Image: Getty
Going on safari is a great shared experience for the whole family, but keeping kids engaged during game drives can sometimes be a challenge — especially when there’s a quiet spell between sightings. That is where bush bingo comes in — a fun, educational way to keep little adventurers focused on their surroundings while learning about the wonders of the wild.
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What is bush bingo?
Bush bingo is a simple activity that turns a safari into an interactive game. Kids get a card or sheet with a grid of animals, birds, plants, and natural features that they might spot on the drive or walk. As they see each one, they mark it off — aiming to complete a row, column, or the entire board, just like in traditional bingo.
Why bush bingo is a brilliant idea
Not only does bush bingo add excitement to your safari, but it also helps children sharpen their observation skills and encourages them to learn more about wildlife and ecosystems. It’s a gentle way to introduce concepts like biodiversity, conservation, and the importance of respecting nature. Plus, it keeps them entertained without the need for screens or devices.
How to create your own bush bingo
You don’t need to buy anything fancy. Before your trip, print or draw up a bingo sheet with around 9 to 16 squares. Include a mix of common animals like giraffes, zebras, or impalas, along with things like termite mounds, animal tracks, or a vulture in flight. You can tailor the grid to your destination — for example, if you’re heading to the Lowveld, add baobab trees or hornbills.
Some lodges and guides may offer ready-made bush bingo cards, so it’s worth asking ahead.
Image: AI generated for illustrative purposes
Tips for a successful bush bingo adventure
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Make it age-appropriate: Younger kids might do better with big, clear pictures, while older ones can handle more detail or rarer species.
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Turn it into a learning opportunity: When something gets ticked off, chat about what makes it special — its role in the ecosystem, its behaviour, or any fun facts.
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Set gentle rules: Remind kids that the aim is to spot animals respectfully, without shouting or standing up during drives.
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Pack pencils or stickers: These make marking off the board easy, even on a bumpy ride.
Passing on a love of nature
Bush bingo might start as a fun distraction, but it can spark a lifelong interest in wildlife and conservation. By looking beyond the Big Five, children begin to appreciate the smaller wonders of the bush — from dung beetles to acacia thorns — and understand that every creature plays a role in the wild.
So, the next time you head out on safari, why not pack a few bush bingo sheets? It’s a small addition that can make your family adventure all the more memorable.
ALSO READ: Tips for raising nature-literate children
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