African Safari Adventures For All Ages with Orient-Express

From a free tent for children at each of the safari camps and a free room for children at the Mount Nelson Hotel and The Westcliff, to specialized concierges and spa menus, Orient-Express offers myriad amenities and experiences to ensure that Africa is an unforgettable experience for children of all ages.

Young families are now able to enjoy spending quality time together while indulging in the exciting adventures and relaxation offered at Khwai River Lodge, Eagle Island Camp and Savute Elephant Camp. Orient-Express' three luxurious safari lodges in the Okavango Delta region of Northern Botswana are now offering a complimentary tent for children when travelling with parents. The children's tent also includes meals, activities and game drives. Additionally, each of the camps has lowered the minimum age for "little" guests from twelve to eight years old. Private game-viewing vehicles and private dining opportunities are also offered for families wanting to enjoy a more exclusive safari experience at the camps.
Situated in the heart of Cape Town's cultural center, Mount Nelson Hotel's nine acre, lush garden setting makes it perfectly suited to accommodate adults craving the luxury of seclusion and serenity, as well as children and young adults needing a secure and spacious place in which to play and explore. Building on the popularity of the hotel's Afternoon Tea, pastry chef Samantha Waring has developed a special children's version complete with a child's size table and animal-shaped mini cakes.

In addition, Mount Nelson Hotel's younger guests are made to feel extra special with complimentary child-friendly extras including a personalized welcome letter from Nellie & Nelson, the hotel's penguin mascots, a mini gown and slippers and bedtime milk and cookies. For older children, the hotel features a teen lounge area -- contemporary furniture and styling lend the space a young, fresh feel, and XBox 360 games, a Nintendo Wii, a computer, and big screen TV with a selection of DVDs provide fun and entertainment. Coming soon is a specialized teen entertainment program featuring cooking classes, organized dinners and other group activities.

Families are always welcome at The Westcliff, where each guest room and suite offers ample room for an extra bed to accommodate young children and the hotel has a rural feel despite its location in the center of Johannesburg. The kitchen creates an array of delicious child-friendly treats and offers a dedicated babysitting service to allow parents alone-time to enjoy dinner or explore the city. Children can also enjoy fantastic views of the elephants at the Johannesburg Zoo from the hotel's fabulous pool.

In addition, The Westcliff's concierge team can arrange a wide variety of activities to suit families with children of all ages. On rainy days, guests can enjoy the Color Café in Hyde Square where children can paint pottery while parents relax and enjoy a selection of tea, coffee and baked treats. When the sun comes out, families can visit Gold Reef City theme park with rides and amusements to excite guests looking for all levels of adventure. For animal lovers, a visit to the Johannesburg Zoo is a must, followed by a relaxing family picnic at Zoo Lake.