMEX, VISA and Mastercard) as well as bank transfer.
What is included in your rates?
All meals (breakfast, lunch and 6-course dinner) as well as all land-based activities.
What activities are not included in my stay?
Boat-based whale watching (July - December), Dyer Island boat trip (January - June), shark cage diving, scenic flights, spa treatments, beach horse riding and quad biking.
Which time of year is best for whale watching?
From July - December.
Which time of year is best for viewing the Cape Floral Kingdom?
From July – December.
How far are you situated from the Garden Route?
Grootbos is conveniently situated between Cape Town and the start of the Garden Route.
How far are you situated from Cape Town?
160km's (100 miles) – which is about a 2-hour drive.
Grootbos Foundation and global recognition
Grootbos is a world leader in sustainable tourism and has been awarded some of the highest international accolades possible, making us one of only a handful of lodges to achieve this.
