Last week, I had an amazing experience feeding a giraffe and petting a rhino at Port Lympne in Kent. This 600-acre reserve is home to over 900 rare and endangered animals, offering a unique way to camp and connect with wildlife.
Port Lympne has redefined glamping by providing various accommodations under the stars in the serene Kentish savannah. From Pinewood Glamping Pods to Treehouses and Bubbles with panoramic views, there’s something for everyone. For families or groups, Bear Lodge is a fantastic option, accommodating up to eight people in an elegant Scandinavian-style cabin.
Imagine waking up to rare animals right outside your luxury cabin, just a short distance from London. Bear Lodge offers stunning views of the spectacled bear enclosure, the Romney Marsh, and the coast. The lodge itself features rustic charm with modern comforts, including en-suite bathrooms, a functional kitchen, and cozy bedrooms.
During our stay, we enjoyed delicious meals at the Bear Lodge Restaurant, with hearty breakfasts and classic British dishes for dinner. The kids loved toasting marshmallows at the communal fire pit and playing in the designated children’s area after dark.
One highlight of our trip was the Ultimate Safari Experience, a 2.5-hour adventure led by expert keeper Charlie. We had the opportunity to see spectacled bears, giraffes, zebras, and more up close, with special encounters based on the animals’ willingness to participate.
Staying at Port Lympne helps fund the care of the animals and supports conservation projects around the world. Your glamping booking includes access to both Port Lympne and Howletts Wild Animal Park, making it a unique staycation experience.
Prices for accommodations start at £139 per night, with Bear Lodge rates ranging from £354 to £549 depending on the time of year. The Ultimate Safari Experience starts at £105 per person, offering a memorable journey through different animal zones.
The Aspinall Foundation, a UK-based charity dedicated to wildlife conservation, leads efforts to return endangered species to their natural habitats. Their conservation projects include reintroducing gorillas to Central Africa, rewilding cheetahs and black rhinos, and implementing survival programs for endangered species like the greater bamboo lemur in Madagascar.
Overall, a stay at Port Lympne offers a one-of-a-kind experience to connect with nature and support important conservation efforts. Don’t miss out on this luxury family glamping opportunity in Kent!
