Monarto Safari Resort

Monarto Safari Resort with kids: a wild family getaway just over an hour from Adelaide

We’re lucky to have some pretty incredible places to explore in South Australia, but Monarto Safari Resort might just be one of the most unique family stays we’ve had.

Where else can you wake up, make a coffee, step onto your balcony and watch a tower of giraffes enjoying their morning feed? (Yes, that’s what a group of giraffes is called… you’re welcome.) No, you’re not in Africa (although there are definitely moments where it feels like you could be). This incredible safari-style escape is just over an hour from Adelaide and offers families the chance to experience something completely different without needing to jump on a plane.

We recently spent two nights at Monarto Safari Resort with the kids, and while visiting Monarto Safari Park was obviously a highlight, we quickly realised the resort itself was a huge part of the experience. From spotting animals from our room, heading out on an early morning safari, enjoying delicious meals and finding a little time for some mum-only relaxation, every part of the stay gave us something to enjoy.

Our Waterhole Two Bedroom Suite

When you’re travelling with kids, having space makes such a difference, and our Waterhole Two Bedroom Suite was perfect for our family of four. The kids had their own room with two long single beds, while we had a beautiful king bedroom, plus a separate lounge and dining area. It meant everyone had somewhere to relax after a busy day.

The huge wraparound balcony quickly became our favourite spot. Morning coffee, afternoon drinks and plenty of time spent watching the animals around the waterhole below, binoculars (provided by the resort) glued to our faces, of course.

We loved seeing which animals would wander over to the waterhole, and the kids were always keen for “one more look” before heading back inside.

Inside, the suite had all the little touches you’d expect from a luxury stay. The bed was incredibly comfortable, the linen was beautiful, the pillows were big and fluffy, and the bathroom was a standout with a huge bath and possibly the best shower we’ve ever had!

It was the kind of room where you wanted to spend time, not just somewhere to sleep.

Dining at Kutjera Restaurant

One of the things we loved about staying at Monarto Safari Resort was that we never felt like we had to rush off first thing in the morning. The resort itself gave us a reason to slow down and enjoy the stay, and Kutjera Restaurant quickly became part of our daily routine.

Breakfast was a great way to start the day. The buffet had all the favourites… scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans, mushrooms and hash browns, alongside pastries, fresh fruit, yoghurt and plenty of healthier options too. The kids were very impressed with the pancake maker (which was a definite highlight for them), while I was very impressed with the coffee. In fact, it’s easily one of the best coffees I’ve had in months.

After a big day exploring, dinner at Kutjera was the perfect way to finish the day. Inspired by African flavours and using South Australian produce, the menu feels a little different from your usual family resort dining. It’s not a huge menu, but we found plenty to choose from. The flame-grilled Scotch fillet was a winner, the Moroccan pork tenderloin was delicious, but my favourite dish was actually an entrée, the Durban Lentil & Tomato Dahl. I could have happily eaten that as a main.

For the kids, the menu keeps things simple with family favourites including chicken schnitzel and chips, fish and chips, spaghetti bolognese and beef sliders.

Relaxing at the resort

While the animals are obviously the star of the show at Monarto Safari Resort, it was nice to have plenty of time to simply enjoy the resort too.

The kids were very excited to discover the pools, and even though we visited in the middle of winter, the heated water was enough to convince them to jump in. There are two pools to choose from, a family pool and an adults-only pool, plus sun lounges and outdoor dining areas nearby to relax and enjoy the space.

Dawn Wildlife Safari

If there’s one experience we’d recommend adding to your stay, it’s the Dawn Wildlife Safari.

We headed out at 7am on the safari truck and into the exclusive Wild Africa precinct, giving us exclusive access before most people had even started their day. Being out on the open plains as the morning was beginning was such a cool experience. The light was beautiful, the animals were active, and there was something pretty special about seeing this side of Monarto as the day was getting started.

The small group experience meant we could take our time, ask questions and really enjoy the ride as we spotted animals along the way. The highlight for us was seeing the hippos pop up from the water. The kids were completely fascinated, waiting to see when they would appear, and it was such a fun moment watching these huge animals just quietly going about their morning.

But the biggest surprise was how close we got to a cheetah. Seeing one of these incredible animals up close, from the comfort of the safari truck, was something we won’t forget.

We also spotted giraffes, Southern White Rhino, ostriches and more along the way, with our guide sharing plenty of interesting facts and stories about the animals we were seeing.

The two-hour safari includes a guided tour on the safari truck, exclusive access to Wild Africa and light refreshments afterwards. It’s an early start, but one we’d definitely recommend adding to your stay.

Exploring Monarto Safari Park

No stay at Monarto Safari Resort would be complete without exploring Monarto Safari Park. Now the largest safari experience outside of Africa, the park spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to more than 50 species of exotic and native animals.

Having the park right next door makes it so easy with kids. No big drive, no packing everyone back into the car, just step out and start exploring. We recommend allowing at least four to five hours to really enjoy the open spaces, viewing platforms and free Zu-loop bus through the park.

Your stay helps conservation

One more thing we loved about staying at Monarto Safari Resort is that your visit helps support something bigger. A portion of every resort booking goes towards the Zoos SA Conservation Fund, helping support important conservation programs and the ongoing protection of incredible animals around the world.

So while you’re enjoying a pretty amazing family getaway, you’re also helping play a small part in protecting the wildlife you’ve come to see.

Would we go back?

100% yes!!

If you ever get the chance to experience Monarto Safari Resort, go for it. It’s one of those stays that gives you a little taste of Africa without needing a passport (or a 14-hour flight with kids!).

A family getaway with hippos, giraffes, incredible food and a little bit of relaxation thrown in? That’s a pretty wild win in our books.

Monarto Safari Resort
Location: 63 Monarto Rd, Monarto SA 5254
Phone: 1800 016 761
BOOK HERE
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