Knowsley Safari in Merseyside has launched its Safari Sleepover experience for a second summer, offering overnight stays in bell tents with private guided tours and campfires. The package costs £600 per night for a family of four, and Editor Emily Heward and her family tested it before its public launch.
Staying in a Bell Tent Near Wild Animals
Emily described the experience: "Sleeping under canvas, surrounded by lions, tigers, rhinoceroses, bears and wolves... I'm not anticipating a restful night's sleep when our guide escorts us to the campsite." But she was relieved to find a high perimeter fence, with rare-breed goats and sheep as neighbours instead of predators.
The family stayed in one of eight pre-pitched bell tents, decorated with bunting and fairy lights, with air mattresses and fleece blankets inside. Emily noted that the children quickly made friends and enjoyed outdoor play around a chestnut tree.
Exclusive After-Hours Foot Safari Tour
A highlight was an exclusive guided foot safari tour outside normal opening hours. Led by a Knowsley specialist, the family observed animals including Andean bears, tigers, giraffes, bush dogs, red river hogs and meerkats after visitors had left.
Emily said: "It's a genuine privilege (albeit one guests pay handsomely for) to experience all this without the crowds. The giraffes wander right up to us as we approach their field, and we're treated to an incredible view of Makari - one of the park's Amur tigers - lounging in the late afternoon sun."
Their guide Madeleine provided engaging commentary, sharing facts like bush dogs doing handstands when they wee and giraffe poo resembling Maltesers.
Campfire Evenings and Breakfast
After the tour, the group had tea at the Outpost Kitchen, with chicken tenders and chips (burgers or pizza also available). Back at camp, bushcraft expert Craig from The Outdoors People had lit a fire for marshmallow toasting, storytelling and songs.
Emily said: "We all sleep comfortably on our air beds... and emerge to the smell of bacon sizzling over the campfire." Vegetarian sausages, cereal, fruit and juices were also offered.
Private Safari Drive and Day Activities
After breakfast, the family enjoyed a private safari drive through the park before it opened, covering over six miles across five zones. They saw rare animals like the Bactrian camel, Père David's deer and Somali wild asses. A rhino crossed the path, and baboons climbed the bus, which was a hit with the children.
Emily said: "As the journey continues, a rhino casually wanders across the path of the bus, ostriches parade past and zebras canter by." The bus ride is also available to day visitors for £7.50 per person.
The experience concluded with views of lions lounging in the morning sun. The family then explored the park, which includes sea lion shows, bird of prey displays, and children's rides. Camp Knowsley tipi offers bushcraft activities like den building and fire lighting.
Emily reflected on the value: "At £600 for a one-night stay, there's no dancing around it - this is a serious amount of cash to drop on a family break and undeniably steep for a tent in Merseyside." She noted basic facilities with no showers, but added: "When you factor in the private after-hours access, VIP tours and expert guides, it does offer an experience that money can't ordinarily buy for wildlife-lovers."
For those on a budget, day passes for a family of four cost £72.68 under the Great British Summer Savings Scheme until 1 September. The Safari Sleepover runs on select Saturdays and Sundays in August, with eight tents per night.
