Kruger Shalati, the train-on-the-bridge experience in the heart of the Kruger National Park, is redefining the family safari experience. The five-star lodge that is housed on an immaculately restored train perched on the Selati Bridge overlooking the Sabie River is renowned as a romantic destination. But beyond that it also allows guests to fall in love with the one of South Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. And through its offering of Big Five wildlife encounters, immersive activities and family-friendly amenities, Kruger Shalati is also the perfect setting for memorable multigenerational adventures for the whole family.
“While intergenerational travel has always been popular, we’ve seen a particular surge in interest since the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Brett Hendricks, COO of Motsamayi Tourism Group that manages Kruger Shalati, who has witnessed families saving up to experience once-in-a-lifetime safari trips together.
“A multigenerational trip to Kruger Shalati is an opportunity for families to reconnect, create lasting memories, and share in the magic of the African bush. It’s about fostering togetherness,” he said, recalling his recent multigenerational trip to the luxury lodge.
“When my wife’s family came to visit from New Zealand, it was the first time they had ever experienced the Kruger. To see my father-in-law – who had never been on a plane before and had never travelled outside of Cape Town – embrace the safari experience with such enthusiasm was truly magical. On top of it all the staff went above and beyond to make the celebration of my mother-in-law’s 70th birthday unforgettable – overall an experience beyond any other shared with our extended family.”
Families can choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit their needs. The land-based Bridge House, located adjacent to the bridge in a picturesque garden setting, offers interleading rooms with bunk beds and king-size or twin beds, perfect for families with younger children from the ages of six. While Kruger Shalati, which is housed within the beautifully restored train carriages, caters to families with older children from 12 years.
“We’ve designed Kruger Shalati to be an inclusive experience for all ages,” Hendricks said. “From the moment families arrive, we create a welcoming and engaging environment that caters to the needs of children and adults.”
Kruger Shalati offers private dining areas for families, allowing them to enjoy meals together in a more intimate setting. “We understand that travelling with multiple generations can be challenging, so we try to provide as much flexibility and personalisation as possible. We want to ensure that every member of the family feels comfortable and catered to,” Hendricks said.
One of the ways Kruger Shalati achieves this is through customised activities and experiences for younger guests. “If we have a group of four or five children between the ages of six and 12, we’ll organise special game drives just for them,” Hendricks explained. “These are more interactive and educational, with activities like identifying animal tracks and learning about the importance of dung beetles, for example. It’s a great way to keep the kids engaged and excited about the safari experience.”
While parents steal a moment of serenity with an in-room spa treatment or sip refreshing drinks on the deck at Kruger Station Lifestyle Centre, children can embark on their own adventures. Little ones will delight in the free Li’l Gricers playground, while the whole family can journey through the wonders of the wild at the Kruger 360 Cinema, with captivating educational movies about wildlife, astronomy and conservation that run on the hour from 9am to 7pm daily. The 360-degree wrap-around screen and swivel chairs make for a truly immersive viewing experience. And for curious young minds, the Curiosity Cabinet offers a treasure trove of African plush toys, educational games, books, and safari-themed stationery. During the summer school holidays, Kruger Station will also offer cookie decorating activities, adding an extra touch of holiday magic leading up to Christmas (activities run 1-25 December).
“One of the most beautiful things about multigenerational travel is witnessing the shared joy and wonder of a family experiencing something extraordinary together,” said Hendricks. “Whether it’s spotting the Big Five on a game drive, learning about the local Shangaan culture on a community tour, or simply enjoying a delicious meal under the African sky, these shared experiences create bonds that last a lifetime.”
