Super Cool Virtual Safari Tours For Kids
It was one of those rainy Sundays, the kind where the kids were bouncing off the walls by 9 a.m. and my caffeine hadn’t even kicked in yet.
I thought about the stack of board games in the closet and the unfinished puzzles on the shelf, but before I could offer up those options, my 6-year-old declared, “I’m bored!” I knew I had to think fast or risk an afternoon of chaotic living room gymnastics.
That’s when it hit me—why not go on a safari? Not the packing-our-bags-and-flying-to-Africa kind, but a virtual safari tour right from our couch!
A few clicks later, we were face-to-face with roaring lions, gentle elephants, and curious meerkats, all from the comfort of home. Suddenly, the living room was filled with oohs, ahhs, and nonstop giggles.
And the best part? My kids were learning—and loving every second of it!
If you’re like me and want to keep your little explorers entertained without adding more screen time guilt, virtual safari tours are a lifesaver. Below, I’ll share some of the coolest safari tours for kids that will turn an ordinary day into a wild adventure.
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1. San Diego Zoo Live Cams
San Diego Zoo offers free live cameras where kids can watch animals in real-time.
From pandas munching on bamboo to playful otters splashing in the water, it’s like having the zoo in your living room.
2. Explore Africa with WildEarth Safaris
WildEarth takes virtual tours to the next level by streaming live from African reserves. Your child can watch rangers track lions and follow elephants through the bush! The guides answer questions in real-time, making it an interactive experience. To make the safari even more immersive, grab some animal plush toys (bold Amazon link) to act out the adventure afterward. This way, the learning (and fun) continues long after the tour ends!
3. Smithsonian National Zoo Virtual Tour
This one is a favorite in our house because the tour lets you explore exhibits you wouldn’t normally see in person. There’s a focus on animal conservation, which is a great way to teach kids about caring for the planet. Make it an educational activity by giving your little one a children’s animal encyclopedia (bold Amazon link) to look up facts about each animal they meet on the tour.
4. Go Underwater with Monterey Bay Aquarium Live Cams
Who says a safari has to stay on land? Monterey Bay Aquarium’s live cams let your kids explore the ocean’s wild side, from jellyfish floating like space creatures to playful sea otters. Add a shark-themed sensory toy (bold Amazon link) for toddlers to explore textures as they watch these fascinating sea animals glide through the water.
5. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Virtual Experience
If your child is a Disney lover, this one is a must! Disney offers virtual tours of Animal Kingdom with behind-the-scenes footage of exotic animals. Pair the tour with some animal-themed coloring books (bold Amazon link) so your child can draw their favorite animals from the tour. Plus, it’s a great quiet-time activity for later!
Why Virtual Safaris Are a Mom’s Best Friend
Virtual safaris are the perfect blend of fun and learning. They give kids a chance to explore the world without leaving home, and they’re great for rainy days or when you just need a quiet hour to sip that coffee (finally hot). Plus, with so many tools like kid-friendly headphones (bold Amazon link) and interactive activity kits (bold Amazon link) available, it’s easy to make these tours feel like a full adventure.
The next time your child declares, “I’m bored,” consider launching them into a wild virtual safari. Not only will it keep them entertained, but you might even get a little break yourself—something every mom deserves!
